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

Library Bookwatch

Volume 6, Number 12 December 2011 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Education Shelf American History Shelf
World History Shelf Law/Justice Shelf Holocaust Studies Shelf
Mythology Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf Poetry Shelf
Philosophy Shelf Business Shelf Dance Shelf
Fiction Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Journalism Shelf
Literary Studies Shelf Islamic Studies Shelf Library Science Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Native American Studies Shelf Photography Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Criminology Shelf
Memoir Shelf Biography Shelf Jobs/Careers Shelf
Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf Reference Shelf Social Issues Shelf
Nautical Shelf Science Shelf Gardening Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Library DVD Shelf Civil War Shelf
Military Shelf Political Science Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf
Anthropology Shelf Large Print Shelf Geography Shelf
Archaeology Shelf Sports Shelf Art Shelf
Architecture Shelf Economic Studies Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

The Body Politic
Jonathan D. Moreno
Bellevue Literary Press
550 First Avenue, OBV 612
New York, NY 10016
9781934137383, $18.95, www.blpress.org

As science advances, it cannot be ignored by the world of politics. "The Body Politic: The Battle Over Science in America" is a discussion of biopolitics in the future of America from Jonathan D. Moreno, as he states that the culture wars rage, science will play a bigger and more important part. From stem cells to the definition of human, to the benefits and problems with progress, "The Body Politic" presents many intriguing ideas about the future of science and politics in America, a solid addition to any politics collections.


The Education Shelf

How Students Learn
National Research Council
500 Fifth Street, NW
Lockbox 285, Washington, DC 20055
0309089492, $34.95, www.national-academies.org

Understanding learning is a key to understanding education. "How Students Learn: Mathematics in the Classroom" delves into the learning process, the young mind, and how to meet them all to create a positive learning environment that leaves a functional and effective experience for children, so that they learn and absorb the material. Focusing on mathematics, a subject very few ever truly become excited for, the National Research Council present a comprehensive and scholarly discussion that will be useful for anyone on the educational professional ladder. "How Students Learn" is an excellent reference for any educational studies or Mathematics education community or college library collection.

Principals Who Dare to Care
A. William Place
Eye On Education
6 Depot Way West
Larchmont, NY 10538
9781596671683, $29.95, www.eyeoneducation.com

A good principal is more than a manager. "Principals Who Dare to Care" delves into what makes a good principal great, offering insight on the importance of caring for their staff and their children in order to make a school successful. Offering advice on management and leadership on how to deal with the many problems a school can face, A. William Place reminds readers that a principal must remember the human aspect to achieve greatness for their school. "Principals Who Dare to Care" is a choice and much recommended read, not to be overlooked.

Cell Phones in the Classroom
Liz Kolb
International Society for Technology in Education
180 West 8th Avenue, Suite 300
Eugene, OR 97401-2916
9781564842992, $34.95, www.iste.org

Cell phones are everywhere, even our classrooms. "Cell Phones in the Classroom: A Practical Guide for Educators" delves into the growing problem, and for the teachers wise enough to embrace, opportunity, that comes with everyone having a cell phone, even in the class room. Liz Kolb states that using cell phones for class room products and embracing cell phone computing power can be akin to the many ways that laptops used to be used. Stating how to manage these devices to be used in an educational aspect for high school and college courses, "Cell Phones in the Classroom" is a vital read for teachers and other educators who want to turn this nuisance into opportunity.

Spotlight on Young Children and Nature
Amy Shillady, editor
National Association for the Education of Young Children
1313 L Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005-4101
9781928896746 $14.00 www.naeyc.org

Spotlight on Young Children and Nature is a flat-spined resource especially for early childhood educators. Featuring full color photography and fifty-four pages of detailed, in-depth text, Spotlight on Young Children and Nature covers the practicalities of teaching young people about their environment, suggested lesson plans (although there are no explicitly reproducible worksheets or handouts), lists of resources, firsthand testimony from professional educators, and much more. "Open-ended questions and inquisitive children exploring in nature are a great combination to support the development of language skills. Through interaction with nature, each other, and attentive adults children learn rare words and differences, such as between dirt and soil, that guide their exploration." Highly recommended as an inexpensive and idea-filled supplementary resource for early grade educators and home schooling instructors.

Effective Program Practices for Underserved Gifted Students
Cheryll M. Adams & Cecelia Boswell
Publicity Department
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813
Waco, TX 76714-8813
9781593638436, $24.95, www.prufrock.com

A school cannot sometimes meet the needs of all of its students. "Effective Program Practices for Underserved Gifted Students" is a guide for educators and schools in how to reach out to these gifted and talented students when the school cannot traditionally meet such needs. Discussing the problem and what can be done by educators, differentiation, acceleration, enrichment, and much more, "Effective Program Practices for Underserved Gifted Students" is filled with plenty of knowledgeable advice for best helping these students meet their potential.

Every School, Every Team, Every Classroom
Robert Eaker & Janel Keating
Solution Tree
304 West Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47404
9781936765096, $29.95, www.solution-tree.com

If a school is not dedicated to learning, it is not seeking its own purpose. "Every School, Every Team, Every Classroom: District Leadership for Growing Professional Learning Communities at Work" discusses the professional learning community in the standard academic school, stating that a community where the teachers continue to learn will encourage them to keep the students learning, as Robert Eaker & Janel Keating use their collective expertise in education on many levels to discuss how to establish a professional learning community at one's own school. "Every School, Every Team, Every Classroom" is a scholarly and much recommended addition to community and college library education collections.


The American History Shelf

Forging a Fur Empire
John Phillip Reid
The Arthur H. Clark Company
2800 Venture Drive
Norman, OK 73069
9780870624025 $29.95 www.ahclark.com

Forging a Fur Empire: Expeditions in the Snake River Country, 1809-1824 is a thoughtful and scholarly study of early pioneer and fur trader Alexander Ross, who dared to venture into the then-untamed wilderness of the Pacific Northwest (Snake River country in what would eventually become present-day Idaho and Montana) on behalf of Hudson's Bay Company. Alexander Ross wrote a great deal about his entourage's struggles to survive and turn a profit, but Forging a Fur Empire goes beyond Ross' own writings to analytically assemble a dynamic picture of the legal, institutional, and commerce-related forces driving the fur trade of the era. Ross' challenges were varied and complicated - from keeping the peace among his ethnically diverse crew (including Americans, Canadians, mixed-bloods, and Native American independent contractors) to subsisting when supplies ran low, and even stumbling over religious conflicts. Forging a Fur Empire is utterly fascinating and an absolutely invaluable addition to public and college library collections with a focus on early American History.

The Most They Ever Had
Rick Bragg
The University of Alabama Press
PO Box 870380
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0380
9780817356835, $14.95, www.uapress.ua.edu

For life and hope for a better future, people suffered the growth of industry. "The Most They Ever Had" chronicles the growth of industry and mills in Alabama, as people went to the mills, worked jobs that shortened their lives for their attempt at life. For generations, people toiled, and for generations, lives were harmed, perhaps destroyed. "The Most They Ever Had" tells this tragic history, and makes for a very much recommended read for history collections focusing on the industrial revolution.


The World History Shelf

Jihad in the Arabian Sea
Camille Pecastaing
Hoover Institution Press
c/o Stanford University Press
1450 Page Mill Road
Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
www.sup.org
9780817913748, $19.95, www.hooverpress.org

With trade comes those who want to exploit that trade. "Jihad in the Arabian Sea" discusses the troubles facing the historic strait of Bab el-Mandeb, which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, proving to be an invaluable trade route between the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Throughout history, it has been plagued by piracy, and in the modern day, it is proving no different. Camille Pecastaing tells the story of this international conflict, including the struggle for statehood for the region. "Jihad in the Arabian Sea" is a fascinating delve into turbulent region and its role in the much bigger world.

The Storied Ice
Joan N. Boothe
Regent Press
2747 Regent Street
Berkeley, CA 94705
9781587902185, $24.95, www.regentpress.net

Man was never meant to explore Antarctica, but this never stops us. "The Storied Ice: Exploration, Discovery, and Adventure in Antarctica's Peninsula Region" discusses the exploration of Antarctica, in particular its peninsula region as around the turn of the century, scientists and explorers turned to what may be the final land frontier, the vast frozen wastes of Antarctica. Telling the stories of those who dared complete with illustrations and photographs, "The Storied Ice" is a riveting read of exploration into dangerous uncharted territory, something that is rare on the planet as it is today.


The Law/Justice Shelf

Legal Liability in Recreation, Sports, and Tourism, fourth edition
John O. Spengler & Bruce B. Hronek
Sagamore Publishing Company
1807 North Federal Drive
Urbana, IL 61801
1978571676436, $69.95, www.sagamorepub.com

The law is a difficult thing, especially when one crosses borders. "Legal Liability in Recreation, Sports, and Tourism" is a legal studies guide from John O. Spengler & Bruce B. Hronek, as they discusses legal liability and law issues when dealing with various leisure activities, and the problems that arise within. Legal agreements, silent agreements, international constitutions, sports issues, and much more, Spengler and Hronek provide a comprehensive reference that shouldn't be passed up for anyone who holds responsibility over such facilities. "Legal Liability in Recreation, Sports, and Tourism" is an excellent and much recommended compendium to keep on hand.

Against the Gallows
Paul Christian Jones
University of Iowa Press
100 Kuhl House
119 West Park Road
Iowa City, IA 52242-1000
9781609380489, $35.00, www.uiowapress.org

For the state to be able to take a life of its citizens for any reason is abhorrent to some. "Against the Gallows: Antebellum American Writers and the Movement to Abolish Capital Punishment" delves into the anti-capital punishment movement of the nineteenth century and how many writers took up their pen to end the hangings throughout the country and for the criminal justice system to be improved. Although failing in their ultimate goal, their successes where they obtained them are still felt to this day. "Against the Gallows" is an excellent addition to any history collection focusing on criminal justice and its history.

Long Star Law
Michael Ariens
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037
Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896726956, $49.95, www.ttupress.org

Texas has a long and colorful history, and its law has the same properties. "Long Star Law: A Legal History of Texas" discusses the unique legal history of Texas, a state that was a nation, bouncing between Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Through these many jurisdictions, Texas law has been formed and warped by many sources. Michael Ariens presents a fascinating read with much to ponder on the origins of laws and the evolution of law through the ages using the unique focus of Texas. "Long Star Law" is an excellent and much recommended study of history and law, a choice addition for community and college law collections.

Dust-Up
Jeb Barnes
Georgetown University Press
3240 Prospect Street, NW
Washington, DC 20007
9781589017665, $24.95, www.press.georgetown.edu

It's more than a mess, it's a serious health issue. "Dust-Up: Asbestos Litigation and the Failure of Commonsense Policy Reform" discusses the public policy issues that lie behind asbestos and the problems it can cause for public safety, with a focus on the legal side and litigation that has risen up behind this once common building material. An informed case study, "Dust-Up" is an excellent pick with much to consider for law and social issues collections.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

To Hope and Back
Kathy Kacer
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Suite 401
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2M5
9781897187968, $14.95, www.secondstorypress.on.ca

Escaping oppression is abandoning history. "To Hope and Back: The Journey of the St. Louis" draws off history and true stories of the sorrow that many Jews and other Europeans faced as they boarded a ship for America to escape the cruelty of the Nazi regime. Following many young girls as they mingle on the St. Louis, the story of abandoning their homes and everything they knew weighs heavily on their hearts. "To Hope and Back" is a thoughtful and much recommended read, highly recommended for youth history and Holocaust studies collections.


The Mythology Shelf

Demons, Vampires, Fallen Angels
Carol K. Mack & Dinah Mack
Arcade Publishing
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
307 West 36th Street, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10018
9781611451009, $14.95, www.skyhorsepublishing.com

To turn you away from goodness is the cruelest of evils. "A Field Guide to Demons, Vampires, Fallen Angels, and Other Subversive Spirits" discuss these creatures of mythology which seem human but are anything but. Presenting stories of creatures of legend from all cultures from the Bible to folklore to modern mythology, it presents a history of the creature and the traditional way to face such a demon down. "A Field Guide to Demons, Vampires, Fallen Angels, and Other Subversive Spirits" is an intriguing read that will serve well as a unique reference.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Shifting Baselines
Jeremy B.C. Jackson, Karen E. Alexander, Enric Sala, editors
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, DC 20009-1148
9781610910019, $35.00, www.islandpress.org

The ocean's bounty is vast, but it is not infinite. "Shifting Baselines: The Past and the Future of Ocean Fisheries" is a collection pondering the history and the future of the sea in its long story with mankind. From conflicts over waters and the dangers of overfishing, the role of science, and much more, Jeremy Jackson and his collaborators present a very much recommended study of sea life. "Shifting Baselines" is a key addition to any science or oceanology community or college library collections.


The Poetry Shelf

Dhaka Dust
Dilruba Ahmed
Graywolf Press
250 Third Avenue North, Suite 600
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555975890, $15.00, www.graywolfpress.org

As one sees the world, they see nothing is perfect, and wonder if such a thing is obtainable. "Dhaka Dust" is a collection of poetry from Dilruba Ahmed who ponders on the world as she reflects on her experiences in both Bangladesh and America, and what it means to be a woman of the world, where one's rights aren't so universal. "Dhaka Dust" is an excellent pick for any world poetry collection, very much recommended. "Picasso's Self-Portrait in Blue Period, 1901": At twenty, haggard,/lean as a stray, someone/I cross the street to avoid at night/even as I notice/pink lips, blue//hollowed cheeks. By now, we've both lost friends we won't recover. Huddled/in his navy coat, he watches from room to room, His grief, mine -- eyes two sunken tombs.

Kentucky Derby
Andrea Cohen
Salmon Poetry
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781907056567, $21.95, www.dufoureditions.com

Little men, horses, and a driven thirst for victory. "Kentucky Derby" is a collection of poetry from Andrea Cohen circling the subject of the Derby and spinning out into related subjects with a solid dose of informed humor along with plenty of questions to ponder on top of it all. "Kentucky Derby" is an excellent pick for any poetry collection, much recommended. "Elegy for the Nail": So you get hammered/going in, you get//bent. Forget about it./Forget your princely//carriage when first forged./So you've lived//a little, so you hold/two pieces of a tired/door in place, or better,/the scent of my secret//love's sweater.

New and Selected Poems
Michael D. Higgins
Liberties Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781907593208, $26.95, www.dufoureditions.com

A frank voice can go far in today's world where few things are clear. "Michael D. Higgins" is a collection of new and selected poetry from the titular author who has educated himself all over the Western world and has been a political force for quite some time in the English government. "Michael D. Higgins" is an insightful assortment of poetic work, highly recommended. "Our Lady of the Trolleys": I am leaving my flowers/to Our Lady of the Trolleys./They will not last;/nothing outlasts her./Effervescent,/ceaselessly young,/she deserves my potted plants.

The Smoke of Distant Fires
Eduardo Chirinos, author
G. J. Racz, translator
Open Letter Books
c/o University of Rochester
Lattimore Hall 411, Box 270082
Rochester, NY 14627
9781934824382, $13.95, www.openletterbooks.org

Influences from all over form our view of the world. "The Smoke of Distant Fires" is a collection of poetry from Eduardo Chirinos, expertly translated from his native Spanish by G. J Racz. Truly a man of the modern world, he speaks frankly about what we are and where we've come from, and what we've been twisted into. "The Smoke of Distant Fires" is a thoughtful delve into world poetry, much recommended. "A Theory of Sight After a Poem by Seferis": i looked at you with all the light and the darkness I possess so/ends one poems and begins another or is it perhaps the same one?/i've never been to Greece never breathed in the breeze off the pine trees/the monster is dead its stench/overwhelms the beaches its light/brings with it other skies other equally blue seas yet that sea/is very far away it covers this page with ash and darkens my mouth.


The Philosophy Shelf

Sherlock Holmes & Philosophy
Josef Steiff, editor
Open Court Publishing Company
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60601
9780812697315, $19.95, www.opencourtbooks.com

Being ingrained into the modern lexicon, Sherlock Holmes legend won't be going away anytime soon. "Sherlock Holmes & Philosophy: The Footprints of a Gigantic Mind" discusses the impact Sherlock Holmes and company and how they have impacted philosophy and thought in today's society, the questions that the super detective faces beyond solving the case. Holmes' character is dissected as many authors offer a philosophical view of the pursuit of justice, the drive for perfection, and much more. "Sherlock Holmes & Philosophy" is an insightful spin of thought and opinion, very much recommended reading.


The Business Shelf

Ethical Intelligence
Bruce Weinstein
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way, Novato, CA 94949
9781608680542, $14.95, www.newworldlibrary.com

Ethics and dealing with situations make for a more functional intelligence than simply knowing things. "Ethical Intelligence: Five Principles for Untangling Your Toughest Problems at Work and Beyond" is a guide to dealing with the ins and outs of facing practical and people problems that make up many workplace conflicts, whether they be within the office or reaching out to potential customers, "Ethical Intelligence" is filled with plenty of wise advice for the business world and life as well.

Plan B
David Kord Murray
Free Press
c/o Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl.
New York, NY 10020
9781439198353, $26.00 www.simonandschuster.com

Learning from the past is a key for a better future. "Plan B: How to Hatch a Second Plan That's Always Better Than Your First" is a business guide to making for an adaptive business model that flows with the best and worst of what is thrown at a business to succeed on many levels. Taking real world examples of companies that have flourished under pressure and others which have floundered under it all, "Plan B" is a worthy read for the business manager who realizes success isn't nonstop success, but instead rolling with the punches and making the best out of the worst.

Brilliant Start-Up, second edition
Caspian Woods
Prentice Hall Professional
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780273761976, $24.99, www.mcp.com

Now in a fully updated and expanded second edition, "Brilliant Start-Up" is a 225-page compendium focused on how skilled entrepreneurs set up and operate successful businesses even in such tough and volatile economic climates as we have today. Drawing upon his many years of experience and expertise as a successful entrepreneur, as well as interviews with hundreds of other entrepreneurs, Caspian Woods provides a wealth of information, instruction, 'tips, tricks, tools, and techniques' that make for successful trading. Enhanced with an appendices of 'Useful Contacts' and a comprehensive index, "Brilliant Start-Up" will prove invaluable reading for anyone contemplating the launch of any kind of business enterprise and is highly recommended for personal, professional, academic, and community library "Business & Entrepreneurial" instructional reference collections.


The Dance Shelf

Introduction to Modern Dance Techniques
Joshua Legg
Princeton Book Company
614 Route 130
Highstown, NJ 08520
9780871273253, $34.95, www.dancehorizons.com

Modern dance is a sum of a long history. "Introduction to Modern Dance Techniques" discusses modern dance and what it takes to be a dancer in today's versatile dance world. Discussing the history and the many techniques of modern dance, illustrated throughout with black and white photography, Joshua Legg works with an expert staff of collaborators to give "Introduction to Modern Dance Techniques" a complete and comprehensive understanding of what modern dance is.


The Fiction Shelf

Hand Me Down My Walking Cane
Carla Hagen
North Star Press of St. Cloud
PO Box 451
St. Cloud, MN 56302-0451
9780878394296, $14.95, www.northstarpress.com

For one's plight to be understood, their story must be told. "Hand Me Down My Walking Cane" follows young Emil Rousseau, who is charged with photographing the rural slum of Faunce Ridge to present as an argument for resettlement during FDR's New Deal government. Telling the story of a small border town and the lives that flourish there, "Hand Me Down My Walking Cane" is a strong and much recommended historical novel.

A Small Hotel
Robert Olen Butler
Grove/Atlantic, Inc.
841 Broadway, 4th floor
New York, NY 10003
9780802119872, $24.00, www.groveatlantic.com

What goes wrong in relationships to end them? "A Small Hotel" is a novel from Robert Olen Butler, as Kelly returns to the birth of the romance she had for the past twenty years of her life as the court case to finalize her divorce is nearing its date. As she reflects on her love, how it started, what started to go wrong, "A Small Hotel" is a riveting anatomy of romance and relationships, and makes for an excellent and much recommended read.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

The Ultimate Young Actors Guide
Cindy Marcus
Meriwether Publishing
PO Box 7710, Colorado Springs, CO 80933-7710
9781566081795, $19.95, www.meriwether.com

Acting is quite the dream to pursue, but it should be done right. "The Ultimate Young Actors Guide: Getting the Role and Making It Shine" is a guide for rookie actors who want to give their careers some legs and know how to best pursue their dream in regards to their craft and the etiquette of their career on the business side of things. "The Ultimate Young Actors Guide" is a fine choice and much recommended pick for the aspiring and ambitious thespians.

Three Stooges FAQ
David J. Hogan
Applause
c/o Hal Leonard Performing Arts Publishing
33 Plymouth St, Suite 302
Montclair, NJ 07042
9781557837882, $19.99, www.halleonard.com

The misery of others is timeless humor. "Three Stooges FAQ: Everything Left to Know About The Eye-Poking, Face-Slapping, Head-Thumping Geniuses" discusses the famed and favored trio of Larry, Curly, and Moe, as well as less revered Shemp and Joe and their contributions to act. Through countless feature films and mastery of the art of the short, David J. Hogan tracks their act through the 1930s to the falling of the act and the collapse of the group due to age and disease. "Three Stooges FAQ" is an excellent pick for any who want to gain a better understanding of the act and how it has achieved timelessness.


The Journalism Shelf

Censored 2012
Mickey Huff & Project Censored
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street
New York, NY 10013
9781609803476, $19.95, www.sevenstories.com

With twenty four hours of news a day, there are many subjects that are conveniently ignored, instead opting to focus on the very important topic of Charlie Sheen. "Censored 2012: The Top Censored Stories and Media Analysis of 2010-2011" discusses the crisis that is occurring in the American news media surrounding the under-reported stories that seem highly important yet were passed over for whatever reason, the manufacture of and mass consumption of junk news, propaganda, and much more. For a discussion of the serious issue and decline of journalism, "Censored 2012" is a vital and very much recommended pick for journalism and social issues collections.

A Journal of No Illusions
Timothy W. Luke & Ben Agger
Telos Press Publishing
431 East 12th Street
New York, NY 10009
9780914386452, $21.95, www.telospress.com

Anything of worth is worthy of criticism. "A Journal of No Illusions: Telos, Paul Piccone, and the Americanization of Critical Theory" traces the history behind the news journal Telos, which contained many writings discussing the new direction of the American left, with much discussion of European social theory and its future and applications to our world. Paul Piccone created the journal, and never expected it to grow to the place it has, and Timothy W. Luke & Ben Agger present an intriguing literary history behind the publication and where it has came from. "A Journal of No Illusions" is a fine pick for any journalistic studies collection discussing historic publications.


The Literary Studies Shelf

Elizabeth Bowen
Susan Osborn, editor
Cork University Press
c/o Stylus Publishing, Inc.
22883 Quicksilver Drive
Sterling, VA 20166-2012
9781859184356, $62.00, www.styluspub.com

Good literature reflects its era. "Elizabeth Bowen: New Critical Perspectives" discusses the work of Elizabeth Bowen, who many literary critics now discuss and rate highly, among other twentieth century literary great Samuel Beckett. Discussing her work in novels, stories, sensationalism, and on the concepts of modernity in the tumultuous twentieth century, "Elizabeth Bowne" is crafted by many modern literary critics and presents a scholarly and very highly recommended addition for community and college literary studies collections.


The Islamic Studies Shelf

Understanding Islam, updated edition
Frithjof Schuon
World Wisdom
1501 East Hillside Drive
Bloomington, IN 47401
9781935493907, $19.95, www.worldwisdom.com

With misunderstanding comes great fear. "Understanding Islam" is a reprinting and revised translation of Frithjof Schuon's previous work surrounding the nature of Islam and why it has attracted a billion and a half followers. World renown for its scholarly nature that sheds light on this controversial faith, this updated edition contains 77 pages of new material, editor's notes, glossaries, and more. "Understanding Islam" is a core and much recommended addition to community and college religious studies collections.


The Library Science Shelf

Case Study Research
Ravonne A. Green
Libraries Unlimited
c/o ABC-CLIO
PO Box 1911
Santa Barbara, CA 93116-1911
9781591588603, $45.00, www.abc-clio.com

Case studies are quite useful, but their exact application is often misunderstood. "Case Study Research: A Program Evaluation Guide for Librarians" is a guide for deciding which case study is appropriate for a libraries purposes by evaluating proposals' construction, methods, and merits. Case studies and their evaluation are accepted by a majority of accreditation committees but as such, many libraries struggle to find appropriate methods. Ravonne A. Green provides everything librarians must know to pick appropriate case studies, and makes "Case Study Research" a reference to have on hand for every librarian and library administrator.

Academic Branch Libraries in Changing Times
Nevenka Zdravkovska
Chandros
c/o Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004
New York, NY 10038-4512
9781843346302, $75.00, www.neal-schuman.com

As money runs thin, libraries often are the first to go. "Academic Branch Libraries in Changing Times" is a guide to keeping efficiency in trying times for branch libraries, the libraries dedicated to certain departments of academia. Nevenka Zdravkovska offers her expertise as the head of department libraries in how these libraries can survive and thrive in trying times while serving their branch well. Practical and straightforward about the future of branch libraries, "Academic Branch Libraries in Changing Times" is an excellent reference for any librarian and library administrator in academic institutions.

Library Management Tips That Work
Carol Smallwood, editor
ALA Editions
c/o American Library Association
50 East Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60611
9780838911211, $49.50, www.alastore.ala.org

Good library management is essential to keeping a library successful and functional. "Library Management Tips That Work" is an insightful compilation of essays from many librarians, compiled under the care of Carol Smallwood. Recounting many real experiences and the challenges that came with it, librarians will learn the importance of keeping budget, catering to all ages, and embracing the power of the internet. Additional chapters discuss public relations, staffing concerns, and working with one's superiors, all discussed with much expertise. "Library Management Tips That Work" is a core addition to any library science reference collection.


The Cookbook Shelf

Eat Local
Jasia Steinmetz
New World Publishing
11543 Quartz Dr., #1
Auburn, CA 95602
9780963281456, $12.95, www.eatlocalsimplesteps.com

Taking out the travel cost to the world is what makes eating local worth it. "Eat Local: Simple Steps to Enjoy Real, Healthy, & Affordable Food" discusses the value of eating local. Jasia Steinmetz breaks the process down, presenting her argument for fresher food, using shopping savvy and excellent recipes throughout. With plenty to consider for a more comprehensive diet that supports the local community, "Eat Local" is a must for those who want to join in on the local food movement throughout the country.

The "What's For Dinner?" Solution
Kathi Lipp
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
www.harvesthousepublishers.com
9780736938372, $12.99, www.amazon.com

Written with considerable humor and insight, Kathi Lipp draws home-made recipes for outstanding home-made meals from women who are seasoned and experienced family kitchen cooks. More than just a collection of thoroughly 'user friendly' recipes, for time stressed homemakers, The "What's For Dinner?" Solution" also offers a wealth of practical tips for saving time and money through bulk shopping and meal preparations. Whether for putting together family meals or special occasion dinners, "The "What's For Dinner?" Solution is made even more accessible through a comprehensive index of recipes, making it especially recommended for personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

The Ultimate Casseroles Book
Better Homes and Gardens
Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118020357, $19.99, www.wiley.com

Enhanced with more than 300 full color illustrations, "The Ultimate Casseroles Book" from Better Homes and Gardens showcases the culinary versatility of one-dish meals with more than 400 recipes that range from the classic to the epicurean. These outstanding crock pot dishes run from such fare as a Three-Bean Tamale Pie; a Hamburger Cheese Hot Dish; and a Turkey Manicotti; to a Spinach Cannelloni with Fontina; Thyme-Roasted Beets; and White Chocolate Bread Pudding. Of special note is a chapter devoted to instructions on turning leftovers into new one-dish dinners. Enriched for the kitchen cook with the inclusion of a guide to bakeware and menu planning advice, "The Ultimate Casseroles Book" truly lives up to its title and would make a very popular addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Everyday Happy Herbivore
Lindsay S. Nixon
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781936661381, $19.95, www.benbellabooks.com

Gourmet meals are wonderful, but highly impractical. "Everyday Happy Herbivore: Over 175 Quick-and-Easy Fat-Free and Low-Fat Vegan Recipes" is a vegan cookbook from Lindsay S. Nixon as she offers recipes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less with low calorie intake to make for excellent daily meals, well within vegan standards. Not sacrificing flavor for convenience, "Everyday Happy Herbivore" is an excellent and much recommended reference for any vegan who wants to stay true to their lifestyle, save time, and have excellent meals.

Salsas of the World
Mark Miller & Robert Quintana
Gibbs Smith, Publisher
PO Box 667, Layton UT 84041
9781423622086, $19.99, www.gibbs-smith.com

Salsa has now overtaken ketchup as America's most popular and widely used condiment. While any grocery store will have an entire section devoted to commercially produced salsas, "Salsas of the World" is a 192-page compendium containing superbly illustrated, kitchen cook friendly, do-it-yourself salsa based recipes that would put anything 'store bought' to culinary shame. More than just a collection of international recipes (although there are a culinary wealth of those!), "Salsas of the World" offers informed and informative introductory commentary on the history and diversity of salsas. The recipes themselves are drawn from every region of the world and range from Shiso Leaf Tomato (Japan); Verde Trio Salsa (Mexico); Chimichurri (Argentina) ; and Avacado, Bacon, Jalapeno (Texas); to Som Tom (Northeast Thailand); Watermelon Barbecue (Southern United States); Laos Charred Eggplant (Laos); and Lhasa yellow Achar (Tibet). "Salsas of the World" will prove to be an enduringly popular edition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Poulet
Cree LeFavour
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
9780811879699, $27.50, www.chroniclebooks.com

Good chicken is something that can't be beat. "Poulet: More Than 50 Remarkable Meals That Exalt the Honest Chicken" is a wide assortment of chicken based dishes that seek to please any and every palate as Cree LeFavour introduces readers to many flavors, be it sandwiches, pies, chicken as part of a greater dish, or chicken as the star dish. For anyone with a taste for the bird, "Poulet" is an excellent cookbook choice, with a wide array of full color photography throughout.


The Native American Studies Shelf

Go East, Young Man
Richard V. Francaviglia
Utah State University Press
7800 Old Main Hill
Logan, Utah 84322
9780874218091, $36.95, www.USUPress.org

Native American culture was an enigma to European Americans, so they turned to what they knew only slightly better - the orient. "Go East, Young Man" delves into the perceptions of the American West and American Indian culture, as Richard V. Francaviglia offers parallels between the depictions of American Indians and the American ideal of China and Japan. Stating that these perceptions were both incorrect, he offers a unique view of history and its impact, and the changing perception of these races of people. "Go East, Young Man" is a strongly recommended discussion of history and race relations, and our the results of the human lack of understanding one another.


The Photography Shelf

Art Photography Now
Susan Bright
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10110-0017
9780500289426, $29.95, www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Photography can be far more than just a reflection of a situation. "Art Photography Now" is a collection of essays and full color reproductions of many photography, as Susan Bright discusses the many aspects of artistic photography and what makes a photograph leap from simply a photograph to being something worthy of artistic merit. Explaining purpose, narrative, and much more in the context of photography and how a photo can stand for something and tell a story, "Art Photography Now" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to understand the art of photography and its full potential as a medium, highly recommended.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Puppy Problems? No Problem!
Brenda Aloff
Dogwise Publishing
403 South Mission Street
Wenatchee WA 98801
9781617810510, $39.95, www.dogwisepublishing.com

Puppies are often chosen as pets due to overwhelming cuteness, but early training often proves troublesome. "Puppy Problems? No Problem!" is a training and behavioral guide from Brenda Aloff, as she advises many traditional and practical training techniques to help a puppy behave in an acceptable way to continue harmony as it matures into a full grown dog. "Puppy Problems? No Problem!" is enhanced with a 2 hour training DVD for additional information, and is a top pick for any family adopting a new member into their family.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

The 36-Hour Day
Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins
The Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
9781421402802, $16.95, www.press.jhu.edu

As the mind slips away, it can be difficult to cope with the slow loss of a family member. "The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss" is a guide for those struggling with a family member who is coping with the mental malady that affects far too many, and the struggle that goes with both the individual and those who care for them. "The 36-Hour Day" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone who has a debilitating mental illness in the future for their family, and wants to provide the best care possible.

Relax and Renew
Judith Hanson Lasater
Rodmell Press
2147 Blake Street
Berkeley, CA 94704-2715
9781930485297, $23.95, www.rodmellpress.com

Relaxation seems like such a foreign concept. "Relax and Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times" is an introductory to Yoga for those who find their lives pressure to be overwhelming and unable to correctly cope with it all. With advice on what poses to embrace to relieve daily stress and balance one's mind and soul for their lives, "Relax and Renew" is packed cover to cover with plenty of diagrams and black and white photography illustrating processes anyone can understand, making it a choice pick for anyone who wants to embrace Yoga for their daily health of mind and body, highly recommended.


The Criminology Shelf

Evidence from the Earth, second edition
Raymond C. Murray
Mountain Press Publishing Company
PO Box 2399
Missoula, MT 59806
9780878425778, $16.00, www.mountain-press.com

What do CSI and geology have in common? A lot more than you'd think. "Evidence from the Earth: Forensic Geology and Criminal Investigation" delves into the uses criminal justice has found with geology and forensics and how they are used to find evidence, debunk fraud, and more. The earth is beneath all of us, and humanity's treks over it leave much evidence that only geologists may be able to understand. A unique look at an important but not often heard of discipline of criminal investigation, "Evidence from the Earth" is a choice pick for any geological science or criminology community library collection.


The Memoir Shelf

Travels of the Mind
Ettore Grillo
Eloquent Books
c/o AEG Publishing Group
845 Third Avenue, 6th Floor - 6016
New York, NY 10022
9781608606573, $25.75, www.dreamstime.com

For a damaged mind, it can be a long way back to something that resembles normalcy. "Travels of the Mind" is a memoir of Ettore Grillo as struggles with the paranoid schizophrenia that consumes his life. Telling his spiritual journey with trying to deal with the pressures of his life, and conquering his illness through faith and dedication, "Travels of the Mind" is a unique and much recommended pick for those seeking a story of faith and battling paranoid schizophrenia.


The Biography Shelf

A Different Time, A Different Man
Stephen Clarkson
Peter E. Randall, Publisher
PO Box 4726, Portsmouth, NH 03802-4726
9781931807982 $24.95 www.perpublisher.com

Accessibly written for readers of all backgrounds, A Different Time, A Different Man: The Story of John L. Sullivan is a biography of the man who served as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury during FDR's presidency, and Secretary of the Navy to President Truman. His drive and dedication played a key role in securing funds for America's efforts in World War II, and after the war he fought to preserve the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Gifted with vision, Sullivan helped pave the way to unifying America's three military services; made the historic decision to build America's first nuclear-powered submarine (the USS Nautilus); and ultimately resigned his post in protest of Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson's decisions to abruptly cancel the construction of a new aircraft supercarrier, as well as Johnson's desire to end the Marine Corps by merging it with the Army. A man dedicated to his principles throughout his political career, John L. Sullivan was an extraordinary, passionate, and captivating leader, and his biography is an excellent addition to public and college library shelves.

LeMay
Warren Kozak
Regnery Publishing, Inc.
One Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
9781596987692, $18.95, www.regnery.com

To get anywhere as a leader, you have to be a little crazy. "LeMay: The Life and Wars of General Curtis LeMay" is a biography of this controversial figure of World War II through Vietnam by Warren Kozak, journalist who regularly contributes to the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal. LeMay shares an air with Patton as often decried as warmonger, but Kozak offers a view of the calculated mind of LeMay and why he made the decisions he did, knowing the consequences and his career as a military man, strategist, adviser, and politician. "LeMay" is an utterly fascinating read of one of the most controversial figures to ever claim the title of General in United States history.

Elizabeth and Hazel
David Margolick
Yale University Press
PO Box 209040
New Haven, CT 06520-9040
9780300141931, $26.00, http://yalepress.yale.edu

Time heals, and makes you regret the decisions you made at as a much younger, more foolish person. "Elizabeth and Hazel: Two Women of Little Rock" is a dual biography of sorts, as David Margolick looks at the famous Little Rock Nine in a smaller scope, Elizabeth Eckford, an African American teenager who entered Little Rock Central High School in the force of ending segregation, and one of the white teenagers that day who was angrily shouting at the nine as they entered in Hazel Bryan. The situation was captured in a photograph, and years later, the two met face to face and reconciled. A study of changing attitudes and forgiveness, "Elizabeth and Hazel" makes for a fascinating and music recommended read, not to be overlooked.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Unemployed, But Moving On!
Charyl Butler Long
Impact Publications
9104 Manassas Drive, Suite N
Manassas Park, VA 20111
9781570233258, $13.95, www.impactpublications.com

It's hard to find a good job, but giving up isn't going to make a job spontaneously appear. "Unemployed, But Moving On!: Smart Job Searching in a Web-Based World and a Sucky Economy" is a guide to finding a job in today's rough economy where hope doesn't seem to be in high supply. Stating what to expect, being at one's best, and making it though job losses, "Unemployed, But Moving On!" is a useful and much recommended read for those who want to survive this hostile job market.


The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

The Stan Lee Universe
Danny Fingeroth & Roy Thomas, editors
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Dr., Raleigh, NC 27614
9781605490298, $26.95, www.twomorrows.com

Anyone who's ever touched a comic book knows the name Stan Lee. "The Stan Lee Universe" is a devoted biography surrounding Stan Lee, who five decades ago began to change the way people viewed comics and became the force that made Marvel into the goliath it is today. With many interviews by and about Stan Lee, any fan of Stan Lee and the man's work would do well in choosing "The Stan Lee Universe", packed cover to cover with black and white and color photography all throughout.


The Reference Shelf

BRB's Guide to County Court Records
Facts on Demand Press
BRB Publications
PO Box 27869, Tempe, AZ 85285-7869
9781889150574, $34.50, www.brbpublications.com

Records are immense in number, making them often quite daunting to study. "BRB's Guide to County Court Records: A Complete National Resource to Criminal, Civil, and Probate Records Found at the Nation's State, County, Parish, and Municipal Courts" is a guide for anyone who is tasked with finding anything and everything surrounding record research and study. Stating where to find clerks who are charge of searching records, state by state laws, web databases, fees that may be involved, and much more. A complete and comprehensive research on studying these records, "BRB's Guide to County Court Records" is an excellent pick and much recommended addition to community library collections, a good place to start for anyone who is charging themselves with searching the vast court records of the United States.


The Social Issues Shelf

Homeless Outreach & Housing First
Jay S. Levy
Loving Healing Press
5145 Pontiac Trail
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
9781615991365, $8.95, www.jayslevy.com

A home is something all too many take for granted. "Homeless Outreach & Housing First" is a discussion of a program that tries to help the homeless find homes, and get them on the first step to climbing out of their economic hole. With plenty to ponder on the process and its noble goal, "Homeless Outreach & Housing First" is a fine pick that shouldn't be overlooked for community library social issues collections.


The Nautical Shelf

Voyage to Jamestown
Robert D. Hicks
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591143765, $29.95, www.navalinstitute.org

When the world is against your progress, you need to on your toes with your wits to succeed and survive. "Voyage to Jamestown: Practical Navigation in the Age of Discovery" is a discussion of seamanship in the Age of Discovery, where Europeans struck out to find out what was there in the corner of the world. Wisely using the technology they had to the fullest, Robert D. Hicks presents a fictional crew and uses storytelling to show how such a group would fare the oceans with no destination clear. "Voyage to Jamestown" is a riveting delve into history, enhanced with many photographs and illustrations, very much recommended.


The Science Shelf

Solar System
Marcus Chown
Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers
151 West 19th Street
New York, NY 10011
9781579128852, $29.95, www.blackdogandleventhal.com

Even within our own solar system, there are countless mysteries that intrigue us. "Solar System: A Visual Exploration of the Planets, Moons, and Other Heavenly Bodies that Orbit Our Sun" is a coffee table sized science book that explores the mysteries that lie in our own solar system and the many celestial bodies throughout the Milky Way. Moons, asteroids, the rings of Saturn are all discussed, with articles discussing details about each. From life on Titan, Uranus's first name, the demotion of Pluto, and much more. "Solar System" is an endlessly fascinating read about our little corner of the universe what lies within it.


The Gardening Shelf

Backyard Homesteading
David Toht
Creative Homeowner
24 Park Way
Saddle River, NJ 07450-2311
9781580115216, $16.95, www.creativehomeowner.com

With rising food costs, self-sufficiency is becoming vogue once more. "Backyard Homesteading: A Back-to-Basics Guide to Self-Sufficiency" is a guide for those who want to embrace backyard agriculture to go beyond gardening and creating a farm of one's own. From the legal aspects of local regulations, raising chickens, goats, bees, and more, David Toht presents an excellent introductory reference on how to create one's own steady source of fresh food. "Backyard Homesteading" is a fine pick with plenty to consider, not to be overlooked for those who want to take a cue from their ancestors.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Lost Gate
Orson Scott Card
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9781441771636, $118.00, www.amazon.com

Orson Scott Card is very well known for his long and successful career as a writer of science fiction. What may not be quite so well known is that he is equally and imaginatively talented as an author of original fantasy. The first volume of Card's 'The Mithermages' series, "The Lost Gate" has been flawlessly produced by Blackstone Audiobooks and features the superb vocal performances of Emily Janice Card and Stefan Rudnicki. It turns out that the old gods of mankind are actually visitors from another world. They traveled to earth and had their various powers enhanced by means of 'gates' created by 'Gate Fathers'. The Norse 'god' Loki was one of these and some 1400 years ago destroyed all the connecting gates leaving his fellow 'gods' stranded and gradually weakening as the generations rolled on. So enraged were the stranded communities of 'gods' that anyone born within their numbers having the ability to create such gates was subject to immediate execution. Enter Danny, a young boy who only gradually discovers his abilities to create gates, an ability that puts him on the run from those of his own family and all the other families of 'gods' who would kill him for it. Along the way Danny discovers allies, increases his understanding of his abilities, and leads to an inevitable showdown
with the infamous 'Gate Eater' who could strip him of his gift forever. Interspersed with Danny's story (narrated by Stefan Rudnicki) is the story of Wad back on the 'gods' home planet (narrated by Emily Janice Card. Ultimately these two intertwining stories come together with unanticipated consequences for both Danny and Wad. An impressive production from beginning to end, this complete and unabridged edition is very highly recommended for personal and community library audio book collections.

The Watch That Ends the Night
Allan Wolf
Performed by Michael Page, et. al.
Brilliance Audio
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781455829361 $24.99 www.brillianceaudio.com

Award-winning author Allan Wolf presents The Watch That Ends the Night, an unabridged audiobook rendition of stories about two dozen of the passengers and crew aboard the RMS Titanic, one of the largest and most luxurious ships to sail the world in 1912, before its horrendous and untimely sinking. Re-creating the Titanic disaster through the eyes of individuals ranging from a young boy who believed in dragons to a shifty gambler always looking to make more money to Captain E.J. Smith who would ultimately go down with his ship, The Watch That Ends the Night is as emotionally moving as it is meticulous in its recreation of early 1900's life. An excellent choice for audiobook connoisseurs or public library collections. 9 CDs, 10 hours 11 min.

Hard Times
Charles Dickens, author
Anton Lesser, narrator
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28
Franklin, TN 37064
9781843794431 $59.98 www.naxosaudiobooks.com

Hard Times is the unabridged audiobook rendition of Charles Dickens' classic political novel set in the fictional English city of Coketown, amid the excesses of the industrial revolution. Capitalists Gradgrind and Bounderby teach all others to quell their imagination and dreams, especially their own children. As a result, their children are so divorced from human emotion that they are unable to function as human beings, and only the vibrancy of a traveling circus company seems to offer any hope for the people of Coketown at all. Hard Times rails fiercely against the dehumanizing effects of industry and corporatism, institutions that exploit every last drop of blood out of their laborers, with a cautionary message that reverberates as strongly today as it did in Dickens' time. Highly recommended, especially for public library audiobook collections. 9 CDs, 10 hours 41 min.

The Arthur Miller Collection
L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard
Venice, CA 90291
1580818242 $79.95 www.latw.org

The Arthur Miller Collection is an incredible, full-cast performance audiobook rendition of ten classic plays by one of the greatest American playwrights of the twentieth century. All the works put ordinary people into difficult situations with no easy answers, and resonate with a message that speaks well beyond the time and place of their setting. A superb compilation, enthusiastically recommended especially for public and college library collections, as well as for any listener far from a theater who nonetheless desires to experience quality performances of Arthur Miller's plays. 19 CDs, 18 hours 38 min.


The Library DVD Shelf

Planeat
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
1594587310 $295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com

Intended for both adults and young viewers in junior high or high school, Planeat is a documentary that makes a strong case for a plant-based diet - if not entirely vegan, then at least minimizing animal products as much as possible. Scenes range from vegan chefs delighting in new ways to create delicious cuisine from non-dairy ice cream to fresh kale salads; to the extraordinary work of Dr. T. Colin Campell who conducted a wealth of research in China to uncover strong links between consuming animals products and heart disease, among other ailments; to an environmental caution of how consuming animal products effectively creates a much larger carbon footprint than a plant-based diet would. The moral, ethical, and health benefits for adopting a plant-based diet are indisputable in this persuasive and ultimately upbeat film. English SDH captions, 78 min. with a 35 min. version available, subtitles in English, Spanish, German, and simplified Chinese.

Better This World
a film by Katie Galloway and Kelly Duane de la Vega
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
$295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com

Better This World is a documentary about David McKay (22) and Bradley Crowder (23), two friends from childhood with a nonviolent history, who were ultimately arrested on charges of domestic terrorism for their alleged plans to use firebombs to disrupt the 2008 Republican National Convention. Key to their conviction was the actions and testimony of Brandon Darby, a government informant who pretended to be their friend while egging them on to construct the deadly firebombs that would ultimately convict them. Better This World vividly portrays a true story of tension, protest, betrayal, and the harsh side of the American justice system, while questioning the wisdom and value of entrapment stings. An excellent and thought-provoking documentary. Also highly recommended is Bullfrog Films' documentary "The War You Don't See" ($295.00) by John Pilger, a history of embedded and independent war reporting from World War I to the present day, when modern weapons of electronic propaganda are potentially as sophisticated and deadly as battlefield armaments.

A Table in Heaven
A film by Andrew Rossi
First Run Features
630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213
New York, NY 10036
$24.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com

A Table in Heaven is a wonderful documentary about life and times of an Italian restaurant in New York, and the family that runs it. The high-class eatery Le Cirque was closed in 2004, then re-opened two years later; founder Sirio Maccioni and his three sons, Mauro, Marco, and Mario, worked tirelessly to create the finest gourmet dining, worthy of pleasing the most demanding professional restaurant critics. A behind-the-scenes look at the immense amount of work behind the struggle to achieve culinary excellence, as well as the day-to-day difficulties of attempting to pass on a treasured family legacy, A Table in Heaven is an excellent, family-friendly movie especially recommended for gourmets. Public library collections will also find it a worthy addition to their DVD documentary collections! 74 min.


The Civil War Shelf

Captain Joseph Boyce and the 1st Missouri Infantry, C.S.A.
William C. Winter
Missouri History Museum
c/o University of Missouri Press (distribution)
2910 LeMone Boulevard
Columbia, MO 65201
9781883982706 $23.95 www.mohistory.org www.umsystem.edu/upress

Civil War historian William C. Winter presents Captain Joseph Boyce and the 1st Missouri Infantry, C.S.A. is the detailed, month-by-month story of one of Missouri's most organized and disciplined volunteer regiments during the American Civil War. Chapters collect the primary testimony of Captain Joseph Boyce of Company D (the St. Louis Greys), and expand on it with historical research and perspective, while maintaining a focus on the regiment's actions during the Civil War. A bibliography and index enhance fascinating and thoughtful glimpse of the harsh realities of battle, made accessible to readers of all backgrounds through the author's smooth enhancements, commentaries, notes and bridge narration. Highly recommended, especially for public and college library Civil War history shelves.


The Military Shelf

Arsenal of Defense
J'Nell L. Pate
Texas State Historical Association
1155 Union Circle #311580
Denton, TX 76203-5017
9780876112496 $39.95 www.TSHAonline.org

Retired college history teacher J'Nell Pate presents Arsenal of Defense: Fort Worth's Military Legacy, a close study of the history and long-term military impact of the American military base of Fort Worth. Particular attention is paid to Fort Worth's role during the World Wars, when Fort Worth became well-known especially for pilot training in World War I and military aircraft construction in World War II, as well their partnership with the nation's largest defense contractor (Lockheed Martin) and the largest helicopter producer (Bell). A fair number of black-and-white photographs illustrate this thoughtful, serious-minded, yet thoroughly accessible history and chronicle, ideal for library collections with a focus on Texas military history. Highly recommended.


The Political Science Shelf

Debunking Glenn Beck
Karl Rogers
Praeger Publishers
c/o ABC-CLIO
PO Box 1911
Santa Barbara, CA 93116-1911
9781440800290 $48.00 www.abc-clio.com

Debunking Glenn Beck: How to Save America from Media Pundits and Propagandists is not just a hard counter to pro-corporate political pundit Glenn Beckand his so-called "conservative libertarianism" - rather, Debunking Glenn Beck considers Beck to be only a symptom of the problem, no matter how thoroughly his arguments are deconstructed or countered. The true social ill, claims author and progressive professor of philosophy Karl Rogers, lies in the immense and increasing power that wealthy mega-corporations have - both over politicians (through unlimited corporate contributions to their campaigns) and the media. Rogers stresses that this fundamental flaw wearing away American democracy springs from a disastrous Supreme Court decision to allow unlimited corporate funding of politicians, and only a Supreme Court reversal or a constitutional amendment can correct matters. Therefore, a grassroots movement to demand a Constitutional amendment declaring that corporations are not and can never be people is absolutely critical! Debunking Glenn Beck is a thoroughly accessible, forward-thinking, and highly recommended critical treatise. "No matter how the facts show that laissez-faire capitalism has resulted in a global economic crisis and a government that serves corporate interests rather than the citizenry, media pundits and propagandists continue to assert that unrestrained capitalism is the only way to get out of the crisis that government has supposedly caused... Their circularity of logic and denial of facts are quite astounding, as they argue for further deregulation to solve the problems caused by deregulation."


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Berkshire Manual of Style for International Publishing
Berkshire Publishing Group
120-122 Castle Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230-1506
www.berkshirepublishing.com
9781614729938, $22.95, www.amazon.com

A superbly organized, presented, 188-page compendium of guidelines, rules and rule exceptions for writing on a global level of readership, the "Berkshire Manual of Style for International Publishing" also includes thoughtful and thought-provoking meditations and asides on writing and word use, as well as thematically relevant writing and publishing anecdotes and lore. Essential reading for copy writers and editors, the "Berkshire Manual of Style for International Publishing" also deals with business writing including both email and snail-mail correspondence. Of special note is the section devoted to guidelines for authors and reviewers. Comprehensive and deftly organized and thoroughly 'user friendly', the "Berkshire Manual of Style for International Publishing" will prove to be an indispensable reference and resource.

Writing For The Web
Lynda Felder
New Riders
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
978032179443, $24.99, www.mcp.com

With the coming of internet communication that ranges from email, to web sites, to the creation of documents and files, a new form of literacy has become essential to success -- writing for and in a medium that includes pictures and sounds integrated with the written word. "Writing for the Web: Creating Compelling Web Content Using Words, Pictures, and Sound" by Lynda Felder is a 192-page compendium of instruction and explanation that will enable the reader to create focused, effective, competent web site copy fully integrated with visuals and sound. Providing a wealth of instructive exercises that include working with images, adding motion and sound, as well as creating interactive and non-linear stories, "Writing For The Web" is an ideal and thoroughly 'user friendly' instruction manual, highly recommended for personal, professional, corporate, community, and academic library instructional resource collections.

10 Things Every Writer Needs To Know
Jeff Anderson
Stenhouse Publishers
477 Congress Street, Suite 4B
Portland, ME 04101-3451
9781571108104, $23.00, www.stenhouse.com

Much like painting, the art and craft of writing is as much a matter of skill as it is talent. "Ten Things Every Writer Needs to Know" by Jeff Anderson is a 256-page compendium of insightful information and instruction focusing on ten essential facets of writing: motion, models, locus, detail, form, frames, cohesion, energy, words, and clutter. Each of these aspects of the writing process has a specific chapter beginning with 'Getting and Keeping Writers Motivated' and concluding with 'Deleting the Extraneous'. Of special note is the prologue commentary 'What Writing Instruction Is and Isn't'. Enhanced with an appendix, a bibliography, and an index, "10 Things Every Writer needs To Know" is informed, informative, and thoroughly 'user friendly', making an excellent textbook for Creative Writing courses and on which should be in every school, community, and academic library instructional reference collection.


The Anthropology Shelf

Young Men In Uncertain Times
Vered Amit & Noel Dyck, editors
Berghahn Books
150 Broadway, Suite 812
New York, NY 10038
www.berghahnbooks.com
9780857452498, $95.00, www.amazon.com

In simpler, pre-industrial societies young males had more definitive criteria as to what constituted the transition from childhood to adulthood, as well as the rights and responsibilities of being a man. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by the team of Vered Amit (Professor of Anthropology, Concordia University) and Noel Dyck (Professor of Social Anthropology, Simon Fraser University, British Columbia), "Young Men In Uncertain Times" is a 346-page compendium of studies and reports on contemporary issues facing young men 'coming of age' in various and diverse parts of the world. After an informed and informative introduction by anthropologists Vered Amit and Noel Dyck, the eleven scholarly contributions range from 'Institutionalizing an Extended Youth Phase in Chinese Society', to 'Gendered Modernities and Traditions: Masculinity and Nationalism in the Society Islands', to 'Young Men, Trouble, and the Law: A French Case', to Big Man System, Short Life Culture: Working-Class Boys and Street Violence in Southeast London'. An impressive and seminal body of work, "Young Men In Uncertain Times" is strongly recommended for professional and academic library Social Anthropology reference collections in general, and Male Gender Studies supplemental reading lists in particular.


The Large Print Shelf

Trailing Wing
Abe Dancer
Lindford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9781444807882, $20.99, www.ulverscroftusa.com

"Trailing Wing" is the story of Jubal Lorde who is conducting a cattle drive from Colorado to the Wyoming town of Pitchfork when his herd gets stolen and his friend Billy is killed. If there's to be any justice down for himself or his friend, Jubal is going to have to obtain the hard way amidst the smell of gunsmoke. This large print edition of "Trailing Wing" is a highly recommended novel that will prove to be a satisfying read for western adventure enthusiasts and a popular addition to community library Large Print collections. Indeed, librarians would be well served by visiting the Ulverscroft Large Print web site for a complete listing of their 'Lindford Western Library" large print titles in the western fiction genre.


The Geography Shelf

Atlas Of The World, eighteenth edition
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016-4314
9780199829958, $89.95, www.oup.com/us

Now in a fully updated and significantly expanded eighteenth edition, the Oxford University Press "Atlas Of The World" is a 448-page, superbly illustrated reference work that will continue to be a cornerstone of all school, community, and academic library reference collections. This new edition features global satellite imagery, newly formed countries such as South Sudan, data on global food distribution, international shipping piracy, world maps, transportation information, climate change, global patterns of employment and industry, standards of living, agriculture, population and migration, and so much more. Of special note is the up-to-date information on global conflicts. Authoritative, informed, informative, and thoroughly 'user friend', "Atlas Of The World" is also very highly recommended for personal studies and family collections as well!


The Archaeology Shelf

Stone Artifacts Of Texas Indians, third edition
Ellen Sue Turner, et al.
Taylor Trade Publishing
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
9781589794641, $29.95, www.rowman.com

A key archaeological component in the study of antiquarian Native American cultures are the stone implements they've left beyond, especially arrowheads and spearheads. The collaborative work of Ellen Sue Turner, Thomas R. Hester, Harry J. Shafer, and painstakingly illustrated throughout by Richard L. McReynolds, "Stone Artifacts of Texas Indians" is a 366-page compendium showcasing more than 200 projectile points and stone tools taken from Texas-based archaeological digs. Of special note is the informative and descriptive commentary on environmental factors, locales, and types of artifacts creating portraits of ancient Native American cultures. Now in a thoroughly updated and expanded third edition, "Stone Artifacts of Texas Indians" is a critically important and strongly recommended scholarly addition to professional and academic library Native American Studies and American Archaeological Studies instructional reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Sports Shelf

Handbook Of Sport Marketing Research
Nancy L. Lough & William A. Sutton, eds.
Fitness Information Technology
275B Coliseum, PO Box 6116
Morgantown, WV, 265066116
9781935412397, $45.00, www.fitinfotech.com

'Sport Marketing Quarterly' is the premier periodical focusing principally on the business aspects of professional sports. "Handbook Of Sport Marketing Research" is a 418-page compendium collaboratively compiled and co-edited by Nancy L. Lough and William A. Sutton who have gone over every issue for the past 20 year of 'Sports Marketing Quarterly' to provide the best presentations and articles on key sports marketing concepts and practices beginning with the basic elements of sport marketing; building a sports marketing brand, researching sport consumers, 'marketing segmentation', fan identity, sponsorship, celebrity athlete and endorsements. Of special note is the section dedicated to Ethical Issues in sports marketing. Informed and informative, the "Handbook Of Sport Marketing Research" should be considered mandatory reading for anyone involved in the business aspects of organized sports, as well as a core addition to professional and academic library Sports & Athletics and Contemporary Business instructional reference collections.


The Art Shelf

Celebrating The American Spirit
Christopher B. Crosman & Emily D. Shapiro
Hudson Hills Press
PO Box 205
74-2 Union Street, Manchester, VT 05254
www.hudsonhills.com
9781555953713, $60.00, www.amazon.com

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is one of our Arkansas' newest museums and home to one of the finest collections of American Art available to the general public. The emphasis of the history of art in the United States. The collaborative work of Christopher B. Crosman and Emily D. Shapiro, "Celebrating the American Spirit: Masterworks from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art" is a 356-page compendium showcasing the best of the Crystal Bridges Museum collection with each superbly reproduced, full-page painting accompanied by an informed and informative full page commentary, including the artists birth and death dates, as well as the specific dimensions of the painting. Of special note is the inclusion of 'A Conversation with Alice Walton' by John Wilmerding. An impressively illustrated history of American art and artists, "Celebrating The American Spirit" is a welcome and enthusiastically recommended addition to personal and academic library American Art History collections and would make an excellent 'Memorial Fund' acquisition for community library collections.


The Architecture Shelf

The Landmarks Of New York, fifth edition
Barbaralee Diamondstein-Spielvogel
New York University Press
838 Broadway, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10003
www.nyupress.org
9781438437699, $75.00, www.amazon.com

New York's iconic architecture fully reflects the enormous diversity of its population both culturally, economically, and technologically. Now in a fully updated and expanded fifth edition, "The Landmarks of New York: An Illustrated Record of the City's Historic Buildings" compiled and written by Barbaralee Diamondstein-Spielvogel (Chairperson of the Historic Landmarks Preservation Center; Vice-Chair of the new York State Council on the Arts; a Commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission; and a Director of the Trust for the National Mall). This profusely illustrated, 750-page compendium showcases 1,276 individual landmarks and 102 historic districts that have been accorded landmark status by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission since its establishment in 1965 down to the present day. Presented chronologically by date of construction, this superbly organized and presented architectural history reflects all manner of structures ranging from colonial farmhouses and mansions, to libraries and museums, to the phenomenal skyscrapers that are the hall mark of the New York City skyline. Informed and informative, "The Landmarks Of New York" is highly recommended as a core addition to all professional and academic library Architectural Studies instructional reference collections.


The Economic Studies Shelf

Handbook Of Research On Entrepreneurship Policies In Central And Eastern Europe
Friederike Welter & David Smallbone
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court, Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781848440869, $160.00, www.amazon.com

With the fall of the Soviet Union, European nations that had only socialism-based economic systems suddenly found themselves thrust into the highly competitive world of capitalist economic systems. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by the team of Friederike Welter (Jonkoping International Business School, Sweden and TeliaSonera Professorship, Stockholm School of Economics, Riga, Latvia) and David Smallbone (Small Business Research Centre, Kingston University, UK), "Handbook of Research on Entrepreneurship Policies in Central and Eastern Europe" is a 272-page compendium comprised of twelve informed and informative articles by experts organized into three major sections: Entrepreneurship Policies in the New Europe; Entrepreneurship Policies Beyond the European Union; and Challenges for Entrepreneurship Policies in a Wider Europe. A work of seminal and original economic scholarship, the "Handbook of Research on Entrepreneurship Policies in Central and Eastern Europe" is strongly recommended as a core addition to governmental and academic library Economic Policy Studies reference collections, and critically important reading for economists and academicians concerned with Europeans current economic crisis.

The Devil's Derivatives
Nicholas Dunbar
Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way
Boston, MA 02163
9781422177815, $27.95, http://hbr.org/books

Risk at times can be good, but risk junkies on Wall Street all too often ends in tragedy. "The Devil's Derivatives: The Untold Story of the Slick Traders and Hapless Regulators Who Almost Blew Up Wall Street ...and Are Ready To Do It Again" discusses the current financial crisis and what lead to something far worse, and how the world is quickly on a path to another, even more devastating collapse. Stating that Wall Street was once satisfied with safe and predictable economic victories, it has become obsessed with the big ones, which leads to huge risk takers infecting Wall Street and has lead to economic peril for the world at large. "The Devil's Derivatives" presents an intriguing and original analysis of the problems that Wall Street has been spreading to the world.


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


Copyright ©2001

Site design by Williams Writing, Editing & Design