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Library Bookwatch

Volume 7, Number 12 December 2012 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Business Shelf Criminology Shelf
Native American Studies Shelf Architecture Shelf Holocaust Studies Shelf
Religion/Spirituality Shelf Autism Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Literary Studies Shelf Aviation Shelf Music Shelf
Psychology Shelf Education Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf
Fiction Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Parenting Shelf
Biography Shelf Library Science Shelf Money/Finance Shelf
Language Studies Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf Philosophy Shelf
Art Shelf Poetry Shelf American History Shelf
World History Shelf Military Shelf Jobs/Career Shelf
Social Issues Shelf Photography Shelf Economic Studies Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Library CD Shelf Library DVD Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Political Science Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf
Theatre/Cinema Shelf Science Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

Prosperity Far Distant
Charles M. Wiltse, author
Michael J. Birkner, editor
Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780821419984 $29.95 www.ohioswallow.com

Prosperity Far Distant: The Journal of an American Farmer, 1933-1934 is the keenly written day-to-day journal of Charles M. Wiltse, a man who worked on his parents' farm in Ohio for a year during the Great Depression. Wiltse had a sharp intellect and an intensely critical mind; along with his honest-to-humorous renditions of events such as coaxing a cow to get into a hobble and give up her milk, he also writes biting deconstructions of the government's relief policies. "Federal relief has created another problem here, too. For the CWA jobs pay more than agricultural labor. Consequently, every farm laborer in the region has quit his job and gone to work on the relief projects, making it impossible to get any work done for a wage the average farmer can pay. The CWA projects are most of them useless, too; but then, on the theory of the Department of Agriculture, so is farming useless." A brief, editorial summary of Wiltse's life and works after he left the farm rounds out this fascinating lens and firsthand testimony of the plight of small farmers in the Great Depression, and the haphazard efforts of the government to help them (such as buying and distributing eggs in areas where almost everyone owned their own chicken - which meant the needy would happily accepted the eggs, but only to sell them for cash). Highly recommended for lay readers and scholars alike, as well as for public and college library collections of Great Depression testimonials.

Good Urbanism
Nan Ellin
Island Press
2000 M St NW Suite 650
Washington, DC 20036
9781610913744, $35.00, www.islandpress.org

Urban planning takes into account many factors, and can set up the city for failure or success equally well. "Good Urbanism: Six Steps to Creating Prosperous Places" is an urban planning guide as Nan Ellin outlines how urban planning can best plot a city and prepare it for economic prosperity for all of its residents, analyzing many common tactics and using real world examples all throughout and understanding the potential of one's city. "Good Urbanism" is a strong addition to any collection focusing on urban planning and policy, much recommended.

Cries of Crisis
Robert B. Hackey
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166
Reno, NV, 89557-0166
9780874178890, $34.95, www.unpress.nevada.edu

The overuse of anything will cause the public become desensitized to it. "Cries of Crisis: Rethinking the Health Care Debate" discusses the problems surrounding the current health care debate, as he believes the idea of a persistent healthcare crisis has hurt the rationality of the debate, and has lost sight of many of the problems that lie at the roots of the problem, and is hurting the push for better reform. Offering a very different perspective on healthcare issues, "Cries of Crisis" is a strong addition to any social issues debate collection, much recommended.

Deaf-Blind Reality
Scott M. Stoffell, editor
Gallaudet University Press
800 Florida Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002-3695
9781563685354, $49.95, http://gupress.gallaudet.edu

For most, what they see and hear is there reality. But what if you lacked the ability to do either? "Deaf-Blind Reality: Living the Life" discusses the life's challenges of those who are both deaf and blind, left experiencing life without the two senses one most relies on in life. Scott M. Stoffell presents an enlightening study of life for these people, touching on the lives of many throughout the world and the unique difficulties they faced. "Deaf-Blind Reality" provides much to think about, and a core addition to any collection focusing on deafness or blindness in everyday life.


The Business Shelf

Corporate Disasters: What Went Wrong and Why
Gale
c/o Cengage Learning, Inc.
200 First Stamford Place
Stamford, CT 06902
9781414496146 $462.00 www.cengage.com

Corporate Disasters: What Went Wrong and Why is exactly what its title proclaims - a thorough post-mortem analysis of practically a hundred of the most outstanding business disasters throughout world history. Examples range from the demise of Borders bookstores (who failed to get into the ebook and online sales business quickly enough, and insisted on stocking their high-rent stores with expensive rare books long after internet bookselling made finding such books online too easy), to the fall of Circuit City (competitor Best Buy ran them out of businesses by choosing to build stores in more accessible locations, and by keeping more savvy tech support staff on hand), to broad-based market disasters such as the 1980's U.S. Savings and Loan crisis, and the late 2000's U.S. Housing Bubble and Credit crisis, to the failed AOL-Time Warner Merger, the one man whose deception and futures gambling brought down the venerable Barings Bank, and even Mark Twain's passionate yet inept efforts at business (he was notorious for becoming personally attached to products or inventions, sinking money into them long after they proved to be unpopular). Corporate Disasters is an eye-opening laundry list of money-hemorrhaging case studies and object lessons accessible to readers of all backgrounds, and an absolute "must-have" especially for School of Business college libraries, worthy of the highest recommendation. "Despite Coca-Cola's extensive beverage marketing expertise, the company did not make allowances for the cultural difference in the United Kingdom. While Americans and Canadians seemed perfectly willing to pay a premium for purified tap water in a convenient plastic bottle, the British thought the company was defrauding consumers. The price tag on Dasani, which was considerably higher than in the United States, also served to fuel outrage."


The Criminology Shelf

How They Got Away With It
Susan Will, Stephen Handleman, David C. Brotherton
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street, NY, NY 10023-7015
http://cup.columbia.edu
9780231156912, $29.50, www.amazon.com

The economic collapse of 2008 was precipitated by an horrific culmination of bad decisions, short sighted strategies, and outright white collar criminal activities. Now some five years later, none of the corporate CEOs, hedge fund managers, or stock manipulators has served a single day in jail. Indeed, those same financial moguls continue to occupy seats of financial governance and exercise high financed levers of power within and without the federal government -- especially with respect to those governmental supervisory bodies, commissions, and departments that were originally created to be 'watchdogs' over Wall Street operatives and operations. That's why "How They Got Away with It: White Collar Criminals and the Financial Meltdown", a 384 page compendium compiled and edited by the academic team of Susan Will (Assistant Professor of Sociology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice), Stephen Handleman (Director of the Center of Media, Crime and Justice at John Jay College of Criminal Justice), and David C. Brotherton (Professor and Chair of Sociology, John Jay college of Criminal Justice) is such an important body of work if we are do understand how so much wrong doing could evade and avoid criminal sanctions of any kind. "How They Got Away With It" is comprised of fifteen superbly presented essays that range from Saskia Sassen's 'The Logics of Finance: Abuse of Power and Systemic Crisis'; to Gilbert Geis' 'Unaccountable External Auditors and Their Role in the Economic Meltdown'; to Justin O'Brien's 'The Facade of Enforcement: Goldman Sachs, Negotiated Prosecution, and the Politics of Blame'. Of special note are the five essays that deal with financial scandals in the United Kingdom, Holland, Portugal, Greece, and China respectively. Informed and informative, "How They Got Away With It" will prove to be exceptionally enlightening reading for anyone concerned with the possibilities of a second financial collapse modeled after the 2008 debacle, as well as those wondering why justice has not been seen to be a factor in disciplining those who brought economic disaster upon us all.


The Native American Studies Shelf

Ledger Narratives
Colin G. Calloway, editor
Michael Paul Jordan, et al.
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806142975 $49.95 (hard cover)
9780806142982, $29.95 (paperback) www.oupress.com

"Ledger Narratives: The Plains Indian Drawings of the Lansburgh Collection at Dartmouth College" is a book cataloging and reflecting upon a stunning collection of plains Indian ledger art of over 140 drawings held by the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College. Here are artworks created by Cheyennes, Crows, Kiowas, Lakotas, Arapaho, and other Plains peoples in the mid to late nineteenth century. Presenting the complete Lansburgh collection in full color, Ledger Narratives not only showcases this historic Plains native art form; it also presents seven analytical essays by various scholars of Native American studies on different perspectives and themes presented in the art works. Essay/chapter titles include Battles, Courting and Changing Lives, by Joyce M. Szabo, Striving for Recognition: Ledger Drawings and the Construction and Maintenance of Social Status during the Reservation Period, by Michael Paul Jordan, Illustrating Encounter: Trade Travel, and Warfare in Southern Plains Ledger Drawing, 1875-1880, by Jenny Tone-Pah-Hote, Unsettling Accounts: the Violent Economies of the Ledger, by Melanie Benson Taylor, New Geographies and Surveying Eyes: The Landscapes of Noh-hu-nah-wih (Chief Killer), by Mary Peterson Zundo, Tracing the Schoolhouse/Big House Legacy: Ledger Art and Prison Work, by Vera B. Palmer, and Reconstructing History from a Fragmented Past, by Joyce M. Szabo. This array of diverse Native American cultural experts present many fresh, intriguing ideas to inform our appreciation of the content of the ledger art works' commentary. Of course, the detailed reproductions of the drawings speak eloquently for themselves as well. Nevertheless, full knowledge of the history and conditions of creation and the lives of the artists is most enlightening and at times shocking to non-Native readers. A full understanding and appreciation of the complex history of the Plains Indian peoples during the nineteenth century greatly enhances the experience of assimilating the content of the "Ledger Narratives." To further assist this process, there is a helpful appendix listing ledger drawings in the Mark Lansburgh Collection in chronological order by artist, with original format, date, collector, binding history, medium, paper, dimensions, pagination, and collection summary specified. In summary, "Ledger Narratives" is a seminal work showcasing fine examples of an original Native art form that documents many aspects of the transition of Plains natives from pre to post invasion by an alien dominant culture.


The Architecture Shelf

The Sainsbury Laboratory
Stephen Day, John Parker, Steve Rose
Black Dog Publishing
10a Acton Street
London, England, WC1X 9NG, UK
www.blackdogonline.com
9781907317453, $29.99, www.amazon.com

The Sainsbury Laboratory is located at the Norwich Research Park (NRP) in Norwich, Norfolk, England. The Laboratory opened on the campus of the John Innes Centre in 1989 and has established a global reputation in plant and microbial science. The Sainsbury Laboratory is dedicated to daring, long-term research which will help reduce crop losses to important diseases. The Sainsbury Laboratory has research groups working on aspects of plant disease, plant disease resistance and microbial symbiosis in plants. "The Sainsbury Laboratory: Science, Architecture, Art" is the collaborative project of Stephen Day, John Parker, and Steve Rose. This 192 page compendium showcases the grounds, gardens, buildings, and architecture of this world renowned research facility. Of special note are the five major sections comprising "The Sainsbury Laboratory: Science, Architecture, Art": Steven Day's 'Understanding Plant Development'; John Parker's 'Plant science and the Origins of Cambridge University Botanic Garden'; Steve Rose's 'The Thinking Path: Reinventing the Research Laboratory'; Norman Ackroyd's 'Galapagos'; Susanna Heron's 'Henslow's Walk'; and William Pye's 'Starburst'. Enhanced with the inclusion of an accompanying CD, "The Sainsbury Laboratory: Science, Architecture, Art" is especially recommended reading by architects, landscape designers, and anyone contemplating the creation of a modern scientific research facility.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

The Terrible Secret
Walter Laqueur
Transaction Publishers
35 Berrue Circle
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
www.transactionpub.com
9781412849418, $24.95, www.amazon.com

The so-called 'Final Solution' was developed by Adolph Hitler and his Nazi advisors to justify the genocide of European Jews. One of the heart breaking historical questions is why other nations, including the United States, were so slow to perceive and respond to the systematic mass murders that by the end of 1942 had already accounted for the killing of more than two and a half million Jews by means of extermination camps such as those at Chelmno, Belzec, Auschwitz, Maidanek, Sobibor, and Treblinka. That is the question addressed in "The Terrible Secret: Suppression of the Truth about Hitler's Final Solution", a 282 page compendium by Walter Laqueur (Distinguished Scholar, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington, D.C.). Examining the history of personal, press, and governmental intelligence reports coming out of Europe, "The Terrible Secret" is a model of exhaustively meticulous scholarship and a seminal work that his highly recommended for academic library Holocaust Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Luther And Calvin: Religious Revolutionaries
Charlotte Methuen
Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
www.kregelpublications.com
9780745953403, $16.95, www.amazon.com

Martin Luther (10 November 1483 - 18 February 1546) was a German monk, priest, professor of theology and important figure of the Protestant Reformation. He strongly disputed the claim that freedom from God's punishment for sin could be purchased with money. He confronted indulgence salesman Johann Tetzel with his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517. His refusal to retract all of his writings at the demand of Pope Leo X in 1520 and the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V at the Diet of Worms in 1521 resulted in his excommunication by the pope and condemnation as an outlaw by the Emperor. John Calvin (10 July 1509 - 27 May 1564) was an influential French theologian and pastor during the Protestant Reformation. He was a principal figure in the development of the system of Christian theology later called Calvinism. Originally trained as a humanist lawyer, he broke from the Roman Catholic Church around 1530. After religious tensions provoked a violent uprising against Protestants in France, Calvin fled to Basel, Switzerland, where he published the first edition of his seminal work The Institutes of the Christian Religion in 1536. "Luther and Calvin: Religious Revolutionaries" by Charlotte Methuen (Departmental Lecturer in Ecclesiastical History, University of Oxford, England) is a 192 page compendium that deftly examines the ideas of both these critically important figures within the 16th Century Protestant Reformation. Informed, informative, and thoroughly 'reader friendly', "Luther and Calvin: Religious Revolutionaries" is an ideal and highly recommended introduction to the lives and teachings of these two great men and a valued contribution to community, academic, seminary, and personal Christian Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Autism Shelf

Building Independence
Christine E. Reeve & Susan S. Kabot
AAPC Publishing
PO Box 23173
Shawnee Mission, KS 66283-0173
www.aapcpublishing.net
9781937473099, $39.95, www.amazon.com

Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. The diagnostic criteria require that symptoms become apparent before a child is three years old. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize; how this occurs is not well understood. It is one of three recognized disorders in the autism spectrum (ASDs), the other two being Asperger syndrome, which lacks delays in cognitive development and language, and pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (commonly abbreviated as PDD-NOS), which is diagnosed when the full set of criteria for autism or Asperger syndrome are not met. The collaborative effort of autism experts and academicians Christine E. Reeve and Susan S. Kabot, "Building Independence: How to Create and Use Structured Work Systems" is a 162 page instructional compendium organized into seven major chapters focusing on working with autistic children and students: Structured Work Systems; Components and use of Structured Work Systems; Structured Work Systems in School Settings: Curricula, IEPs, and Lesson Planning; Setting Up the System; Selecting Work Tasks; How to Teach the System; and Collecting Data. Informed, informative, 'user friendly', and enhanced with a 'Frequently Asked Questions', a listing of References, and three appendices (one of which is a collection of blank data sheets and forms), "Building Independence" is an ideal and highly recommended addition to professional and academic library Autism Educational Planning resource collections and curriculum supplemental reading lists.


The Self-Help Shelf

The Wisdom And Teachings Of Stephen R. Covey
Stephen R. Covey
The Free Press
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas
NY, NY 10020
www.simonsays.com
9781476725116, $18.00, www.amazon.com

The late Stephen Richards Covey (October 24, 1932 - July 16, 2012) was an American educator, author, businessman, and keynote speaker. His most popular book was "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People". His other books include "First Things First"; "Principle-Centered Leadership"; "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Families"; "The 8th Habit", and "The Leader In Me - How Schools and Parents Around the World Are Inspiring Greatness, One Child at a Time". He was a professor at the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University at the time of his death. "The Wisdom and Teachings of Stephen R. Covey" is a 176 page compendium showcasing a profusion of his invaluable insights and aphorisms, commentaries and quotes ranging from 'Don't be seduced by your own biography.'; to 'If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall, every step we take just gets us to the wrong place faster.' There is also to a selection of his favorite quotes from others - 'There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root. - Hendry David Thoreau. Enhanced with the inclusion of an extensive Reference List, "The Wisdom and Teachings of Stephen R. Covey" will prove an enduringly popular addition to personal and community library self-help reference collections and reading list.


The Literary Studies Shelf

Mary Elizabeth Braddon
Anne-Marie Beller
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
www.mcfarlandpub.com
9780786436675, $39.95, www.amazon.com

Mary Elizabeth Braddon (4 October 1835 - 4 February 1915) was a British Victorian era popular novelist. She is best known for her 1862 sensation novel 'Lady Audley's Secret'. The newest addition to outstanding literary studies series 'McFarland Companions to Mystery Fiction', "Mary Elizabeth Braddon: A Companion To The Mystery Fiction" is a 204 page compendium compiled and edited by academician Anne-Marie Beller (Lecturer in English at Loughborough University, United Kingdom) includes a succinct biographical history, a chronology of her career, her literary works in both chronological and alphabetical order. This is followed by encyclopedic style succinct descriptions of the people, places, concepts, and issues that were a part of her life, work, and world. Enhanced with the inclusion of an annotated bibliography and a comprehensive index, "Mary Elizabeth Braddon" will admirably serve academic library collections as a definitive reference for the study of her life, work, and contributions to 19th century mystery fiction.


The Aviation Shelf

The Flight Of The Century
Thomas Kessner
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10016-4314
www.oup.com/us
9780199931170, $17.95, www.amazon.com

Charles Augustus Lindbergh (February 4, 1902 - August 26, 1974), nicknamed Slim, Lucky Lindy, and The Lone Eagle, was an American aviator, author, inventor, explorer, and social activist. As a 25-year-old U.S. Air Mail pilot, Lindbergh emerged suddenly from virtual obscurity to instantaneous world fame as the result of his Orteig Prize-winning solo non-stop flight on May 20 - 21, 1927, made from Roosevelt Field located in Garden City on New York's Long Island to Le Bourget Field in Paris, France, a distance of nearly 3,600 statute miles (5,800 km), in the single-seat, single-engine purpose built Ryan monoplane Spirit of St. Louis. Lindbergh, a U.S. Army Air Corps Reserve officer, was also awarded the nation's highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his historic exploit. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, Lindbergh used his fame to promote the development of both commercial aviation and Air Mail services in the United States and the Americas. "The Flight of the Century: Charles Lindbergh and the Rise of American Aviation" by Thomas Kessner (Distinguished Professor of history, City University of New York Graduate Center) is a 336 page compendium that focuses upon a truly landmark achievement in the history of American aviation -- Lindbergh's May, 1927, non-stop transatlantic flight. Professor Kessner's seminal work fully explores Lindbergh's ties to business interests that backed the development of commercial aviation and the iconic pilot's work in promoting the airline industry in times of peace and war. An impressive work of detailed scholarship, "The Flight of the Century: Charles Lindbergh and the Rise of American Aviation" is recommended as a significant edition to community and academic library American History and American Aviation History reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Music Shelf

Treasures of the Golden Age
Michael O'Connor & Walter Aaron Clark, editors
Pendragon Press
PO Box 190, Hillsdale, NY 12529
www.pendragonpress.com
9781576472033, $60.00, www.amazon.com

One of academia's most prized honors is to have a compendium of essays published in one's honor. Such is the case with "Treasures of the Golden Age: Essays in Honor of Robert M. Stevenson", the latest publication in the outstanding Pendragon Press 'Festschrift' series. Robert M. Stevens -- an esteemed teacher, lauded scholar, singular composer, and gifted pianist whose contributions to musicological scholarship has well earned his place in American musical history. The collaborative editorial work of author Michael O'Connor and academician Walter Aaron Clark (Professor of Musicology at the University of California, Riverside), "Treasures of the Golden Age: Essays in Honor of Robert M. Stevenson" is a 250 page compendium comprised of thirteen erudite and informative analytical academic essays by an impressive roster of contributors organized into three major sections: Iberian Cathedral Music; The Unexpected and Reassessed; and Foreign Influences and Intersections. Of special note are the two informed and informative introductions, one each by Michael O'Connor and Walter Aaron Clark. Enhanced with a comprehensive index, "Treasures of the Golden Age: Essays in Honor of Robert M. Stevenson" will prove a welcome addition to academic library Musicology Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Psychology Shelf

Augmentative & Alternative Communication, fourth edition
David R. Beukelman & Pat Mirenda
Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company
Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
www.brookespublishing.com
9781598571967, $84.99, www.amazon.com

The collaborative work of Professor David R. Beukelman (Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska-Lincoln) and Professor Pat Mirenda (Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology and Special Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada), "Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs" is a 616 page compendium providing a comprehensive and detailed introduction to processes, interventions, and technologies designed to help students, clients, and patients with their daily communication deficits, handicaps and problems including the improvement of literacy skills, assessments and interventions that would be culturally appropriate and effective, individually designed vocabulary selections, advancements in technological innovations and devices, supporting and promoting social competence, language learning and development, and so much more. Now in a fully updated and expanded fourth edition, "Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs" directly supports the improvement of people with specific developmental disabilities and acquired disabilities affecting their communication abilities. Enhanced with a new literacy chapter, helpful end-of-chapter study questions, and a current resource section, "Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs" is ideal for use as a curriculum textbook and is especially recommended for inclusion into professional and academic library Communications Disorders reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Transcending Dementia
Linda Levine Madori
Health Professions Press
Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
www.healthpropress.com
9781932529722, $42.95, www.amazon.com

Dementia is a psychiatric term describing a severe impairment or loss of intellectual capacity and personality integration, due to the loss of or damage to neurons in the brain. "Transcending Dementia Through TTAP: A New Psychology of Art, Brain, and Cognition" by certified art and recreation therapist Linda Levine Madori, is a 264 page instruction manual on the 'TTAP Method' of addressing dementia through stimulating and integrating multiple regions of the human brain; providing an enhanced quality of life for dementia patients; promoting positive self-esteem and social participation of dementia patients; alleviating depression in dementia patients; improving memory and the use of language with respect to dementia patients. Enhanced with five appendices, an extensive list of references, and a comprehensive index, "Transcending Dementia Through TTAP: A New Psychology of Art, Brain, and Cognition" is strongly recommended reading for anyone working with dementia patients and a seminal contribution to medical school and academic library Psychiatric Studies reference collections.


The Education Shelf

Common Core Standards
Susan Ryan & Dana Frazee
ASCD
1703 North Beauregard Street
Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
9781416614616, $17.95, www.ascd.org

A standard is what we hold our students to strive for. "Common Core Standards: For High School English Language Arts" discusses the 'Common Core' set of standards and how teachers and educational administrators can help their students better grasp the curriculum of high school English by discussing what literacy means on the high school level, covering reading, writing, speaking, listening, and general language skills. "Common Core Standards" is a must for educators and administrators who want to help their school and students meet the Common Core Standards, filled cover to cover with practical advice and useful research.

Math Sense
Christine Moynihan
Stenhouse Publishers
477 Congress Street, Suite 4B
Portland, ME 04101-3451
9781571109422, $25.00, www.stenhouse.com

Mathematics are a vital aspect of general education. "Math Sense: The Look, Sound, and Feel of Effective Instruction" is an educational advisory from Christine Moynihan as she advises readers on how to better improve their educational processes, advising on how to improve the process for students, outlining the educational process on many levels. Designed for self-assessment for teachers and easy to follow metrics and advice, "Math Sense" is a strong recommendation to those who want to emphasize effective math education.

Smarter Budgets, Smarter Schools
Nathan Levenson
Harvard Education Press
8 Story Street, 1st floor
Cambridge, MA 02138
9781612501383, $29.95, www.harvardeducationpress.org

Schools are having to get by with less and less in recent years. "Smarter Budgets, Smarter Schools: How to Survive and Thrive in Tight Times" is a guide for the teacher and school administrator who still wants the best for the students even as the money supply shrinks further for the school. Nathan Levenson takes stories of schools doing their best through the worst of times and increasing their schools productivity and potential, with plenty of ideas that many readers would not have even thought of. "Smarter Budgets, Smarter Schools" is a strong addition to education management and teacher's reference collections, highly recommended.

An Extraordinary School
Sara James, editor
Australian Council for Educational Research
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 NE 58th Ave. Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213-3786
9781742860121, $29.95, www.isbs.com

Special education is about reaching the minds of those who may not learn the same way as most students. "An Extraordinary School: Re-Modelling Special Education" explores how to improve the practice of special education, focusing on one particular Australian school that has exceeded expectations for special education, the Port Philip Specialist School. Sara James compiles an editorial on special education from many writers with a strong focus on Port Phillips, scholarly takes that should be considered for special education worldwide, Australia or not. "An Extraordinary School" is a core addition to any educational studies collection, especially those with a focus on special education.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Herschel Island Qikiqtaryuk
Christopher R. Burn
University of Calgary Press
2500 University Drive, N.W.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 1N4
9780988000919, $41.95, www.uofcpress.com

Hidden in the near north holds a diverse bit of nature. "Herschel Island Qikiqtaryuk: A Natural and Cultural History of Yukon's Arctic Island" is a study of this island in Canada's Yukon territory and the unsung of its diverse wildlife and flora. Presented in full color in its entirety, Christopher R. Burn leads a stuff of authors to present a compilation that covers its human history as well as natural history. "Herschel Island Qikiqtaryuk" is a core addition to any natural history or environmental collection, highly recommended reading.


The Fiction Shelf

The Blue Kind
Kathryn Born
Switchgrass Books
c/o Northern Illinois University Press
2280 Bethany Road, DeKalb, IL 60115
www.niupress.niu.edu
9780875806822, $14.95, www.amazon.com

Deftly written by Kathryn Born "The Blue Kind", is 184 page dystopian drug-fantasy set in the apocalyptic debris of an all but unrecognizable American city. In the wake of Drug War II, all the soldiers have become dealers and all the women have become collateral for the intoxicants they both peddle and pop like Skittles. A powerful new drug is rumored to top them all, one that will fix everything wrong with Alison's life, but one that is cooked and sold by her fiercest adversary: a dealer who threatens to destroy her entire world. Highly recommended for community library collections and personal reading lists, a superbly crafted plot and memorable characters make "The Blue Kind" a thoroughly compelling read from first page to last -- and will leave the reader looking forward to Kathryn Born's next literary venture.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Dr. Ruth's Guide for the Alzheimer's Care Giver
Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary
Fresno, CA 93721
9781610351355, $16.95, www.quilldriverbooks.com

Alzheimer's is a terrible disease to cope with, for both the person losing their mind and the people caring for them. "Dr. Ruth's Guide for the Alzheimer's Care Giver" is a guide from renown therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer, who advises the millions of Americans who are caring for loved ones with this relationship destroying disease. Encouraging caregivers to remember they are not an island and that there is help to help them cope, she presents plenty of practical advice and is not to be overlooked. "Dr. Ruth's Guide for the Alzheimer's Care Giver" is a strong addition to any caregiver's reference collection, highly recommended.

How to Live to 110
Brian Kirby & Tim Kirby
Metro
c/o Independent Publishers Group
814 North Franklin Street
Chicago, IL 60610
9781843584004, $15.95, www.ipgbook.com

A healthy long life is achievable...as long as you remember healthy part of that line. "How to Live to 110: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Healthy Life" is a health advisory guide from Brian & Tim Kirby as they advise on how to live one's life by keeping good solid health for one's long term, staying healthy to prepare against cancer, keep the mind clear, keeping in shape, and preparing one's body for the long haul of health. "How to Live to 110" is a strong addition to health and wellness collections, not to be missed.


The Parenting Shelf

The 5 Simple Truths of Raising Kids
R. Bradley Snyder
Demos Medical Publishing
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
9781936303397, $16.95, www.demosmedpub.com

Parenting is quite the difficult task, but some facts are universal for us all. "The 5 Simple Truths of Raising Kids: How to Deal with Modern Problems Facing Your Tweens and Teens" is a collection of thoughtful wisdom when it comes to parenting, the facts of the matter of situations that affect all kids, no matter their era or generation. Advice for guidance and being the help they need to go through the tough transition phases of their life, "The 5 Simple Truths of Raising Kids" is a strong addition to parenting reference collections, highly recommended.

Authoritative Parenting
Robert E. Larzelere, Amanda Sheffield Morris, and Amanda W. Harrist
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
9781433812408 $59.95 www.apa.org/books

Authoritative Parenting: Synthesizing Nurturance and Discipline for Optimal Child Development is an anthology of essays by a diversity of expert psychologists concerning the practice of "authoritative parenting." Designed to be a blend of the responsive "permissive parenting" style and the disciplinarian "authoritarian parenting" style, "authoritative parenting" is a style that seeks to nurture and responds to children while simultaneously imposing a firm code of demanding discipline. The goal is to encourage high achievement, emotional adjustment, self-reliance, and social confidence in children. Individual writings include "Authoritative Parenting Revisited: History and Current Status", "Responding to Misbehavior in Young Children: How Authoritative Parents Enhance Reasoning With Firm Control", "Working With Parents of Aggressive Children: Ten Principles and the Role of Authoritative Parenting", "New Directions in Authoritative Parenting", and much more. Authoritative Parenting is an excellent resource of cutting-edge expertise especially recommended for pediatricians, teachers, tutors, and child psychologists, but parents from all walks of life and anyone who works regularly with young children can benefit from the skillful insights herein.


The Biography Shelf

Alice Paul: Equality for Women
Christine Lunardini
Westview Press
2465 Central Avenue, Boulder, CO 80301
www.westviewpress.com
9780813347615, $20.00, www.amazon.com

Alice Stokes Paul (January 11, 1885 - July 9, 1977) was an American suffragist and activist. Along with Lucy Burns and others, she led a successful campaign for women's suffrage that resulted in the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920 that politically emancipated women by giving them the right to vote. The latest addition to the outstanding Westview Press 'Lives of American Women' series, "Alice Paul: Equality For Women" by academician and women's history expert Christine Lunardini is a 216 page biographical history showcasing the life and struggle of Alice Paul as an 19th Century suffragette that included imprisonment (including solitary confinement), a hunger strike resulting in forced feeding at the hands of agents of the United States government, and her ultimate triumph when, along with a legion of others, her work and suffering was to result in women being able to vote in local, state, and federal elections. An inherently fascinating biography of a truly remarkable women, "Alice Paul" is a superbly written account and highly recommended for academic library Women's Studies and Political Science Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Charles Dickens In Love
Robert T. Garnett
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street,5th Floor, NY, NY 10004
www.pegasusbooks.com
9781605983950, $29.95, www.amazon.com

Charles John Huffam Dickens (7 February 1812 - 9 June 1870) was an English writer and social critic who is generally regarded as the greatest novelist of the Victorian period and the creator of some of the world's most memorable fictional characters. During his lifetime Dickens's works enjoyed unprecedented popularity and fame, and by the twentieth century his literary genius was fully recognized by critics and scholars. His novels and short stories continue to enjoy an enduring popularity among the general reading public. "Charles Dickens in Love" by Robert T. Garnett (Professor of English, Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania) is a 256 page compendium the focuses upon one of the mysteries of Dickens live -- why was an obscure woman by the name of Ellen Ternan the first person named in the great man's will. A unique and scholarly contribution to the growing library of Dickinsian literary studies and literature, "Charles Dickens In Love" is a superbly crafted literary biography that, enhanced with the inclusion on extensive source notes, a selective bibliography, and a comprehensive index, is highly recommended and insightful reading for all students of Dickens' writings and an enduringly valuable addition to both community and academic library collections.

A Yankee In De Valera's Ireland
Paul Bew, editor
Royal Irish Academy
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213
www.isbs.com
9781908996053, $30.00, www.amazon.com

David Gray (1870 - 1968) was best known as the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 15 April 1940 until 28 June 1947. His official title was 'Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary' and his official residence was Florida. In his own words, his appointment to the Ambassadorship was "nepotic", as he was First Lady's Eleanor Roosevelt's uncle through marriage. Gray was the Ambassador through most of the Second World War and the start of the Cold War. He led American efforts to convince Ireland to enter the war on the side of the Allies. His performance was such that Eamon de Valera sought repeatedly to have Gray replaced by another ambassador, especially after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Deftly compiled and edited by Paul Bew from Gray's personal papers, diary entries, letters, and recorded conversations with Eamon de Valera, "A Yankee in de Valera's Ireland: The Memoir Of David Gray" is a 384 page biographical compendium revealing a truly remarkable man who lived in truly remarkable times. Informed and informative, "A Yankee in de Valera's Ireland" is a fascinating read from cover to cover and highly recommended for academic library 20th Century Biographical Studies and 20th Century American Political Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Madam Chairman
Suzanne O'Dea
University of Missouri Press
2910 LeMone Boulevard
Columbia, MO 65201
9780826219954, $35.00, www.umsystem.edu/upress

Nixon's shady dealings hurt the face of the Republican party, but it was salvaged by one dedicated woman taking the reins. "Madam Chairman: Mary Louise Smith and the Republican Revival After Watergate" is a biography of Smith, who is to date the only female RNC chairman in history. After Watergate tarnished Nixon and the Republican party by proxy, Smith helped save the party's face, invented newer strategies for electoral success, and remained loyal even as the party changed without her. "Madam Chairman" is an insightful exploration of Republican party history and those who have made it work.

Lincoln's Forgotten Friend Leonard Swett
Robert S. Eckley
Southern Illinois University Press
1915 University Press Drive
SIUC Mail Code 6806
Carbondale, IL 62901
9780809332052 $34.95 www.siupress.com

Lincoln's Forgotten Friend Leonard Swett is a scholarly and thoughtful biography of Leonard Swett (1825-1889), an attorney who became a loyal friend of Abraham Lincoln long before Lincoln was elected President. Although Lincoln never appointed Swett to an official governmental position, Swett had free access to the White House and often served Lincoln as an unofficial advisor so sounding board. After Lincoln's assassination, Swett continued his legal career; perhaps his most notable case involved the trial of the Haymarket anarchists. Swett's behind-the-scenes role in Lincoln's public and personal life has often been overlooked by historians; author Robert S. Eckley suspects this is because Swett never held a governmental office, and further surmises that Lincoln never appointed Swett to such because doing so might jeopardize their friendship. Enriched with notes, a bibliography, an index, primary source documentation of Swett's public speeches and the like, Lincoln's Forgotten Friend Leonard Swett is an excellent contribution to public and college library biography shelves, highly recommended.

Lincoln and Medicine
Glenna R. Schroeder-Lein
Southern Illinois University Press
1915 University Press Drive
SIUC Mail Code 6806
Carbondale, IL 62901
9780809331949 $19.95 www.siupress.com

Lincoln and Medicine examines the medical history and health issues of America's sixteenth president, noting controversies about his life that engage debate up to the present day. From allegations that Lincoln was homosexual, to psychoanalysis of his deep depressions, the accidents and bouts of illness that he struggled with during the earlier years of his life, and even the actions taken by the first responders when Lincoln was shot in Ford's Theatre (which prolonged Lincoln's life for nine hours), Lincoln and Medicine is a fascinating history accessible to readers of all backgrounds. The health and medical problems of Lincoln's family are also discussed, particularly the alleged insanity of his wife, and her commitment to Bellevue Place Sanitarium. Down-to-earth writing style and keen attention to detail make Lincoln and Medicine a choice pick for public and college library collections. Also highly recommended is "Lincoln as Hero" (9780809332175, $19.95) by Frank J. Williams, a thoughtful examination of how Abraham Lincoln personified and upheld the foundational and heroic values of American society.


The Library Science Shelf

Public Libraries And Resilient Cities
Michael Dudley
ALA Editions
50 East Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611
www.alastore.ala.org
9780838911365, $65.00, www.amazon.com

A public library is a library that is accessible by the public and is generally funded from public sources (such as tax money) and operated by civil servants. There are five fundamental characteristics shared by public libraries. The first is that they are generally supported by taxes (usually local, though any level of government can and may contribute); they are governed by a board to serve the public interest; they are open to all and every community member can access the collection; they are entirely voluntary in that no one is ever forced to use the services provided; and public libraries provide basic services without charge. Public libraries an essential part of having an educated and literate population. Public Libraries also provide free services such as preschool story times to encourage early literacy, quiet study and work areas for students and professionals, or book clubs to encourage appreciation of literature in adults. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by Michael Dudley (Indigenous and Urban Services Librarian, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada), "Public Libraries And Resilient Cities" is a 192 page compendium comprised of fourteen informed and informative contributions by experts in the contributions of libraries with respect to urban issues, concerns, conditions, and needs. Of special note is the Pilar Martinez article 'Engaging Communities, Making A Difference: Edmonton Public Library's Community-Led Service Philosophy'. Enhanced with a list of contributors and a useful index, "Public Libraries And Resilient Cities" is an especially recommended addition to academic library "Library Science" reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Emergency Planning and Response for Libraries, Archives and Museums
Emma Dadson
Scarecrow Press
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
9780810887565 $80.00 www.scarecrowpress.com

Emma Dadson, an expert in emergency recovery and response for libraries as well as veteran trainer in document restoration services, shares her wisdom in Emergency Planning and Response for Libraries, Archives and Museums, a "must-have" resource for professionals who work with library or museum collections and archives. Chapters offer an introduction to the concept of emergency planning, and outline invaluable precautions to prepare for potential harm or disaster. Sample case studies include the New Zealand earthquakes, the Tohoku Earthquake and subsequent tsunami of March 2011, the fire and flood recovery efforts of Norfolk County Record Office in the UK, and much more. Spelling out processes for incident control, planning recovery options, collections salvage, preventing damage to the building, writing a business continuity plan, and much more, Emergency Planning and Response for Libraries, Archives and Museums is worthy of the highest recommendation. "Air-drying of very large [water-damaged] volumes, or text blocks that are very thick, may also cause problems, as fanning open may cause physical damage to the binding owing to the bodily stress. These items should either be treated by a conservator immediately, or passed for freezing and then treated professionally."

Digital Libraries and Information Access
G. G. Chowdhury & Schubert Foo, editors
Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004
New York, NY 10038-4512
9781555709143, $99.95, www.neal-schuman.com

Digital information is the wave of the future. "Digital Libraries and Information Access: Research Perspectives" discusses the implementation of digital resource libraries as many libraries and information intrigued people from all over the world come together and discuss the future of the library in many elements, including the globalization of information, interacting with other users, information available to all, intellectual property concerns, and what the future holds. Filled with scholarly insight on the topic, "Digital Libraries and Information Access" is a strongly recommended addition to this increasingly important topic for library science reference collections.

The Accidental Systems Librarian, second edition
Nicole C. Engard
Information Today, Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike
Medford, NJ 08055-8750
9781573874533, $29.50, www.infotoday.com

Libraries have expanded far beyond simple books. "The Accidental Systems Librarian" is a guide for librarians to better equip them in how to better understand the expanding library services of information on many fronts, from the internet to other electronic medias, planning ow t best manage them, and making them accessible to patrons. Insightful and recommended reading for those who have had this job thrust upon them, "The Accidental System Librarian" is a must for library science and reference collections, highly recommended.


The Money/Finance Shelf

Multilateral Banks and the Development Process
Vinod Thomas & Xubei Luo
Transaction Publishers
Rutgers University
35 Berrue Circle
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
9781412847674, $49.95, www.transactionpub.com

The world is growing smaller, and there is more trade than ever, but there are things to tread carefully when expanding business. "Multilateral Banks and the Development Process: Vital Links in the Results Chain" discusses the role of multilateral banks in the development of international finance. Critically analyzing the challenges facing these banks in their pursuit of international challenges, measuring potential and results, avoiding potential pitfalls and bad information, the importance of timing, and much more, "Multilateral Banks and the Development Process" is a core addition to anyone trying to better understand international finance and the importance of multilateral banks for potential prosperity, highly recommended.


The Language Studies Shelf

Dramatic License
Louise Ladouceur
University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2E1
9780888645388, $34.95, www.uap.ualberta.ca

Language translation is not simply swapping one word out for another. "Dramatic License: Translating Theatre from One Official Language to the Other in Canada" discusses the bounce between French and English throughout Canada, which holds both languages as official. Dramatic License shows the complexity that often comes with translation, and keeping the original power of the words. Studying many plays written throughout the second half of the twentieth century, "Dramatic License" is a strong addition to any language studies or theatre studies collection, highly recommended.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Zooland
Irus Braverman
Stanford University Press
1450 Page Mill Road
Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
9780804783583, $24.95, www.sup.org

Zoos can provide a valuable service to society, but the pursuit of profit has their own drawbacks. "Zooland: The Institution of Captivity" explores the modern state of the zoo, as forces within the community paint two very different pictures: The zoo has a preserver and educator on the topic of wildlife, and zoo as the carnival, exploiting animals for profit. With sixty interviews with many people voicing their ideas on the topic. "Zooland" is scholarly and much recommended addition to any wildlife and social issues collection.

Medieval Pets
Kathleen Walker-Meikle
Boydell Press
c/o Boydell & Brewer
668 Mount Hope Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620-2731
9781843837589 $45.00 www.boydellandbrewer.com

Medieval Pets is an exceptional survey of domestic medieval era animals as pets (that is, animals that did not just serve as food, beasts of burden, or assistance for hunters). Dogs, cats, monkeys, squirrels, and even parrots were kept for the pleasure of their companionship; Medieval Pets surveys what art and literature tells us of how pets were once acquired, kept, fed, exercised, and displayed, and even some problems that arose from these cherished animals! A handful of black-and-white illustrations, notes, a bibliography, and an index round out this thoughtfully researched and solidly presented study. Medieval pets is highly recommended especially for college library collections, but ordinary pet lovers may also be curious to browse and learn how the roles their beloved companion animals played throughout medieval history!


The Philosophy Shelf

Facing Nature
William Edelglass, James Hatley, Christian Diehm, eds.
Duquesne University Press
600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282
www.dupress.duq.edu
9780820704531, $35.00, www.amazon.com

Emmanuel Levinas (12 January 1906 - 25 December 1995) was a French philosopher and Talmudic commentator of Lithuanian Jewish origin. The collaborative work of philosophy professors William Edelglass (Philosophy & Environmental Studies Departments, Marlboro College, Brattleboro, Vermont), James Hatley (Philosophy Department, Salisbury University, Salisbury, Maryland, Christian Diehm (Philosophy Department, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point), "Facing Nature: Levinas and Environmental Thought" is a 400 page compendium comprised of thirteen erudite contributions providing insightful analytic commentaries on Emmanuel Levinas' writings with respect to environmental issues ranging from the role of ethics, the concept of interspecies politics, climate change and the individual, and a Judaic understanding of creation with respect to approaches to environmental concerns. Enhanced with an informative introduction, copious notes, a contributors roster, and a comprehensive index, "Facing Nature" is a body of impressive scholarship, making it very highly recommended for Environmental Studies and 20th Century Philosophy Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

A Stranger's Knowledge
Xavier Marquez
Parmenides Publishing
3743 Howard Hughes Pkwy #200
Las Vegas, NV 89169
9781930972797, $47.00, www.parmenides.com

What is the role of the statesman, and what is the role of the philosopher? "A Stranger's Knowledge: Statesmanship Philosophy & Law in Plato's Statesman" discusses the work of historical philosopher Plato and his renown work Statesman. Examining the debate between the policy maker and the philosopher and the relationship, author Xavier Marquez presents an intriguing introspective and insight on the modern worldwide debates. Scholarly and insightful, "A Stranger's Knowledge" is a core addition to any political philosophy collection, very much recommended reading.

The Sacrifice of Socrates
Wm. Blake Tyrrell
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
9781611860542, $29.95, www.msupress.msu.edu

Socrates' tale is well known, but his demise does hold room for debate. "The Sacrifice of Socrates: Athens, Plato, Girard" analyzes the scenario that Socrates was cast as a scapegoat in Ancient Greek society after losing a war, sentencing the legendary thinker to death. Through the scope of Mimesis, Plato, Girard, and other thinkers and concepts, Wm. Blake Tyrrell offers more insight to the man of Socrates, who perhaps knew more about his fate than he truly let on. "The Sacrifice of Socrates" is an essential pick to philosophy and literary criticism collections.

The Undiscovered Dewey
Melvin L. Rogers
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street
New York, NY 10023-7015
9780231144872, $26.00, http://cup.columbia.edu

There are thinkers who revolutionize the way we think. "The Undiscovered Dewey: Religion, Morality, and Ethos of Democracy" is a collection of thought and essays from Melvin L. Rogers surrounding the man's work as a philosopher, theologian, and progressive voice throughout his life. Rogers discusses our search for spirituality in the modern day in regards to our democracy, the balance of power, our inner struggles, and much more. "The Undiscovered Dewey" is a scholarly take, a core addition to any modern theological and social issue debate, and for any criticism collection focusing on Mr. Dewey's writings.


The Art Shelf

Renaissance Intarsia
Luca Trevisan, editor
Abbeville Press
137 Varick Street, New York, NY 10013
www.abbeville.com
9780789211262, $125.00, www.amazon.com

An intarisa is a decorative or pictorial mosaic of inlaid wood or sometimes ivory of a style developed in the Italian Renaissance and used esp on wooden wall panels. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by academician and Vento art expert Luca Trevisan, "Renaissance Intarsia: Masterpieces of Wood Inlay" is a 256 page coffee table art book comprised of eleven erudite articles by experts in the history of wood inlay artworks and showcase the very best the artists and craftsmen of the Italian Renaissance had to offer. Beautifully photographed by Luca Sassi and expertly translated from Italian into English by Marguerite Shore, "Renaissance Intarsia" is as informed and informative as it is an exquisitely presented representative, 'museum quality' collection of what is all to often considered a 'minor' art form. Combining impressive scholarship with equally impressive visual images, "Renaissance Intarsia" is an enthusiastically recommended addition to community, and academic library Art History reference collections, and supplemental reading lists for students of Italian renaissance art.

Chinese Lacquerware in The National Museum of Denmark
Joan Hornby
The National Museum of Denmark
c/o International Specialized Book Services (distribution)
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213
9788776021450 $48.50 www.isbs.com

Chinese Lacquerware in The National Museum of Denmark is a visually stunning softcover artbook, packed cover to cover with full-color photography of historic Chinese art objects displayed at The National Museum of Denmark. The extensive text, accessible to lay readers yet providing an expert level of detail, provides meticulous descriptions of the artworks and their context in China's storied history. Truly the next best thing to traveling to Denmark to feast one's eyes upon the delicately created Chinese boxes, bowls, furnishings, and much more, Chinese Lacquerware in The National Museum of Denmark is highly recommended especially for college library artbook collections.

Liberatore: Le Donne
Tanino Liberatore
Eurotica
c/o Independent Publishers Group
814 North Franklin St., Chicago, IL 60610
www.ipgbook.com
9781561637133, $39.99, www.amazon.com

A 168 page compendium dedicated to the female form, "Liberatore: Le Donne" showcases the undeniable talents of the Italian artist Tanino Liberatore. This coffee table art book offers a wealth of both full color, as well as black-and-white images of the female form and attitudes that range from the classic to the pornographic. Superbly reproduced drawings, sketches, and paintings, "Liberatore: Le Donne" is highly recommended for personal and academic library Art History reference collections, but would not be suitable for community library art book collections due to the mature nature of the materials comprising it.

An Art Lover's Guide to Florence
Judith Testa
Northern Illinois University Press
2280 Bethany Road
DeKalb, IL 60115
9780875806808, $22.50, www.niupress.niu.edu

The Renaissance made Florence a lightning rod for many artists to come to. "An Art Lover's Guide to Florence" delves into the deep history of the Italian city in which so much art was created in a short period, and Judith Testa offers a scholarly take on why Florence invited such an artistic revolution upon itself. Offering much to ponder on many of the trends that started in the region, the people behind the trends, as well as a history of the city, delving into its faith, politics, scandal, and everything else. "An Art Lover's Guide to Florence" is a strong addition to art history collections.


The Poetry Shelf

Selected Prose & Poetry Of Mikhail Kuzmin
Michael Green, editor & translator
Ardis Publishers
c/o The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street, NY, NY 10012
www.overlookpress.com
9781468301526, $19.95, www.amazon.com

Mikhail Alekseevich Kuzmin (October 18 [O.S. October 6] 1872 - March 1, 1936) was a Russian poet, musician and novelist, a prominent contributor to the Silver Age of Russian Poetry. Compiled and translated from Russian into English by Michael Green (Professor Emeritus of Russion Literature, University of California - Irvine), "Selected Prose & Poetry Of Mikhail Kuzmin" is a 218 page compendium offering American readers a sampling of his literary work. An open homosexual, Kuzmin wrote 'Wings', the first gay-themed novel to by published in Russia in 1906. Along with this seminal novel, "Selected Prose & Poetry Of Mikhail Kuzmin" also includes a play, thirteen short stories, and two major poetic cycles. A superbly presented anthology, "Selected Prose & Poetry Of Mikhail Kuzmin" is highly recommended for academic library Russian Literature Studies reference collections and will admirably serve to introduce an American readership to an accomplished Russian author and poet.

Legend of the Walled-Up Wife
Ileana Malancioiu, author
Eilean Ni Chuilleanain, translator
Wake Forest University Press
PO Box 7333
Winston-Salem, NC 27109
9781930630611, $12.95, www.wfu.edu/wfupress

Romania has seen a harsh past few years, and artists have shared their views and pain. "Legend of the Walled-Up Wife" is a translated collection of poetry from Romanian poet Ileana Malancioiu who seeks to capture the plight of the Eastern European people with modern fables of life and the challenges facing them, taking strongly from mythology. "Legend of the Walled-Up Wife" is an insightful and recommended addition to international poetry collections, expertly translated by Eilean Ni Chuilleanain. "Game": I take my share of pebbles/And pile them in the riskiest way/And I Start to play, convinced/That anyway I will lose.//Why are you playing, then, You will ask me.//What else can I do, I will answer.//Then silently/I will continue moving/Stone after stone,/Mountain after mountain.


The American History Shelf

The War Of 1812
Bud Hannings
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
www.mcfarlandpub.com
9780786463855, $145.00, www.amazon.com

The War of 1812 was a military conflict fought between the forces of the United States and those of the British Empire. The United States declared war in 1812 for several reasons, including trade restrictions brought about by Britain's ongoing war with France, the impressment of American merchant sailors into the Royal Navy, British support of American Indian tribes against American expansion, outrage over insults to national honour after humiliations on the high seas, and possible American desire to annex Canada. Tied down in Europe until 1814, the British at first used defensive strategy, repelling multiple American invasions of the provinces of Upper and Lower Canada. However, the Americans gained control over Lake Erie in 1813, seized parts of western Ontario, and ended the prospect of an Indian confederacy and an independent Indian state in the Midwest under British sponsorship. In the Southwest, General Andrew Jackson destroyed the military strength of the Creek nation at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in 1814. With the defeat of Napoleon in 1814 on April 6, the British adopted a more aggressive strategy, sending in three large invasion armies. The British victory at the Battle of Bladensburg in August 1814 allowed them to capture and burn Washington, D.C. American victories in September 1814 and January 1815 repulsed all three British invasions in New York, Baltimore and New Orleans.
The war was fought in three principal theatres. Firstly, at sea, warships and privateers of both sides attacked each other's merchant ships, while the British blockaded the Atlantic coast of the U.S. and mounted large-scale raids in the later stages of the war. Secondly, both land and naval battles were fought on the American - Canadian frontier, which ran along the Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence River. Thirdly, the American South and Gulf Coast also saw major land battles in which the American forces defeated Britain's Indian allies and repulsed a British invasion force at New Orleans. Both sides invaded each other's territory, but these invasions were unsuccessful or temporary. At the end of the war, both sides occupied parts of the other's land, but these areas were restored by the Treaty of Ghent. "The War of 1812: A Complete Chronology with Biographies of 63 General Officers" by military historian Bud Hannings is a 399 page history of the conflict enhanced with five appendices, an extensive bibliography, and a comprehensive index. A scholastic masterpiece of military history, "The War of 1812: A Complete Chronology with Biographies of 63 General Officers" is a highly recommended, core addition to school, community, and academic library 19th Century American History and 19th Century Military History reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Benedict Arnold in the Company of Heroes
Arthur S. Lefkowitz
Savas Beatie
PO Box 4527
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
9781611211115 $29.95 www.savasbeatie.com

Award-winning history writer Arthur S. Lefkowitz presents Benedict Arnold in the Company of Heroes, a historical chronicle of Colonel Benedict Arnold and his brave company of troops in the early years of the American Revolution. In December 1775, Arnold joined with General Richard Montgomery in an attempt to capture Quebec. Montgomery was slain by cannon fire, and his men retreated, yet Arnold and his company continued to battle even after Arnold was wounded. The Canadian invasion failed, and Arnold's men were held in prison for some time; eventually many of them survived the hardship and continued to fight bravely for independence. Benedict Arnold in the Company of Heroes is detailed account that lauds the courage and heroism of Arnold's men - who, Lefkowitz argues, were immensely inspired by Arnold himself. A testimony to Arnold's charisma and patriotism before the historical events that would ultimately brand him as a traitor to the fledgling nation of America, Benedict Arnold in the Company of Heroes is an excellent addition to military history and public library shelves.

To Secure The Blessings Of Liberty
Gouverneur Morris
J. Jackson Barlow, editor
Liberty Fund, Inc.
8335 Allison Pointe Trail
Indianapolis, IN 46250
www.libertyfund.org
9780865978355, $14.50, www.amazon.com

Gouverneur Morris (January 31, 1752 - November 6, 1816) was an American statesman, a Founding Father of the United States, and a native of New York City who represented Pennsylvania in the Constitutional Convention of 1787. He was a signatory to the Articles of Confederation. Morris was also an author of large sections of the Constitution of the United States and one of its signers. He is widely credited as the author of the document's preamble, and has been called the "Penman of the Constitution". In an era when most Americans thought of themselves as citizens of their respective states, Morris advanced the idea of being a citizen of a single union of states. Painstakingly compiled and deftly edited by J. Jackson Barlow (Charles A. Dana Professor of Politics, Juniata College, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania), "To Secure the Blessings of Liberty: Selected Writings of Gouverneur Morris" is 744 page compendium chronologically comprised of Morris' most significant writings, drawn from public letters, documents, as well as both published and unpublished speeches. The result is a seminal work that will prove to be an enduringly valued addition to academic library American History and American Political Science reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

History Of Mennonites in Virginia 1727-1900
Harry Anthony Brunk
Vision Publishers
PO Box 190, Harrisonburg, VA 22803
www.vision-publishers.com
9781932676309, $34.99, www.amazon.com

The Mennonites are a Protestant group based around the church communities of the Christian Anabaptist denominations named after Menno Simons (1496 - 1561) of Friesland (a part of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation), who, through his writings, articulated and thereby formalized the teachings of earlier Swiss founders. The teachings of the Mennonites were founded on their belief in both the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ, which they held to with great conviction despite persecution by the various Roman Catholic and Protestant states. Rather than fight, the majority survived by fleeing to neighboring states where ruling families were tolerant of their radical belief in believer's baptism. Over the years, Mennonites have become known as one of the historic peace churches because of their commitment to pacifism (opposition to war and violence). Compiled and written by harry Anthony Brunk (Associate Professor of history, Eastern Mennonite College, Harrisonburg, Virginia), "History of Mennonites in Virginia 1727-1900" is a 554 page compendium presenting the history of Mennonite communities and churches from their beginnings in 1727 down through the end of the 20th Century. Beginning with the early Mennonite settlements in Virginia, this impressively detailed history provides a chronological presentation of evolution of the Mennonite churches and key persons within those churches covering everything from the creation of Sunday Schools, to the development of church music, to the organizing of missionary endeavors, and more. Enhanced with extensive references and notations, as well as a comprehensive index, and originally published in 1959 and faithfully brought back into print for a new generation of readers by Vision Publishers, "History Of Mennonites in Virginia 1727-1900" continues to be a seminal work and an important contribution to academic library American History and American Religious Studies reference collections.

Ohio Canal Era
Harry N. Scheiber
Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780821419793, $34.95, www.ohioswallow.com

As the country expanded westward, America's waterways grew vitally important. "Ohio Canal Era: A Case Study of Government and the Economy, 1820-1861" draws on the history surrounding Ohio's canals during America's developing years, focusing on the period before the American Civil War and how the public agencies and public works surrounding Ohio's waterways allowed for much success and prosperity throughout the era, providing a case study of economics and infrastructure. "Ohio Canal Era" is much to consider for American history collections with a nod to collections focusing on policy discussions as well.

Whitman Encyclopedia of U.S. Paper Money
Q. David Bowers
Whitman Publishing
4001 Helton Drive
Florence, Alabama, 35630
9780794827021, $69.95, www.whitman.com

Paper money has had a storied history for itself, and American money is no different. "Whitman Encyclopedia of U. S. Paper Money" follows the country's two hundred and thirty plus year history covering the developments in currency and its design and what was held behind many of the decisions in its creation and development. Covering everything from continental currency in the late eighteenth century to the modern era. With plenty of images and a guide to the rarity of many of these bills, "Whitman Encyclopedia of U. S. Paper Money" is a must for any currency enthusiast or those curious about the evolution of American money.


The World History Shelf

Professor Risley and the Imperial Japanese Troupe
Frederik L. Schodt
Stone Bridge Press
PO Box 8208
Berkeley, CA 94707
9781611720099, $35.00, www.stonebridge.com

Only a mere century and decades ago, what lied beyond a countries borders was an uncertain mystery. "Professor Risley and the Imperial Japanese Troupe" chronicles the introduction of Japan to the western world, in the most unlikely of circumstance - the circus. Telling the story of 'Professor' Richard Risley Carlisle who brought the western circus to the Japanese shores during the country's break from isolation. And in return, many Japanese put their own spin on the performance...and broke out to the rest of the world. An intriguing look at international relations, culture, the circus, and its effects on the modern day, "Professor Risley" is a must for anyone seeking an original and offbeat take on history, highly recommended.

Childhood Pleasures
Donna R. Barnes
Syracuse University Press
621 Skytop Road, Suite 110
Syracuse, NY 13244-5290
www.SyracuseUniversityPress.syr.edu
9780815610021, $29.95, www.amazon.com

"Childhood Pleasures: Dutch Children in the Seventeenth Century" by Donna R. Barnes (Professor of Education, Hofstra University, Long Island, New York) is a beautifully illustrated, 184 page history of what it was like and what it meant to be a child in Holland in the 1600s. Of special note are the articles 'Children's Playful Pleasures' by Donna R. Barnes and 'Edible Pleasures' by Peter G. Rose. Enhanced with period recipes, a selective bibliography, and a comprehensive index, "Childhood Pleasures" is informed, informative, and a seminal work of enduring value for academic library 17th Century European Historical Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Military Shelf

Agent Orange
Edwin A. Martni
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
www.umass.edu/umpress/
9781558499751, $24.95, www.amazon.com

Agent Orange is the combination of the code names for Herbicide Orange (HO) and Agent LNX, one of the herbicides and defoliants used by the U.S. military as part of its chemical warfare program, Operation Ranch Hand, during the Vietnam War from 1961 to 1971. Vietnam estimates 400,000 people were killed or maimed, and 500,000 children born with birth defects as a result of its use. The Red Cross of Vietnam estimates that up to 1 million people are disabled or have health problems due to Agent Orange. "Agent Orange: History, Science, And The Politics Of Uncertainty" is a 328 page compendium by Edwin A. Martini (Associate Professor of History, Western Michigan University) that provides the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the use and impact of the American military's use of this biological weapon during the course of the Vietnam War. Enhanced with extensive notes and a comprehensive index, "Agent Orange" is informed, informative, and a seminal study recommended for academic library collections and the personal reading lists for students and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject.

Cataclysm
Herman S. Wolk
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336, Denton, TX 76203-1336
www.unt.edu/untpress
9781574414738, $19.95, www.amazon.com

Henry Harley "Hap" Arnold (June 25, 1886 - January 15, 1950) was an American general officer holding the grades of General of the Army and later General of the Air Force. Arnold was an aviation pioneer, Chief of the Air Corps (1938 - 1941), Commanding General of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, the only Air Force general to hold five-star rank, and the only person to hold a five-star rank in two different U.S. military services. "Cataclysm: General Hap Arnold and the Defeat of Japan" by Herman S. Wolk (Senior Historian, U.S. Airforce) is a 344 page compendium that focuses upon Arnold's crucial contributions in organizing the strategic bombing campaigns against Japan that were to so weaken the enemy that he thought the use of the atomic bombing runs in 1945 were not necessary to ultimately defeat Imperial Japan. A masterpiece of military history, "Cataclysm: General Hap Arnold and the Defeat of Japan" is a seminal contribution to the growing library of World War II literature and should be considered an essential acquisition for academic library 20th Century Military Biography reference collections.

Athenia Torpedoed
Francis M. Carroll
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591141488, $29.95, www.navalinstitute.org

An attack on a civilian ship brought a rude awakening to the start of World War II. "Athenia Torpedoed: The U-Boat Attack that Ignited the Battle of the Atlantic" discusses the conflict and attack on the British ship that carried many citizens of the English speaking world at the time, looking at the impact of the attack and struggle of the survivors to escape death by U-boat. "Athenia Torpedoed" is a riveting chronicle of this important and tragic event that start the naval hostilities in the most violent conflict of the twentieth century.


The Jobs/Career Shelf

The Freelancer's Bible
Sara Horowitz
Workman Publishing Company
225 Varick Street
New York, NY 10014-4381
9780761164883, $17.95, www.workman.com

When you're your own boss, you take the burden of employment onto the self. "The Freelancer's Bible: Everything You Need to Know to Have the Career of Your Dreams" is a guide for those taking the self-employment road through life and how to best deal with the pressures that can often come with such paths, dealing with the paperwork and other problems that come, and how to best enjoy the flourishes of success in one's freedom of career. "The Freelancer's Bible" has plenty of practical and sage advice for those who want to be the masters of their own destiny.

Brand You
John Purkiss & David Royston-Lee
Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780273777694, $24.99, www.mcp.com

A job interview is a sales pitch, and the product is yourself. "Brand You: Turn Your Unique Talents into a Winning Formula" is a guide to the aspiring career person on how to better build one's own brand and market oneself to employers, or bosses for promotions. Chapters also cover using social media and the internet to build one's brand and much more, for greater business success now and in the future. Packed with practical wisdom, "Brand You" is a powerful read for career, business, and motivational shelves, enthusiastically recommended.


The Social Issues Shelf

Urban Sustainability
Igor Vojnovic, editor
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
www.msupress.msu.edu
9781611860559, $74.95, www.amazon.com

Urban: of, pertaining to, or designating a city or town, living in a city, characteristic of or accustomed to cities. Sustainability: the ability to be sustained, supported, upheld, or confirmed, the quality of not being harmful to the environment or depleting natural resources, and thereby supporting long-term ecological balance. Compiled and edited by Igor Vojnovic (Associate Professor of Geography and Urban and Regional Planning, Michigan State University), "Urban Sustainability: A Global Perspective" is a 714 page compendium comprised of twenty-five major articles contributed experts in urban environmental issues from around the world. This multinational anthology ranges from Igor Vojnovic's 'Advancing toward Urban Sustainability: The Pursuit of Equality'; to Michael Pacione's 'Urban Sustainability in the United Kingdom'. With more than half the Earth's population now living in urban areas (and that percentile increases every decade), ", "Urban Sustainability: A Global Perspective" offers an impressive and seminal body of scholarship that will prove to be a core addition to academic library 21st Century Urban Developmental Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Globalization of Communes
Yaacov Oved
Transaction Publishers
Rutgers University
35 Berrue Circle
Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
9781412849487, $49.95, www.transactionpub.com

To live for the greater good of the community is something that has been lost in the world's transition to cities. "Globalization of Communes" is study of global communes over a sixty year period following the second world war. Yaacov Oved presents an intriguing study of many commune projects, drawing from secular sources, new age driven communities, religious places, as well as a measure of their success and failure in the ongoing and successful bigger picture. A scholarly and fascinating look at the concept of the commune around the world, "Globalization of Communes: 1950-2010" is a must for anyone who wants to better understand cooperative living in a more impersonal world.


The Photography Shelf

North of Twelfth Street
Tom Dempster
South Dakota State Historical Society Press
900 Governors Drive
Pierre, SC 57501-2217
9780984650514, $34.95, www.sdshspress.com

There is a charm to the smaller towns of the Great Plains states that doesn't reside elsewhere. "North of Twelfth Street: The Changing Face of Sioux Falls Neighborhoods" is a photographic study of the South Dakotan town and its unique style and architecture that photographer Tom Dempster, a life long resident and lover of his hometown, captures beautifully in glossy full color all throughout. From the architecture to the natural beauty that serves as the backdrop, "North of Twelfth Street" is an excellent choice for coffee table book collections, not to be missed.


The Economic Studies Shelf

China's Economic Miracle
Sumei Tang, Eliyathamby A. Selvanathan, & Saroja Selvanathan
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court
Northampton, MA 01060-3815
9780857936806 $110.00 www.e-elgar.com

China's Economic Miracle: Does FDI Matter? is a scholarly and empirical analysis of the role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in China's modern economy. Three economic and business experts pool their wisdom to analyze China's situation; their broad conclusion is that FDI did not crowd out domestic investment, but rather complemented it and spurred overall economic growth, playing a positive role in China's "economic miracle". Individual chapters focus on the relationship between FDI and tourism, FDI and regional income inequality, FDI spill-over effects on consumption habits, location determinants of FDI, and much more. Tables, graphs, and mathematic analyses are smoothly incorporated into this excellent treatise highly recommended for college libraries, graduate studies, or professional research.

Global Economics in Extraordinary Times
C Fred Bergsten & C. Randall Henning
Petersen Institute for International Economics
1750 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036-1903
9780881326628, $27.95, www.piie.com

The world grows ever smaller, making the study of economics all the more complex. "Global Economics in Extraordinary Times: Essays in Honor of John Williamson" discusses the work of experienced and renown economist John Williamson, and many of his colleagues and peers come together to discuss his work in honor of three quarters of a century of life for Williamson. Insightful and scholarly writing on his work that explores international monetary policy, its reform, and a man's impact on global economic thinking. "Global Economics in Extraordinary Times" is a must for any economics studies collections focusing on essay collections.

Foreign Aid Competition in Northeast Asia
Hyo-sook Kim & David M. Potter
Kumarian Press
c/o Stylus Publishing
22883 Quicksilver Drive, Sterling, VA 20166
9781565494961, $27.50, www.kpbooks.com

Foreign aid serves to build good international bonds, but there are other benefits as well. "Foreign Aid Competition in Northeast Asia" analyzes these programs through the scope of the four countries - China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan. These four have developed new takes on international aid programs, and authors and scholars Hyo-sook Kim & David M. Potter provide a world wide look at their impacts and their place in the world theater. "Foreign Aid Competition in Northeast Asia" is a strong addition to any international issues or foreign policy studies collection.


The Audiobook Shelf

At the Mountains of Madness
H.P. Lovecraft, author
William Roberts, narrator
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28
Franklin, TN 37064
9781843795940 $28.98 www.naxosaudiobooks.com

At the Mountains of Madness is an unabridged audiobook rendition of H.P. Lovecraft's classic tale of horror and suspense, read by veteran actor William Roberts and enhanced with classical music. First published by the American magazine "Astounding Stories" in 1936, At the Mountains of Madness is set amid the remote Antarctic, and tells of the sinister discoveries a hapless team of explorers find, when they are far removed from any hope of outside aid. An imaginative and spine-chilling tale, as unsettling today as it was the better part of a century ago, At the Mountains of Madness is highly recommended especially for public library audiobook collections, and a "must-have" for fans of H.P. Lovecraft's mythos-inspiring works. 4 CDs, 5 hours 3 min.

The Marseille Caper
Peter Mayle, author
Robin Sachs, narrator
Random House Audio Books
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 8th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780449013380 $30.00 www.randomhouse.com

The Marseille Caper is an unabridged audiobook adaptation of the riotous sequel to "The Vintage Caper" by French author Peter Mayle (recipient of the Legion d'Honneur for his cultural contributions). Sam the infiltration expert has just achieved an exceptional mission blending in among the French elite to secure a stolen collection of priceless wine; now, one of the wealthy patrons he previously deceived lures him with the prospect of a new job in Marseille, a land known for its palate-pleasing food and wine. Yet layers of intrigue coat this offer, and Sam quickly finds himself at the crux of a real-estate scandal, caught between gangsters and predatory developers. A dangerous game quickly unfolds, in this suave and witty story of deception matched with high adventure. 5 CDs, 6 hours.


The Library CD Shelf

La Jardinera
Silvana Kane
www.silvanakane.com
Six Degrees Records
PO Box 411347, San Francisco, CA 94141-1347
c/o Press Junkie PR (publicity)
PO Box 156914, San Francisco, CA 94115
www.sixdegreesrecord.com
$TBA CD / $8.99 MP3 www.amazon.com

La Jardinera is the solo debut album of Silvana Kane, well known as the Juno nominated vocalist of the Global Pop ensemble Pacifika. In La Jardinera, Kane recreates the songs of great Latin American singers and composers (including Chabuca Granda, Mercedes Sosa and Violeta Parra) into rapturous ballads. Kane also provides two original songs for her wonderfully mellifluous album, which features the captivating natural poetry of Spanish lyrics. A wonderful pick for international music collections, La Jardinera is highly recommended. The tracks are "Cardo o Ceniza" (4:00), "Como La Cigarra" (2:54), "Cruces" (3:42), "Duerme Negrito" (2:23), "La Jardinera" (3:03), "Yo Vendo Unos Ojos Negros" (3:47), "Soy Pan Soy Paz Soy Mas" (4:12), "Todo Cambia" (4:17), "Yo Vengo a Ofrecer Mi Corazon" (3:46), "Vida Llena" (5:37).


The Library DVD Shelf

You've Been Trumped
A film by Anthony Baxter
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
1937772403 $295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com

Licensed for public performance, "You've Been Trumped" is an eye-opening documentary about the controversial conflict between American "celebrity tycoon" Donald Trump and the ordinary Scottish people he sought to muscle out of his way. In his quest to build "the greatest golf course in the world", as well as a 450-room hotel and 1,500 luxury homes, Trump purchased hundreds of acres on the northeast coast of Scotland. But the territory he marked for development was environmentally sensitive and of special scientific interest; construction threatened to destroy a natural ecology as unique as the Amazonian rainforest. Some local residents would not sell their land to Trump. In response, Trump publically disparaged their ordinary farms as "slum-like", and suggested that the people who refused him "lived like pigs"; some local residents had their water supply cut off for days on end; others were threatened with lawsuits, or served exorbitant bills for fences that the Trump development operation erected; and independent journalist Anthony Baxter was assaulted and arrested by police while filming the ongoing development. Trump's operation pushed for "compulsory purchase orders" (a.k.a. eminent domain seizure) to force local residents off their land; Trump also railed against the proposed construction of an offshore windfarm, threatening to abandon the hotel's construction in retaliation. You've Been Trumped is very much a David and Goliath story, absolutely fascinating and presented with a wry sense of humor, perhaps best exemplified by its glimpse of an inspired, anti-Trump art show! Highly recommended. 95 min., SDH captions.

Shattered Sky
A film by Steve Dorst and Dan Evans
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
1937772373 $250.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com

Licensed for public performance, Shattered Sky: The Battle for Energy, Economy, and Environment is a documentary about how America led the world in responding to a potential catastrophe. Thirty years ago, scientists discovered a growing hole in the ozone layer that protects the Earth from the sun's rays, and attributed the problem to CFCs in our atmosphere - chemical products that were common in spray cans, refrigerators, air conditioning, and more. A titanic clash between vested commercial interests versus the welfare of humanity as a whole ensued. America eventually prohibited CFCs, yet other nations continued to use them. It was America that pushed the hardest for worldwide change, working to alter human behavior on a global level. Shattered Sky is enlightening, educational, and also thought- provoking in its comparisons between the ozone crisis and modern problems such as the deleterious side effects of America's modern-day dependence on coal for 50% of its electricity (one can hardly speak of "clean coal" when no matter how coal is burned, mining operations alone cause immense ecological destruction and contamination). Highly recommended. 60 min., subtitles.

Prenatal & Early Childhood Nutrition
Melissa Halas-Liang, R.D.
Learning ZoneXpress
667 East Vine Street
Owatonna, MN 55060
$79.95 www.learningzonexpress.com

Registered Dietitian Melissa Halas-Liang presents Prenatal & Early Childhood Nutrition, an educational DVD for adults as well as young people in grade six and up, about the special nutritional needs of pregnant and breastfeeding women. Topics include important food safety practices and foods that should be avoided, ideal snacks and meals, to what degree one should consume extra calories, and much more. Due to its invaluable, scientifically vetted information for expecting mothers, Prenatal & Early Childhood Nutrition is a resource worthy of the highest recommendation for both high school and community library connections. Printable teaching materials are available at www.learningzoneexpress.com/worksheets to enhance instruction. 25 minutes.

Do You Have What It Takes? Fashion Design Careers
Learning ZoneXpress
667 East Vine Street
Owatonna, MN 55060
$79.95 www.learningzonexpress.com

Do You Have What It Takes? Fashion Design Careers is a DVD for all ages surveying the basics of what's required to work in the fashion design industry. Featuring straight-talk interviews with young designers, an overview of the challenges and practical problems of fashion design, tales of where designers get their inspiration and why they love their jobs, and more, Do You Have What It Takes? lives up to its title. Do You Have What It Takes? is especially recommended for high school and public library educational DVD collections. Printable teaching materials are available at www.learningzoneexpress.com/worksheets to enhance instruction. 25 minutes.

Fish & Bears On Alaska's Alagnak River
Bennet Watt HD Productions, Inc.
13021 - 244 Avenue SE
Issaquah, WA 98027
$19.95 www.Bennett-Watt.com

Part of the high-definition "Fly Fishing Adventure" DVD series Fish & Bears On Alaska's Alagnak River is an incredible taste of the outdoor experience at one of Alaska's most popular fly fishing destinations. Shot in gorgeous high-definition, Fish & Bears On Alaska's Alagnak River reveals the thrill of fishing for grayling, chum, king, sockeye, and rainbow. Grizzly bears are a common sight, and the salmon fresh from the ocean sport striking, vivid colors. Highly recommended especially for fishing enthusiasts, Fish & Bears On Alaska's Alagnak river is the next best thing to traveling across America to fish from the Alagnak in person! 71 min.

Discoveries... America National Parks series
Bennet Watt HD Productions, Inc.
13021 - 244 Avenue SE
Issaquah, WA 98027
$24.95 each www.Bennett-Watt.com

Two new DVDs in the Discoveries... America National Parks series take the viewer on a glorious, high-definition tour of scenic views and wildlife activity. "Alaska's Katmai, Lake Clark & Alagnak" (9781604901689, 50 min.) shows Katmai's special platforms for observing brown bears as they hunt for food; Lake Clark's streams and active volcanoes; and the popular pastime of fly-in fishing at Alagnak wild river. "Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley & Other National Park Service Units" (9781604901658, 50 min.) explores Ohio's one and only national park, including its marshland hosting beavers, turtles, herons, and amphibians; its stunning Brandywine Falls and Tinker's Creek Gorge; and the Greenfield Berry Farm, a triumph of sustainable agriculture. Both panoramic DVDs are absolutely captivating to behold, and the next best thing to visiting these beautiful national parks in person. Highly recommended, especially for public library DVD collections. Both programs are also available in Blu-ray format.


The Cookbook Shelf

Unbelievably Gluten-Free!
Anne Byrn
CakeMixDoctor.com
Workman Publishing Company
225 Varick Street
New York, NY 10014-4381
9780761171683 $18.95 www.workman.com

Well-known for her appearance on TV and radio cooking shows, Anne Byrn (a.k.a. the "Cake Mix Doctor") presents Unbelievably Gluten-Free!, a collection of 128 delicious gluten-free recipes, including tasty gluten-removed variants for everything from pies to spaghetti, pizza, and angel-food cake! Colorful photographs intersperse the step-by-step instructions for creating delectable dishes "you never thought you'd be able to eat again", with an introductory section featuring tips, tricks, and techniques for keeping a gluten-free pantry. Sample recipes include "Sweet Cornmeal Waffles with Mashed Banana and Chocolate Chips", "Crab Fritters with Spicy Mayonnaise", "New Orleans Red Beans and Rice", "Best Caesar Salad with Gluten-Free Croutons", and much more. The result is a "must-have" cookbook for anyone whose digestive system does not tolerate gluten well, whether due to a genetic condition, recovery from illness, or other factors. Best of all, many of the recipe recommendations - such as suggestions for gluten-free pastry mixes or other staple substitutes - can be adapted by aspiring chefs to create their own gluten-free delicacies! Highly recommended.

Summer Days & Balmy Nights
Ryland Peters & Small
c/o Macmillan
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.macmillan.com
9781849752077 $27.95 www.rylandpeters.com

Summer Days & Balmy Nights is a gorgeous, hardcover cookbook featuring over 160 Mediterranean-themed recipes and ideas perfect for entertaining guests during the summer. Full-color photography on virtually every page brings to life such sumptuous dishes as Caponata, Spicy Pasta Salad with Tuna and Feta, Stuffed Picnic Loaf (packed with barbecued vegetables, pesto, and goat cheese), Spinach and Cheese Pie, Barbecued Fish Bathed in Oregano and Lemon, Vanilla Gelato with Hot Cherry Sauce, and much more. The easy-to-follow instructions (often with recommended variations) make Summer Days & Balmy Nights a choice pick for cooks of all skill and experience levels. Highly recommended especially for any connoisseur of fine Mediterranean dining!

Rob Feenie's Casual Classics
Rob Feenie
Douglas & McIntyre
2323 Quebec Street, Suite 201
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5T 4S7
9781553658733 $27.95 www.douglas-mcintyre.com

Rob Feenie's Casual Classics is a cookbook treasury of casual fine dining recipes, featuring dishes that are healthful, relatively easy to prepare, and satisfying to cultures palates. Creations include "Spot Prawn and Avocado BLT Sandwich", "Quinoa, Green Gean and Tomato Salad", "Butternut Squash and Fava Bean Farfalle", "Riviera-Herbed Leg of Lamb with Roasted Shallots and Sauteed Spinach", "Cheddar Cheese Apple Pie", and much more. A selection of color photographs and user-friendly, step-by-step instructions make preparing top quality cuisine simple for aspiring chefs of all skill and experience levels. Rob Feenie's Casual Classics is highly recommended, whether for spicing up one's everyday kitchen meals or preparing fine food for holiday guests!

The New Ukrainian Cookbook
Annette Ogrodnik Corona, author
Laurette Kovary, illustrator
Hippocrene Books, Inc.
171 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
9780781812870 $29.95 www.hippocrenebooks.com

The New Ukrainian Cookbook gathers over 225 traditional and modern recipes from the Ukraine. In addition to the simple, step-by-step preparation instructions, The New Ukrainian Cookbook features tidbits and tips for serving each dish. Recipes for Ukrainian Milk Soup with Rice, Warm Asparagus with Vinaigrette, Roast Loin of Pork Stuffed with Apples and Cherries, Chicken Kyiv, Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Trout, Chocolate Cherry Almond Torte, and much more. Side notes on Ukrainian cultural traditions offer additional context to this rich and flavorful cuisine compendium, highly recommended especially for international-themed cookbook shelves!

Happy Herbivore Abroad
Lindsay S. Nixon
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
happyherbivore.com
9781937856045 $19.95 www.benbellabooks.com

Happy Herbivore Abroad: A Travelogue & Over 135 Fat-Free & Low-Fat Vegan Recipes From Around The World is packed cover to cover with healthy vegan dishes made with easy-to-find ingredients. A multicultural polyglot of delectable delights, Happy Herbivore Abroad includes recipes such as Cassoulet (France), Aloo Gobi (a potato and cauliflower dish from India), Orange Teriyaki Rice (Thailand), Tofu Feta (Greece), Cajun Stuffed Mushrooms (USA), and much more. Happy Herbivore Abroad complements its recipes with engaging anecdotes from author Lindsay S. Nixon's tours abroad, and color photography of scenic locations as well as sensational delicacies. Highly recommended especially for vegans, and anyone else interested in experiencing multicultural variety!


The Political Science Shelf

Golden
Jeff Coen and John Chase
Chicago Review Press
814 North Franklin Street
Chicago, IL 60610
9781569763391 $27.95 www.chicagoreviewpress.com

Golden: How Rod Blagojevich Talked Himself Out of the Governor's Office and Into Prison deconstructs the fall of Rod Blagojevich, the fortieth governor of Illinois. Accused of corruption, and caught on tape trying to horse-trade President-elect Barack Obama's US Senate seat, Blagojevich did not listen to conventional wisdom. Rather than stay quiet and fight the charges, he loudly insisted upon his innocence, appearing on every television talk show he could find. Veteran journalists Jeff Coen and John Chase have unearthed and untangled a story of graft and political corruption. Golden presents complicated political machinations in plain-facts terms, accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Highly recommended, especially for public library political science (or criminology!) shelves and to anyone interested in learning what really drove the Blagojevich scandal.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Writing Skills for Public Relations, fifth edition
John Foster
Kogan Page USA
1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19102
9780749465438 $37.50 www.koganpageusa.com

Writing Skills for Public Relations: Style and Technique for Mainstream and Social Media is a practical-minded guide to effective communication for PR students, professionals, and anyone else who needs to represent themselves or their business. Chapters cover how to avoid boring cliches and jargon that will fly over the heads of lay readers, style and content crafting of press releases, how to use social media to maximum advantage, public speaking and speech writing, legal issues that challenge writers, and much more. "Although copyright is automatically acquired immediately a work is written (or recorded in some other form such as on tape or computer disk) and there is no formal registration as such, it is advisable to establish evidence of the completion of the work, says the Society of Authors. One way of doing this is to deposit a copy of the script with a bank and get a dated receipt for it." Writing Skils for Public Relations is an absolute "must-have" not only for those in the PR field, but also for any small business owner responsible for getting the word out on their enterprise - especially in the modern age when social media has become an inexpensive and invaluable publicity tool!


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

Masters of Cinema: George Lucas
Karina Longworth
Phaidon Press
180 Varick Street, 14th floor
New York, NY 10014
9782866429041 $9.95 www.phaidon.com

Featuring full-color photography on almost every page, Masters of Cinema: George Lucas traces the career history of the legendary creator of the "Star Wars" science fiction movie series. Written to be thoroughly accessible to cinema fans of all walks of life, Masters of Cinema: George Lucas covers Lucas' professional career from his earliest creations (including a feature-length expansion of his student short, THX 1138), to "American Graffiti", the first "Star Wars" trilogy, his collaborations with Spielberg and hiatus from directing, the second "Star Wars" trilogy, and more. A chronology, filmography, and selected bibliography round out this detail-packed, behind-the-scenes cross-examination of a brilliant man's lifetime of dedication to the art of film. Masters of Cinema: George Lucas is a "must-have" for Star Wars fans, and a choice pick for public and community library cinema shelves! Also highly recommended are two other volumes in this carefully researched and gorgeously illustrated series: "Masters of Cinema: Roman Polanski" (9782866429171, $9.95) by David Ehrenstein, and "Masters of Cinema: Ethan and Joel Coen" (9782866429034, $9.95) by Ian Nathan.


The Science Shelf

Electric System Operations
Mani Vadari
Artech House
685 Canton Street
Norwood, MA 02062
9781608075492 $99.00 www.artechhouse.com

Dr. Subramanian ("Mani") Vadari, president and founder of the technology and management consulting company Modern Grid Solutions, presents Electric System Operations: Evolving to the Modern Grid, a thoughtful resource concerning how utility and electric systems can best serve the needs of the population. Chapters provide an introduction to power systems, the effects of deregulation on system operations, the impact that the "smart" or "modern" grid has had on system operations, the nuts and bolts of a control center, types of energy management systems and outage management systems, system operator training simulators, and much more. Electric Systems Operations is written especially for professionals who work in utility or support electrical utilities with services or solutions, but the methodical, step-by-step progression of the text will also edify those with limited experience who need a broader grasp of the problems associated with electrical services. Highly recommended especially for college libraries, students, and practitioners in the field of system operations.


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Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
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