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Reviewer's Choice
Preventing Election Violence Through Diplomacy
Bhojraj Pokharel
United States Institute of Peace Press
http://bookstore.usip.org
9781601277480 $19.95 pbk / $TBA ebook
Synopsis: Focusing on three case studies in Africa, this book analyzes the utility of diplomacy in
preventing election violence. After defining and identifying the key dimensions of preventive
diplomacy to prevent or reduce election violence, it looks at presidential elections between 2006
and 2017 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, and Nigeria. Drawing on personal
experience, the literature, case study reviews, and expert interviews and roundtables with
academics and practitioners, the book highlights conditions for the success and the failure of
preventive diplomacy, offering recommendations to the international community for maximizing
the efficacy of this unique tool.
Critique: Drawing upon three case studies in Africa, Preventing Election Violence Through
Diplomacy scrutinizes strategies for risk management, selecting the best diplomatic actors,
delivering diplomatic messages to target audiences, common mistakes when attempting to
prevent or mitigate election-related violence, and much more. "Diplomatic actors should be
careful not to engage in mirror imaging, the analytical fallacy of assuming that the audience
thinks precisely the same way the speaker does. [...] For example, the Western political tradition's
concept of term limits may seem alien to nations with a history of one-party, authoritarian, or
dynastic rule." Preventing Election Violence Through Diplomacy is a resource that will help save
not only lives, but also the democratic future of entire nations, and worthy of the highest
recommendation for professional diplomats as well as public and college library collections. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that an ebook version is forthcoming.
Editor's Note: Author Bhojraj Pokharel is an internationally recognized expert on organizing
elections in conflict or postconflict situations. His personal experience includes serving as head
of Nepal's Election Commission from 2006 to 2009, as well as being appointed to serve on a
high-level panels for Bangladesh's 2008 parliamentary elections, and for South Sudan's referenda
process in 2010-11.
Food or War
Julian Cribb
Cambridge University Press
One Liberty Plaza, Fl. 20, New York, NY 10006
www.cambridge.org
9781108712903, $12.95, PB, 350pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Ours is the Age of Food. Food is a central obsession in all cultures, nations, the media,
and society. Our future supply of food is filled with risk, and history tells us that lack of food
leads to war. But it also presents us with spectacular opportunities for fresh human creativity and
technological prowess.
In "Food or War", Julian Cribb describes a new food system capable of meeting our global needs
on this hot and overcrowded planet. "Food or War" is especially relevant reading for anyone
concerned about the health, safety, affordability, diversity, and sustainability of their food -- and
the peace of our planet. It is not just timely -- its message is of the greatest urgency.
"Food or War" is especially commended to the attention of consumers, 'foodies', government and
corporate policymakers, researchers, cooks, chefs and farmers. Indeed, anyone who cares about
their food, where it comes from and what it means for them, their children and
grandchildren.
Critique: As the world's human population continues to grow, the question of how to avoid mass
starvation or wars over food supplies becomes increasingly vital to maintaining peace.
Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Food or War" is unreservedly
recommended for both community and academic library collections. It should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Food or War" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$8.00).
Editorial Note: Julian Cribb is an Australian author and science communicator. His career
includes appointments as newspaper editor, scientific correspondent for The Australian
newspaper, director of national awareness for Australia's science agency CSIRO,and president of
national professional bodies for agricultural journalism and science communication. His
published work includes over 9000 media articles and nine books. He has received more than
thirty awards for journalism. His books include: The Forgotten Country (AFP 1986), Australian
Agriculture (Morescope 1990), The White Death (Angus & Roberston 1996), Sharing
Knowledge (CSIRO Publishing 2002), Dry Times (CSIRO Publishing 2009), Open Science
(CSIRO Publishing 2010), The Coming Famine (UCP 2010) Poisoned Planet (Allen&Unwin
2014) and Surviving the 21st Century (Springer 2017).
Climate Action Planning, revised and expanded edition
Michael R. Boswell, Adrienne I. Greve, Tammy L. Seale
Island Press
2000 M Street NW Suite 650, Washington, DC 20036
www.islandpress.org
9781610919630, $35.00, PB, 384pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Climate change continues to impact our health and safety, the economy, and natural
systems. With climate-related protections and programs under attack at the federal level, it is
critical for cities to address climate impacts locally. Every day there are new examples of cities
approaching the challenge of climate change in creative and innovative ways -- from rethinking
transportation, to greening city buildings, to protecting against sea-level rise.
"Climate Action Planning: A Guide to Creating Low-Carbon, Resilient Communities" is a
specifically designed instructional meant to help planners, municipal staff and officials, citizens
and others working at local levels to develop and implement plans to mitigate a community's
greenhouse gas emissions and increase the resilience of communities against climate change
impacts. This fully revised and expanded edition of "Climate Action Planning" goes well beyond
climate action plans to examine the mix of policy and planning instruments available to every
community, and also examine process and communication to respond to the questions of: How
does a community bring diverse voices to the table? What do recent examples and research tell
us about successful communication strategies?
This new edition of "Climate Action Planning" brings in new examples of implemented projects
to highlight what has worked and the challenges that remain. A completely new chapter on
vulnerability assessment will help each community to identify their greatest risks and
opportunities. Sections on land use and transportation have been expanded to reflect their
growing contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The guidance in "Climate Action Planning" is
put in the context of international, national, and state mandates and goals.
"Climate Action Planning" is the most comprehensive book on the state of the art, science, and
practice of local climate action planning. It should be a first stop for any local government
interested in addressing climate change.
Critique: Exceptionally informative, well written, deftly organized and presented, "Climate
Action Planning: A Guide to Creating Low-Carbon, Resilient Communities" should be
considered a mandatory addition to community, college, and university library Contemporary
Environmental Studies collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students,
academia, social activists, urban land use planners, city management officials, and non-specialist
general readers with an interest in the subject that "Climate Action Planning" is also available in
a digital book format (Kindle, $19.24).
Editorial Note: Michael R. Boswell is a Professor of City & Regional Planning at California
Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. He currently serves as an advisor to
UN-Habitat's Planners for Climate Action (P4CA) initiative.
Adrienne I. Greve is a Professor of City & Regional Planning at California Polytechnic State
University in San Luis Obispo. She served as project director for the State of California
"Adaptation Planning Guide."
Tammy L. Seale is Associate Principal at PlaceWorks, Inc. and leads their Climate Action &
Resiliency Services division.
Scam Me If You Can
Frank W. Abagnale
Portfolio
c/o Penguin Random House
penguinrandomhouse.com
9780525538967 $19.00 pbk / $14.99 Kindle amazon.com
Synopsis: Maybe you're wondering how to make the scam phone calls stop. Perhaps someone has
stolen your credit card number. Or you've been a victim of identity theft. Even if you haven't yet
been the target of a crime, con artists are always out there, waiting for the right moment to steal
your information, your money, and your life.
As one of the world's most respected authorities on the subjects of fraud, forgery, and cyber
security, Frank Abagnale knows how scammers work. In Scam Me If You Can, he reveals the
latest tricks that today's scammers, hackers, and con artists use to steal your money and personal
information--often online and over the phone. Using plain language and vivid examples,
Abagnale reveals hundreds of tips, including:
The best way to protect your phone from being hacked
The only time you should ever use a debit card
The one type of photo you should never post on social media
The only conditions under which you should use WiFi networks at the airport
The safest way to use an ATM
With his simple but counterintuitive rules, Abagnale also makes use of his insider intel to paint a
picture of cybercrimes that haven't become widespread yet.
Critique: Anyone can fall for identity theft or other scams. The proliferation of modern
technology makes it easier than ever for identity thieves to write checks, take out credit cards,
order legal or illegal goods, and much more in another person's name. Social media is a treasure
trove of impersonation information such as birthdays, addresses, or names of family and contacts.
Even the most prudent individual is at risk if a company holding their information has a data
breach - remember the Equifax scandal of 2017? Scam Me If You Can lists precautions that
everyone should take to minimize risk, and offers detailed instructions about what to do if the
worst happens. In today's increasingly digitized world, Scam Me If You Can is an absolute
"must-have" for public library collections and for every man, woman, and child. Indeed, parents
are strongly advised to teach their young adult or teenaged children the lessons of Scam Me If
You Can (especially concerning what personal information should NOT be shared on any form
of social media), the earlier the better! Highly recommended. It should be noted for personal
reading lists that Scam Me If You Can is also available in a Kindle edition ($14.99).
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Winning Strategies for ACT Essay Writing
Aimee Weinstein
Vibrant Publishers
www.vibrantpublishers.com
9781949395457, $29.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Winning Strategies For ACT Essay Writing: With 15 Sample Prompts" by Dr. Aimee
Weinstein is a deftly crafted guidebook that offers step-by-step, proven strategies for crafting a
winning ACT essay. It includes suggestions for approaching the writing task, analyzing the issues
presented, and managing time effectively. The book contains fifteen sample prompts using the
exact same format as the official ACT tests. Each prompt includes a sample pro/con chart so
students can learn to carefully plan and organize the essay before writing.
Additionally, "Winning Strategies For ACT Essay Writing" describes techniques to think
through, outline, and write an engaging introduction, impressive supporting paragraphs, and
powerful conclusion. There are recommendations for selecting a point of view and using solid
evidence to support the argument. Additionally, there is a discussion of the ACT scoring rubric
and reasons for taking the essay portion.
"Winning Strategies For ACT Essay Writing: With 15 Sample Prompts" is suitable for use with
or without a tutor. By reading and practicing with this text, students will gain the tools and
confidence to write a high scoring essay.
Critique: Thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation for analyzing each prompt,
carefully planing the essay, making a compelling argument, use=ing the allotted time effectively,
evaluating sample essays, and increase student test taking confidence, "Winning Strategies For
ACT Essay Writing: With 15 Sample Prompts" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended study
guide and should be a part of ever school district and community library college ACT test taking
instructional reference collection.
Editorial Note: Dr. Aimee Weinstein is a writer and professor whose passion is coaching students
on how to write effective essays for college applications as well as the ACT and SAT. She works
full-time at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia as a Term Assistant Professor of
Humanities and Graduate Pathway Advisor with INTO Mason. Dr. Weinstein works with the
INTO Mason Mentoring Committee and is part of the Mason Faculty Learning Community on
the Study of Teaching and Learning. She received her doctorate from the Department of Higher
Education at George Mason University where she focused on teaching writing to second
language learners via a hybrid classroom. Dr. Weinstein lived for more than ten years in Tokyo,
Japan where she taught writing at Temple University, Japan. She has held positions at The
George Washington University and Prince George's Community College (MD), teaching classes
in various levels and genres of writing. Her previous publications include several food and travel
articles in English-language magazines in Japan.
The Christmas Shelf
Christmas Is Coming!
The Metropolitian Museum of Art
Harry N. Abrams, Inc.
115 West 18th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
www.abramsbooks.com
9781419737497, $24.99, HC, 160pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: The Christmas season is one of the most wonderful times of the year, and from the
Metropolitan Museum treasury of stories, poems, recipes, and songs, "Christmas Is Coming" is
certain to light up the holiday season and enable families to joyfully celebrate everything there is
to love about this very special time of the year.
Filled with favorite Christmas stories, such as " 'Twas the Night Before Christmas" and "Little
Women, A Merry Christmas"; plus songs as well as original poems from Lee Bennett Hopkins,
Naomi Shihab Nye, and others; original recipes from Erin Gleeson, Yvette van Boven, and
Yotam Ottolenghi; and other holiday trappings.
All the artwork is from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, ranging from religious
paintings depicting the Nativity, to 20th-century illustrations showing Santa Claus, to wintry
scenes of snowy landscapes and ice skaters. With beautiful art and joyful text, "Christmas Is
Coming!" is a wonderful book for the entire family to share.
Critique: A pure delight to browse through from first page to last, "Christmas Is Coming!:
Celebrate the Holiday with Art, Stories, Poems, Songs, and Recipes" should be a part of every
family and every community library collection. It should also be noted that "Christmas Is
Coming!" is available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.49).
The Education Shelf
Curriculum Planning and Instructional Design for Gifted Learners, third edition
Joyce VanTassel-Baska & Ariel Baska
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813, Waco, TX 76714-8813
www.prufrock.com
9781618218896, $75.00, PB, 300pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Now in a newly updated and expanded third edition, "Curriculum Planning and
Instructional Design for Gifted Learners" by the team of Joyce VanTassel-Baska and Ariel Baska
continues to be an ideal guide to designing curriculum for the gifted at any level of learning and
in any subject area.
This new edition of "Curriculum Planning and Instructional Design for Gifted Learners" deftly
addresses the need to differentiate at all levels in the design process; shows how to customize
curriculum for advanced learners; uses national standards, such as the Common Core State
Standards and Next Generation Science Standards, as the point of departure for design; and
demonstrates how the differentiation process works in math, science, social studies, and English
language arts.
Special needs gifted learners, such as those who are twice-exceptional, second language learners,
students from poverty, and minority students, are also included as a group for further
differentiation and customization of curriculum and instruction. This new edition of "Curriculum
Planning and Instructional Design for Gifted Learners" may also be used to provide a curriculum
guide for teachers in a master's program in gifted education or those taking endorsement
classes.
Critique: An ideal curriculum textbook and instruction manual, "Curriculum Planning and
Instructional Design for Gifted Learners: 3rd Edition" is unreservedly recommended as an
essential and core addition to school district, college, and community library Contemporary
Education collections and supplemental studies lists.
Editorial Note: Joyce VanTassel-Baska, Ed.D., is the Smith Professor Emerita at William &
Mary, where she developed a graduate program and a research and development center in gifted
education. She has published widely, including 30 books and more than 700 refereed journal
articles, book chapters, and scholarly reports. Ariel Baska teaches all levels of Latin, including
Advanced Placement, in Fairfax County Public Schools, VA. She received her bachelor's degree
in Classics from William & Mary and her master's degree in curriculum studies with an emphasis
in gifted education from George Mason University.
Your Students, My Students, Our Students
Lee Ann Jung, Nancy Frey, Douglas Fisher, Julie Kroener
ASCD
1703 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
www.ascd.org
9781416628095, $30.95, PB, 159pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Your Students, My Students, Our Students: Rethinking Equitable and Inclusive
Classrooms" deftly explores the hard truths of current special education practice and outlines five
essential disruptions to the status quo.
The collaborative educational experts Lee Ann Jung, Nancy Frey, Douglas Fisher, and Julie
Kroener show how to: Establish a school culture that champions equity and inclusion; Rethink
the long-standing structure of least restrictive environment and the resulting service delivery:
Leverage the strengths of all educators to provide appropriate support and challenge; Collaborate
on the delivery of instruction and intervention; Honor the aspirations of each student and plan
accordingly.
To realize authentic and equitable inclusion, classroom teachers must relentlessly and
collectively pursue change. "Your Students, My Students, Our Students" was not written for
"special educators" or "general educators" but for all educators as it informatively addresses the
challenges, maps out the solutions, and provides tools and inspiration for the work ahead.
Of special note is the inclusion of real-life examples of empowerment and success that illustrate
just what's possible when educators commit to the belief that every student belongs to all of us
and all students deserve learning experiences that will equip them to live full and rewarding
lives.
Critique: An ideal instructional resource and guide, "Your Students, My Students, Our Students:
Rethinking Equitable and Inclusive Classrooms" is unreservedly recommended for school district
in-service workshops, college and university library Teacher Education collections and
supplemental curriculum lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of teachers, school
administrators, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Your
Students, My Students, Our Students: Rethinking Equitable and Inclusive Classrooms" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $29.40).
Off to a Good Start
Kathleen M. Feeley & Emily A. Jones
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
www.woodbinehouse.com
9781606132876, $29.95, PB, 400pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In "Off to a Good Start: A Behaviorally Based Model for Teaching Children with
Down Syndrome: Teaching Programs" Kathleen M. Feeley (Director of the Center for
Community Inclusion, Long Island University) and Emily A. Jones (Licensed Behavior Analyst
and Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Queens College) share the compelling
research about the benefits of using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methods with children
with Down syndrome, describe ABA principles and procedures, and provide the ABA-based
curriculum they've used for nearly 20 years to successfully teach infants through kindergartners
with Down syndrome.
"Teaching Programs" shows readers how to teach hundreds of essential skills using proven
discrete-trial methods with prompts and reinforcement rather than the more informal ways that
people typically teach children with Down syndrome and covers: Background information on
how the teaching programs are structured, how to progress through them, and how to use the
included planning and tracking forms; How to organize materials and yourself, and work
teaching into your day; General information on enhancing the learning environment and helping
your child learn throughout the day (e.g., positioning your baby, keeping the environment
stimulating, being responsive, ensuring that reinforcement is actually reinforcing, using visual
schedules and token systems).
Also presented is: Comprehensive information on teaching specific skills to children in four age
groups: infants & toddlers, early childhood, preschool, and kindergarten; within each age group,
skills are divided into motor, social-communication, cognitive, and self-help development, and
organized into teaching programs with specific steps to teach each skill; Using prompts and
reinforcement to shape desired behavior and skills; How to minimize behavior which interferes
with learning such as distracting parents/teachers with attention-seeking cute behavior, escaping
from demands, or tuning out; Using behavior modification tools: functional behavior assessment
and positive behavior support to manage behavior as the child gets older; How to access
community resources and opportunities including early intervention, parent groups, inclusive
recreational activities, scoping out preschool and kindergarten programs, understanding special
education rights, and communicating with teachers and group leaders about ways to include your
child.
Critique: An ideal curriculum textbook for both classroom teachers and involved parents of
preschool and elementary school Down syndrome children, "Off to a Good Start: A Behaviorally
Based Model for Teaching Children With Down Syndrome: Teaching Programs" is unreservedly
recommended for school district, college, and university library Down Syndrome Education
instructional reference collections and supplemental studies reading lists.
The Science Shelf
The Firefly Guide to Minerals, Rocks and Gems
Rupert Hocheitner
Firefly Books Ltd.
www.fireflybooks.com
9780228102281, $19.95, PB, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Comprised of step-by-step questions and answers accompanied by detailed color
photographs for easy identification, "The Firefly Guide to Minerals, Rocks and Gems" is
designed by mineralogist Rupert Hocheitner for easy and reliable identification of minerals, gems
and rocks by students and non-specialist general readers.
The identification process begins with the stone's streak color, which is how "The Firefly Guide
to Minerals, Rocks and Gems" is organized: Blue, Red, Yellow, Brown, Green Black and White.
Using a sequence of straightforward questions and answers (and aided by over 1,000 photographs
and drawings) this field guide narrows down the possibilities among 350 minerals, gems and
rocks to reach the conclusive classification.
Identification is then further narrowed down with respect to Crystal form, Hardness, Luster,
Density, Cleavage, Break and Tenacity. Each rock's main photograph shows the general or
typical view, and identification tips about features are noted in the margins of the respective
page.
Similar stones are presented for comparison and tips are provided that can eliminate imposters.
Drawings show the mineral's crystal shape. The chemical formula reveals the elements from
which the mineral is composed. There is also information about where the stone is typically
found and some of the ways that humans have utilized it.
Critique: Packed with beautiful photographs of earth's many rocks, minerals and gems, "The
Firefly Guide to Minerals, Rocks and Gems" is an ideal instructional reference for geology
students, amateur mineralogists and collectors alike -- making it unreservedly recommended for
personal, professional, community, and academic library collections.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
You Can Prevent a Stroke
Joshua S. Yamamoto, MD & Kristin E. Thomas, MD
RosettaBooks
www.rosettabooks.com
9781948122405, $19.99, HC, 184pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Natural aging leads to artery plaque, high blood pressure, and slower and irregular
heartbeats. You can do everything right, and time will still pass. You will still age. While you can
influence some aspects of aging on your own, some you cannot -- at least not without your
doctor's help. Fortunately, the biology of aging is no longer mysterious. Heart and blood vessel
health is knowable, measurable, and manageable.
In "You Can Prevent a Stroke", Dr. Joshua Yamamoto (a physician in private practice at Foxhall
Medicine, PLLC, which he founded with his wife in 2013) and Dr. Kristin Thomas (a
board-certified internist and partner with Foxhall Internists, PC, before starting Foxhall
Medicine, PLLC, with her husband) help us understand what we can do, and what we can ask of
our doctors, to manage the effects of aging on our circulation so that we do not have a stroke. For
years, they have approached patients with the fundamentals learned at The Johns Hopkins
Hospital: "Take responsibility for your patient's health, go in-depth, have an unswerving
commitment to solving problems, be thorough, thoughtful, and have attention to detail."
There is no one-size-fits-all solution or magical cure for anything. But there are principles that
can serve as useful guides for everyone and provide an approach to managing the natural
processes that affect us all.
Some preventative steps include: Establishing a relationship with a physician; Knowing the
health of your heart; Knowing the health of your arteries; Knowing the regularity of your
heartbeat; Knowing if it's time to take a medicine to prevent plaque in your arteries, and whether
you need a pill to prevent a blood clot
Strokes are usually said to be tragic and random. They are certainly tragic, but they are not
random. Strokes can be avoided, and "You Can Prevent a Stroke" will explain how.
Critique: Especially well written, organized and presented so as to be of maximum value for the
non-specialist general reader wanting to understand or who must deal with strokes with respect to
themselves or a loved one, "You Can Prevent a Stroke" is unreservedly recommended for
personal reading lists as well as community library Health/Medicine collections. It should be
noted that "You Can Prevent a Stroke" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99)
and as a complete and unabridged audio book (HighBridge Audio, 9781684574131, $29.99,
CD).
Maths, Physics and Clinical Measurement for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hozefa Ebrahim, editor
David Ashton-Cleary, editor
Cambridge University Press
One Liberty Plaza, Fl. 20, New York, NY 10006
www.cambridge.org
9781108731454, $59.99, PB, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Maths, physics and clinical measurement hold a degree of mystery and trepidation for
many who are working and training in anaesthesia, intensive care and theatre practice. "Maths,
Physics and Clinical Measurement for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care" aptly covers these core
topics in a logical and structured format, creating a more enjoyable learning experience that is
accessible and easy to digest.
Each individual chapter opens with a set of learning objectives and summary of chapter contents.
Following this is a clinical scenario that relates to the themes of the chapter and a number of
hypothetical questions relating to the scenario are laid-out. Clinical pearls are presented in boxes
for more advanced learning opportunities.
Each individual chapter closes with a set of MCQ or SBA self-test questions to test the readers'
knowledge of the chapter. "Maths, Physics and Clinical Measurement for Anaesthesia and
Intensive Care" covers everything needed for the FFICM and FRCA exams, making it an
essential text for exam candidates, tutors, and those working in theatres, anaesthesia and the
ICU.
Critique: Expertly compiled, edited, organized and presented by Hozefa Ebrahim (who is an
anaesthetist and intensivist at University Hospitals Birmingham, and college tutor for
anaesthesia) and David Ashton-Cleary (who is a consultant in Critical Care and Anaesthesia at
the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust), and featuring illustrations by Eleanor Whittingham,
"Maths, Physics and Clinical Measurement for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care" is an
unreservedly recommended core addition to hospital, medical center, college, and university
library Health/Medicine instructional reference collections. It should be noted for the personal
reading lists of medical students and hospital medical team members that "Maths, Physics and
Clinical Measurement for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $28.99).
The Women's Guide to Overcoming Insomnia
Shelby Harris, PsyD
W.W. Norton & Company
https://wwnorton.com
9780393711615 $18.95 pbk / $9.99 Kindle amazon.com
Synopsis: More than 60 percent of American women have trouble sleeping which isn't
surprising, as they have a higher risk of developing sleeping problems. But addressing this issue
is more nuanced for women than for men; pregnancy and menopause are just two factors that add
complexity to an already difficult problem. At the risk of jeopardizing work, parenting,
relationships, or overall health, no woman can afford to deal with sleep deprivation on her
own.
The Women's Guide to Overcoming Insomnia is a roadmap for those who experience anything
from occasional bad nights to chronic insomnia. It outlines several methods to overcome these
issues and improve physical and emotional well- being. From medical sleep aids to nonmedical
approaches, the book looks beyond the basics of sleep hygiene, helping women to retrain their
bodies and minds for a good night's sleep every night.
Critique: Thoroughly accessible to readers of all backgrounds, The Women's Guide to
Overcoming Insomnia: Get a Good Night's Sleep Without Relying on Medication is a practical
guide to improving the quality of one's sleep. The Women's Guide to Overcoming Insomnia is
written especially for women, who may encounter sleeping problems caused or aggravated by
hormonal changes during the course of their lives, and who often face extra stress as caregivers
(whether looking after infants, young children, teenagers, or elderly family members).
Chapters address behavioral changes that can improve the quality of one's sleep, from limited
"blue light" from electronic devices as well as caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine consumption in the
hours before bedtime; to keeping one's bedroom cool; to habituating onself to the idea that the
bed is reserved expressly for sleep (sex is the only exception); to psychological techniques to
combat "unproductive worry" and much more. Although The Women's Guide to Overcoming
Insomnia cannot replace the care of a physician if needed, its practical, patient-tested advice is
invaluable for any woman struggling with sleep disorders, and highly recommended for public
library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that The Women's Guide to
Overcoming Insomnia is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).
Editorial note: Author Shelby Harris, PsyD is board-certified in Behavioral Sleep Medicine by
the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and treats a variety of sleep disorders in private
practice.
The Biography Shelf
Niccolo Machiavelli: An Intellectual Biography
Corrado Vivanti
Princeton University Press
41 William Street, Princeton, NJ 08540
http://press.princeton.edu
9780691151014, $27.95, HC, 280pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Niccolo Machiavelli: An Intellectual Biography" by Corrado Vivanti is a colorful,
comprehensive, and authoritative introduction to the life and work of the author of "The
Prince".
This impressively informed and informative study provides an unparalleled intellectual
biography that demonstrates the close connections between Machiavelli's thought and his
changing fortunes during the tumultuous Florentine republic and his subsequent exile. Vivanti's
concise account covers not only Machiavelli's most famous works )(The Prince, The Discourses,
The Florentine Histories, and The Art of War) but also his letters, poetry, and comic dramas.
While setting Machiavelli's life against a dramatic backdrop of war, crisis, and diplomatic
intrigue, this meticulous work of seminal scholarship also paints a vivid human portrait of the
man.
Vivanti's narrative breaks Machiavelli's life into three parts: his career in a variety of government
and diplomatic posts in the Florentine republic between 1494 and 1512, when the Medici
returned from exile, seized power, and removed Machiavelli from office; the pivotal first part of
his subsequent exile, when he formulated his most influential ideas and wrote The Prince; and
the final decade of his life, when, having returned to Florence, he wrote The Art of War, The
Florentine Histories, the satirical play The Mandrake, and other works.
Along the way, this deftly crafted biography presents unmatched accounts of many intensely
debated topics, including the precise nature of Machiavelli's cultural and intellectual background,
his republicanism, his political and personal relationship to the Medici, and his ideas about
religion.
Critique: Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) was a Florentine statesman, writer, and political
philosopher. Corrado Vivanti, (1928-2012) was one of the world's leading Machiavelli scholars.
"Niccolo Machiavelli: An Intellectual Biography" is an essential and core addition to both
community and academic library biography collections in general, and Machiavelli supplemental
studies curriculums in particular. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students,
academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Niccolo
Machiavelli: An Intellectual Biography" is also available in a paperback edition
(9780691196893, $18.95).
Napoleon: The Spirit of the Age: 1805-1810
Michael Broers
Pegasus Books
148 West 37th Street, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10018
www.pegasusbooks.com
9781681776699, $29.95, HC, 544pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Napoleon: The Spirit of the Age" is the second volume of Michael Broers' three
volume life of Napoleon Bonaparte, covering the tumultuous years 1805 to 1810, a period which
marks the zenith of Napoleon's power and military success. Like volume one, it is based on the
new version of Napoleon's correspondence, made available by the Fondation Napoleon in Paris.
It is the story of Napoleon's conquest of Europe (and that of his magnificent Grande Armee) as
they sweep through the length and breadth of Europe.
This detailed and meticulously presented study opens with Napoleon's as yet untested army
making its way through the Bavarian Alps in the early winter of 1805, to fall upon the
unsuspecting Austrians and Russians, and crushing them at Austerlitz. This was only the
beginning of series of spectacular victories: over the Prussians in 1806, and then the Russians,
which brought the Tsar to defeat in 1807. It follows the army into Spain, in 1808, most
ill-considered step in his career as ruler, and then through the most daunting triumph of all, the
final defeat of Austria at Wagram, in 1809, the bloodiest battle in European history up to that
time.
These five years encompass the dramas of Napoleon's separation from Josephine amid the
turmoil of ruling a pan-European empire. These years also saw Napoleon navigate plots against
him, his clash with the Pope and excommunication, and his loss of trust in many of those closest
to him. It closes with his marriage to Marie-Louise, the daughter of his defeated enemy, the
Emperor of Austria. With the greatest "trophy bride" in history on his arm, Napoleon now turns
again to face his only remaining enemy, Britain, and the challenge of ruling an empire that now
spans the entirety of Europe.
Critique: Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of 16 pages of bo color and black/white
illustrations, maps, plates, thirty-six pages of notes, and a thirty-five page index, "Napoleon: The
Spirit of the Age: 1805-1810" is an impressively informative, exceptionally well written, and
seminal work of thorough and original scholarship. While unreservedly recommended for both
community and academic library Napoleon Bonaparte collections and supplemental curriculum
study lists, it should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an
interest in the subject that "Napoleon: The Spirit of the Age: 1805-1810" is also available in a
paperback edition (9781643132334, $19.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
The Economic Studies Shelf
Intergenerational Equity: Corporate and Financial Leadership
Julia M. Puaschunder
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court, Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781788978828, $120.00, HC, 240pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Exploring a topic of growing importance that has scant coverage, "Intergenerational
Equity: Corporate and Financial Leadership " by Julia M. Puaschunder (a Post-Doctoral
Researcher, Columbia University and Princeton University and Department of Economics and
the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis, The New School, US) brings to the fore a
comprehensive discussion of intergenerational predicaments.
"Intergenerational Equity" informatively explores just how corporate and financial social
responsibility can leverage intergenerational harmony through Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) and Socially Responsible Investment (SRI).
A warming earth under climate change, overindebtedness crises and demographic aging of a
Western world population are putting pressure on future generations. Transparency and
accountability are key for monitoring corporate and financial social responsibility in the interplay
of public and private actors to ensure a sustainable humankind and intergenerational
harmony.
"Intergenerational Equity" insightfully discusses the human constituents of responsibility and the
international emergence of CSR, paying special attention to global governance multi-stakeholder
partnerships. The rise of SRI in the international arena in the wake of stakeholder activism and
intrinsic socio-psychological motives of socially responsible investors are also outlined and the
role of leadership, trust and managerial ethics accentuated.
Critique: Enhanced for academia with the inclusion of figures, tables, an informative
introduction, thirty-one pages of references, and a ten page index, scholars, executives and
readers motivated by the desire to improve corporate and financial market activities will benefit
immensely by a careful reading of "Intergenerational Equity: Corporate and Financial
Leadership" -- making it an ideal curriculum textbook and an unreservedly recommended
addition to corporate, college, and university library Economic Studies and Business
Management collections and supplemental studies lists.
The Military Shelf
A Raid Over Berlin
John Martin
Charnwood Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444842227, $35.50, HC, Large Print, 162pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Trapped inside a burning Lancaster bomber 20,000 feet above Berlin, wireless operator
John Martin consigned himself to his fate and turned his thoughts to his fiancee back home. In a
miraculous turn of events, however, the twenty-one-year-old was thrown clear of his
disintegrating aeroplane and found himself parachuting into the heart of Nazi Germany, where he
was soon captured.
Drawn from his own memories, and from conversations with other POWs, "A Raid Over Berlin"
is the true-life account of a Second World War airman who cheated death in the sky, only to face
interrogation and the prospect of being shot by the Gestapo, before enduring months of sorrow
and hunger as a prisoner of war. Above all, however, it is the story of one man's courage and
determination in the face of adversity.
Critique: A deftly written and thoroughly fascinating account, "A Raid Over Berlin" by John
Martin will prove to be a welcome addition to the growing body of World War II memoirs and
biographies. This large print edition of "A Raid Over Berlin" is an especially recommended
addition to the personal reading lists of dedicated military history buffs, as well as both
community and academic library World War II history collections and supplemental studies
reading lists.
The American History Shelf
Washington's Revolutionary War Generals
Stephen R. Taaffe
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
www.oupress.com
9780806164311, $39.95, HC, 360pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: When the Revolutionary War began, Congress established a national army and
appointed George Washington its commander in chief. Congress then took it upon itself to
choose numerous subordinate generals to lead the army's various departments, divisions, and
brigades. How this worked out in the end is well known. Less familiar, however, is how well
Congress's choices worked out along the way.
Although historians have examined many of Washington's subordinates, "Washington's
Revolutionary War Generals" by Stephen R. Taaffe (Professor of History at Stephen F. Austin
State University, Nacogdoches, Texas) is the first study to look at these men in a collective,
integrated manner. A thoroughgoing study of the Revolutionary War careers of the Continental
Army's generals (their experience, performance, and relationships with Washington and the
Continental Congress) )Professor Taaffe provides an overview of the politics of command, both
within and outside the army, and a unique perspective on how it affected Washington's
prosecution of the war.
The principle contention of Professor Taafe is that it is impossible to understand the outcome of
the War for Independence without first examining America's military leadership. His description
of Washington's generals (who they were, how they received their commissions, and how they
performed) goes a long way toward explaining how these American officers, who were short on
experience and military genius, ultimately prevailed over their professional British
counterparts.
"Washington's Revolutionary War Generals" follows these men through the war's most important
battles and campaigns as well as its biggest controversies, such as the Conway Cabal and the
Newburgh Conspiracy, Professor Taaffe deftly weaves a narrative in the grand tradition of
military history. Against this backdrop, his depiction of the complexities and particulars of
character and politics of military command provides a new understanding of George Washington,
the War for Independence, and the U.S. military's earliest beginnings.
Critique: Expertly combining biography, institutional history, and political analysis,
"Washington's Revolutionary War Generals" is a meticulously researched work of seminal
scholarship, and an eminently readable and impressively informative contribution to the growing
body of American Revolutionary War literature. While especially recommended for both
community and academic library American History collections in general, and American
Revolutionary War supplemental studies curriculums in particular, it should be noted for the
personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in
the subject that "Washington's Revolutionary War Generals" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $32.95).
From the Halls of the Montezumas
Alan D. Gaff & Donald H. Gaff, editors
University of North Texas Press
1155 Union Circle #311336, Denton, TX 76203-5017
www.untpress.unt.edu
9781574417678, $39.95, HC, 486pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: James L. Freaner is arguably one of the most important unknown Americans in our
nation's history. Freaner gained fame throughout the country during the Mexican War while
covering General Winfield Scott's campaign. As one of America's first war correspondents,
Freaner's letters appeared in newspapers under the byline "Mustang," and his reports from the
front included information unavailable elsewhere. Among Freaner's scoops were the publication
of complete casualty lists (long before official reports became public), detailed battle
descriptions, and observations on postwar Mexico.
Despite his widespread fame as a reporter, Freaner's greatest contribution to the United States
came during a conversation with Nicholas P. Trist, negotiator of the peace treaty with Mexico.
After Trist had passed along an outrageous proposal from the Mexican commissioners, he was
recalled, but Freaner convinced Trist to ignore the order and begin a new round of negotiations.
Trist resumed, concluded the war, and added California, Nevada, Utah, and other territory to a
growing country. This acquisition was second in size only to the Louisiana Purchase and was a
direct result of James Freaner persuading Trist to brazenly conclude a treaty when he had no
authority to do so.
"From the Halls of the Montezumas" is a complete compilation of Freaner's Mexican War
reporting. Editors Alan D. Gaff (an independent scholar and President of Historical
Investigations) and Donald H. Gaff (Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of
Northern Iowa) have annotated the text with footnotes identifying people, places, and events, and
also have added illustrations of key figures and maps. They supplement Freaner's dispatches with
biographical information that ranges from his early career to his journey to the gold fields of
California and his untimely death at the hands of Indians in California in 1852.
Critique: A sterling work of seminal scholarship and an impressive contribution to 19th Century
American history, "From the Halls of the Montezumas: Mexican War Dispatches from James L.
Freaner, Writing under the Pen Name "Mustang" is enhanced for academia with the inclusion of
a ten page Bibliography and a twelve page Index. While especially and unreservedly
recommended for community, college, and university library collections, it should be noted for
the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an
interest in the subject that "From the Halls of the Montezumas" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $31.96).
The World History Shelf
A Brief History of China
Jonathan Clements
Tuttle Publishing
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9780804850056 $16.99 pbk / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Synopsis: For millennia, China was the largest and richest nation on earth. Two centuries ago,
however, its economy sank into a depression from which it had not fully recovered - until now.
China's modern resurgence as the world's largest nation in terms of population and its
second-largest economy - where 800 million people have been lifted out of poverty in the space
of a few decades - is the greatest untold story of the 21st century.
A Brief History of China tells of the development of a rich and complex civilization where the
use of paper, writing, money and gunpowder were widespread in ancient times and where silk,
ceramics, tea, metal implements and other products were produced and exported around the
globe. It examines the special conditions that allowed a single culture to unify an entire continent
spanning 10 billion square kilometers under the rule of a single man - and the unbelievably rich
artistic, literary and architectural heritage that Chinese culture has bequeathed to the world.
Equally fascinating is the story of China's decline in the 19th and early 20th century - as
Europeans and Americans took center stage - and its modern resurgence as an economic
powerhouse in recent years.
In his retelling of a Chinese history stretching back 5,000 years, author and China-expert
Jonathan Clements focuses on the human stories which led to the powerful transformations in
Chinese society - from the unification of China under its first emperor, Qinshi Huangdi, and the
writings of the great Chinese philosophers Confucius and Laozi, to the Mongol invasion under
Genghis Khan and the consolidation of Communist rule under Mao Zedong. Clements even
brings readers through to the present day, outlining China's economic renaissance under Deng
Xiaoping and Xi Jinping.
What really separates this book from its counterparts is the focus on women, and modern themes
such as diversity and climate change. Chinese history is typically told through the stories of its
most famous men, but Clements' telling gives women equal time and research - which introduces
readers of this book to equally important, but less commonly-known facts and historical
figures.
Critique: A Brief History of China: Dynasty, Revolution and Transformation lives up to its title
as a concense yet accurate account of 5,000 years of Chinese history, up to the present day.
Written with a scholar's attention to detail, yet thoroughly accessible to readers of all
backgrounds, A Brief History of China is especially notable for its equitable emphasis on the
historical contributions of women, as well as men. A Brief History of China is a "must-have" for
public and college library World History collections, highly recommended. It should be noted for
personal reading lists that A Brief History of China is also available in a Kindle edition
($10.99).
A Brief History of Korea
Michael J. Seth
Tuttle Publishing
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9780804851022 $15.99 pbk / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Synopsis: Korea was one of the last countries in Asia to be visited by Westerners, and its borders
have remained largely unchanged since it was unified in the seventh century. Though it is one of
the world's oldest and most ethnically homogeneous states, Korea was not born in a vacuum.
Geographically isolated, the country was heavily influenced by powerful China and was often
used as a bridge to the mainland by Japan.
Calling themselves as "a shrimp among whales", Koreans borrowed elements of government,
culture, and religion, all the while fiercely fighting to maintain independence from powerful
neighbors. This fascinating book tells the story of Korean domestic dynasties, empires, and
states, as well as foreign conquest, occupation, and division. Today, the two Koreas are starkly
different - North Korea a nation closed to the world and South Korea an economic powerhouse
and center of Asian democracy.
Chronicling significant events right up through 2018's Singapore Summit, author Michael J. Seth
presents a relevant, interesting, and important history of Korea within a larger global context.
Korea's history is a turbulent one, but ultimately the story of a resistant and resourceful people in
search of lasting peace.
Critique: Michael J. Seth (Professor of World History at James Madison University) presents A
Brief History of Korea: Isolation, War, Despotism and Revival, a resource written with the
expertise of a scholar, yet thoroughly accessible to readers of all backgrounds. A Brief History of
Korea encapsulates the rich legacy of Korean history from ancient times to the 2018 Singapore
Summit. Here is the saga of people sandwiched between extremely powerful neighbors, of
dynasties, empires, states, brutal foreign conquest, and in twentieth century, division into two
drastically different nations. Inset sections of full-color photographs, a bibliography, and an index
round out this "must-have" for public and college library World History collections. Highly
recommended. It should be noted for personal reading lists that A Brief History of Korea is also
available in a Kindle edition ($10.99).
India: A Short History
Andrew Robinson
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500295168, $16.95, PB, 224pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Throughout its long history, India has signified many things. To pilgrims from ancient
China, India was the birthplace of the Buddha. To Alexander the Great, it was a land of
philosophers and armies mounted on elephants. To ancient Rome, it was a source of luxuries. At
the height of the Mughal Empire in 1700, India meant wealth, boasting nearly 25 percent of the
world economy, but then, under British rule, its economy declined.
India's identity continued changing in the nineteenth century as colonial India was known for its
extremes of wealth and poverty (epitomized by the Taj Mahal and famines, maharajas and
untouchables) as well as for its spirituality: many- armed Hindu gods, Sufi saints and Buddhist
philosophy, Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore.
This short history of India by Andrew Robinson places as much emphasis on individuals, ideas,
and cultures as on the rise and fall of kingdoms, political parties, and economies, telling a new
story on a different scale.
Critique: Exceptionally informative, thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation,
"India: A Short History" is and ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal reading
lists, as well as both community and academic library history collections in general, and India
supplemental studies reading lists in particular.
Editorial Note: Andrew Robinson has written more than twenty-five books on the arts and
sciences. They include Lost Languages: The Enigma of the World's Undeciphered Scripts, India:
A Short History, and Earthshock, which won the Association of Earth Science Editors
Outstanding Publication Award. He is also a regular contributor to magazines, such as Current
World Archaeology, History Today, The Lancet, Nature, and Science. A former literary editor of
The Times Higher Education Supplement, he was also a visiting fellow at the University of
Cambridge.
Life in Medieval Europe: Fact and Fiction
Daniele Cybulskie
Pen & Sword Books
c/o Casemate (distribution)
www.casematepublishers.com
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781526733450, $19.95, PB, 144pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Life in Medieval Europe: Fact and Fiction" by Daniele Cybulskie was written
especially for those who have ever found themselves watching a show or reading a novel and
wondering what life was really like in the Middle Ages. What did people actually eat? Were they
really filthy? And did they ever get to marry for love?
In "Life in Medieval Europe: Fact and Fiction", inquisitive readers will find a wealth of fast and
fun answers to all their secret questions ranging from eating and drinking, to sex and love,
whether people bathed, what they did when they got sick, what actually happened to people
accused of crimes, medieval table manners, tournaments, and even toothpaste. From the etiquette
of royalty to whether or not people really did poop in the moat.
Critique: A fun and informative read from cover to cover, "Life in Medieval Europe: Fact and
Fiction" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional,
community, and academic library Medieval History collections. It should be noted for the
personal reading lists of students, academia, and the non-specialist general reader with an interest
in the subject that "Life in Medieval Europe: Fact and Fiction" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $12.99).
Ireland and the Great War
Niamh Gallagher
Bloomsbury Academic
c/o Bloomsbury Press
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
www.bloomsbury.com
9781788314626, $115.00, HC, 280pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: On 4 August 1914 following the outbreak of European hostilities, large sections of
Irish Protestants and Catholics rallied to support the British and Allied war efforts. Yet less than
two years later, the Easter Rising of 1916 allegedly put a stop to the Catholic commitment in
exchange for a re-emphasis on the national question of Irish independence from Great
Britain.
In "Ireland and the Great War: A Social and Political History", Niamh Gallagher (a lecturer in
modern British and Irish history and a fellow of St Catharine's College at the University of
Cambridge) draws upon a formidable array of original research to offer a radical new reading of
Irish involvement in the world's first total war. Exploring the 'home front' and Irish diasporic
communities in Canada, Australia, and Britain, Gallagher reveals that substantial support for the
Allied war effort continued largely unabated not only until November 1918, but afterwards as
well.
Rich in social texture and with fascinating new case studies of Irish participation in the conflict,
"Ireland and the Great War" has the makings of a major rethinking of Ireland's twentieth
century.
Critique: A meticulously presented work of original scholarship, "Ireland and the Great War: A
Social and Political History" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended contribution to
the growing body of 19th Century Irish Emancipation literature. While a fully endorsed addition
to college and university library 19th Century Irish History collections and supplemental
curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia,
and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Ireland and the Great War"
is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $103.50).
Envisioning Empire
Robert A. Olwell & James M. Vaughn, editors
Bloomsbury Academic
c/o Bloomsbury Press
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
www.bloomsbury.com
9781350109964, $115.00, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Collaboratively compiled and co-edited by the team of Robert A. Olwell (Associate
Professor of History, University of Texas at Austin) and James M. Vaughn (Assistant Professor
of History, University of Texas at Austin) the contributors to "Envisioning Empire: The New
British World from 1763 to 1773" collectively examine the pivotal period between the end of the
Seven Years' War and the dawn of the American Revolution.
"Envisioning Empire" reinterprets the development of the British Empire in the 18th century.
With exceptional geographical scope, it also provides new ways of understanding the actors and
events in many imperial arenas, including West Africa, North America, the Caribbean, and South
Asia.
While 1763 has long been seen as marking a turning point in British and British-colonial history,
"Envisioning Empire" treats this epochal year, and the decade that followed, as constituting a
discrete 'moment' in Imperial history that is significant in its own right. Exploring the programs
and plans that sought to incorporate the vast new territories and millions of new subjects into the
British state and imperial system, it demonstrates how the period between the end of the Seven
Years' War and the beginning of the American Revolution was one of contested ideas about the
future of British overseas expansion.
By examining these competing imperial visions and designs from the perspective of Britain's new
subjects as well as from that of British ministers, "Envisioning Empire" both illuminates and
complicates the boundaries that have been drawn between the first and second British empires
and reveals how the Empire was being conceived, discussed, and debated during an era of rapid
transformation.
Critique: The nine erudite and informative essays that comprising "Envisioning Empire: The
New British World from 1763 to 1773" are enhanced for academia with the inclusion of an
impressively informative introduction (The Spirit of 1763), a list of figures, a listing of the
contributors and their credentials, and a fifteen page index. A collective work of seminal
scholarship, "Envisioning Empire" is unreservedly recommended, especially for college and
university library 18th Century History collections and supplemental studies lists. It should be
noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject
that "Envisioning Empire" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $103.50).
Retreat from Moscow
David Stahel
Farrar, Straus & Giroux
175 Varick Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10014
www.fsgbooks.com
9780374249526, $35.00, HC, 560pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Germany's winter campaign of 1941 - 1942 is commonly seen as its first defeat. In
"Retreat from Moscow: A New History of Germany's Winter Campaign, 1941-1942", David
Stahel (who is a senior lecturer in European history at the University of New South Wales, and
teaches at the Australian Defence Force Academy) is a bold, gripping account of one of the
seminal moments of World War II in which he argues that instead it was its first strategic success
in the East. The Soviet counteroffensive was in fact a Pyrrhic victory. Despite being pushed back
from Moscow, the Wehrmacht lost far fewer men, frustrated its enemy's strategy, and emerged in
the spring unbroken and poised to recapture the initiative.
Hitler's strategic plan called for holding important Russian industrial cities, and the German army
succeeded. The Soviets as of January 1942 aimed for nothing less than the destruction of Army
Group Center, yet not a single German unit was ever destroyed. Lacking the professionalism,
training, and experience of the Wehrmacht, the Red Army's offensive attempting to break
German lines in countless head-on assaults led to far more tactical defeats than victories.
Using accounts from journals, memoirs, and wartime correspondence, "Retreat from Moscow"
goes directly into the Wolf's Lair to reveal a German command at war with itself as generals on
the ground fought to maintain order and save their troops in the face of Hitler's capricious,
increasingly irrational directives. Excerpts from soldiers' diaries and letters home paint a rich
portrait of life and death on the front, where the men of the Ostheer battled frostbite nearly as
deadly as Soviet artillery.
Critique: Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of an informative introduction, sixty-two
pages of notes, a twenty-two page bibliography, and a two page index, "Retreat from Moscow: A
New History of Germany's Winter Campaign, 1941-1942" is an extraordinary and unreservedly
recommended addition to community and academic library World War II Military History
collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Retreat from Moscow" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book
(Tantor Audio, 9781452645865, $29.99, CD).
The Civil War Shelf
Johnsonville
Jerry T. Wooten
Savas Beatie
PO Box 4527, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
www.savasbeatie.com
9781611214772, $29.95, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Johnsonville" doesn't mean much to most students of the Civil War. Yet, its
contribution to the Union victory in the Western Theater is difficult to overstate, and its history is
complex, fascinating, and heretofore mostly untold. "Johnsonville: Union Supply Operations on
the Tennessee River and the Battle of Johnsonville, November 4-5, 1864", by Jerry T. Wooten
remedies that oversight with the first full-length treatment of this subject.
Wooten has unearthed a wealth of new material that sheds light on the creation and strategic role
of the Union supply depot, the use of railroads and logistics, and its defense by U. S. Colored
Troops. His study covers the emergence of a civilian town around the depot, and the roll all of
this played in making possible the Union victories with which we are all familiar.
This sterling monograph also includes the best and most detailed account of the Battle of
Johnsonville. The fighting took place on the heels of one of the most audacious campaigns of the
war, when Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest led his cavalry through western Tennessee
on a 23-day raid. On November 4-5, 1864, Forrest's troopers attacked the depot and shelled the
city, destroying tons of invaluable supplies. The complex land-water operation nearly wiped out
the Johnsonville supply depot, severely disrupted Gen. George Thomas's army in Nashville, and
impeded his operations against John Bell Hood's Confederate army.
Prior works on Johnsonville focus on Forrest's operations, but Wooten's deep original archival
research peels back the decades to reveal significantly more on that battle as well as what life was
like in and around the area for both military men and civilians. Civil War students thirst for
original deeply researched studies on fresh topics. And that is exactly what "Johnsonville: Union
Supply Operations on the Tennessee River and the Battle of Johnsonville, November 4-5, 1864"
provides them.
Critique: An original and seminal work of simply outstanding and detailed scholarship,
"Johnsonville: Union Supply Operations on the Tennessee River and the Battle of Johnsonville,
November 4-5, 1864" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended for community,
college, and university library American Civil War collections and supplementary curriculum
lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and dedicated
American Civil War buffs that "Johnsonville: Union Supply Operations on the Tennessee River
and the Battle of Johnsonville, November 4-5, 1864" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Jerry T. Wooten is the Park Manager for Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in
Nashville, Tennessee. Formerly, he served as Park Manager at Johnsonville State Historic Park,
as Director of State Historic Sites for the Tennessee Historical Commission, and as Park
Historian at the Pamplin Historical Park and National Museum of the Civil War Soldier in
Petersburg, Virginia. Originally from Clarksville, Tennessee, Jerry is an American History and
Public History graduate of Austin Peay State University (BS), Murray State University (MA),
and Middle Tennessee State University (Ph.D.) Jerry has researched, written, and presented
programs about the Civil War for most of his professional life. He serves on the Tennessee Civil
War Preservation Association's Board of Directors and is a frequent speaker at Civil War
roundtables, historical organizations, state and national parks, and museums.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
The House
Paco Roca
Fantagraphics Books
7563 Lake City Way, NE, Seattle, WA 98115
www.fantagraphics.com
9781683962632, $19.99, HC, 134pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Three adult siblings return to their family's vacation home a year after their father's
death. They each bring their respective wives, husbands, and children with the intention to clean
up the residence and put it on the market. But, as garbage is hauled off and dust is wiped away,
decades -- old resentments quickly fill the vacant home.
The graphic novel "The House" by Paco Roca is at deeply personal and dedicated to Roca's own
deceased father, while at the same time entirely universal. Roca asks what happens to brothers
and sisters when the only person holding the family together is now gone.
Critique: Full-color illustrations fully enhance an original and inherently fascinating story,
making "The House" an impressive literary experience that only a deftly created graphic novel
can. While fully endorsed and recommended for both community and academic library
Contemporary Graphic Novel collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The
House" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle/comiXology, $12.99).
Editorial Note: Paco Roca (Francisco Martinez Roca) is a graphic artist and a cartoonist from
Valencia, Spain, who has won several art/writing awards. His graphic novel Wrinkles has been
adapted into an animated movie.
TAMBA, Child Soldier
Marion Achard, author
Yann Degurel, illustrator
NBM Publishing
160 Broadway, Ste. 700, East Wing, New York, NY 10038
www.nbmpub.com
9781681122366, $24.99, HC, 112pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Marion Achard is a French writer and circus performer. She co-founded a touring
circus where she performs as acrobat and juggler. She has also written children's books. This is
her first graphic novel. Yan Degruel is a French artist who has published many graphic novels for
kids including adaptations of Rudyard Kipling. Together they have produced a unique and
memorable graphic novel providing a moving testimonial to one of the most heart-wrenching and
chilling developments in modern warfare.
Critique: Although a work of fiction, this graphic novel accurately chronicles and presents the
realities of hundreds of thousands across the world, kidnapped and forced to commit atrocities.
"TAMBA: Child Soldier" is unreservedly recommended for both community and academic
library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "TAMBA: Child Soldier" is
also available in a digital book format (Kindle/comiXology, $12.99).
Solo: The Survivors of Chaos
Oscar Martin
Titan Comics
https://titan-comics.com
9781782763345, $29.99, HC, 64pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Oscar Martin is best known for his work on as an artist and writer of 'Tom and Jerry'
comics, have been published in both Europe and the USA. He has also done a variety of comics
for the French Disney magazine Le Journal de Mickey. He received a Lifetime Achievement
Award from Warner Bros for his work on the 'Tom and Jerry' series in 2002.
His newest graphic novel, "Solo: The Survivors of Chaos" takes place in a dystopian future
where the Earth, ravaged by nuclear wars, gave birth to an array of new mutated species, which
grew and repopulated the land along with the surviving humans. But this new world is far from
peaceful, and life in it is often short and brutal.
To make life easier for his poor family, Solo, a young rat, leaves his home to become a warrior --
his personal saga will prove to be as violent as it was unexpected.
Critique: A simply riveting read from cover to cover, "Solo: The Survivors of Chaos" is a unique
and very specially addition to personal and community library graphic novel collections. It
should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated dystopian science fiction fans that
"Solo: The Survivors of Chaos" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle/ComiXology,
$16.99).
The Library CD Shelf
Autumn Monsoon
Suzanne Teng and Gilbert Levy
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3 amazon.com
Autumn Monsoon is an original, new age album of instrumental music played on Native
American flutes and drums, percussion, and stringed instruments from all over the world. The
result is a multicultural mix that draws from the music-making traditions of the American
Southwest, West Africa, the Saharan desert, and more. Captivating to the edge of rapture,
Autumn Monsoon is highly recommended to new age connoisseurs, and also makes an excellent
gift. The tracks are "Autumn Monsoon", "Indian Sisters", "Maya", "Traveler", "Blue Ngoni",
"Canyon Ghosts", "Suenos", "Andromeda", "Journey of Life" and "Prayer for Charlie".
Frozen Moments
Don Latarski
GuitarOutside.com
Heart Dance Records
www.heartdancerecords.com
$13.98 CD / $9.49 MP3 amazon.com
Created by composer and guitarist Don Latarski, Frozen Moments is an original album of
acoustic music on baritone, classical, and water guitars. An extraordinary, subtle interweaving,
Frozen Moments incorporates water guitar sound drawn from a variety of different streams and
rivers in Oregon and California, reflecting the timeless beauty of the natural world. Frozen
Moments is highly recommended for guitar connoisseurs and public library music CD
collections. The tracks are "The Dawning Moment", "Shadow Crossing", "River Speak",
"Sarabande Migration", "Bimble", "Mima", "Xienna", "On Winter", and "River Speak p5.
2".
Asilomar
Michael Martinez
michaelmartinezmusic.com
Privately Published
$8.00 amazon.com
Composed and played by Michael Martinez, Asilomar is a beautiful solo piano album inspired by
the serenity and relaxation of the picturesque seascape Asilomar beach. The gentle, original
music is a mellifluous blend of New Age and Classical styles. Asilomar is a choice pick to listen
to while meditating, unwinding at the end of the day, or searching for inspiration. Highly
recommended! The tracks are "My Guru", "My Joyful Soul", "At Peace", "Asilomar", "High
Tide", "Not All Is Lost", "Sedona Whisper", "Ocean Meditation", and "Tender Love".
The Library DVD Shelf
Tattoo Uprising
A film by Alan Govenar
Featuring Ed Hardy
First Run Features
www.firstrunfeatures.com
$24.95
Tattoo Uprising is a DVD documentary about the history and proliferation of tattoos as art, from
their use in early Christian practices to their discovery during the voyage of Captain James Cook,
to how tattoo artists like Ed Hardy fomented their modern-day popularity in America. Revealing,
electrifying, and extraordinary, Tattoo Uprising explores an oft-overlooked dimension of art
history. Tattoo Uprising is utterly captivating from beginning to end, and is highly recommended
especially for public library DVD collections. 75 min., color.
The General Fiction Shelf
Pastures New
Margaret Thornton
Magna Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9780750547208, $35.50, HC, Large Print, 330pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Having been firm friends ever since they met in a Blackpool boarding house five years
before, Val, Cissie and Janice are all now happily married, preoccupied with their growing
families. But the new decade will bring change for all three families.
Val and Sam's son's behavior is causing concern, and Val finds it hard at times to love him as she
should. Running a thriving cafe in Harrogate, Janice and her husband Phil decide to expand into
the restaurant business: have they bitten off more than they can chew? Meanwhile Cissie's life is
thrown into jeopardy when she encounters an old flame!
Critique: Set in the 1960s, this large print edition of "Pastures New" by Margaret Thornton is a
carefully crafted and thoroughly reader engaging novel by an author with an especially
entertaining narrative storytelling style that will make it a particularly popular addition to both
personal reading lists and community library General Fiction collections.
An Irish Country Family
Patrick Taylor
Forge
c/o Tor/Forge Books
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
www.tor-forge.com
9780765396853, $26.99, HC, 368pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Before Doctor Barry Laverty joined Doctor Fingal O'Reilly's practice in the colorful
Irish village of Ballybucklebo, he was an intern, working long hours, practicing new medical
techniques, falling in love, and learning what is most important in the medical field for a family
physician -- the bonds of family, friendships, and human kindness.
Years later, Barry practices everything he has learned in Ballybucklebo, a lovely village where
neighbor looks after neighbor. And while his own efforts to start a family with his wife Sue have
been frustrated, the community around him couldn't be stronger as they work together to show
their solidarity.
Shifting effortlessly between the two time periods, in his latest novel, "An Irish Country Family",
author Patrick Taylor continues the story of these beloved characters while vividly bringing the
daily joys and struggles of this delightful Irish village to life.
Critique: "An Irish Country Family" is a charming entry in Patrick Taylor's beloved and
internationally popular Irish Country series -- and arguably his best work yet. An engaging and
entertaining read from cover to cover, while unreservedly recommended for both community and
academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal
reading lists of the growing legions of Patrick Taylor fans that "An Irish Country Family" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book
(Macmillan Audio, 9781250241511, $39.99, CD).
The Romantic Fiction Shelf
A Gift from the Comfort Food Cafe
Debbie Johnson
Charnwood Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444842531, $35.50, HC, Large Print, 390pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Christmas has never been Katie Seddon's favorite time of year. Whilst everyone else
shares memories of families coming together and festive number ones, the soundtrack to Katie's
childhood wasn't quite so merry: her parents' violent arguments, shattered crockery and broken
windows were a lullaby in reverse.
But since she moved to the village of Budbury on the Dorset coast, Katie and her baby son have
found a new family. A family who have been brought together by life's unexpected roads and the
healing magic of a slice of cake and a cupful of kindness at the Comfort Food Cafe. This year,
Katie's new friends are determined to give her a Christmas to remember - and with a handsome
newcomer in town, her Christmas wish for a happy home for her son might just come true.
Critique: A beautifully written romance novel that will prove to be an enduringly 'feel good' read,
this large print edition of "A Gift from the Comfort Food Cafe" by Debbie Johnson is especially
and unreservedly recommended for both personal reading lists and community library
Contemporary Romance Fiction collections.
A Lonely Heart
Kay Brellend
Magna Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9780750547369, $35.50, HC, Large Print, 432pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Growing up in fear of their cruel, drunken father, Olivia Bone and her siblings haven't
had an easy start in life. But when Livvie's fiance Joe is killed at Ypres and he bequeaths her his
house in Islington, it seems like the Bone family might finally escape the worst street in north
London.
At least Livvie has good friends, and perhaps more than a friend in Lieutenant Lucas Black, her
old boss at the Barratt's Sweet Factory. As they grow closer, she decides to enlist as a war nurse,
hoping to help brave men like him in fighting for their country. Should Livvie follow her heart,
or her head?
Critique: A skillfully crafted, impressively original, and thoroughly entertaining read from cover
to cover, this large print edition of "A Lonely Heart" by Kay Brellend will prove to be an
immediate and enduringly popular addition to personal reading lists and community library
Romance Fiction collections.
The Western Fiction Shelf
Blaze Of Fury
Alexander Frew
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444841749, $20.99, PB, Large Print, 288pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Tired of being a gun-toting hero to some and a villain to others, ex-bounty hunter Jubal
Thorne is looking forward to a peaceful life on his late brother's farm. But when a man has such a
past, it isn't long before fate comes knocking on his door. It all starts with a stray bullet that just
misses his head, and ends in a blaze of fury against a showdown three determined gunman. In
defence of what is his own and that of a young woman he has come to love against a conspiracy
of true evil, Thorne shows that the bounty hunter might leave his profession, but his profession
will never leave him.
Critique: Still another gripping action-adventure western by the author of "The Broken Trail",
few authors can write with the vivid intensity of Alexander Frew. This large print edition of
"Blaze of Fury" is unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library
Western Fiction collections.
Hard Ride To Glory
Harry Jay Thorn
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444842401, $20.99, PB, 248pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Having survived the horrors of battle during the American Civil War, Griffin Boone is
happy in his Wyoming valley; he has his Arrowhead ranch, his close friends, and a job as a
part-time deputy sheriff. But the peace is threatened by Ben Logan and his outlaw crew of
gunfighters and vagabond thieves. Ride with Boone to the ruins of Glory, a ghost town in the
foothills of the Big Horn Mountains, where past meets present in a blaze of gunfire. Griffin
Boone is a quiet, unassuming man -- but you cross him at your peril!
Critique: A ripping great story complete with cliffhanger action and with a gun blazing finale,
"Hard Ride To Glory" is another finely crafted and original western novel by an author with a
complete mastery of the genre. This large print edition of "Hard Ride To Glory" by Harry Jay
Thorn is especially commended for the personal reading lists of dedicated western buffs and
community library Western Fiction collections.
Outlaw Express
Gillian F. Taylor
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444841787, $20.99, PB, Large Print, 248pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Sheriff Alec Lawson has infiltrated a band of outlaws by going undercover as an
outlaw named Turner in order to capture them. But things go awry when the gang hold up a train
and in the process impulsively kidnap Lacey Fry from the Leadville express. To protect her Alex
breaks his cover in an attempt to bring the young woman to safety. Learning of the betrayal, gang
leader Bill Alcott vows to find Lawson and kill him. Lawson doesn't know the territory and he
doesn't know Lacey. But the chase is on, through snow and bloodshed, until one of the men can
run no further - and hunter and hunted finally come face to face.
Critique: "Outlaw Express" is another particularly well crafted, action packed western novel by
Gillian F. Taylor, a writer with an impressively storytelling skill set that showcases his originality
and genuine flair for creating memorable characters and equally memorably entertaining western
adventures. This large print edition of "Outlaw Express" is especially commended for both
personal reading lists and community library Western Fiction collections.
Red Ruckus
Brett Cogburn
Five Star Publishing
10 Water Street, Suite 310, Waterville, ME 04901
http://gale.cengage.com/fivestar
9781432831936, $25.95, HC, 264pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: A legendary town tamer and shootist, Morgan Clyde is the kind of man who will look
down the barrel of your loaded gun and keep on coming, and the kind of man there's no stopping
short of putting him in a grave when he thinks he's in the right.
He's just the kind of man that a certain little town in the lawless Indian Territory needs, the town
once known as Ironhead Station and the town that has already almost killed him more than once.
Only this time, the trouble isn't from crooked railroad men, hired killers, or the other usual
varieties of outlaws that call the territory home. It's trouble with another sort of renegade entirely,
the kind that hides behind a badge and a judge's gavel.
As usual, the odds are stacked against Morgan. Not only must he face down a gang of crooked
deputy marshals intent on killing him, but old friends encountered may prove more painful than
the bullets, and the old loves and old grudges that resurface may prove every bit as deadly.
Critique: Another deftly crafted and entertainingly original western novel by an author who is a
master of the genre, "Red Ruckus" by Brett Cogurn is an unreservedly endorsed addition to
community library collections and the personal reading lists of all western fiction fans.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The Dog Who Knew Too Much
Krista Davis
Berkley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
www.penguin.com
9780451491688, $7.99, PB, 304pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In the latest addition to author Krista Davis' Paws & Claws mystery series, "The Dog
Who Knew Too Much" America's favorite dog comes to pet-friendly Wagtail for some rest and
relaxation, but Holly quickly discovers that this perfect pup is a total scamp who takes every
opportunity to run off and misbehave. During an outdoor treasure-hunting game, the star dog and
Trixie, Holly's beloved Jack Russell terrier, stumble across a dead body.
Holly has more than murder to worry about, though, when a man shows up after reading an
article featuring Trixie in a magazine and claims that he is the dog's rightful owner. Holly will
need to prove that she is her pup's only parent and catch a killer to restore peace to her pet-loving
happy place!
Critique: An impressively original, inherently entertaining and deftly written mystery that is
unreservedly recommended for all community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be
noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery buffs in general, and Krista Davis
fans in particular, that "The Dog who Knew Too Much" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $7.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Tantor Audio, 9781515934257,
$24.99, CD).
Peril in the Cotswolds
Rebecca Tope
Isis Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9781785417757, $35.50, HC, Large Print 324pp, www.ulverscroftusa.com
Synopsis: Thea Slocombe is trying to settle into normal family domestic life with Drew and his
two children in Broad Campden. But any sense of cosy domesticity is shattered when Thea finds
the body of a neighbor. No longer a house-sitter, Thea has no choice but to stay in the village and
deal with whatever happens next, even when this risks damage to her marriage. Unconvinced that
the swift conclusion made about the death by the police is the right one, Thea is compelled to
follow her nature and investigate herself. But what repercussions might there be for her, Drew
and those with whom they share this corner of the Cotswolds?
Critique: A superbly crafted British mystery, this large print edition of Rebecca Tope's "Peril in
the Cotswolds" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community library
Mystery/Suspense collections and a 'must' for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery
buffs in general, and Rebecca Tope fans in particular!
Double Crossfire
Anthony J. Tata
Kensington Publishing Corp.
119 West 40th Street, Floor 21, New York, NY 10018-2522
www.kensingtonbooks.com
9781496717924, $26.00, HC, 288pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "How do you overturn an election?" It's a question that has obsessed presidential
candidate Jamie Carter ever since her loss to businessman and political neophyte President Jack
Smart. In spite of the election results, she's determined to take what she sees as her rightful place
in the White House -- through any means possible.
First, she establishes residency in North Carolina. Then, when the state's Pro Tem of the US
Senate is found dead, she is appointed to his position by her friend, the governor. Now, there are
only three people who stand in her way: the Speaker of the House, the Vice President, and the
President himself.
The countdown begins. The assassins are ready. But when one of them tries to kill the CIA
Director under Jake Mahegan's watch, the plan is momentarily disrupted. Jake is able to prevent
one murder -- but the conspiracy is too big, and too insidious, to stop now. Senator Jamie Carter
is the mastermind behind one of the bloodiest coups ever conceived. Her highly trained killers
are closing in on all the president's men. And the course of American history will be changed
forever -- on Assassination Day.
Critique: A riveting suspense thriller of the first order, "Double Crossfire" by Anthony J. Tata is
a deftly crafted and original novel by an author with a special and distinctive flair for originality
and reader engaging, narrative driven storytelling. While unreservedly recommended for
community library Contemporary Suspense/Thriller collections, it should be noted for personal
reading lists that "Double Crossfire" is also available in a forthcoming paperback edition
(9780786043101, $9.00, April 2020) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.49).
A Noel Killing
M. L. Longworth
Penguin Books
penguinrandomhouse.com
9780143134060 $16.00 pbk. / $11.99 Kindle amazon.com
Synopsis: Christmastime in the south of France is as beautiful as ever, but when a shady local
businessman drops dead in the middle of the festivities, Verlaque and Bonnet must solve the case
while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
Antoine Verlaque, examining magistrate for the beautiful town of Aix-en-Provence, doesn't like
Christmas. The decorations appear in the shops far too early, festive tourists swarm the streets,
and his beloved Cours Mirabeau is lined with chalets selling what he regards as tacky trinkets.
But his wife and partner Marine Bonnet is determined to make this a Christmas they can both
enjoy, beginning with the carol sing at the Cathedral Saint Sauveur, a beautiful service in a
packed church.
Just as the holiday cheer is in full swing, a man is poisoned, sending the community into a
tailspin. The list of suspects, Verlaque and Bonnet quickly discover, almost fills the church itself,
from the visiting vendors at the Christmas fair to the victim's unhappy wife and his disgruntled
business partner. In A Noel Killing, with the help of an ever-watchful young woman named
France, the pair must solve the murder while the spirit of the season attempts to warm Verlaque's
stubborn heart.
Critique: Part of the captivating "Provencal Mystery" series, A Noel Killing is a murder mystery
set in a close-knit community in Southern France during the Christmas season. When a man is
poisoned during a holiday service in a packed church, the list of potential suspects includes
practically the entire town! Examining Magistrate Antoine Verlaque and his wife Marine Bonnet
must solve the mystery together. Yet despite the tragic circumstances, the magic of the Christmas
season reaches out to touch even most resistant of hearts, in this choice pick especially
recommended for public library collections and for connoisseurs of the cozy mystery genre. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that A Noel Killing is also available in a Kindle edition
($11.99).
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The Best of Jerry Pournelle
John F. Carr editor
Baen Books
PO Box 1188, Wake Forest NC 27588
www.baen.com
9781982124175, $16.00, PB, 576pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: The late Jerry Eugene Pournelle (August 7, 1933 - September 8, 2017) was an
American polymath: scientist in the area of operations research and human factors research,
science fiction writer, essayist, journalist, and one of the first bloggers. In an obituary in
gizmodo, he is described as "a tireless ambassador for the future". Pournelle is particularly
known for writing hard science fiction, and received multiple awards for his writing. In addition
to his solo writing, he wrote several novels with collaborators, most notably Larry Niven.
Pournelle also served a term as President of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America.
(Wikipedia)
Compiled and edited by John Francis Carr (a successful and experienced American science
fiction editor and writer in his own right), "The Best of Jerry Pournelle" is a compendium that
includes a sampling of both Pournelle's own stories and contributions by his fellow SciFi authors
who worked in collaboration with him and/or who were influenced by him.
Critique: An impressive anthology showcasing some of the best of Jerry Pournelle's work, this
simply outstanding contribution to the archives of Science Fiction is fully endorsed and
unreservedly recommended for both community and academic library Science Fiction & Fantasy
collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists dedicated science fiction enthusiasts,
as well as the legions of Jerry Pournell's fans, the "The Best of Jerry Pournelle" is also available
in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).
The Library Science Shelf
A-Z Common Reference Questions for Academic Librarians
Heather Dawson
Facet Publishing
www.facetpublishing.co.uk
9781783304110, $79.99, PB, 240pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Heather Dawson is an Academic Support Librarian in the Information Services
Department of the LSE Library and the author of two books from Facet Publishing, UK. In "A-Z
Common Reference Questions for Academic Librarians" she draws upon her years of experience
and expertise to help academic librarians tackle the questions most commonly asked by students,
academics and researchers.
A broad cross-disciplinary A-Z of themes including topics such as literature searching,
plagiarism, and using online resources are covered, helping you to address a query confidently
and quickly. Each topic is split into three sections to guide the reader's response to: common
inquiries encountered; points to consider, with an exploration of the issues and challenges that
might arise; and guidance on where to look, listing annotated UK and international resources in
print and online including key organizations, scholarly bodies, digital libraries, statistical data,
and journal article indexes.
"A-Z Common Reference Questions for Academic Librarians" fully updates and expands the
author's previous book, "Know it All, Find it Fast for Academic Libraries", and includes new
sections on: blogging and social media; text and data mining and data visualization; assistive
technology resources; early career researchers; impact measurement including bibliometrics,
citation analysis, and journal rankings; academic internet searching; LGBT studies; Middle East
studies; project management; open access (OA) publishing; research data management; study
skills; and systematic reviews.
Critique: Very highly recommended as being ideal for a library science curriculum or as in-
service training textbook for library students and/or aspiring academic librarians, "A-Z Common
Reference Questions for Academic Librarians" is impressively well organized and presented.
This thoroughly 'user friendly' resource is unreservedly endorsed for the Library Science
instructional reference collections of community, college, and academic libraries and library
systems.
The Dance Shelf
Dancing Longer, Dancing Stronger
Robin Kish & Jennie Morton
Princeton Book Company
614 Route 130, Highstown, NJ 08520
www.dancehorizons.com
9780871273970, $39.95, PB, 368pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Based on the latest scientific research, "Dancing Longer, Dancing Stronger" by Robin
Kish and Jennie Morton offers a complete conditioning program to help dancers improve
technique and lessen the danger of injury. By presenting general principles of injury prevention
as well as specific exercises for increasing strength and flexibility, "Dancing Longer, Dancing
Stronger" provides information that dancers of all ages and skill levels can use to improve
performance. Common problems are discussed in a question and answer format. "Dancing
Longer, Dancing Stronger" also gives a thorough overview of anatomy and exercise
physiology.
Critique: Exceptionally well organized and presented, and featuring numerous black-and-white
photographic illustrations throughout, "Dancing Longer, Dancing Stronger" is an ideal and
unreservedly recommended curriculum textbook for private dance academy or public school
dance classes, as well as the personal DIY reading lists of any and all aspiring dancers ranging
from ballet, to tap, to modern, to folk, and beyond.
Editorial Note: Robin Kish earned her MFA in kinesiology and an MS in physiology and
biomechanics. She is a licensed massage therapist and certified in Pilates. She has been on the
faculty of Chapman University since 2006 and is an active member in the International
Association of Dance Medicine and Science, Performing Arts Medicine Association, and
National Dance Education Organization. After a career in ballet and musical theater, Jennie
Morton trained as a sport massage therapist and osteopath, then obtained her MS in psychology.
She is currently an Adjunct Professor at Chapman University and has more than 25 years of
experience training dancers in injury prevention and supporting recovery. She is a board member
for the Performing Arts Medicine Association and the author of The Authentic Performer.
The Jewelry Shelf
Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and Glamour
Diana Scarisbrick
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500021507, $80.00, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: From time immemorial, diamonds have long symbolized political power and authority
in Europe. "Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and Glamour" by Diana Scarisbrick deftly
explores the individuals who commissioned and wore extraordinarily precious diamond
ornaments from the mid-fourteenth century to the present day.
Exquisite paintings and breathtaking photography highlight the diamonds of figures as enduring
as Louis XIV of France and Queen Elizabeth I of Great Britain, as well as screen icons such as
Elizabeth Taylor. From Lisbon to London and Stockholm to St. Petersburg, these figures used
diamond jewelry to reinforce their power. Like royal dress, diamonds were worn to dazzle and
impress - at weddings, coronations, christenings, and state visits - and were presented as gifts,
which often proved remarkably successful as instruments of diplomacy.
More than three hundred illustrations capture the changing styles of diamond jewelry that mirror
the trends of the time: late Gothic naturalism, the culture of the Renaissance, Baroque splendor,
Rococo elegance and the imperial grandeur of the First and Second Napoleonic Empires.
"Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and Glamour" offers an inherently fascinating overview
of one of the world's most iconic gems.
Critique: Diana Scarisbrick is an art historian specializing in the history of engraved gems and
jewelry. Her publications include Rings: Jewelry of Power, Love and Loyalty and Portrait Jewels:
Opulence and Intimacy from the Medici to the Romanovs. Now with the publication of
"Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and Glamour" she continues to provide an impressively
informative and beautifully illustrated study that is a pleasure to simply browse through.
Exceptionally well organized and presented, "Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and
Glamour" is unreservedly recommended for personal and professional reading lists, and would be
an ideal Memorial Fund acquisition choice for community, college, and university library
collections.
The Art Shelf
The Wyvern Collection: Medieval and Later Ivory Carvings and Small Sculpture
Paul Williamson
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500022832, $95.00, HC, 448pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Paul Williamson is Keeper Emeritus and Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the
Victoria and Albert Museum and an Honorary Research Fellow at the Courtauld Institute of Art.
His many books include Gothic Sculpture, 1140 - 1300; Medieval Ivory Carvings: Early
Christian to Romanesque; and Medieval Ivory Carvings, 1200 - 1550.
The Wyvern Collection is one of the most important collections of medieval ivory carvings and
small sculpture, and this beautifully and profusely illustrated compendium showcases the best of
the collection to the public for the first time.
"Medieval and Later Ivory Carvings and Small Sculpture " is the second catalog of the Wyvern
Collection and informatively celebrates an outstanding group of medieval ivory carvings and
small sculpture -- arguably the finest assemblage of its kind in private hands.
Medieval and Later Ivory Carvings and Small Sculpture has pieces from every period of the
Middle Ages, including rare pieces from the Early Christian era, spectacular panels from the
workshops of tenth-century Constantinople, objects produced by the celebrated carvers active in
South Italy in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, and several important pieces from the
Romanesque period.
At the heart of the collection is an outstanding group of Gothic ivories whose highlights include
one of the most important secular medieval ivories discovered in recent years. The collection also
features a number of small amber, hard stone, jet, wood, and mother-of-pearl carvings.
In addition to their virtuoso craftsmanship, many of these pieces have illustrious histories as part
of famous aristocratic or ecclesiastical collections. This is a precious opportunity to study these
miniature masterpieces.
Critique: Featuring informatively some 325 informatively captioned and full color illustrations,
"The Wyvern Collection: Medieval and Later Ivory Carvings and Small Sculpture" is a truly
extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community,
college, and university library Medieval/Renaissance art collections and supplemental studies
lists.
The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
Discovering the Clown, or The Funny Book of Good Acting
Christopher Bayes & Virginia Scott
Theatre Communications Group
http://www.tcg.org/publications
9781559365611, $16.95, PB, 192pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Discovering the Clown, or The Funny Book of Good Acting" by the team of
Christopher Bayes and Virginia Scott offers a unique glimpse into the wild world of the Clown,
unveiling a classic character best generally described as "the playful self, the unsocialized self, the
naive self... the big stupid who just wants to have some fun with the audience."
Impressively informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Discovering the Clown, or The
Funny Book of Good Acting" must be considered as an essential guide for artists and actors
wanting to set free the messy and hilarious Clown within themselves.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Discovering the Clown, or The
Funny Book of Good Acting" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal,
professional, community, and academic library theatre/cinema/tv collections.
Editorial Note: Christopher Bayes is one of the most sought after teachers of Clown and Physical
Comedy in the country. He has taught internationally and been on the faculty of many prestigious
schools, including Yale, The Juilliard School, Brown, and NYU's Graduate Acting Program. He is
the co-founder and head of The Funny School of Good Acting in Brooklyn, New York. He is
currently Professor and Head of Physical Acting at Yale School of Drama.
Virginia Scott is a director/devisor/teacher of Physical Theater, and co-founder of The Funny
School of Good Acting. She has taught Clown at The Juilliard School, Pace University, the Actors
Center, CAP 21, and Tisch School of the Arts.
The Martial Arts Shelf
The Complete Martial Artist
Willie 'The Bam' Johnson
YMAA Publications
PO Box 480, Wolfeboro, NH 03894-0480
www.ymaa.com
9781594396533, $18.95, PB, 160pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Willie "The Bam" Johnson, is an award winning martial arts teacher whose mission is
to help young adults and others become empowered through martial arts, in order to make good
life choices. He is a seven-time sport karate and kung fu world champion, a two-time All
American champion, and a nationally ranked Triple Crown martial arts champion. He teaches at
The Bam Martial Arts Academy in Laurel, Maryland.
In "The Complete Martial Artist: Developing the Mind, Body, and Spirit of a Champion" Johnson
draws upon his years of experience and expertise to offers young adults and twenty-something's a
DIY opportunity to see what martial arts can do for their lives as he shares his own childhood
story of hardship and redemption along with: How to adopt martial arts values as a way of living;
Important universal principles to live by; Creating a championship attitude; Examples about
martial arts forms (kata) and sparring; How to get started and be successful in your personal
martial arts journey.
"The Complete Martial Artist" can be a key unlocking a door to personal self-development and
achieving a balanced approach to living.
Critique: Profusely illustrated in black-and-white throughout, "The Complete Martial Artist:
Developing the Mind, Body, and Spirit of a Champion" is impressively 'user friendly' in
commentary, organization and presentation, making it an ideal addition to personal, professional,
dojo, community, and academic library Martial Arts instructional reference collections. It should
be noted for dedicated martial arts students that "The Complete Martial Artist" is also available in
a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).
The Religious Studies Shelf
The Epistle of James
James D. Dvorak & Zachary K. Dawson, editors
Pickwick Publications
c/o Wipf and Stock Publishers
199 West 8th Avenue, Suite 3, Eugene, OR 97401-2960
http://wipfandstock.com
9781498224581, $40.00, PB, 348pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Collaboratively compiled and co-edited by James D. Dvorak (Professor of Greek and
New Testament at Oklahoma Christian University in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma) and Zachary K.
Dawson (who is a PhD candidate in New Testament at McMaster Divinity College in Hamilton,
Ontario), "The Epistle of James: Linguistic Exegesis of an Early Christian Letter" is a collection
of essays that applies to the book of James with respect to linguistic methods of analysis that are
based on the same theoretical framework, namely Systemic-Functional Linguistics.
This volume in the Pickwick Publications McMaster Linguistic Exegesis of the New Testament
series is unique in that it provides a theoretically consistent and unified approach to a single New
Testament book, which makes the whole volume useful for researchers and students of
James.
Each individual essay makes its own creative use of this linguistic perspective to engage
important critical questions and to pave new ground for Jacobean scholarship based on linguistic
analysis. Various topics in this volume include the textual structure and cohesion of the letter,
intertextuality, rhetorical strategies, ideological struggle, interpersonal relations, and other topics
related to the letter's social context and language use.
Critique: A compendium of simply outstanding and meticulous scholarship that is unreservedly
recommended for church, seminary, college, and university library Contemporary New Testament
Theology collections in general, and The Epistle of James supplemental studies lists in particular,
"The Epistle of James: Linguistic Exegesis of an Early Christian Letter" is comprised of eleven
erudite and insightful articles, a listing of the contributors and their credentials, a six page Index
of Modern Authors, and a seven page Index of Ancient Sources.
The Music Shelf
Rock Chronicles, third edition
David Roberts, editor
Firefly Books Ltd.
www.fireflybooks.com
9780228101598, $20.95, PB, 576pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: David Roberts has edited more than 20 music reference book projects at Guinness
World Records including British Hit Singles and Albums and Rockopedia. He is also the author
of Rock Atlas: 650 Great Music Locations and the Fascinating Stories Behind Them.
Compiled and edited by Roberts, this newly updated and expanded third edition of "Rock
Chronicles: Every Legend, Every Line-up, Every Look" is fully updated to mark the recent loss of
many important, innovative and beloved musicians who changed the world of music, including:
David Bowie, the irreplaceable Prince, Tom Petty, George Michael, Lemmy of Motorhead, Chris
Cornell of Soundgarden, Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots, two of the three members of
Emerson Lake and Palmer, poet philosopher Leonard Cohen, Gregg Allman, the great Chuck
Berry, Glenn Frey of the Eagles, Leon Russell, J. Geils, and too many others.
Specifically designed for today's visual-savvy generation, "Rock Chronicles" uses color-coded
infographics for quick-glance coverage of the ever-shifting line-ups, appearances, labels, sounds
and successes of 250 of the most important rock acts from 1960 to time of press in 2018.
Insightful commentary highlighted with photographs gives the lowdown on every member --
whatever their role in the band and however short-lived their time with them.
Bands change their line-ups, musicians pass away, and of course new music is released. This new
and comprehensive edition has been updated to reflect the many such changes since the previous
book including: Date of death of deceased band members and revisions to the descriptive text to
reflect this change; Revised text if there has been a major development in an active band; New
albums for those bands still active on timeline; Revised timelines for bands still active: Grammy
Awards; Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees.
Critique: Comprehensive, information-packed, expertly organized, and compellingly presented,
Rock Chronicles is the essential and throughly 'user friendly' reference for everyone who is a
dedicated fans of rock music -- and all those associated with it. Simply stated, this new third
edition of "Rock Chronicles" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional,
community, college, and university library musicology reference collections in general, and Rock
Music supplemental studies reading lists in particular.
The Railroading Shelf
Railways and Industry in the Tondu Valleys: Bridgend to Treherbert
John Hodge & Stuart Davies
Pen & Sword Books
c/o Casemate (distribution)
www.casematepublishers.com
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781526727251, $60.00, HC, 200pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: John Hodge is a former railway manager during the 1960s who, since retirement in
1992, has produced many articles and books on South Wales railways. With the assistance of
Stuart Davies, Hodge's "Railways and Industry in the Tondu Valleys: Bridgend to Treherbert"
begins with a history of the industrial development of the Tondu Valleys, including the succession
of great industrialists who led the way in the area.
This is followed by a chapter on the position of the Tondu Valleys in the South Wales Coalfield
with colliery and colliery company details. Railway passenger services are next covered, followed
by railway coal services. Then follows a detailed account of the sole railway depot which covered
all the operations in the Tondu Valleys.
A location specific account then follows of Llynfi Valley detailing both railway and colliery
aspects, following the line from Bridgend, through Tondu, and all locations to Cymmer Afan and
on to the original terminus at Abergwynfi, then from Blaengwynfi through the Rhondda Tunnel to
Treherbert.
The north end of the South Wales Mineral Railway became an adjunct to the Tondu Valley with
the closure of the former Rhondda & Swansea Bay line and this is also included in similar detail.
The closure of the passenger service in 1970 and renaissance of a new service from Maesteg to
Cardiff in 1992 concludes the account.
Critique: Detailed Appendices of operating statistics completes this very comprehensive account,
making "Railways and Industry in the Tondu Valleys: Bridgend to Treherbert" the fullest
illustrated account ever produced of this part of the South Wales scene and is a must for all British
railway history buffs interested in either the railway or mining activities (or both) in this part of
South Wales. While very highly recommended for personal, community, and academic library
British Railway History collections and supplemental studies reading lists, it should be noted that
"Railways and Industry in the Tondu Valleys: Bridgend to Treherbert" is also available in a digital
book format (Kindle, 24.99).
The Architecture Shelf
Courtyard Living
Charmaine Chan
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500519202, $60.00, HC, 272pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Courtyards have long played an important function in residential design, regulating
light, shade and the use of space. With thousands of years of tradition as inspiration,
contemporary architects are realizing courtyard living afresh.
"Courtyard Living: Contemporary Houses of the Asia-Pacific" by Charmaine Chan is lavishly
illustrated survey showcasing 25 residences across the Asia-Pacific region features homes from
Australia, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, India, Vietnam and
Sri Lanka.
Structured by courtyard function, "Courtyard Living" consists of five chapters on privacy;
multigenerational living; sightlines; light and ventilation; and living with nature that are richly
illustrated with photographs as well as architectural drawings showing courtyard positions within
floor plans.
Presenting unique lifestyle opportunities afforded by contemporary courtyard design, "Courtyard
Living" is an inspirational resource for anyone interested in indoor-outdoor living.
Critique: A unique and certain to be prized addition to personal, professional, community, college,
and university library Contemporary Architecture and Interior Design collections, "Courtyard
Living: Contemporary Houses of the Asia-Pacific" is inspiring to simply browse through for both
architecture professionals, architecture students, aspiring interior designers, and non-specialist
general readers with an interest in the subject.
The World by Design
A. Eugene Kohn & Clifford Pearson
RosettaBooks
www.rosettabooks.com
9781948122498, $34.99, HC, 328pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Founded on July 4, 1976, Kohn Pedersen Fox quickly became a darling of the
architectural press with groundbreaking buildings such as the headquarters for the American
Broadcasting Company (ABC), the Procter & Gamble headquarters in Cincinnati, and the World
Bank Headquarters in Washington, DC.
By the early 1990s, when most architecture firms in the U.S. were struggling to survive a major
recession, KPF was busy with significant buildings in London, Germany, Canada, Japan, Korea,
and Indonesia -- pioneering a model of global practice that has influenced architecture, design,
and creative-services firms ever since. Like any other business, though, KPF has stumbled along
the way and wrestled with crises. But through it all, it has remained innovative in a field that
changes all the time and often favors the newest star on the horizon.
Now in its fifth decade, the firm has shaped skylines and cities around the world with iconic
buildings such as the World Financial Center in Shanghai, Roppongi Hills in Tokyo, the
International Commerce Centre in Hong Kong, the DZ Bank Tower in Frankfurt, the Heron
Tower in London, and Hudson Yards in New York.
Forthright and engaging, in the pages of "The World by Design: The Story of a Global
Architecture Firm", Kohn examines both award-winning achievements and missteps in his
50-year career in architecture. In the process, he shows how his firm, KPF, has helped change the
buildings and cities where we live, work, learn, and play.
Critique: Nicely illustrated with full color photography, "The World by Design: The Story of a
Global Architecture Firm" is an inherently fascinating personal and corporate history that will be
of particular interest to professionals and non-specialist general readers with an interest in
architecture. While very highly recommended for both community and academic library
collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The World by Design" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).
The Sports Shelf
Play Better Basketball
Kathy Brook & Dawn Smith
Firefly Books Ltd.
www.fireflybooks.com
9781770859739, $19.95, PB, 192pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Play Better Basketball" is a fully illustrated guide to improving performance at playing
one of the world's most popular team sport games. The skills packed between these covers are
those that pros like Stephen Curry, Kawhi Leonard and Kia Nurse use to dominate the court. From
the fundamentals of footwork to team defensive strategies, "Play Better Basketball" teaches how
to play winning basketball no matter the situation.
"Play Better Basketball" applies to all levels of basketball -- from the driveway to the gymnasium.
More than 300 step-by-step photographs accompany detailed yet easy-to-follow skill descriptions.
Beyond the basics of footwork and body position, these instructions emphasize the
decision-making that is key to translating new skills to a competitive basketball game.
Grow and refine your skills with 50 dynamic drills, each with built-in modifications to challenge
development and make practice exciting. "Play Better Basketball" was specifically created for
athletes who want to raise their level of play, polish their skills and achieve their hoop goals. It's
time to play better basketball!
Critique: Profusely illustrated throughout, "Play Better Basketball" is an ideal physical education
curriculum textbook and expertly organized and presented as a personal DIY instructional
reference for amateur players seeking to improve their performance on the court. It should be
noted for school and community library collections that "Play Better Basketball" is also available
in a hardcover edition (9781770859746, $25.95).
The Cookbook Shelf
Super Easy Soups and Stews
Abigail R. Ghering, editor
Good Books
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
307 West 36th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10018
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781680994827, $16.99, PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Knowledgeable compiled and deftly edited by experienced cookbook author Abigail
Ghering "Super Easy Soups and Stews: 100 Soups, Stews, Broths, Chilis, Chowders, and More!"
showcases a culinary compendium of ridiculously easy and thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly"
recipes. Whether you like to prepare dinner on the stovetop or in your slow cooker, Instant Pot,
pressure cooker, Dutch oven, or Ninja Foodi, there are plenty of delicious options here.
The recipes range from Meatball Tortellini Soup; Baked Potato Soup; Egg Drop Soup; and Beef
and Black Bean Chili; to Chickpea Chili; Harvest Corn Chowder; Mushroom Stew; Crab Bisque
and more!
All of the recipes use ingredients that are inexpensive and easy to find at any local grocery store.
There are also helpful ideas for freezing soups, time-saving tips for prepping ingredients, and
handy substitutions to customize soups to specific tastes and dietary needs.
Critique: Profusely illustrated with full color photography throughout, "Super Easy Soups and
Stews: 100 Soups, Stews, Broths, Chilis, Chowders, and More!" is an especially and unreservedly
recommended addition to personal, family, professional, and community library cookbook
collections. It should be noted that "Super Easy Soups and Stews" is also available in a digital
book format (Kindle, $12.99).
Sweet Vegan Treats
Hannah Keminsky
Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
307 West 36th Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10018
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781510741843, $22.99, HC, 264pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Hannah Kaminsky has developed an international following for her delicious recipes
and mouthwatering food photography at the award-winning blog BitterSweetBlog.com. She is the
author of Vegan Desserts, Vegan a la Mode, and Easy as Vegan Pie. Passionate about big flavors
and simple techniques, she works in San Francisco's bay area developing recipes and
photographing food from morning to night.
With "Sweet Vegan Treats: 90 Recipes for Cookies, Brownies, Cakes, and Tarts" this longtime
vegan author and culinary expert has compiled an impressive array of creamy, luscious treats that
will leave guests wondering, are you sure this is vegan? And to prove these creations will surprise
all taste buds, every recipe has been taste-tested and approved by both vegans and non-vegans
alike!
These original, mouthwatering recipes include: Chocolate chip cookie pie; Baklava tart; Lace
Florentine cookies; Mocha revelation cake; Lychee cupcakes with raspberry frosting; Almond
avalanche bars; Chili chocolate tart; and more!
Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, "Sweet Vegan Treats: 90 Recipes for
Cookies, Brownies, Cakes, and Tarts" is an inspiring culinary compendium for browsing through
and planning menus with. It will prove to be an extraordinary and enduringly popular addition to
family, personal, professional, and community library Vegan cookbook collections. It should be
noted that "Sweet Vegan Treats: 90 Recipes for Cookies, Brownies, Cakes, and Tarts" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
The Political Science Shelf
Understanding Emotions in Post-Factual Politics
Anna Durnova
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court, Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781788114813, $115.00, HC, 192pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: With the coming of the Trump administration, politics in America was introduced to the
concept of 'alternative facts' -- a code phrase for deliberately and knowingly lying to the American
public as a means of exerting, fostering, and protecting corruption.
An insightful lens into the contemporary state of post-factual politics, "Understanding Emotions
in Post-Factual Politics: Negotiating Truth" by Anna Durnova (Department of Public and Social
Policy, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic and Institute for Advanced Studies, Vienna,
Austria) is timely study that deftly explores the perceived binary nature of facts and emotions,
suggesting ways to integrate them. Professor Durnova shows that in order to understand
post-factual politics, we must unveil the role of emotion in the discursive registers through which
politics is constructed and knowledge is legitimized.
By analyzing and comparing scientists' protests against the Trump presidency with famous
scientific controversies in modern medicine, "Understanding Emotions in Post-Factual Politics"
redefines truth as a negotiation in public discourse between the interplay of values, beliefs and
facts. Individual chapters examine the ways in which people see emotions as being opposed to
facts, unpacking how this ultimate opposition limits public discussion on science in the wake of
alternative facts and 'fake news'.
Political science students and academics will find the new discussion of post-factual politics
through the lens of emotions a timely and important read. "Understanding Emotions in
Post-Factual Politics" is also ideal for social movements scholars with the March for Science a
key case study used to examine the gap between emotions and facts in modern day times.
Critique: Enhanced with the inclusion of figures, a listing of abbreviations, and informative
introduction to 'post-factual politics' (including a note on methodology and data material), an
appendix, a twenty-eight page list of references, and a five page index, "Understanding Emotions
in Post-Factual Politics: Negotiating Truth" is a seminal, ground-breaking work of simply
outstanding scholarship -- making it unreservedly recommended for college and university library
Contemporary Political Science collections and supplemental curriculum studies reading
lists.
The Literary Studies Shelf
Becoming Willa Cather: Creation and Career
Daryl W. Palmer
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
www.unpress.nevada.edu
9781948908276, $39.95, HC, 264pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: From the girl in Red Cloud who oversaw the construction of a miniature town called
Sandy Point in her backyard, to the New Woman on a bicycle, celebrating art and castigating
political abuse in Lincoln newspapers, to the aspiring novelist in New York City, committed to
creation and career, "Becoming Willa Cather: Creation and Career" by Daryl W. Palmer
(Professor of English at Regis University in Denver, Colorado) is a groundbreaking literary
biography that offers a provocative new look at Willa Cather's evolution as a writer.
Willa Cather has long been admired for O Pioneers! (1913), Song of the Lark (1915), and My
Antonia (1918) -- the "prairie novels" about the lives of early Nebraska pioneers that launched her
career. Thanks in part to these timeless masterpieces of literary fiction, she is often viewed as a
representative of pioneer life on the Great Plains, a controversial innovator in American
modernism, and a compelling figure in the literary history of LGBTQ America. A century later,
scholars acknowledge Cather's place in the canon of American literature and continue to explore
her relationship with the West.
Drawing on original archival research and paying unprecedented attention to Cather's early short
stories, Professor Palmer demonstrates that the relationship with Nebraska in the years leading up
to O Pioneers! is more dynamic than critics and scholars thought. Readers will encounter a
surprisingly bold young female author whose youth in Nebraska served as a kind of laboratory for
her future writing career. "Becoming Willa Cather" changes the way we think about Cather, a
brilliant and ambitious author who embraced experimentation in life and art, intent on re-
imagining the American West.
Critique: A masterpiece of meticulous scholarship, exhaustive research, insightful analysis, and
featuring a ten page listing of Works Cited, along with a six page Index, "Becoming Willa Cather:
Creation and Career" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to community,
college, and university library 20th Century American Literary Biography collections in general,
and Willa Cather supplemental studies reading lists in particular. It should be noted for the
personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in
the subject that "Becoming Willa Cather: Creation and Career" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $37.95).
The Technology Shelf
Photonic Applications for Radio Systems and Networks
Fabio Cavaliere & Antonio D'Errico
Artech House
685 Canton Street, Norwood, MA 02062
www.artechhouse.com
9781630816650, $169.00, HC, 301pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Photonics is the physical science of light (photon) generation, detection, and
manipulation through emission, transmission, modulation, signal processing, switching,
amplification, and sensing.
"Photonic Applications for Radio Systems and Networks" photonics systems and technology
experts Fabio Cavaliere and Antonio D'Errico by is hands-on and practical new resource that
provides optical network designers with basic but necessary information about radio systems air
interface and radio access network architecture, protocols, and interfaces, using 5G use cases as
relevant example.
"Photonic Applications for Radio Systems and Networks" introduces mobile network designers to
the transmission modeling techniques for the design of a radio access optical network. The main
linear and non-linear propagation effects in optical fiber are covered. It also introduces mobile
network designers to the optical technologies used in digital and analog radio access networks,
such as optical amplifiers and transmitters, and describes different deployment scenarios,
including point-to-point fiber systems, wavelength-division multiplexing systems, and passive
optical networks.
New integrated photonic technologies for optical switching are also discussed, as well as
explaining and illustrating the principles of optical beamforming and how optical technologies can
be used to provide accurate phase and frequency control of antenna elements.
Critique: An ideal curriculum textbook, "Photonic Applications for Radio Systems and Networks"
is expertly organized and presented. While unreservedly recommended for professional, college,
and university library collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students,
academia, technicians, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that
"Photonic Applications for Radio Systems and Networks" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $119.63).
The VNA Applications Handbook
Gregory Bonaguide & Neil Jarvis
Artech House
685 Canton Street, Norwood, MA 02062
www.artechhouse.com
9781630816001, $169.00, HC, 375pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In "The VNA Applications Handbook", the capabilities and limitations of modern VNA
in the context of challenging real-world applications are explained, as well as insights for
optimizing test setups and instrument settings, making accurate measurements and, equally
important, avoiding costly mistakes.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented by two prominent experts in the
field, Gregory Bonaguide (Senior Applications Engineer at Rohde & Schwarts specializing in
spectrum analyzers and vector network analyzers) and Neil Jarvis (Applications Engineer at
Rhode & Schwartz), "The VNA Applications Handbook" is authoritative new resource that
provides guidelines for performing a wide variety of Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
measurements. While unreservedly recommended as a college and university curriculum textbook,
it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and technicians that "The
VNA Applications Handbook" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $132.65).
Editorial Note: Artech House provides today's professionals and students with books and software
from the world's authorities in RF/microwave design, wireless communications, radar
engineering, and electronic defense, GPS/GNSS, power engineering, computer security, and
building technology. Artech House is a subsidiary of Horizon House Publications, Inc., publisher
of the Microwave Journal.
The Criminology Shelf
Last of the Gladiators
James M. LaRossa, Jr.
Bancroft Press
PO Box 65360, Baltimore, MD 21209
www.bancroftpress.com
9781610882392, $32.95, HC, 320pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: From the 1960s until the turn of the 21st century, New York City was the world's
epicenter of organized and white-collar crime. During those four decades, the most feared Mafia
chiefs, assassins, defrocked stockbrokers, Orthodox Jewish money-launderers, and Arab bankers
sought the counsel of one man: Jimmy LaRossa, a Kennedy-era prosecutor who became the
defense lawyer of first resort.
On January 30, 2009, his son, James M. LaRossa Jr., snuck his famous and mortally ill father
from New York Presbyterian Hospital to a waiting Medevac jet, where we flew in secret to a place
few people would look for two die-hard New Yorkers: a town in Southern California aptly named
Manhattan Beach.
During their five years in exile, they, "the LaRossa boys" as they came to be known, made their
mark as a most irreverent and unrivaled father/son duo. While the son cooked his father his
favorite Italian dishes and kept him alive using the most up-to-date equipment and drugs, the
father recounted his legendary courtroom exploits to his son -- who recorded them for later
publication.
Not only is "Last of the Gladiators" a memoir about some of the seminal legal events of a
generation, but it's also a love story between a father and son -- a theme not often seen in
American arts and letters.
Critique: An inherently fascinating and uniquely informative 'insider' account of New York's
underworld, "Last of the Gladiators: A Memoir of Love, Redemption, and the Mob by the Son of
the Legendary Trial Lawyer Jimmy LaRossa" will have a very special appeal for anyone with an
interest in organized crime and the role played by their defense attorneys. While unreservedly
recommended for both community and academic library American Biography collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Last of the Gladiators" is also available in a digital
book format (Kindle, $9.99).
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
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