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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Alexander Calder and His Magical Mobiles
Jean Lipman with Margaret Aspinwall
Hudson Hills Press
PO Box 205, 3556 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
9780933920170, $24.95, hudsonhills.com
Mobiles are a quaint and unique medium of art. "Alexander Calder and His Magical Mobiles" is
the tale of mobile artist Alexander Calder, telling his life story and how he came into the field,
but mostly focusing on the man's art. Drawing from Calder's own words much of the time,
"Alexander Calder and His Magical Mobiles" features many photographs of his work in black-
and-white, as well as forty photographs in full color. An ideal guide to understanding the mobile,
"Alexander Calder and His Magical Mobiles" is highly recommended.
Imagining the Future
Yuval Levin
New Atlantis Books
c/o Encounter Books
900 Broadway, Suite 601, New York, NY 10003
9781594032097, $21.95, www.encounterbooks.com
If there were a debate about whether water was wet, there would surely be those who would
argue that it is not. "Imagining the Future: Science and American Democracy" takes a look at the
relationship of science and politics, focusing on such issues as global warming, stem cell
research, evolution, and more. Asking many poignant questions and offering ideas that may have
not been obvious to the reader, author Yuval Levin has doubts that those on the left are truly the
party of science, or that those on the right are entirely waging a war on science. Suggesting that
maybe the science has little to do with it, "Imagining the Future" is enlightening and fascinating
reading about the influence of science on politics - or the lack thereof.
The Library CD Music Shelf
A Streetcar Named Desire
Tennessee Williams
Caedmon
c/o Harper Audio
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022-5299
9780061714658, $17.95 www.harperaudio.com 1-800-242-7737
Now available for the first time on CD, A Streetcar Named Desire is the full-cast archival
recording of the famous musical by Tennessee Williams, as performed by the cast at the 1973
revival at Lincoln Center (including Pulitzer Prize-winning stars Rosemary Harris and James
Farentino as Blanche and Stanley). When the troubled Blanche seeks shelter in her sister Stella's
New Orleans apartment, Stella's brutish husband Stanley Kowalski relentlessly strips away the
lies and delusions propping up Blanche's insubstantial dreams. A modern-day theatrical classic,
A Streetcar Named Desire is highly recommended for anyone who loves the musical, and for
public library audio CD collections.
A Place Called Peace
Randy Granger
Dogsense Music
PO Box 1326, Fairacres, NM 88033
c/o c/o The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
$14.78 www.randygranger.net
Southwestern flautist Randy Granger draws on his Native American heritage (his bloodline is
connected to the Chol, Athabascan, Apache, Comanche and Dogrib tribes) for inspiration in A
Path Called Peace, his music CD album reflecting the timeless, land-connected nature of
Southwestern life. Individual pieces are performed with an impressive variety of flutes, from a
reproduction of an ancient Anasazi flute to a double-barreled flute with buffalo drum, to the
Australian digeridoo. Both pieces with vocals and purely instrumental pieces are present, and
individual songs range in theme from somber commiserations to the hardship the Apache
endured when remnants of the tribe were forced to live a starvation existence hiding in the
canyons, to the ebullient celebration of life in the title song. Highly recommended. The tracks are
"Za Zee Za Zu Zing", "The Dog Star", "Chaco Moon Meditation", "Ghost Dancers", "Rio Grande
Lullaby", "Apache Tears", "Double-Barrel Train Wreck", and "Ancestor's Ocean Voyage".
East Wind
Timothy Cooper
New Piano Age Music
c/o The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
$15.95 www.new-piano-age.com
The second solo piano album by Timothy Cooper, East Wind is a roughly hour-long CD with an
exotic Asian influence. A delicate and emotional listening experience, East Wind seeks to
embody the essence of China's ancient history, the vibrantly hot forests and jungles of Malaysia,
the delicacy classical Eastern poetry, and much more. An ultimately upbeat music album bearing a
message of hope and inspiration, East Wind is highly recommended. 30 tracks, 58.7
minutes.
The Audiobook Shelf
The Canterbury Tales
Geoffrey Chaucer, author
J.U. Nicolson, translator
Read by Martin Jarvis and a full cast
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
9781433249716, $125.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com 1-800-729-2665
At the Tabard Inn, thirty travelers from a diversity of classes and occupations are planning to
make the annual pilgrimage to Becket's shrine at Canterbury. It is agreed that each traveler will
tell four tales to help pass the time, and the host of the inn will reward the best storyteller with a
free supper when they return. The Canterbury Tales is a sometimes bawdy, sometimes spiritual
classic, skillfully translated into modern English and presented in an unabridged audiobook
format. Read by Martin Jarvis and a full cast, The Canterbury Tales reveals the trials and travails
of daily life in late fourteenth-century England through stories, conversations, jokes and
arguments between travelers. Truly the most memorable way to experience this literary classic,
The Canterbury Tales is especially recommended for public library collections. 17 CDs, 21
hours, tracks every 3 minutes for easy bookmarking.
Eclipse
Richard North Patterson, author
Peter Francis James, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
9781427206091, $39.95 www.macmillanaudio.com 1-800-221-7945
Former trial lawyer Richard North Patterson presents Eclipse, a gripping, unabridged audiobook
on CD about Damon Pierce, a California lawyer who responds to a plea for help from old flame
Marissa Brand Okari. Marissa's husband is the leader of a freedom movement in the West
African nation of Luandia; the world's insatiable thirst for oil has caused the nation to be
viciously exploited by the ruthless PetroGlobal and Luandia's autocratic ruler General Savoir
Karama. Bobby's home village has been massacred, while Bobby has been arrested and charged
with the murder of three PetroGlobal workers. Pierce dares to brave Luandia's lethal politics to
save Bobby, a case that could literally cost him his life in this nail-biting contemporary thriller.
Highly recommended. 11 CDs, 14 hours.
1421: The Year China Discovered America
Gavin Menzies, author
Simon Vance, narrator
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
9781433255106, $110.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com 1-800-729-2665
Smoothly narrated by the Earphones Award-winning Simon Vance, 1421: The Year China
Discovered America is the unabridged audiobook presentation of author Gavin Menzies'
astonishing theory - that a Chinese expedition discovered the American continent, planted
cropbs, and even established Caribbean colonies seventy years before Columbus, and
circumnavigated the globe a century before Magellan. Menzies visited 120 countries and over
900 museums and libraries in the course of his research, and has assembled a surprisingly
persuasive account that suggests how China's foothold in the American continents could have
been established, then lost due to the turmoil following the Emperor's fall. The sturdy library
edition of this fascinating audiobook is an excellent addition to collections offering alternative
viewpoints and theories concerning world history. 11 CDs, 13 hours, tracks every 3 minutes for
easy bookmarking.
Whodunit?
Symphony Space
2537 Broadway at 95th Street, NY, NY 10025-6990
www.symphonyspace.org
9781934033104, $28.00, www.amazon.com
Audio books are an enduringly popular format for millions of Americans seeking to entertain
themselves while driving, doing routine chores, or simply relaxing and engaging in a bit of
entertainment. Symphony Space is the publisher of CD short story sets which showcase some of
the best performed material every to play on our nation's public radio stations. One of their
newest and best in their outstanding 'Selected Shorts' audio book series is the 3 CD collection
"Whodunit? comprised of a compilation of short stories that include Dashiell Hammett's "The
Creeping Siamese" performed by John Shea; "C. S. Montanye's "A Shock for the Countess"
performed by Fionuula Flanagan; Ed McBain's "Improvisation" performed by Isaiah Sheffer;
"Shirley Jackson's "The Summer People" performed by Rene Auberjonois; Nadine Gordimer's
"Country Lovers performed by Hattie Winston; and Louise Erdrich's "Gleason" performed by
Robert Sean Leonard. Flawlessly recorded, "Whodunit?" will prove to be a popular addition to
personal and community library audio book collections. Also very highly recommended and a
new addition to their 'Selected Shorts" series from Symphony Space is "The William Hurt
Collection" (9781934033104, $28.00, 3 CDs) in which the Academy Award-winning actor
William Hurt narrates the short stories "Blind Josef Pronek" by Aleksandar Hemon;
"Communist" by Richard Ford; "Towel Season" by Ron Carlson; and "Nightingale" by Tobias
Wolff.
Norman Corwin's The Rivalry
L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291
1580815693, $25.95 www.latw.org 1-800-708-8863
An amazing dramatization of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates, Norman Corwin's The
Rivalry is a full-cast audiobook presentation starring Academy Award nominees Paul Giamatti
and David Strathairn. The passionate exchange of words between up-and-coming legislator
Abraham Lincoln and incumbent Senator Stephen A. Douglas over critical issues - especially the
hot-button matters of slavery and the American concept of freedom. A profoundly moving
experience, offering a window into the historical clash of words that would come to foreshadow
the infinitely more devastating clash of the American Civil War. 2 CDs, 104 minutes.
Lucrezia Borgia
Sarah Bradford, author
Lorna Raver, narrator
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
9781433224706, $110.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com 1-800-729-2665
Award-winning stage actress Lorna Raver reads aloud an unabridged audiobook presentation of
Lucrezia Borgia: Life, Love, and Death in Renaissance Italy, a biography that neither condemns
nor exonerates the life of the notorious Renaissance femme fatale Lucrezia Borgia. Though her
name is associated with any number of Renaissance malevolences, from incest to political
assassination, author Sarah Bradford reveals that Lucrezia was in fact an intelligent woman
determined to secure power amid political struggles, and who exploited her beauty to that end. A
fascinating account of the true-life woman behind the Machiavellian legend.
Animals Make Us Human
Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson, authors
Andrea Gallo, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781436163057, $123.75 www.recordedbooks.com 1-800-638-1304
Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals is an unabridged audiobook
presentation of the book by scientist and animal welfare advocate Temple Grandin, drawn from
thirty years' worth of research. Grandin insists that animals possess an emotional system similar
to that of humans, with impulses ranging from playfulness to fury. Grandin advocates a practical
approach to creating the best life possible for animals in our care, and speaks out against the
needlessly cruel environments in which too much livestock is raised and slaughtered. An
inspirational guide to improving individual and societal compassion toward the creatures in our
care. 10 CDs, 11.75 hours.
The Library DVD Shelf
Cracker: The Complete Collection
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
$119.99 www.acornmedia.com
Winner of more than 25 major awards, including BAFTAs for best drama series and best actor,
Cracker: The Complete Collection is a DVD set of the enthralling British crime drama about Dr.
Edward "Fitz" Fitzgerald, a forensic psychologist with an uncanny ability to divine the
motivations of psychopaths. At the same time, Fitz is driven by his own self-destructive
compulsions - scotch, sex, and gambling, and his personal arrogance makes him barely tolerable
to his co-workers. A 45-minute bonus special feature "Cracker: Behind the Scenes" enhances this
dark saga of the nightmare side of urban life. Cracker: The Complete Collection is a worthy
addition to mystery and crime drama DVD collections. 10 DVDs, approximately 22 1/2 hours
plus bonus, full screen and widescreen, subtitles.
Reality Press
info@reality-entertainment.com
www.reality-entertainment.com
Reality Press is a premier publisher of informative books and producer of library quality DVDs
in the field of New Age and Metaphysical Studies. Two of their newest DVDs are especially
recommended to those with an interest in esoteric wisdom and metaphysical studies. "Forbidden
Knowledge Conference 2006" (RYE 1003, $24.95, 90 minutes) showcases a historic event that
featured presentations by such world renowned authorities Andrew Collins, Robert Feather, Tim
Wallace-Murphy, Michael Cremo, Churchton Miller, Hamish Miller, Nick Pope, Alan Alford,
John J. Harper, and its principle organizer, Philip Gardiner. Sponsored by the Conscious Media
network and filmed at Kings Hall, Stoke on Trent, England, viewers will find the included
speeches and special interviews to be informed and informative on a wide range of subjects from
the Cygnus Mystery to Freemason Symbols, to the resting place of Joseph of Arimathea, to the
antiquity of man, and so much more. "Science Of Soul: The End-Time Solar Cycle Of Chaos In
2012 A.D." (RYE 1004, $24.95, 1 hour 10 minutes) features metaphysical researcher John Jay
Harper whose presentation ranges from quantum physics, to life after death, to the sacred
teachings of ancient cultures, to the forthcoming apocalypse and the emergence of a
superconciousness in 2012 A.D. Superbly directed by Philip Gardiner, "Science of Soul" is
thoughtful and thought-provoking. Dedicated students in the field of Metaphysical Studies would
do well to visit the Reality Press website at www.reality-entertainment.com for a complete listing
of their impressive library of books and DVDs that are available to the general public and for
academic library reference collections.
Darius Goes West
Darius Goes West, distribution
135 Pine Tops Ct., Athens, GA 30606
$20.00 www.dariusgoeswest.org
Darius Goes West is an acclaimed independent documentary film (it won more than 28 awards!)
about the first ever cross-country trip of fifteen-year-old Darius Weems, who has Duchenne
Muscular Dystrophy, the world's primary genetic killer of children. The goal of Darius and
eleven college-age young men is to reach Los Angeles and convince MTV's "Pimp My Ride" to
customize Darius' wheelchair. Together they learn about friendship, and the simple joys of living
in this heartfelt and educational true-life story. An excellent film especially ideal for school and
public library DVD collections as well as for family viewing, Darius Goes West is highly
recommended. Seventeen dollars, or more than four-fifths of the twenty dollar purchase price of
Darius Goes West goes to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy research. 94 minutes.
Secrecy
Peter Galison and Robb Moss
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
$295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com 1-800-543-3764
Secrecy is an award-winning independent documentary about the world of government secrecy.
Government secrecy is itself a double-edged sword: on one hand, it protects against excessive
nuclear proliferation and the spread of biological and chemical weapons, and is crucial to waging
war against terrorism. On the other hand, secrecy can all too easily give way to corruption, from
abridgements of liberty such as extraordinary rendition and warrantless wiretaps to the monstrous
abuses of Abu Ghraib. When hidden from prying eyes, national policy can stumble as agencies
fail to coordinate, and devour massive budgets; at the worst, America's system of justice could be
at risk. Extensively researched, Secrecy is an unforgettable documentary that every patriotic
American citizen should view. Highly recommended especially for public library
collections.
Fit By Tracey: Walking Strong
Tracey Staehle
411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.99 www.411videoinfo.com www.fitbytracey.com
Fit By Tracey: Walking Strong is a fitness DVD designed for viewers who exercise by walking,
including walking on a treadmill. Broken into eleven five-minute segments, Fit By Tracey:
Walking Strong varies one's walking routine by alternating between cardio walks and strength
walks (with resistance training). Certified personal trainer Tracey Staehle guides the viewer with
clear narration and a demonstration of the advanced version of her treadmill workout, while her
sister Bobbi demonstrates a less intense version on the treadmill. Their friend Jill demonstrates
the workout on the floor without a treadmill. Inexpensive lightweight dumbbells are
recommended to get the most out of exercising to Fit By Tracey: Walking Strong. A superb
exercise video especially for the elderly, people recovering from severe illness or surgery, or
anyone who needs a good workout but can't put excessive strain on their joints by jumping.
Approximately 55 minutes.
Ike Turner & The Kings of Rhythm
MVD Entertainment Group
PO Box 280, Oaks, PA 19456
$19.95 www.MVDb2b.com 1-800-888-0486
Ike Turner & The Kings of Rhythm is a live-in-concert DVD capturing the sensational
performance of the titular legends at the North Sea Jazz Festival of 2002. In addition to the
sensational performance, Ike Turner & The Kings of Rhythm is packed with extras: "The Early
Years" documentary, concert snippets from a wide variety of other locations, a biography and
discography, and more. A "must-have" for true fans of Jazz in general and Ike Turner in
particular. The songs performed are "Chicken Shack", "Ike & Pinetop's Boogie", "Mercy,
Mercy", "I Need A-Nuddin", "Caldonia", "'Five Long Years", "Baby's Got It", "Rocket '88'",
"Tequila", "Ike's Tune", "Steel Guitar Rag", "I'm the Only One", "I've Been Loving You Too
Long", "Proud Mary", and "I Want To Take You Higher". Approximately 2 hours 12
minutes.
Arctic Dinosaurs
WGBH Boston Video
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781593758660, $24.99 www.ssapr.com
Arctic Dinosaurs: Warm-Blooded Creatures of the Cretaceous is an episode of the
award-winning public television series NOVA, now available on DVD. A field expedition sets
out Alaska's North Slope to search for the answer to a quandary: how did dinosaurs survive in the
dark and frigid polar regions? Researchers dig a tunnel into the permafrost in order to collect
dinosaur bones, an activity that carries its own perils, while other experts decipher the evidence
in order to bring their hypotheses to life with CGI animation. Special features include printable
materials for educators and described video for the visually impaired. An amazing fresh look at
these remarkable ancient reptiles, perfect for school and public library DVD collections as well
as for the enjoyment of dinosaur lovers everywhere. 56 minutes, closed captioned. Also highly
recommended are the recently released NOVA DVD episodes "Columbia: Space Shuttle
Disaster" (9781593758677, $24.99) and "Alien from Earth: The Little People of Flores"
(9781593758691, $24.99).
Tai Chi for Beginners
Samuel Barnes, host
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98 www.anchorbayentertainment.com
Hosted by expert Tai Chi teacher Samuel Barnes, and filmed on a calm outdoors location
overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean, Tai Chi for Beginners is a DVD that teaches the user
how to tap into the revitalizing power of Qi Gong, learn Tai Chi postures, and use Tai Chi as a
form of moving meditation meant to increase the body's natural energy. An easy-to-follow guide
that all ages can use to experience the mind-clearing benefits of Tai Chi highly recommended for
anyone intrigued by Tai Chi's physical and spiritual benefits. 56 minutes.
Dance Your Body Slim
Kathy Smith
Lionsgate
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.98 www.411videoinfo.com
Kathy Smith hosts Dance Your Body Slim, a 2-DVD set of dance-based workout routines that
burn calories, promote firm muscles, and are simply a blast to do! Disc one features the "Slow
and Sensual" slow belly dance routine, the "Heat It Up" fast belly dance routine, and the "Flex
Appeal" stretch routine, with a bonus belly dance tutorial as well as a complete choreographed
dance and performance by belly dance superstar Ansuya. Disc two features a warm up, a "Latin
Basics" workout of rousing Latin dance, "Latin Sizzle" that kicks the intensity up, a cool down,
and a bonus guide to learning Latin dancing with a partner. Customizable workout options and a
personalized introduction and instructions from Kathy round out this exciting way to burn
calories and feel good. 2 DVDs, 114 minutes, full screen.
Yoga Emergency The 12 Minute Workout: Full Leg Stretch
Kristen Eykel, host
411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$9.99 www.411videoinfo.com www.kristeneykel.com
Yoga Emergency The 12 Minute Workout: Full Leg Stretch is part of a five-DVD series designed
especially to help viewers on a tight schedule reap the benefits of squeezing a little yoga into
their day. Host, yoga expert, model, and mother Kristen Eykel has created a series of
twelve-minute yoga workouts meant to target specific parts of the body; "Full Leg Stretch" is
meant especially to promote flexibility, balance, and strength in the legs. Additional bonus
material includes a guided meditation following the workout, particularly tailored to focus on
one's legs; "stressbusters" 1-minute stress-relief tips, and a brief interview with Kristen Eykel.
Shot amidst a beautifully sunlit garden, Yoga Emergency The 12 Minute Workout: Full Leg
Stretch is easy to follow and perfect for incorporating yoga into one's daily routine for better
health and quality of life. Also highly recommended are the other four volumes in the Yoga
Emergency The 12 Minute Workout series, "Arms & Shoulders", "Back", "Hips", and
"Pregnancy".
Visit Wales with Rachel Hicks
Rachel Hicks, host
Camrose Media
c/o Janson Media
88 Semmens Road, Harrington Park, NJ 07640
9781568393075, $24.95 www.janson.com betsy.vanost@janson.com
Visit Wales with Rachel Hicks is a beautiful, DVD tour of the grand and historic land of Wales,
filmed in high definition. Former BBC presenter Rachel Hicks leads readers on a journey from
Aberystwyth on the Irish Sea, to Abergavenny in the easy, and from Anglesey in the north to
Tenby on the southern coast. Highlights include a stop by St. Fagans Natural History Museum
near Cardiff, ancient Celtic burial chambers, castles mountains, lakes, the smallest city in Britain,
and a whiskey distillery. A bonus photo gallery rounds out this relaxing and delightful tour,
surely the next best thing to flying across the ocean to visit Wales in person. 60 minutes.
Paint Like Van Gogh
Larry Withers, host
On Air Video Incorporated
8203 Westminster Rd., Elkins Park, PA 19027
$19.95 www.onairvideo.com 215-885-2828
Paint Like Van Gogh is an instructional DVD that demonstrates the painting techniques of
legendary Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh. Host Larry Withers walks the viewer through
step-by-step as he copies Van Gogh's widely beloved work "Sunflowers". To gain full benefit,
viewers will need to acquire some simple art tools (stretched linen canvas, filbert brushes, oil
paint, wooden pallet, pallet knife and cup, mineral spirits, and latex gloves) to follow the primer.
Bonus features include a two-sided color insert with a photo of the painting and a schematic with
color swatches, as well as PDF files of these reference materials. Paint Like Van Gogh
unquestionably lives up to its title, and is enthusiastically recommended for any aspiring painter
interested in "hands-on" learning. 66 minutes.
The Fiction Shelf
Brother
James Fredericks
Bascom Hill Publishing Group
212 N 3rd Avenue, Suite 570, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9780980245561, $14.95, www.bascomhillpublishing.com
Brother is a term thrown around freely with many men. "Brother" is a novel following an
attorney and his brother, Chase and Jared Riordan respectively, who are faced with wrongful
accusations. Though estranged, the two must mend their past wounds and embrace brotherhood,
or both their lives may end in death or imprisonment. But after so much time, can they truly trust
each other like brothers? "Brother" is a fine tale of learning to embrace another as a sibling after
a long time, recommended reading.
The Strength of a Sparrow
Tim Anders
Alpine Publishing
1119 S. Mission Rd., #102, Fallbrook, CA 92028
9781885624635, $39.95
When one reveals a skeleton in their closet, it usually isn't wearing priestly garments. "The
Strength of a Sparrow" is a love story of the unusual sort. Bouvette Sherwood is a successful
Broadway actress, who finds herself in love with one Hughie Hewitt. Hughie, however, is an
alcoholic, and that's not the least of what's preventing him from committing to his relationship
with Bouvette. A strange twist of a romance, Tim Anders uses inspiration of a true story to make
"The Strength of a Sparrow" a uniquely recommended read.
Marble Mountain
Wayne Karlin
Curbstone Press
321 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT 06226
9781931896436, $15.00
Finding one's roots is hard. But for an adopted mixed race person, it's nigh impossible. "Marble
Mountain" follows Kiet Hallam as she is faced with the lifetime question of who she is and why
is she here. Half Vietnamese and half African-American, she has little clue as to where her place
of origin truly lies. Despite her supportive family, it looks as if Kiet's past won't be revealing
itself with ease anytime soon. "Marble Mountain" is a fine story of searching for one's genealogy
with many mystery elements, and is an enjoyable read.
Blacksnake's Path
William Heath
Heritage Books
100 Railroad Ave, #104, Westminister, MD 21557
Hood College (publicity)
401 Rosemont Avenue, Frederick, MD 21701-8575
9780788446498, $30.00, www.heritagebooks.com
The diplomats rarely get their due. "Blacksnake's Path: The True Adventures of William Wells"
is admittedly fiction, but author William Heath heavily researched the life of the true William
Wells. Through that research, Heath attempts to create a narrative that follows the man's life as
accurately as possible. Caught between two cultures, Wells served as a middle for the Americans
and Native Americans during the beginning of the nation's start as a country. Heath paints a fine
picture of what Wells dealt with throughout his career. "Blacksnake's Path" is a fine and
educational read, for those who want history with their entertainment.
Ailanthus Park
Marina Snow
Lost Coast Press
155 Cypress St., Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781882897964, $19.95, www.cypresshouse.com
City parks are refuges of nature in the wild urban jungle. "Ailanthus Park" follows Claire
Patterson, a single woman making her way in Sacramento. Involved heavily in the push for a new
park, Claire finds herself in an utterly intriguing plot that will reveal much about Claire and the
town around herself as she grows as a person. "Ailanthus Park" is a fine novel of humanity,
highly recommended.
Pilgrim's Progress
Gary D. Schmidt
Eerdmans Books
2140 Oak Industrial Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802853462, $16.50, www.eerdmans.com
The same story from a different speaker can improve much upon the first. "Pilgrim's Progress" is
a retelling of John Bunyan's original story of a Christian's journey to the Heavenly Palace. A
modern spin on the subject matter with a more common language and brilliant and beautiful
watercolors from Barry Moser, Gary Schmidt's rendition of "Pilgrim's Progress" is very much
worth the read, matching, if not surpassing the original.
Dancing with Bears
William Borden
Livingston Press
University of West Alabama, Station 22, Livingston, AL 35470
www.livingstonpress.uwa.edu
9781604890211, $16.95, www.amazon.com
Bears can sometimes be too much to bear. "Dancing with Bears" is a novel following a writer
and his story focusing on the bears of America, alongside Lyle, a bear specialist under the
National Park Service. What starts as a simple assignment soon spirals into madness, with
gruesome deaths and infidelity being only some of what is dealt with. A story of changing love,
bears, and other such chaos, "Dancing with Bears" is quite the adventure laced with
romance.
Voices from the North
Vigdis Ofte & Steinar Sivertsen
Maia Press Unlimited
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781904559290, $21.95, www.dufoureditions.com
An amazing showcase of modern-day literary talent from Norway, "Voices from the North: New
Writing from Norway" is an anthology of works, mainly short fiction and poetry, from seven of
Norway's prize-winning writers. The Norwegians draw upon their country's rich history, as well
as its modern culture to craft unforgettable imagery and drama. "Voices From the North" is
something world fiction fans will relish.
Jack with a Twist
Brenda Janowitz
Red Dress Ink
225 Duncan Mill Road, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 3K9
9780373895557, $13.95, www.reddressink.com
Working with one's partner can be a great experience, but not for Brooke and Jack. "Jack with a
Twist" is a love story of two lawyers. Feeling they are destined to be together, they are engaged
to be wed. And if marriage was the only thing on the table, things would be simple. But then they
find themselves on opposite sides of the courtroom in a case that could make or break their
careers. A story of love, career, and the problems when the two mix, "Jack with a Twist" is a fine
twist on the typical romance, highly recommended.
The Madwoman of Bethlehem
Rosine Nimeh-Mailloux
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Ste 401, Toronto, ON M5V 2M5 Canada
9781897187487, $18.95, www.secondstorypress.ca
The insanity defense is of much debate in modern courts, but for one woman, it was her only
hope for survival. "The Madwoman of Bethlehem" is a story of Amal. Amal lashed out against
the society that oppressed her, a society that would punish such acts with death. Only by feigning
insanity can she find survival and one day hope for peace in the future. A tale of one woman
dealing with a cruel society, "The Madwoman of Bethlehem" is a unique piece of historical
fiction, sure to please.
Greener Grass
Caroline Pignat
Red Deer Press
311 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
9780889954021, $12.95, www.fitzhenry.ca
When there's no food on the table and people are wasting away, there's little one won't do to stop
it. "Greener Grass" is a tale that takes place during the infamous Irish potato famine. Kit Byrne
and family are facing possible death due to malnutrition. Willing to do anything to stop it, Kit
soon finds that 'anything' includes some things that she would rather not do, and finds herself in
the world of the criminal. A story of the will to survive and the love of the family, "Greener
Grass" is riveting reading all the way through.
Tea & Other Ayama Na Tales
Eleanor Bluestein
BkMk Press
c/o University of Missouri-Kansas City
5101 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110
9781886157644, $16.95, www.umkc.edu/bkmk
You can take everything away, but you cannot strip people of their will to survive and thrive.
"Tea & Other Ayama Na Tales" is a collection of short stories, derived from concepts of Eleanor
Bluestein traveling to Southeast Asian countries and finding these countries' will to prosper, even
as tradition and change clashed, and in Cambodia's case, in spite of tyranny. "Tea & Other
Ayama Na Tales" is moving and inspiring, entertaining as well as educational.
Rosanna of the Amish
Joseph W. Yoder
Herald Press
616 Walnut Avenue, Scottdale, PA 15683-1999
9780836194081, $15.99, www.heraldpress.com
Voluntarily cut off from the world, the Amish have crafted their own culture, and even their own
literature. "Rosanna of the Amish" is a reissue of the original acclaimed work of Mennonite
literature. The original text restored, it tells the story of an Irish Catholic girl brought up in
Amish society, and is complete with literary discussion going over what it all means in the world
of literature. "Rosanna of the Amish" is well worth the read for those who are studying the
Amish and their literature.
Khan al-Khalili
Naguib Mahfouz, author
Roger Allen, translator
The American University in Cairo Press
420 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
9789774161919, $24.95
Sacred places are rarely sacred to everyone. "Khan al-Khalili" offers an Egyptian perspective of
World War II, following the Akifs as they seek refuge from Nazi Germany's armies. Though a
novel, "Khan al-Khalili" offers readers much food for thought when it comes to many aspects
that seem to be opposed, such as traditions and change, or faith in an ever-secularizing world.
"Khan al-Khalili" is expertly translated by Roger Allen, offering fine Arabic literature to English
speakers.
The Vansellars
Chris Durer
Ivy House Publishing Group
5122 Bur Oak Circle, Raleigh, NC 27612
9781571974914, $24.95, www.ivyhousebooks.com
The many paths one family can go is mind-boggling. "The Vansellars: Story of a New York
Family" is a novel covering several generations of a fictional family in New York, and how their
lives start to break apart and intertwine at random points. Tragedy, redemption, murderers,
saviors, and high society are major themes throughout the book, with family being the single
uniting trend among it all. "The Vansellars" is intriguing reading all the way to the end.
Jenny's Dream
Linda Weaver Clarke
Bedside Books
c/o American Book Publishing
PO Box 65624, Salt Lake City, UT 84165
9781589824461, $19.95, www.lindaweaverclarke.com
There are those in small towns who always yearn to be larger than their town can contain.
"Jenny's Dream" is another entry in Linda Weaver Clarke's 'A Family Saga in Bear Lake Valley'
series of books, focusing on Jenny Roberts, a small town girl who wishes to be anything but.
Romance, however has other plans for her. "Jenny's Dream" is a charming novel of small town
America at the turn of century, highly recommended.
The Criminology Shelf
Without Remorse
Vonda L. Pelto
Seven Locks Press
PO Box 25689, Santa Ana, CA 92799
Irwin Zucker (publicity)
6464 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
9780979585289, $18.95
Serial killers can make strange and interesting companions. "Without Remorse: The Story of the
Woman Who Kept Los Angeles' Serial Killers Alive" is the story of Vonda Pelto, a woman
assigned to be a psychologist for some of Los Angeles' most notorious killers, with the specific
duty of staving off their suicidal tendencies that they often develop while incarcerated. She
describes these men and how she managed to form personal relationships with them despite their
horrible deeds. "Without Remorse" is an intriguing look into the mind of the serial killer, highly
recommended.
The Poetry Shelf
The Upshot
Anne Rouse
Bloodaxe Books
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781852248086, $25.95, www.dufouredtions.com
Society isn't as united as a whole as it should be. "The Upshot" is the latest collection of poetry
from Anne Rouse, a lady with a sharp wit and gift for verse. Her latest volume focuses on love,
the mundane life we all live, and how society is split into divisions. "The Upshot" is moving and
eloquent poetry, highly recommended. "Nude Descending a Stair": It's 2 a.m., when the placid
telephone shrieks./A silhouette floats over the fly-posted shops,/and enters: a game of toy
soldiers,/you'd think to hear them talk, descending//to a basement hung with nylon fetters,/with
an unknown atmosphere, and speech.//To hear them talk - but these rarely do,/above water. We
goggle in a movie-house;/co-opt their stylish silence,/frame by frame./For beauty, rubbish - they
are just afraid.
Strange Attractors
Sarah Glaz & JoAnne Growney, editors
AK Peters
888 Worcester Street, Suite 230, Wellesley, MA 02482
9781568813417, $39.00, www.joannegrowney.com
Numbers are absolute, love is not. "Strange Attractors: Poems of Love and Mathematics" is a
collection of poems from many poets about two subjects rarely brought together in the same
subject - love and arithmetic. Well over one hundred poems, both classic and
contemporary, discuss these two subjects and how they have more in common than one would
think. "Strange Attractors" is a fresh and original book of poetry, highly recommended. "We
Shall Find the Cube of the Rainbow." by Emily Dickinson: We shall find the cube of the
Rainbow./Of that, there is no doubt./But the Arc of a Lover's conjecture/Eludes the finding
out.
An Apron Full of Beans
Sam Cornish
CavanKerry Press
6 Horizon Road, No. 2901, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
9781933880099, $16.00, www.cavankerrypress.org
Presenting itself as a successor to the work of Walt Whitman, "An Apron Full of Beans" is about
nothing in particular, touching on a wide array of subjects and discussing them in poignant,
entertaining verse sure to please. With a focus on the African American perspective, "An Apron
Full of Beans" is a fine choice for poetry fans looking for variety. "Hungry": Nat Turner his
blood is on the corn/His number on the leaves/Nat Turner/Slave/Composer/Man/Death/And
darkness.
A Tour of Your Country
Eamonn Wall
Salmon Poetry
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781903392805, $23.95, www.salmonpoetry.com
History is a long, old, and fascinating thing. "A Tour of Your Country" is a poetic look at history
from established poet Eamonn Wall. In his fifth anthology, he discusses how the roots of many
people affect them today. "A Tour of Your Country" is a fine volume of poetry, highly
recommended reading indeed. "Midsummer's Eve": The fields are littered with ruins and
heartache./The towns carry the weight of disease and pain./The great leaders will build a great
road across Tara./The small men in the small towns will fell the last oak.
Into the Arms of Pushkin
Carol V. Davis
Truman State University Press
100 East Normal Street, Kirksville, MO 63501-4221
9781931112710, $15.95, www.tsup.truman.edu
Russia is a culture like no other in the world. "Into the Arms of Pushkin: Poems of St.
Petersburg" is an anthology of poems from Carol V. Davis, a woman of Russian heritage who
has embraced it well with her poetry. A winner of the T.S. Eliot prize, "Into the Arms of
Pushkin" is quite the book of poetry, both entertaining and educating about the culture of Russia.
"If Now as I Wait for Your Call": you instead climb the three/flights of broken stairs, /careful to
avoid the drip/of corroded pipe, a small/lake forming on the ground/floor of this building/slapped
together between/the wars in uncertain urgency./Streets still cling to their/Soviet names in a
display/of foolish loyalty./If as I open the door/you empty your pockets/of keys and broken
strings:/leaving of a life undecided/trailing behind you like/musicians shuffling off stage/in the
Unfinished Symphony./And if in the dusk of entryway/your hand reaches me/with the familiarity
of dream/I would understand you at last/without burden of translation,/no longer dependent on
the/ intercession of angels.
Burning Cartography
Noni Benegas, author
Noel Valis, translator
Host Publications
1000 East 7th, Suite 201, Austin, TX 78702
9780924047435, $12.00
A sample of one of Spain's finest, "Burning Cartography" brings Noni Benegas' work to the
English language. With several previous works published, Benegas is no stranger to the world of
poetry, and her expertise shines right through to readers. Tackling the unknown world of dreams
that lies in everyone of us, and presenting the original Spanish lyrics alongside their English
translation, "Burning Cartography" is a fine book of international poetry, deftly translated by
Noel Valis. "Another Light": Groping through the house, blind steps/of chalk/with the light of
dreams/suddenly opaque or radiant/Who shimmers that screen/in the darkened brain?/Like skin
withering on the inside/the mystery of that glow persists.
Blues and Bliss
George Elliot Clarke
Wilfrid Laurier University Press
Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5
9781554580606, $14.95, www.wlupress.wlu.ca
The blues are simply the outpouring of one's soul, and George Elliot Clarke is a master of it.
"Blues and Bliss" is his venture in poetry, using the same skills he uses as a blues man, preacher,
and his other long list of social titles in his poetry to bring out his pure soul in his verse. "Blues
and Bliss" is an enthusiastically recommended work from a diverse man. "Avowals": A is the
cracked steeple./E is a long scream./I is a gawky guillotine./O is a silk abyss./U is a fetus - or
crab lice./Y is a two-pronged gallows.
Touchstones
Gordon Walmsley
Salmon Poetry
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781903392690, $23.95, www.dufoureditons.com
Four previous volumes in his resume, Gordon Walmsley returns again with "Touchstones", the
fifth anthology of the Princeton alumni. His poems focus on the harsh reality of the world and the
nature of freedom and expression, with fine and flowing verse that entertains as well as make the
reader think. "Touchstones" is a seminal volume, highly recommended. A sample: even if one
child/walking along entranced/notices the one tree/it blossoms cresting in the May light/tucks it
under his heart/like a letter from a secret friend/life will be able to continue on the earth.
Zebra
Nadine S. St. Louis
Marsh River Editions
M233 Marsh Road, Marshfield, WI 54449
9780977276851, $12.00, www.marshrivereditions.com
Nadine S. St. Louis didn't get her start in the world of poetry until late in her life, but you
wouldn't know it by her verse. "Zebra" is her first full fledged volume of poetry, with a focus on
her radically different interests such as interests in both science fiction and literary classics.
"Zebra" is a fine work that's sure to entertain. "Once More onto the Beaches": Better to have
throat/than chest or belly cut//provided it's done right//you'll still breathe and swallow/sweetness
in an iron hour.
Suddenly, Out of a Long Sleep
Lowell Jaeger
Arctos Press
PO Box 401, Sausalito, CA 94966-0401
9780972538480, $16.00, www.members.aol.com/Runes
Prolific and educated poet Lowell Jaeger comes to readers with "Suddenly, Out of a Long Sleep"
a series of poems of a personal nature about the important people, places, and things in his life.
Poignant and with a quick wit within its verse that makes its poems effortless and enjoyable,
"Suddenly, Out of a Long Sleep" is solid reading through and through. "Voluptuous": Of
curvaceous female form I sing./Soft round hips and shapely booty./Thick thighs and calves.
Rubenesque./Plump and rosy about the face. Meaty -/lipped kisses. Lolling breasts, flesh/scented
satin pillows. A far cry//from rags and bones the tabloids bring/forth for adoration.
Beauty/prepackaged, starved, grotesque/scarecrows painted scarecely 3-D/on the page and off.
Pallid fash-/ionable paper dolls. Small wonder why//you fill my hands with a sculptor's joy in
bed./As I love your shape from toe to head.
Reading Novalis in Montana
Melissa Kwasny
Milkweed Editions
1011 Washington Avenue South, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55415
9781571314291, $16.00, www.milkweed.org
Melissa Kwasny brings readers her third volume of poetry with "Reading Novalis in Montana" is
a look into the world of natural science using poetry as a vehicle, and Kwasny executes it
excellently. Moving, entertaining, educational are all fine labels to apply to "Reading Novalis in
Montana". "11 Fire": White velocity. We dare not interrupt you./Stream of light in the
light./Gender. The Surpreme fiction? Gender./The alchemy? Stars you build and stamp out./What
is old: you are sweeping through it, jumping the creek. Arnica. Cedar waxwings./The pale pink
spider. Your ash, already, anointing them./I cut the tree that fell in this winter's wind./I rake twigs
into piles and pull the runners from the tines/to hand to you, to use for your quick
ceremonies./Can you take what is negative, correct our mistake? We have/such plans for
amelioration. As below, so above./Lightning. Sun. As above, so below. Igneous,
metamorphic./You are the weed that grows spiky and voluptuous./You are the verb, sprung from
seven sprouts of morning/to the twenty-two of afternoon./Fire beneath our lids, the farce of
you.
The International Studies Shelf
Mexico Unconquered
John Gibler
City Lights Books
261 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
9780872864931, $16.95, www.citylights.com
Mexico, one of America's closest neighbors, is plagued with corruption. "Mexico Unconquered:
Chronicles of Power and Revolt" takes a look into the history of Mexico and how the country got
to where it is today. A country split by a huge financial divide, Mexico is portrayed as a nation of
people who don't need much more provocation to be spurned towards rebellion once more.
Enlightening and informative, "Mexico Unconquered" is a must read for those concerned about
America's southern neighbor.
Basque Nationalism and Political Violence
Cameron J. Watson
Center for Basque Studies
c/o University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
www.unpress.nevada.edu
9781877802768, $29.95, 1-877-682-6657
In the twentieth century, Spain was never known as a stable country. "Basque Nationalism and
Political Violence: The Ideological and Intellectual Origins of ETA" examines the nationalist
violent struggles in Basque, a political party in Spain. Aggressive nationalism is regarded as the
cause, and Watson discusses how the group came into being and power. Not focusing solely on
Spain, he looks at what aggressive nationalism has brought to much of the world. "Basque
Nationalism and Political Violence" is a must for those studying the sociology of nationalist
movements.
China's New Role in Africa
Ian Taylor
Lynne Rienner Publishers
1800 30th Street, Boulder, CO 80301
9781588266361, $55.00, www.reinner.com
China has become an economic trading powerhouse, and its trading partners include many
nations on the continent of Africa. "China's New Role in Africa" is a scholarly examination of
the relationship of China and its African trading partners. Discussing in depth China's foreign
relations when it comes to the continent, the importance of oil, what Africa gets in return, human
rights concerns, arms trading, and what it all means for world peace, Taylor gives readers much
to think about. "China's New Role in Africa" is a grand pick for those who ponder the world's
foreign relations when America isn't directly involved.
China in the World
Curriculum Specialists at Primary Source Inc., editors
Cheng & Tsui Company
25 West Street, Boston, MA 02111-1213
9780887276217, $49.99, www.cheng-tsui.com
China has always been quite the big player on the world stage. "China in the World: A History
Since 1644" covers the power of China in the last four hundred years, ranging from its status as a
major trading nation to a powerhouse for communism to its emergence once again as a major
contributor to the world economy. Drawing from a wide variety of primary sources from personal
letters to imperial edicts to propaganda posters, it paints a long and reaching picture of the
Chinese people these past four centuries. Enhanced with a CD-ROM, "China in the World" is
meant to be a supplemental resource for more traditional texts, and it serves that purpose
excellently.
Vietnam Rising
William Ratliff
The Independent Institute
100 Swan Way, Oakland, CA 94621-1428
9781598130263, $15.95, www.independent.org
Vietnam has come such a long way since the notorious war. "Vietnam Rising: Culture and
Change in Asia's Tiger Cub" takes a scholarly look at the economic rise of Vietnam in the recent
years. William Ratliff discusses what led to this turn around, ranging from cultural influences,
history, religion, and much more, changing Vietnam from a communist country to one of the
freest markets on the planet. "Vietnam Rising" is a fine look at one of the positively changing
nations in recent history.
Haiti in the Balance
Terry F. Buss
Brookings Institution Press
1775 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780815713913, $28.95, www.brookings.edu
A country in chronic crisis. "Haiti in the Balance: Why Foreign Aid has Failed and What We Can
Do About it" is a look at where four billion of United States taxpayer's money has went in the
past decade - the crisis of the country of Haiti. The money, though, has proven ineffective, and
Terry F. Buss will explain why within this volume and presents many interesting facts and ideas.
"Haiti in the Balance" is a great pick for international studies collections, and those who want to
better understand Haiti in general.
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Synecdoche New York
Charlie Kaufman
Newmarket Press
18 E. 48th Street, New York, NY 10017
9781557048134, $19.95, www.newmarketpress.com
Charlie Kaufman is one of the most unique and innovative movie makers in the modern era.
"Synecdoche, New York: The Shooting Script" is the complete screenplay of last year's film, and
Kaufman's directorial debut. With an introduction to the script by Kaufman, a Q&A section,
color photographs and complete credits as bonuses to the script, "Synecdoche, New York" is a
must get for fans of the film or Kaufman's fans in general.
Actor Training the Laban Way
Barbara Adrian
Allworth Press
10 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010
9781581156485, $24.95, www.allworth.com
One can tell quite the story while never opening the mouth. "Actor Training the Laban Way: An
Integrated Approach to Voice, Speech, and Movement" is a drama teaching manual using the
teachings of skilled actor and coach Rudolf Laban. Author Barbara Adrian also adds her own
touch to the lessons, which emphasize the importance of every little body movement in the field
of acting. Breath, functional strength and agility, vocal range, and more are all covered with
meticulous detail, making "Actor Training the Laban Way" a must for would be actors and those
who coach them.
One on One
Joyce E. Henry
Applause Theatre & Cinema Books
c/o Hal Leonard
19 West 21st Street, Suite 201, New York, NY 10010
9781557837011, $14.95, www.applausepub.com
The monologue is an important part of the theatre, but even the best actor will falter with poor
material. "One on One: The Best Men's Monologue for the 21st Century" is an anthology of great
monologues geared towards male actors. Comprised of contemporary writers' best work, the
monologues range across diverse topics, from serious social issues to entertainment-based
matters. "One on One" is a must for any theatre producer or writer who wants to be inspired or
use the best.
Sacred Terror
Douglas E. Cowan
Baylor University
PO Box 97363, Waco, TX 76798
9781602580183, $24.95, www.baylorpress.com
Demonic creatures, the undead, and evil are all vaguely religious concepts. "Sacred Terror:
Religion and Horror on the Silver Screen" is a discussion of the strong presence of religion in
horror films. Saying that horror films tend to prey on the religious sense that exists in most
people, even those who are not exactly weekly church goers, author Douglas Cowan discusses
many examples of popular movies and the most common fears used in these films. "Sacred
Terror" is a key volume to better understanding horror and why it's frightening.
The Business Shelf
You Can Do It Too
Rachel Bridge
Kogan Page
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749451530, $29.95, www.koganpage.com
Fundamentals are the basics, but all too often, even the basics are ignored. "You Can Do It Too:
The Twenty Essential Things Every Budding Entrepreneur Should Know" is a compilation of
twenty bits of advice and wisdom that Rachel Bridge has deemed utterly necessary for an
entrepreneur to succeed in today's competitive world. Drawing additional advice from countless
people at varying levels of success, "You Can Do It Too" is highly recommended for those just
starting out in the tough world of business.
Exiting Your Business, Protecting Your Wealth
John M. Leonetti
Wiley
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Jane Wesman Public Relations (publicity)
322 Eighth Avenue, Suite 1702, New York, NY 10001
9780470376188, $49.95, www.wiley.com
There comes a time when one must leave what they have worked on for so long. "Exiting Your
Business, Protecting Your Wealth: A Strategic Guide for Owners and Their Advisors" is a guide
to extracting oneself from one's business. An exit strategy for business is needed, in order to keep
one's own prosperity as well as that of the businesses. With special chapters on realizing when
one is a workaholic, moving onto a different career or retiring, and setting realistic exit goals,
"Exiting Your Business, Protecting Your Wealth" is a must for business owners who want to
move on.
The Political Science Shelf
Seeking Balance
Anne Edwards
Caitlin Press
8100 Alderwood Road, Halfmoon Bay V0N 1Y1, Canada
9781894759311, $28.95, www.caitlin-press.com
Women are half the population but if you looked at most jurisdiction's political systems, you
wouldn't know it. "Seeking Balance: Conversations with BC Women in Politics" is a discussion
of women in politics, with a special focus on British Columbia, which has had more than a few
women break into their political arena. A vast sampling of women's voices talk on the matter and
offer much food for thought, and may inspire more women to dare to enter the man's world of
politics. "Seeking Balance: Conversations with BC Women in Politics" is a strong choice for
readers who want to understand the growing presence of the fairer sex in elections.
The Social Issues Shelf
Conservation for a New Generation
Richard L. Knight & Courtney White, editor
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20009
9781597264389, $30.00, www.islandpress.org
With each new generation, comes new knowledge and new technology to be applied to many
ideas. "Conservation for a New Generation: Redefining Natural Resources Management" looks at
the philosophy and practice of conservation when it comes to the rapidly changing world of the
twenty-first century. With several essays from today's foremost experts on the subject, detailing
conservation around the world, and its challenges and successes throughout it all. "Conservation
for a New Generation" is an enlightening and educational read for those concerned about the
environment and the world's progress - or lack thereof - in protecting it.
The Poverty of 'The Poverty Rate'
Nicholas Eberstadt
American Enterprise Institute
1150 Seventeenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780844742465, $20.00, www.aei.org
Definitions change over time, even when it apparently comes to statistics. "The Poverty of 'The
Poverty Rate': Measure and Mismeasure of Want in Modern America" is a criticism of today's
handling of the poor and needy in America. Judging the current measure of the poverty rate as a
metaphorical broken compass, Eberstadt offers new ways to measure America's true poverty rate,
stating that at this point, it is better to start over entirely than to repair a fundamentally broken
system. "The Poverty of 'The Poverty Rate'" is an intriguing read for those interested in one of
politics' most thrown about terms.
The Economics Shelf
Are Economists Basically Immoral?
Geoffrey Brennan & A.M.C. Waterman
Liberty Fund
8335 Allison Pointe Trail, Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46250-1684
9780865977136, $15.00
What's the price of a human life? "Are Economists Basically Immoral? and Other Essays on
Economics, Ethics, and Religion" is a look economics and the moral and social contract of the
world. All too often economists must attach costs to things with high emotional value, such as
human and animal life, and there is much scholarly discussion on this topic contained within the
pages of this volume. "Are Economists Basically Immoral?" is quite the piece for discussion, as
it is intriguing and enlightening the whole way through.
The Parenting Shelf
Stop That Seemingly Senseless Behavior
Beth A. Glasberg
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Rd., Bethesda, MD 20817
9781890627768, $19.95, www.woodbinehouse.com
Autism is a mystery to many, understanding it being truly difficult. "Stop That Seemingly
Senseless Behavior: FBA-Based Interventions for People with Autism" is a guide for parents and
adults who deal with autistic children, seeking to help them better understand autism and the
erratic behavior that comes along with it. With suggestions and advice for dealing with these
outbursts and how to deal with them the right way when dealing with autism, "Stop That
Seemingly Senseless Behavior" is a must get for anyone who deals with autism on a frequent
basis.
Competing with Character
Kevin Kush
Boys Town Press
14100 Crawford St., Boys Town, NE 68010
9781889322988, $12.95, www.boystownpress.org
Parents pushing their children way too hard for the win in children's sports is seen way too often.
"Competing with Character: Let's Put Sportsmanship and Fun Back in Youth Sports" is a book
calling for a return to the fundamentals of youth athletics - fun and sportsmanship. Children who
are pushed too hard, or playing under coaches who are too obsessed with winning instead of the
thrill of the game, are far more likely to give up a sport than those who are not under the harsh
pressure of the must-win mentality. "Competing with Character" is a must for any coach or
parent of athletic children.
The Gardening Shelf
Defining Middle Ground
Paul P. Voos & Jonathon Scott Fuqua
Stemmer House
PO Box 89, 4 White Brook Road, Gulsum, NH 03448
Pathway Book Service (distributor)
PO Box 89, 4 White Brook Rd, Gilsum, NH 03448
9780916144661, $16.95, www.pathwaybook.com
A garden between one's home and the world can be truly beautiful. "Defining Middle Ground:
Visual Essay of the Townhouse Garden" is a call to encourage readers to put more faith in the
middle garden, the garden that surrounds one's home and is their first sight to the outside world.
Such gardens can provide a soothing atmosphere and beauty in areas that are typically devoid of
life. "Defining the Middle Ground" is a must for those who would better emphasize their home
garden.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Choose to Believe Live to Receive
Lori Riddle
Cedar Fort
2373 W 700 S, Springville, UT 84664
9781599551777, $8.99, www.cedarfort.com
Society is becoming increasingly secular, and it grows harder for teenagers to stay faithful in a
world that's apathetic towards religion. "Choose to Believe, Live to Receive: Learning to Believe
in a World of Doubt" is a book aimed at Latter Day Saints teenagers, but the lessons within can
apply very well to Christians of any denomination. Hoping to inspire teenagers to keep their faith
in a hostile world, Riddle gives much wisdom and scripture to encourage the retention of faith.
"Choose to Believe, Live to Receive" is very much recommended reading for young
Mormons.
Raising a Modern-Day Joseph
Larry Fowler
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Vertias Communications (publicity)
PO Box 2075, Canon City, CO 81215
9781434767059, $12.99, www.davidccoook.com
How does one infuse their children with the values of a great Biblical figure? "Raising a
Modern-Day Joseph: A Timeless Strategy for Growing Great Kids" is a Christian parenting
manual outlining what parents need to do to raise their children as 'modern-day Josephs' who can
withstand the rough moral waves of television, peer pressure, popular culture, and other sources.
"Raising a Modern-Day Joseph" is a must for any parent who desires to foster strong spirituality
in their child.
Jesuit Saturdays: Sharing the Ignatian Spirit
William J. Byron
Loyola Press
3441 N. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657
9780829427127, $14.95, www.loylapress.com
Some people devote their existence to God, and that's enough for them to be content. "Jesuit Saturdays: Sharing the Ignatian Spirit with Friends and Colleagues" is the work of a friar by the name of William J. Byron, explaining the way of the Jesuit. Hoping to inspire his readers with the spirit of his way of life so they may take the principles of it to apply it to their own, Byron offers a different perspective. A quintessential book on spirituality by a very spiritual man, "Jesuit Saturdays" is very much recommended to those who want to deepen their relationship with God.
The Top 100 Miracles of the Bible
Pamela McQuade
Barbour
PO Box 719, Ulrichsville, OH 44683
9781602601048, $12.95
The Bible is filled with strange and unusual things, but which of them are the most important?
"The Top 100 Miracles of the Bible: What They Are and What They Mean to You Today" is a
survey covering one hundred major events in the Bible and their cultural relevance on today's
society. From well-known ones such as Moses' staff's transformational power, the raising of the
dead, and the ten plagues, to lesser known events, "The Top 100 Miracles of the Bible" is a great
companion volume to better understanding the acts of God in the Bible.
The Origins of the Gospel According to St. Matthew
G. D. Kilpatrick
Bolchazy-Carducci Publishing
1000 Brown St., Unit 101, Wauconda, IL 60084
9780865166677, $38.00, www.bolchazy.com
The Bible was not a book written all at once. Each book has its own origins. "The Origins of the
Gospel According to St. Matthew" is a reprint of the respected text outlining the history of one of
the most vital books of the Holy Bible. More than a half century old, the scholarship stands well
against the test of time, and offers insights on how the gospels became gospels and earned their
place in the Bible. "The Origins of the Gospel According to St. Matthew" is a must for Biblical
scholars, professional or amateur.
Wider Than Heaven
Mary B. Cunningham, translator
St Vladimir's Seminary Press
575 Scarsdale Road, Crestwood, NY 10707
9780881413267, $18.00, www.svspress.com
The Virgin Mary has had a long road to achieving the reverence she receives today. "Wider Than
Heaven: Eighth-Century Homilies on the Mother of God" is a scholarly manual outlining how
the Virgin Mary came to become observed in the Orthodox Christian church. Twelve sermons
are translated into modern English to be understood, and Mary B. Cunningham presents a fine set
of religious history and research in "Wider Than Heaven".
The Judicial Studies Shelf
Garner on Language and Writing
Bryan A. Garner
American Bar Association
321 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654-7598
9781590315880, $59.95, www.ababooks.org
In a world where everyone is looking for a loophole, good wording is essential. "Garner on
Language and Writing" is a law discussion from Bryan Garner discussing th many problems in
today's legalese writing from all levels of discussion. With wit along with his wisdom, Garner's
manual of law isn't just plain and straight text, as Garner does much to make his book
entertaining as well as outlining things that should be avoided in today's world of legal language.
Educational, enlightening, entertaining, Garner produces a volume with all of these qualities,
with additional tributes to those who have made Garner and his career possible, making "Garner
on Language and Writing" is enthusiastically recommended reading for law students or anyone
who wants a better understanding of the jungle of the law.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
The System for Soul Memory
Susan Kerr
Blue Dolphin Publishing
PO Box 8, Nevada City, CA 95959
1577330897, $14.95, www.bluedolphinpublishing.com
The soul has as much of a memory as the brain. "The System for Soul Memory: Using the
Energy System of Your Body to Change Your Life" is a look into the spirituality and using one's
soul to better prepare one for the challenges of life. Saying that the energy to fight one's woes lies
in all people, just blocked and unused, Kerr encourages people to break the blockage and use
their energies to the fullest. "The System for Soul Memory" is a must for those with a strong
interest in spirituality and metaphysics.
Living with Purpose in a Worn-Out Body
Missy Buchanan
Upper Room Books
PO Box 340004, Nashville, TN 37203-0004
9780835899420, $10.00, www.upperroom.org
At the end of one's life, one struggles to find why they need to live on. "Living with Purpose in a
Worn-Out Body: Spiritual Encouragement for Older Adults" is a Christian manual to finding the
purpose in one's life at the end. With powerful words accompanied by poignant scripture, it is
crafted in such a way for easy access to older readers with large print, easy reading, and other
facilitating features. "Living With Purpose in a Worn-Out Body" is a must for those who are
worn-out physically, but not spiritually.
When in Doubt, Sing
Jane Redmont
Sorin Books
PO Box 428, Notre Dame, IN 46556-0428
9781933495163, $18.95, www.sorinbooks.com
Prayer is so much more than a conversation with God. "When in Doubt, Sing: Prayer in Daily
Life" is a guide for further embracing prayer in one's daily life, instead of the mere lip service so
many Christians fall into. Promoting that individuality has a strong place and prayer, and that
prayer can help one's own identity in finding oneself and bringing them closer to God, Redmont
also includes passages for Non-Christian prayer, making "When in Doubt, Sing" a fine choice for
any who want to value prayer as something more.
Living Our Religions
Anjana Narayan & Bandana Purkayastha
Kumarian Press
22883 Quicksilver Drive, Sterling, VA 20166
9781565492707, $29.50, www.kpbooks.com
America is dominated by Christian society, and to be something else brings its own unusual
experiences. "Living Our Religions: Hindu and Muslim South Asian American Women Narrate
Their Experiences" tells the story of two women who live in America, believing different
religious beliefs from a vast majority of the population. Hoping to end the idea of an 'invisible
minority', Narayan and Purkayastha tell their stories, and show where racism and sexism still
stand in modern America. "Living Our Religions" is a fine read of life on the other side, highly
recommended.
The Astronomy Shelf
Let There Be Night
Paul Bogard, editor
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
9780874173284, $21.95, www.unpress.nevada.edu
Neon lights, florescent lights, all electric lights, all of these are great, but they spell the end of
one thing - the truly dark night sky. "Let There Be Night: Testimony on Behalf of the Dark" is a
collection of essays and writings from various scientists, poets, and scholars who speak about the
death of the clear night, where one could see every star in the sky, unaided by telescope or other
device. A discussion of the fall of the natural world, and how many things that our fathers have
seen are now unseeable to the modern age, "Let There Be Night" is intriguing and enlightening, if
a bit saddening.
The Science Shelf
Martians of Science
Istvan Hargittai
Oxford University Press
2001 Evans Road, Cary, NC 27513
9780195365566, $15.95, www.oup.com
Certain men change the world, yet people on the street rarely know who they are. "Martians of
Science: Five Physicists Who Changed the Twentieth Century" is a collective biography of five
physicists who have had a major impact on the last hundred years. All five, hailing originally
from Hungary, came to America at the critical time of war, and changed science with their ideas.
Referred to as the Martians, a nickname with unclear origins, "Martians of Science" is an intriguing
biography of five unsung heroes of physics.
The Gaming Shelf
Small Track Betting
C. N. Richardson
Skyhorse Publishing
555 Eighth Avenue, Suite 903, New York, NY 10018
9781602391253, $14.95, www.skyhorsepublishing.com
You can lose big on the smallest of tracks if you don't do your research. "Small Track Betting:
Pick More Winners Using This Sure-Fire Eight-Point System of Race Analysis" is a guide to
smart betting at horse races across the country. Knowledge is power says Richardson,
encouraging knowledge of everything, ranging from the track itself, to the people behind and on
the horses, to much more, to the correct way to bet. Anyone who enjoys betting on horse races,
and also enjoys winnings, should strongly consider "Small Track Betting". Also from Skyhorse
Publishing for gaming fans is "Backgammon for Blood" (9781602391840, $12.95) by Chris
Bray, a guide for those who want victory above all else in the game of backgammon.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Across the Sky
Mark Rich
Fairwood Press
21528 104th St. Ct E, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
9780982073018, $16.99, www.fairwoodpress.com
Science fiction comes in many flavors. "Across the Sky" is a collection of short science fiction
from Mark Rich, who gives a great variety of tone and topic in his anthology. Ranging from the
troubles with evolution when it comes to vegetables, contact with alien races, and life when
orbiting other planets, "Across the Sky" is filled with a story for every sci-fi fan.
The Biography Shelf
Something of the Turtle
Sandra Clayton
Wheatmark
610 East Delano Street, Suite 104, Tucson, AZ 85705
9781604940664, $18.95
Less is more, and a minimalistic life can let one know what's really important. "Something of the
Turtle" is about a couple's choice to give up their home and declare their residence as the sea. A
follow up to a previous memoir of 'Dolphins Under My Bed', the Clayton's story is continued,
charting how they severed their ties to their land life and could never be happier. A look at a
different sort of alternative lifestyle, "Something of the Turtle" is highly enjoyable reading.
The Bond Code
Philip Gardiner
New Page Books
3 Tice Road, PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601630049, $16.99, www.newpagebooks.com
Inspiration has to come from somewhere. "The Bond Code: The Dark World of Ian Fleming and
James Bond" takes a look behind the man behind the icon of pulp spy fiction, Ian Fleming.
Touching on a long list of facts and how Fleming came across them ranging from the moniker
007, Fleming's final novel, and more, "The Bond Code" is fascinating reading to any Bond fan or
any who want to understand the man behind the phenomenon.
Survival in Shanghai
Audrey Friedman Marcus & Rena Krasno
Pacific View Press
PO Box 2897, Berkeley, CA 94702
9781881896296, $22.95, www.pacificviewpress.com
The stories of many Jews fleeing the Nazi regime is nothing new, but little has been written of
those who went to China to find salvation. "Survival in Shanghai: The Journals of Fred Marcus
1939-49" is a collection of journal entries from one teenager escaping one of the blackest marks
in human history. A fish out of water true story, "Survival in Shanghai" tells of getting by in a
nation simultaneously stricken by the Chinese civil war and Japanese invasion. An enlightening
saga of a group of Jews rarely discussed within Holocaust studies.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Tales of Two Species
Patricia B. McConnell
Dogwise Publishing
403 South Mission Street, Wenatchee, WA 988801
9781929242610, $12.95, www.dogwise.com
The bond between pet and owner can improve one's health and make one's day. "Tales of Two
Species: Essays on Loving and Living with Dogs" is a collection of essays on life with man's best
friends. Focusing on the relationship between the two species, McConnell analyzes everything
ranging from the name a person gives their dog, to better communication, to the effect of
breeding on canine-kind as a whole, and other topics as well. "Tales of Two Species" is a fine
read for those who want to better understand the bond of homo sapiens and their canine
familiars.
Connecting with Horses
Margrit Coates
Ulysses Press
PO Box 3440, Berkeley, CA 94703
9781569756911, $14.95, www.ulyssespress.com
A rider and horse relationship can be likened to a relationship of soulmates. "Connecting with
Horses: The Life Lessons We Can Learn From Horses" is about the joy horses can bring to one's
life, acting as a stabilizing factor. A sort of self-help book heavily inspired by the equine race,
Coates' writing shows that perhaps embracing horsemanship is just what some people need to
enhance their life. "Connecting with Horses" is invaluable to anyone with an interest in horses
and wants to build upon it.
To the Dogs
Peter Culley
Arsenal Pulp Press
341 Water Street, Suite 200, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6B 1B8
9781551522418, $32.95, www.arsenalpulp.com
Man's best friend isn't an exaggeration. "To the Dogs" is an anthology of photos and words,
documenting the one nonhuman creature most dear to humanity, the dog. The dog has been
alongside man nearly all civilization's existence, and the dog has inspired people with its
stereotypical yet more often than not true traits - loyalty, bravery, and love. Countless black and
white photos show the importance of the dog in the human experience, ranging from household
pet, to entertainer, to work force. "To the Dogs" is a fine coffee table acquisition for any dog
lover.
The Literary Shelf
The Sacrament and Other Plays of Forbidden Love by Hugo Claus
David Willinger, editor
Susquehanna University Press
c/o Associated University Presses
2010 Eastpark Blvd., Cranbury, NJ 08512
9781575911106, $50.00, www.susqu.edu/su_press
Holland's greatest living writer now has his work translated into English. "The Sacrament and
Other Plays of Forbidden Love by Hugo Claus" is a collection of translated work from Hugo
Claus, translated by the deft team of David Willinger, Luc Duneulin, and Luk Truyts. The three
works are ones that provoke thought and controversy, yet are eloquently composed. 'Bride in the
Morning' follows a sister's battle with her incestuous desires for her brother, 'Sugar' is about one
man's obsession with a prostitute who may end up killing herself, and the titular play the
Sacrament follows a gay man trying to gain acceptance from the priest who molested him so
many years ago. Strange yet enlightening, "The Sacrament and Other Plays of Forbidden Love by
Hugo Claus" is a must add to any theatre's library of source material.
The Library Science Shelf
Internet Technologies And Information Services
Joseph B. Miller
Libraries Unlimited
88 Post Road West, Westport, CT 06881
9781591586265, $70.00, www.lu.com
In economically stressful times the local community library assumes an even more vital role in
the well-being of the community as a source of useful and useable information as their patrons
seek to survive and thrive against the challenges that a recession inevitable entails for them both
personally and professionally. The latest addition to Libraries Unlimited's outstanding 'Library
and Information Science Text' series, "Internet Technologies And Information Services" by
Joseph B. Miller (Associate Professor in the School of Library and Information Science,
University of Kentucky), who draws upon his many years of experience and expertise (which
includes his currently serving as Coordinator of Computer Services for his school) to provide
students, librarians, and non-specialist general readers with a complete single volume course on
internet technologies and their role and utilization within the context of a library system. Of
special note are the sections associated with 'Web Publishing' and 'Internet Content and
Information Retrieval', as well as 'Libraries and the Internet: Learning from the Past, Exploring
the Future'. Enhanced with the inclusion the appendix entry 'The Binary Machine', a glossary,
bibliography, and index, "Internet Technologies And Information Services" is as comprehensive
as it is 'user friendly', making it ideal as a course textbook and for on-site librarians seeking to
accommodate their own community or school library to the age of the computer.
M-Libraries
Gill Needham & Mohamed Ally, editor
Facet Publishing
c/o Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781856046480, $125.00, www.neal-schuman.com
The modern cell phone is a camera, MP3 player, personal organizer, and access to the world
wide web. Libraries can be the next feature of these phones as well. "M-Libraries: Libraries on
the Move to Provide Virtual Access" is a guide for library administrators to help them embrace
the wide ranging mobile phone revolution as to not be left behind. Written by two scholars, one
of the United Kingdom's lead thinkers on library education, and a Canadian doctor of Education,
the book outlines the many possible ways today's library can join the mobile revolution.
Step-by-step, each of the things a library needs to do to use the latest technologies, from
converting existing resources into mobile friendly media, e-learning when it comes to cell phone
technology, and building a specific digital library, "M-Libraries" is an absolute must for any
library who desires to be on the cutting edge, and for community and college library science
collections.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com
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