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Library Bookwatch

Volume 6, Number 5 May 2011 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Environmental Studies Shelf Buddhist Studies Shelf
Library Science Shelf Business Shelf Mathematics Shelf
Audiobook Shelf American History Shelf World History Shelf
Education Shelf Fiction Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf Poetry Shelf
Architecture Shelf Fashion Shelf Science Shelf
Art Shelf Gardening Shelf International Studies Shelf
Political Science Shelf Biography Shelf Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Holocaust Studies Shelf Psychology Shelf Travel Shelf
Literary Shelf Sports Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Economics Shelf Nautical Shelf Archaeology Shelf
Terrorism Studies Shelf Photography Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Memoir Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf Library CD Shelf
Library DVD Shelf Philosophy Shelf Native American Shelf
Military Shelf Civil War Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

How I Would Help the World
Helen Keller
Swedenborg Foundation Press
320 North Church Street, West Chester, PA 19380
9780877853367, $11.95, www.swedenborg.com

Denied of many of her senses and simple speech, Helen Keller placed her life towards helping the world in her own way. "How I Would Help the World" looks at the essay put forth by the famed individual who overcame blindness, deafness, and a lack of normal speech. Through her own writings, she became an icon for the rights of the disabled and women. A hundred years later, her work is placed under a modern eye as Ray Silverman offers an introduction and reflection on her work. "How I Would Help The World" is a fine read, a solid addition to any history collection focusing on human rights.

The National Security Enterprise
Roger Z. George & Harvey Rishikof
Georgetown University Press
3240 Prospect Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007
9781589016989, $32.95, www.press.georgetown.edu

Protecting the homeland is something controversial as we are stuck between security and liberty. "The National Security Enterprise: Navigating the Labyrinth" is a collection of essays and thought on the crisis America faces finding its level of security. Topics discussed the amount of military presence, the role of the CIA, polices, international forces, politics, law, and much more. "The National Security Enterprise" is a thoughtful study of the complex problem of defending the nation, making for a very scholarly and recommended read.

Tsunami Warning and Preparedness
National Research Council
PO Box 741500, Atlanta, GA 30374-1500
9780309137539, $64.00, www.national-academies.org

The devastation in Japan reminds us that no coastal city is safe from nature's wrath. "Tsunami Warning and Preparedness: An Assessment of the U. S. Tsunami Program and the Nation's Preparedness Efforts" looks at the functions that the U.S. has in its threatened areas to deal with a tsunami should it occur. "Tsunami Warning and Preparedness" examines risk, possible outcomes if a tsunami struck, the damage that could be caused and the measures in place to reduce it. Scholarly and insightful, the National Research Council provides a wise and comprehensive assessment of America's tsunami response plan, making "Tsunami Warning and Preparedness" an excellent resource through and through.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

The Law and Politics of Sustainability
Klaus Bosselmann, et. al., editors
Berkshire
120-122 Castle Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230-1506
www.berkshirepublishing.com
9781933782140, $135.00, www.amazon.com

This is our only planet and we kinda have to make it work with us. "The Law and Politics of Sustainability" discusses the world's politics and the drive to push the government to move towards an existence that this world can truly provide for us. Discussing the concept of sustainability and the impact that the law can play in pushing for a better world. Protecting and preparing a sustainable environment is not a pursuit for simply one country, but is needed by the international community as a whole. Throughout, many case studies are provided where international law has succeeded and failed in preserving the environment. "The Law and Politics of Sustainability" is a comprehensively researched and very highly recommended volume for any collection focusing on international politics and the environment.

Recovering a Lost River
Steven Hawley
Beacon Press
25 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108-2892
9780807004715, $26.95, www.beacon.org

Dams are useful tools, but they have what may have been unforeseen consequences. "Recovering a Lost River" discusses the environmental impact of dams and the effect is has had on the salmon population in particular. Steven Hawley focuses in particular on the Snake river, which has had four dams constructed in the past forty years, arguing that these dams need to be removed to save the salmon and the river itself. A detailed and scholarly account of a battle not often heard of, "Recovering a Lost River" brings to light a battle that is not often heard about.

The False Promise of Green Energy
Andrew P. Morriss, et al.
Cato Institute
1000 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20001
9781935308416, $24.95, www.cato.org

There is no silver bullet to the world's energy crisis. A collaborative effort by Andrew P. Morriss, William T. Bogart, Roger E. Meiners, and Andrew Dorchak, "The False Promise of Green Energy" is an analysis of the problems of green energy that aren't often stated. Andrew P. Morriss and his collaborators come together and seek to offer a realistic view of green energy, showing the strong wave of politics behind it and the faults in how many would seek to transform the current energy system of the United States in a problematic way. Thoughtful and well worth considering for those who want a glimpse of the future of American energy, "The False Promise of Green Energy" is enthusiastically recommended.


The Buddhist Studies Shelf

The Stories of the Lotus Sutra
Gene Reeves
Wisdom Publications
199 Elm Street, Somerville, MA 02144
9780861716463, $18.95, www.wisdompubs.org

The search for personal enlightenment has plenty of time for stories. "The Stories of the Lotus Sutra" presents the stories of the Lotus Sutra in English, as author Gene Reeves presents them in an easy to follow format, providing thoughtful commentary and help for those seeking to gain a better interpretation of it all. With a certain flare and thought for students of eastern philosophy and Buddhism, "The Stories of the Lotus Sutra" is a fine volume and resource to add to any collection with a focus on world spirituality.


The Library Science Shelf

Connecting Libraries with Classrooms
Kay Bishop
Linworth
c/o ABC CLIO
130 Cremona Drive
PO Box 1911, Santa Barbara, CA 93116-1911
9781598845990, $45.00, www.abc-clio.com

Libraries and classrooms both share the same goal, and there is much benefit in unifying them. "Connecting Libraries with Classrooms: The Curricular Roles of the Media Specialist" looks at the media specialist and the growing burden that has been put on them since music education in public education has been declining in the past decade. Covering how to create a partnership between public libraries and public schools and how libraries can increase education in the arts for the students in the area, and catering to the needs of certain groups of students, from the autistic to those with sexuality issues. "Connecting Libraries with Classrooms" is an invaluable resource for any education or library leader who wants to work to greater artistic literacy for their patrons and students.

The Frugal Librarian
Carol Smallwood, editor
American Library Association
50 E. Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
9780838910757, $37.80, www.alastore.ala.org

Money is a resource that is never plentiful. "The Frugal Librarian: Thriving In Tough Economic Times" is a guide for librarians in dealing with the many situations in their career where they face a lack of money - either the lack of their own or the lack of the library's money. Many librarians come together with wisdom on finding a librarian job, preparing for unemployment, grant writing, keeping a quality staff, and much more. With useful indexes, "The Frugal Librarian" serves a dual purpose as a very strong resource to be kept in a personal and business collection.

Libraries for Users
Luisa Alvite & Leticia Barrionuevo
Chandros Publishing
c/o Neal Schuman
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781843345954, $75.00, www.neal-schuman.com

Libraries are expected to do much more than books in the modern day. "Libraries for Users: Services in Academic Libraries" examines the modern the role of the academic library and the importance of technology and connections in the modern day. Chapters focus on evaluating quality, maintaining said quality, the applications of digital education, e-research and e-science, the role of the hybrid library, cataloging all of this information, encouraging information literacy, and using emergence of technology to enhance existing resources. Enhanced with useful indexes, appendixes and more, "Libraries for Users" is a powerful resource for librarians who want to keep their libraries and patrons equipped with up to date access to information.

Implementing Technology Solutions in Libraries
Karen C. Knox
Information Today
143 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055
9781573874038, $35.00, www.infotoday.com

Technology can do much for improving a library's services to its patrons, if applied correctly. "Implementing Technology Solutions in Libraries: Techniques, Tools, and Tips from the Trenches" is a guide to effectively and efficiently installing technological support in libraries so that they are easily used by library employees and patrons where necessary. With plenty of tips and tricks that will help librarians make the most of their limited funds in these endeavors, "Implementing Technology Solutions in Libraries" is a thoughtful and very highly recommended resource.


The Business Shelf

Give Smart
Thomas J. Tierney & Joel L. Fleishman
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, Suite 1321, New York, NY 10107
9781586488956, $23.99, www.publicaffairsbooks.com

Money alone doesn't solve everything. "Give Smart: Philanthropy That Gets Results" is a guide for business leaders and those with money who want to make the world a better place using some of their success to do so. But simply throwing money to charity isn't enough, Thomas J. Tierney & Joel L. Fleishman advise readers that using a bit of business sense can make philanthropy that much more effective. Advising business people to consider their beliefs, evaluating success, and much more, "Give Smart" takes good business sense and uses it for the greater good, highly recommended.

Your Brain and Business
Srinivasan S. Pillay
FT Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780137064441, $34.99, www.ftpress.com

We aren't that far departed from our ancestors who wondered at the pretty glow of fire, how are we suppose to cope with the complex nuances of business? "Your Brain and Business: The Neuroscience of Great Leaders" looks into the science behind good leadership as Srinivasan S. Pillay presents a study of the brain when it comes to being a good leader. With some remarkable ideas, Pillay delves into the psychology and presents many things to think about - quite literally - in pushing oneself to become a better leader in today's business world. An insightful and scholarly study, "Your Brain and Business" is an excellent pick, very highly recommended.

Transport Logistics
Issa Baluch
Ivy House Publishing Group
5122 Bur Oak Circle, Raleigh, NC 27612
9781571975089, $50.00, www.ivyhousebooks.com

The move of goods across long distances has been the catalyst for modern industrialized society. "Transport Logistics" discusses the formation of transportation systems internationally. Focusing on eleven countries form many countries across the planet, Issa Baluch & Charles Edwards trace the history of transport in commerce back to the wheel and how it has proven to be a driving force in business from the earliest days forward. The countries studied are as varied as many African nations trying to construct a modern economy to the established countries such as Canada. "Transport Logistics" is an insightful and useful study, not to be overlooked.


The Mathematics Shelf

Differential Geometry Of Curves And Surfaces
Thomas Banchoff & Stephen Lovett
A K Peters, Ltd.
5 Commonwealth Road, Suite 2C
Natick, MA 01760-1526
www.akpeters.com
9781568814568, $49.00, www.amazon.com

Utilizing mathematical concepts derived from calculus, differential geometry applies to problems is such diverse fields as physics, economics, computer science, and engineering. The collaborative work of mathematicians Thomas Banchoff and Stephen Lovett, "Differential Geometry Of Curves And Surfaces" specifically addresses both local properties observed at a point on a curve or surface, and global properties of an object as a whole. Of special note is the online access provided to thematically appropriate interactive java applets which are coordinated to each section of the text. Enhanced with the addition of a bibliography and a comprehensive index, "Differential Geometry Of Curves And Surfaces" is an essential addition to academic library Mathematical Studies instructional reference collections, as well as an ideal classroom textbook.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Noel Coward Collection
L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291
1580817955 $69.95 www.latw.org

L.A. Theatre Works never disappoints in its high-quality presentations of plays in audiobook form. The Noel Coward Collection gathers the live performances of six classic Noel Coward comedy plays into a collection of 12 audio CDs. Talented theatrical performers such as Annette Bening, Eric Stoltz, and Shirley Knight bring the joy, drama, romantic tension and tangled action to vivid life. The presented plays are "Fallen Angels", "Hay Fever", "Private Lives", "Design for Living", "Present Laughter", and "Blithe Spirit". An exclusive bonus disc offers two infrequently performed short plays, "Design for Rehearsing" and "Age Cannot Wither", as well as two conversations about Noel Coward and his work with Barry Day of the Noel Coward Foundation and John Lahr of The New Yorker. The Noel Coward Collection is a superb rendition of timeless theater, and a worthy addition to public library audiobook collections. Highly recommended. 12 CDs, 607 min. Also a choice pick from L.A. Theater Works is the recently released "The Moliere Collection".

The Life and Works of Franz Liszt
Jeremy Siepmann, author
Read by Jeremy Siepmann with Neville Jason as Liszt
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28, Franklin, TN 37064
9781843795087 $17.98 www.naxosaudiobooks.com

The Life and Works of Franz Liszt is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a biography of Franz Liszt, possibly the greatest 19th century pianist of Europe. Liszt's love affairs were nearly as legendary as his passion for music, and his generosity to young musicians earned widespread admiration. A superb portrait of a one-of-a-kind artist, brought to life with the dual performances of author Jeremy Siepmann (formerly Head of Music at the BBC World Service) and Neville Jason, The Life and Works of Franz Liszt is especially recommended for public library audiobook collections. 2 CDs, 2 hours 35 min. 52 sec.

All My Life
Susan Lucci with Laura Morton
Read by Susan Lucci
Harper Audio
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022-5299
9780062087706 $39.99 www.harpercollins.com

All My Life is the unabridged audiobook memoir of Emmy-award winning actress Susan Lucci, well-known for performing the role of Erica Kane in the television show "All My Children". Lucci speaks of her life from early childhood, to the demands of delivering the performance of Erica Kane, to finding the love of her life and the "Cinderella moment" of earning an Emmy. As inspirational as it is revealing, All My Life is a treasure celebrating human resolve and perseverance, and especially recommended to anyone who has loved the show "All My Children" or the exceptional actress who helped make it so popular. 10 CDs, 12 1/4 hours.

Pale Demon
Kim Harrison
Publicity Department
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9781441776280, $118.00, www.amazon.com

Rachel Morgan is just any witch, she's a bounty hunting witch who is condemned by the witches' council for having practiced black magic -- even if it was in a good cause! "Pale Demon" by Kim Harrison is a riveting fantasy novel set in a modern world in which elves, fairies, pixies, demons, gargoyles, and all manner of magic are a part of everyday life. This complete and unabridged (18 hours on 14 compact discs) Blackstone Audiobooks production is technically flawless and features the impressive narrative skills of Marguerite Gavin. The result is a true 'theatre of the mind' experience and especially recommended for community library audio book collections in general, and fantasy fans in particular!

L.A. Theatre Works
681 Venice Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291
$25.95 each www.latw.org 1-800-708-8863

Full-cast performances of two acclaimed plays have been transformed into unabridged audiobooks on CD by L.A. Theatre Works. Alan Ayckbourn's "HenceForward..." (1580818021, 2 CDs, 143 min.) is set in the near future; a composer unable to find his muse seeks to reconcile with his estranged wife and daughter, in hopes of creating his greatest masterpiece yet. But his own unreliable nature is his biggest hurdle to resolving family matters as well as embarking on creative labors. Moliere's "The Bungler" (1580818048, 2 CDs, 115 min.), translated by Richard Wilbur, is an extraordinary classic play set in 17th century Sicily. The crafty valet Mascarille strives to help his employer Lelie win the heart of his beloved, but Lelie's phenomenal stupidity undercuts Mascarille's plans at every turn! The cycle of complex plans foiled by idiotic foul-ups escalates to a breaking point in this superb production of fantastic farce, enriched by a bonus interview with Mechele Leon (Associate Professor of Classical and Contemporary French Theatre, University of Kansas). Both audiobooks are especially recommended as excellent additions to public library collections.


The American History Shelf

Old West Swindlers
Laurence J. Yadon & Robert Barr Smith
Pelican
1000 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LA 70053
9781589808638, $16.95, www.pelicanpub.com

A sly wit and brilliant plan is as good as any product. "Old West Swindlers" look at the legendary cons and brilliance of several individuals in the old American west, as the individuals who sold something for nothing and offered deals too good to be true worked well in crafting American law and shaping how the west was formed. These characters tell a riveting tale, and many of them became legends in their own legitimate right, such as P. T. Barnum. "Old West Swindlers" is a fine read with plenty of entertaining endeavors.

A Short History of Carson City
Richard Moreno
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
9780874178364, $21.95, www.amazon.com

Nevada has gained many famous cities, but few see the intriguing history that is behind Carson City. "A Short History of Carson City" traces the history of Nevada's capital, from its frontier days to its modern status as head of one of the most controversial states in the Union, Richard Moreno provides a scholarly study alongside many black and white photographs, "A Short History of Carson City" is a fine addition to any history or travel collection, highly recommended.


The World History Shelf

The Quest for Hermes Trismegistus
Gary Lachman
Floris Books
c/o Lantern
128 Second Place, Brooklyn, NY 11231
9780863157981, $24.95, www.florisbooks.co.uk

Truly great individuals are discussed for centuries after their existence. "The Quest for Hermes Trismegistus: From Ancient Egypt to the Modern World" discusses this figure of ancient Alexandria who is an icon of ancient science and philosophy, as the two were closely related in ancient times. Analyzing history and the mindset of the times, author Gary Lachman hopes to explain this figure to modern readers to give them greater insight into a time long past. "The Quest for Hermes Trismegistus" is an excellent addition to any history collection, highly recommended.

Germany's Genocide of the Herero
Jeremy Sarkin
James Currey
c/o Boydell & Brewer
668 Mt Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620
9781847010322, $80.00, www.jamescurrey.com

Germany's acts of genocide in history are not relegated to the Nazis alone. "Germany's Genocide of the Herero: Kaiser Wilhem II, His General, His Settlers, His Soldiers" analyzes Germany's empire over Nambia, or as it was known at the time, German South West Africa. A study of European Imperialism and how Germany's actions were different, it focuses in particular on how up to one hundred thousand people may have died due to cruel and racist policy from the Kaiser at the end of the nineteenth century and how the effects of this massive loss of life are still felt even today. "Germany's Genocide of the Herero" brings to light another dark chapter in Germany's history, a scholarly addition to any world history collection.

The Cold War in East Asia
Tsuyoshi Hasegawa
Stanford University Press
1450 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
Woodrow Wilson Center Press
1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004-3027
9780804773317, $55.00, www.sup.org

The cold war was an event that touched every part of the world, but perhaps most heavily in Asia. "The Cold War in East Asia 1945-1991" analyzes the impact of the conflict between the superpowers of the Soviet Union and the United States as their impact was felt throughout the region in China, Japan, and the split Koreas in particular. To this day, the events of this conflict are felt and form the foreign relations are felt, and in some cases the cold war never really ended. A studious and scholarly work from many historians and thinkers and assembled by Professor of History Tsuyoshi Hasegawa, "The Cold War in East Asia 1945-1991" is a fascinating and scholarly study of the era and its impact that will be felt many years to come, highly recommended.

When Courage Prevailed
Esther Gitman
Paragon House
1925 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 7
St. Paul, MN 55113-2619
9781557788948, $21.95, www.paragonhouse.com

Faced with genocide, it's shocking that only a few dared to stand against the will of the state. "When Courage Prevailed: The Rescue and Survival of Jews in the Independent State of Croatia 1941-1945" tells the story of the Nazi force that spread to other countries in Europe, and the oppression of the Jewish people that was felt in this countries alongside the other minorities of the region, where racial tension seemed to be strong throughout the twentieth century. "When Courage Prevailed" is a fascinating read of survival under continuing oppression.

Our Man in Tehran
Robert Wright
Other Press
2 Park Avenue, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10016
9781590514139, $25.95, www.otherpress.com

When American citizens are held hostage, the government has much to do to try to bring about some sense of justice. "Our Man in Tehran: The True Story Behind the Secret Mission To Save Six Americans During the Iran Hostage Crisis" looks at the behind the scenes story of this crisis as President Carter worked with the CIA and the work of Canadian Ambassador to Iran Ken Taylor and how he protected the Americans in the crisis. A riveting read of intrigue that twists the alliances of nations and with results that still impact the modern world, "Our Man in Tehran" is an excellent look at the intriguing history that doesn't get enough attention.


The Education Shelf

Reading Poetry in the Middle Grades
Paul B. Janeczko
Heinemann
361 Hanover Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801-3912
9780325027104, $27.50, www.heinemann.com

Understanding poetry is a good practice in understanding literature. "Reading Poetry in the Middle Grades" is an educational guide from Paul Janeczko as he seeks to give teachers the tools they need to use poetry as a learning for their students. With a focus on twenty different poems, both contemporary and classic in design, Janeczko will show how teachers can use it as a vehicle for metaphor, literary criticism, drive for their own writing, and more. "Reading Poetry in the Middle Grades" is an excellent resource and a must for any teacher who loves poetry and wants to attempt to share that love with their class.

Teaching Mathematics in Early Childhood
Sally Moomaw
Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
PO Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
9781598571196, $39.95, www.brookespublishing.com

There's no such as thing as starting too early with Mathematics. "Teaching Mathematics in Early Childhood" is a guide to giving young and ambitious learners a leg up on the normal mathematics curriculum aimed at young children. For teachers and parents alike, Sally Moomaw is an expert on Early Childhood Education. Her ideas and thoughts also touch on helping students who are learning English as a second language, have disabilities, and more. With a focus on pre-K and Kindergarten, "Teaching Mathematics in Early Childhood" is a strong pick for any educator who wants to push mathematics without losing their young students.

Create Success!
Kadhir Rajagopal
ASCD
1703 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
9781416611134, $24.95, www.ascd.org

The cities make it all easy to lose kids to the forces outside the classroom. "Create Success!: Unlocking the Potential of Urban Students" is an educational guide from Kadhir Rajagopal, presenting a model of education that is focused on the interests and concerns of urban students. Calling his model 'CREATE', the project emphasizes greater participation from teachers, parents, and other important adults in their lives. Stating his model has seen much success, he believes it can be applied on a wider front and lead to a better tomorrow in our cities. "Create Success!" is a fine addition to community library education collections and for any resource seeking teacher.

Retooling the Humanities
Daniel Coleman & Smaro Kamboureli, editor
The University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2, University of Alberta
Edmonton, AB, Canada, T6G 2E1
9780888645418, $49.95, www.uap.ualberta.ca

Profit is a fine motivator, but it should never be the only motivator. "Retooling the Humanities: The Culture of Research in Canadian Universities" looks at what is propelling researches in Canadian universities today, hoping to bring Canada into the debate on the purpose of secondary education and its institution. An assortment of essays for those who want to see a better tomorrow for Canada's colleges and universities. Discussing everything ranging from bureaucracy to public relations and much more, "Retooling the Humanities" is a scholarly discussion on the future of Canada's research and education.

Celebrate Nature!
Angela Schmidt Fishbaugh
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court, St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
9781605540344, $29.95, www.redleafpress.org

The outdoors provide plenty of fun no matter the weather. "Celebrate Nature!: Activities for Every Season" is a guide for parents and teachers who want to inspire the love of the outdoors in their children and students. Designed for use with every season, "Celebrate Nature!" walks readers through the year with activities ranging from theatre to crafts to simple discovery and play. "Celebrate Nature!" is a wise resource that anyone who wants to work nature into the lives of children should read.


The Fiction Shelf

Hold On to the Sun
Michal Gorvin
The Feminist Press
365 Fifth Avenue, Suite 5406, New York, NY 10016
9781558616738, $16.95, www.feministpress.org

Israel has faced a turbulent better part of a century since its creation following World War II. "Hold On to the Sun" is a collection of writing from Michal Gorvin, one of the most celebrated writers in contemporary Israel, who writes from the heart of those who are struggling with Israel and the role of the Jewish people in the world after the Holocaust. Filled with fiction and essays, "Hold On to the Sun" is an excellent and scholarly assortment that would do well in both short fiction and Judaic studies collections.

Genghis Khan Volume II
Sam Djang
New Horizon
15425 Nordhoff Street, Suite A, North Hills, CA 91343
9780984618729, $29.95, www.worldkhan.com

The story of Genghis Khan are what legends are truly made of. "Genghis Khan: The World Conqueror Volume II" is the second volume of Sam Djang's historical epic novel of the life and times of the man who gained the fear of the people on two continents, earning himself a Chinese dynasty, a uniter of clans, and a permanent space in the time of history. Djang uses extensive research to craft a dramatic, yet historically accurate story of a tribesman who became a conqueror. "Genghis Khan: The World Conqueror" is a riveting and fast paced read that should prove quite hard to put down.

Hangman's Noose
Ben Bridges
Ulverscroft Large Print
PO Box 1230, West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9781842627808, $23.99

Bounty hunting is no easy job. "Hangman's Noose" tells the story of hired gun Carter O'Brien, as he sets his cross-hairs on the outlaw Timberlake brothers. But his search of the dollar isn't one that isn't going to come bloodlessly, as well as plenty of other peril along the way. An old school western tale filled with femme fatales, gunfights, and escaping certain death, "Hangman's Noose" is another fine entry into Dales and Ulverscroft's large print western collection, very highly recommended.

The View from Garden City
Carolyn Baugh
Forge
c/o Tor/Forge Books
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
9780765321831, $14.99, www.tor-forge.com

The destiny of women is different, yet all the same between cultures. "The View from Garden City" is an autobiographical memoir from Carolyn Baugh as she uses her own experiences to tell the story of a young college student traveling to Cairo and the lessons she learns about life and tradition in the culture, painting a picture of modern Egypt and the drive of the people. "The View from Garden City" is a thoughtful read with plenty to consider, highly recommended.


The Cookbook Shelf

150 Projects To Get You Into the Culinary Arts
Mark William Allison
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard, Hauppauge, NY 11788
9780764146718, $21.99, www.barronseduc.com

Cooking beyond a microwave or following instructions on the box can be a bit daunting, but for the ambitious, there's a lot of fun and good food to be had. "150 Projects to Get You Into The Culinary Arts" is a cookbook from Mark William Allison who aims to those who want to take the next step in their road to chefdom, with short and to the point exercises to learning the finer details of cooking, knowing how to blend the ingredients and why chocolate and bacon don't play well together too often. "150 Projects to Get You Into the Culinary Arts" is a thoughtful delve into the world of cooking for anyone with more ambition than a TV dinner.

More Recipes Worth Sharing
Favorite Recipes Press
2451 Atrium Way, Nashville, TN 37214
9780871975492, $24.95, www.frpbooks.com

Good cooking gets around. "More Recipes Worth Sharing: A Second Helping of Recipes and Stories from America's Most-Loved Community Cookbooks" is a collection of recipes of varying complexity, with a bit of something for everyone. Recipes layout required ingredients, with easy to follow directions, and credit which community can be credited with the recipe in particular. From cakes to chowders to salads, steaks, vegetarian dishes, and more, "More Recipes Worth Sharing" is an excellent resource for anyone trying to expand their recipe collection with a comprehensive volume full of general recipes.

Backyard Bounty
Linda Gilkeson
New Society Publishers
PO Box 189, Gabriola Island
British Columbia, Canada, V0R 1X0
9780865716841, $24.95, www.newsociety.com

The backyard can be used for more than recreation. "Backyard Bounty: The Complete Guide to Year-Round Organic Gardening in the Pacific Northwest" discusses the agricultural opportunities that dwell in the bountiful climate of the Pacific Northwest in North America. All around the year, the wise gardener can have something growing and with wisdom, they can make the most of it all. Organics, fertilizers, tending to crops, and more, "Backyard Bounty" is a thoughtful and remarkably useful read that should be at hand for any aspiring gardener.

Everyday Grilling
Sur La Table
Andrews McMeel Publishing
1130 Walnut Street, Kansas City, MO 65106-2109
9781449400583, $15.00, www.andrewmcmeel.com

Grilling shouldn't be saved for special occasions, it's a versatile enough method to be used year road. "Everyday Grilling: 50 Recipes from Appetizers to Desserts" is a guide for grilling enthusiasts as Sur La Table presents countless recipes and tips to making a grilled dish into something truly special, with dishes for both herbivores and carnivores, with different types of burgers, steaks, veggie dishes, and even something a bit sweet. A fine advocacy of the many uses of the grill, "Everyday Grilling" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone with a grill and a love of cooking.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

The Burning Lake
Brent Ghelfi
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ave., Ste. 103
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Mary Glenn McCombs (publicity)
2817 West End Avenue, Suite 126-274
Nashville, TN 37203
9781590589250, $24.95, www.amazon.com

Putin's assault on free speech is one that is not a mystery. "The Burning Lake" is the fourth novel following Alexei Volkovoy, who is disgusted by the latest hit against a journalist. Volk is set to investigate this murder and get down to it as he finds himself hating yet loyal to his country as he enters into an international intrigue with potential nuclear crisis on the line. A modern spy novel of facing danger from every side with a certain code of honor, "The Burning Lake" is something to be picked up and not put down until it's done.

Deadly Ties
Vicki Hinze
Multnomah Waterbrook
12265 Oracle Boulevard, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
9781601422064, $13.99, www.waterbrookmultnomah.com

Tragedy opens a wound for cruelty to fester. "Deadly Ties" tells the story of Lisa Harper, a young girl who loses her father. Her mother, desperate to give her a life worth living, jumps into the arms of Dutch, a man who turns out to be the worst mistake that Lisa's mother ever made, driving a wedge between Lisa and her mother. With peaceful reunion on the horizon, a family squabble spins into something more, as law and organized crime clash on there behalf, and Lisa seeks to find love as well as family. "Deadly Ties" is a riveting novel of suspense that should prove very hard to put down.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Compelled to Write
David L. Wallace
Utah State University
7800 Old Main Hill, Logan, Utah 84322
9780874218121, $26.95, www.usupress.com

In the face of something not quite right, a writer leaps to the chance to write. "Compelled to Write: Alternative Rhetoric in Theory and Practice" looks at many people throughout the world who dared to speak up when there were many who wanted them silenced. From the women's right to speak, to trying to rise above stereotypical societal roles, to fighting for civil rights from the position of one who at first sight wouldn't have such issues affecting them. "Compelled to Write" takes the story of four such writers including names like Frederick Douglass and David Sedaris, to offer the drive behind writing, and how the pen can make a difference.

The Low-Residency MFA Handbook
Lori A. May
Continuum
80 Maiden Lane, Suite 704, New York, NY 10038
9781441198440, $19.95, www.continuumbooks.com

A Master of Fine Arts degree is something quite prestigious to achieve, but it isn't always easy to cease your career to pursue it. "The Low-Residency MFA Handbook: A Guide for Prospective Creative Writing Students" is an advisory for those who are pursuing their MFA and want to use the low-residency route to this level of degree. Made up of several brief residencies throughout the pursuit, Lori A. May fully describes what is required for to make this work, drawing on those who have experienced this on their route to their MFA. "The Low-Residency MFA Handbook" is a must for anyone trying to push their creative writing educational credentials to the next level.


The Poetry Shelf

The Inner Sky
Rainer Maria Rilke, author
Damion Searls, translator
David R. Godine, Publisher
PO Box 450, Jaffrey, NH 03452
9781567923889 $17.95 www.godine.com

The Inner Sky is a collection of prose and poetry selections by classic European author Rainer Maria Rilke (1875-1926), many of which have never been translated into English before. NEA and PEN award-winning translator Damion Searls has rendered them fluidly, opposite their French and German originals in this superb bilingual edition. An extraordinary anthology of glimpses into a mind of a legendary wordsmith, The Inner Sky is highly recommended especially for college library literature collections. "We all need warm rains like the one that's been / flooding down the past few nights, - / this must be how heaven lays its hands / on the soft stringed instruments of our souls / so that, within them, spring can begin. / Then leave the wind / alone, with your song, / don't be scared that the wind will tear it from you: / out of your first fear comes nothing but peace / when you see how your song has taken wing.

Without Anesthesia
Ales Debeljak
Persea Books
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
9780892553655, $20.00, www.perseabooks.com

Through Eastern Europe, we gain a similar yet alien perspective of life. "Without Anesthesia" is a collection of poetry from Ales Debeljak, a poet of Slovenia who has seen how much of the world lives, and blends them in for the first time in English, two of his previous volumes of work. Deftly translated from the original Slovenian by Andrew Zawacki, "Without Anesthesia" is a wise read and very much worth considering for world poetry collections.

Voices from the Bitter Core
Ursula Krechel
Host Publications
277 Boradway, Suite 210, New York, NY 10007
9780924047657, $40.00

The epic poem has not been the favored form of story telling for quite some years, but it can be used quite well. "Voices from the Bitter Core" is an epic poem in twelve parts from German poet Ursula Krechel, who shares her thoughts and dreams on the flow of history's many years and what connects humanity through it all. "Voices from the Bitter Core" is an expert translation done by Amy Kepple Strawser, and makes for a very thoughtful and highly recommended read.

Lovers of the Lost
Wesley McNair
David R. Godine
PO Box 450, Jaffrey, NH 03452
9781567923988, $17.95, www.godine.com

Poetry, like all art, seeks to tell a story all its own. "Lovers of the Lost" is a collection of poetry from Wesley McNair, presenting some of his favored works alongside with some of his newest creations. Looking into the insights of the soul and the stories of our lives and the characters around it, "Lovers of the Lost" is a fine read and a strong pick for poetry readers. "Where I Live": You will come into an antique town/whose houses move apart/as if you'd interrupted/a private discussion. This is the place/you must pass through to get there./Imagining lives tucked in like china plates, continue driving./Beyond the landscaped streets,/beyond the last colonial gas station/and unsolved by zoning,/is a road. It will take you/to old farmhouses and trees/with car-tire swings./Signs will announce hairdressing/and nightcrawlers./The timothy grass will run beside you/all the way to where I live.


The Architecture Shelf

Contemporary Houses
Antonio Corcuera and Cristian Campos
H. F. Ullmann Publishing
c/o Innovative Logistics
575 Prospect St., Ste 301, Lakewood, NJ 08701
9783833124945, $39.99, www.loftpublications.com

The home is not something factory produced and just like anything else. "Contemporary Houses" is a photography coffee table book as the people at Ullmann publishing present a major collection of the best residential projects that have been constructed in recent years. From beach houses, to mountain getaways, to glass houses, to international designs, and much more, the book proves a worthy inspiration for anyone trying to be creative with their homes construction, or just curious in the most recent wave of artistic architecture. "Contemporary Houses" is a wonderful pick for a coffee table or as a study in home building innovation.

OAB
Carlos Ferrater & Partners
Actar D
575 Prospect St., Ste 301, Lakewood, NJ 08701
9788492861231, $59.95

Throughout the world, architects are daring not only to make highly efficient and structurally sound buildings, but beautiful works as well. "OAB: Office Architecture in Barcelona" is a collection of architecture photography from Carlos Ferrater & Partners as looks at the wondrous developments that have been built in one of Spain's most famous cities, focusing on black and white and full color photography throughout. It also contains discussion and reviews of modern architecture concepts and proves to be quite the fascinating read. For those with a love of modern architecture, "OAB" will prove to quite the coffee table book choice, and a solid addition for community library architecture and photography collections.


The Fashion Shelf

American Menswear
Daniel Delis Hill
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037, Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896727229, $59.95, www.ttupresss.org

Good fashion has never known gender. "American Menswear: From the Civil War to the Twenty-First Century" is a historical study of men's fashions throughout the past century and a half, tracing the social trends of the time from old fashioned tailors to the widening spread to the common people, to how it has changed with technologies such as radio, television, and the internet. Proving to be a fascinating read not just to see the evolution of fashion, but as an analysis of the effects of history, "American Menswear" is an excellent pick and shouldn't be missed by community and college library collections focusing on fashion and history.


The Science Shelf

Quantitative Understanding of Biosystems
Thomas M. Nordlund
CRC Press
6000 NW Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 300
Boca Raton, FL 33487
9781420089721 $89.95 www.crcpress.com

Thomas M. Nordlund (associate professor in the Department of Physics, University of Alabama at Birmingham) presents Quantitative Understanding of Biosystems: An Introduction to Biophysics, a superb pedagogical textbook about the behavior and properties of the microscopic structures that form the essential building blocks of living systems. Chapters cover the biological physics of macromolecules, subcellular structures, and whole cells, as well as interactions with light. Full-color illustrations aid the student in their understanding of how to use mathematical tools (graphing, calculus, simple differential equations, diagrammatic analysis, and more) to better grasp, analyze, and project solutions to problems involving the quantitative characterization of biosystems. An accompanying CD-ROM offers "active" versions of Excel graphs and diagrams listed in the text, and links to mathematical, biological, and biochemical source data. Quantitative Understanding of Biosystems lives up to its title and is an excellent college text or self-instruction manual for advanced biophysics science students, although a solid grasp of basic calculus is presupposed.

Arc Hydro Groundwater
Gil Strassberg, Norman L. Jones, David R. Maidment
ESRI Press
380 New York St., Redlands, CA 92373-8100
9781589481985, $64.95, www.amazon.com

There are bounds of untapped resources just below us all. "Arc Hydro Groundwater: GIS for Hydrogeology" looks at how geographic information systems(GIS) can be used to find groundwater systems with the ArcGIS software. Designed for use by geologists for extensive study sing technology, Strassberg and his collaborators come together to put forth a highly useful resource for troubleshooting and using the programs to their fullest. From 3D representation to simulating times, estimating volume, and much more, "Arc Hydro Groundwater" is a textbook resource designed for geologists and will serve quite well in community and college library science, geology, and technical collections.


The Art Shelf

Awakening Creativity
Lily Yeh
New Village Press
PO Box 3049, Oakland, CA 94609
9780981559377, $34.95, www.newvillagepress.net

Creativity is a certain flare of spirit that is truly unlike anything else. "Awakening Creativity: Dandelion School Blossoms" is a call for social change through creativity from Lily Yeh, as she shares her own drive to make the world a better place through art and tells her story of turning a wasted factory space in Beijing into something that is so much more - the Dandelion school, aimed at the local children to give them inspiration for a better future. With a certain dedication, "Awakening Creativity" comes with a powerful message that definitely should not be overlooked.

Folk Treasures of Mexico
Marion Oettinger, Jr.
Arte Publico Press
452 Cullen Performance Hall, Houston, TX 77204-2004
9781558855953, $39.95, www.artepublicopress.com

Mexico is a nation of culture clashes, and has formed a culture all its own over the past five hundred years. "Folk Treasures of Mexico" examines the art and culture of Mexico through its countless works that are presented over the centuries, in full color. Pottery, trinkets, sculptures, toys, and more, Marion Oettinger narrates this walk through the evolution of Mexican art and how the art, much like the people, takes its influences in many directions. "Folk Treasures of Mexico" is a choice pick for any art and cultural collection, very highly recommended.


The Gardening Shelf

Fine Gardening Tips for Container Gardening
Editors of Fine Gardening
Taunton Press
63 South Main Street
PO Box 5507, Newtown, CT 06470-5507
9781600853401, $19.95, www.taunton.com

When you don't leave the soil to the power of nature, your must emulate it with your own care. "Fine Gardening: Tips for Container Gardening" is a guide for those who are using separate containers to grow their chosen gardens for whatever purpose, be it flowers, vegetables, herbs, and much more. With a certain gardening wisdom, the editors of Fine Gardening magazine will guide readers through everything they need to know to make colorful, beautiful, useful, and efficient gardening when using containers instead of natural soil. "Fine Gardening" is a thoughtful read, very highly recommended.


The International Studies Shelf

Fambul Tok
John Caulker, Libby Hoffman, and Sara Terry
Umbrage
111 Front Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167218, $40.00, www.umbragebooks.com

Mending a broken community is a rough endeavor, especially through civil war. "Fambul Tok" brings together the families and communities of Sierra Leone, a region devastated by eleven years of civil war, as John Caulker, Libby Hoffman, and Sara Terry come together to provide a picture of a people ready to get their lives back on the right track and pushing themselves for reconciliation. Constructed to accompany the documentary film of the same name, "Fambul Tok" is a thoughtful tracing of a people from war back to community.


The Political Science Shelf

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the American Presidency
Alan Axelrod
Alpha
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson Street, new York, NY 10014
9781592579129, $22.00, www.idiotsguides.com

One of the most prestigious positions in the world, The presidency of the United States is something worth knowing about. "The Complete Idiot's Guide to the American Presidency" discusses the history of the office from the earliest days under Washington and the precedents he set through the ages and scandals and triumphs that come with the office. Explaining how the American federal government morphed into what it is today, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to the American Presidency" is a fun and informative read that shouldn't be overlooked.


The Biography Shelf

The Autobiography of Margaret E.P. Gordon 1866-1966
Margaret E.P. Gordon, author
Claudia Bushman, editor
Utah State University Press
7800 Old Main Hill, Logan, Utah 84322
9780874217841 $34.95 www.USUPress.org

The Autobiography of Margaret E.P. Gordon 1866-1966 is the firsthand testimony of a true pioneer woman with a sharp mind for accuracy and detail. Her original memoir was further edited, framed and crystalized through the meticulous research of her descendant Claudia Bushman. The result is the story of a strong-willed and truly remarkable woman, extensively enhanced with a wealth of footnotes clarifying key points. A handful of vintage black-and-white photographs further enriches this autobiography that superbly captures the challenges of survival in America, let alone prosperity, from the frontier years to the repercussions of two world wars and beyond. Highly recommended.

Before We Went Wireless
Ivor Hughes & David Ellis Evans
Images from the Past
PO Box 137, Bennington, VT 05201
9781884592539, $35.00, www.imagesfromthepast.com

Wireless technology caught on well before the twenty first century. "Before We Went Wireless: David Edward Hughes FRS, His Life, Inventions, and Discoveries, 1829-1900" looks at the man who helped make telegraphs wireless, offering the first step into the medium before radio and television pushed it further and it became what it is today. A man who was at first a musician, David Edward Hughes' story is as remarkable as it is important in the development of modern technology, following his journey into making what no one thought possible. "Before We Went Wireless" is an excellent addition to biography collections with a focus on technology history.

Life of Andrew Jackson
John S. Jenkins
Attic Books
c/o New Leaf Publishing Group
PO Box 726, Green Forest, AR 72638
9780890516034, $19.99, www.attic-books.net

Andrew Jackson is one of the most controversial figures in early American history. "Life of Andrew Jackson" was a biography written about the man in 1850, thirteen years after the former president's death. A faithful reproduction of the era, this provides a more contemporary and historical perspective of this figure's work and the immediate response of the American people. "Life of Andrew Jackson" tells the story of a remarkable historical figure through a perspective rarely used.


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

Latin American Cinemas
Nayibe Bermudez Barrios
University of Calgary Press
2500 University Drive NW
Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 1N4
9781552385142, $34.95, www.uofcpress.com

Quickly gaining prominence, Latin America is becoming an artistic force in today's world. "Latin American Cinemas: Local Views and Transnational Connections" looks at modern Latin cinema and the themes throughout them, and how they talk to today's people. With a focus on the need for unity among the countries while trying to remain individual, the strong nature of sexuality in film, and Latin America's place in the world, "Latin American Cinemas" is a scholarly look at this rapidly growing medium in a rising region in today's world.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

Answering Auschwitz
Stanislao G. Pugilese
Fordham University Press
University Box L
2546 Belmont Ave, Bronx, New York 10458
9780823233595, $25.00, www.fordhampress.com

When there is no why is when students of history and life are driven the most crazy. "Answering Auschwitz: Primo Levi's Science and Humanism After the Fall" is a series of essays discussing the work of Primo Levi, who after his own endeavor in the concentration camps, became a prolific man of art, science, and writing. These writers come together to evaluate Levi's unique work and try to answer the questions that Levi himself could never quite grasp the answers for. "Answering Auschwitz" is an excellent and scholarly addition to any Holocaust studies collection.


The Psychology Shelf

Risky Business
Stephen J. Foster
Inner City Books
PO Box 1271, Station Q, Toronto, ON M4T 2P4
9781894574334, $25.00, www.innercitybooks.net

How does the human mind react to environmental crisis? "Risky Business: A Jungian View of Environmental Disasters and the Nature of Archetype" brings Jungian psychology to the discussion to analyze how communities rise to environmental concern and how it is best answered. Analyzing self, the group, the power of mythology, industrialization, and much more, "Risky Business" offers a scholarly analysis of how serious crisis in nature plays out in our minds and drives us to action or inaction, very highly recommended for environmental and psychology collections.

Treating Dementia in Context
Susan M. McCurry & Claudia Drossel
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
9781433809361, $69.95, www.apa.org

No age-driven mental disorder is one size fits all. "Treating Dementia in Context: A Step-by-Step Guide to Working with Individuals and Families" discusses the failing mental facilities that often come at aging people, called in general, dementia. Aimed at any of those who are involved in the many levels of care, from family to psychologist and everything in between. The chapters in general aim at improving the quality of life for the caregiver and the patient and sustaining the relationship for the decades it may endure. Studious and scholarly, McCurry and Drossel apply their expertise well in making "Treating Dementia in Context" a resource that should not be overlooked by any professional or caregiver who is facing a patient facing the many stages of dementia.


The Travel Shelf

Cafe Life Sydney
Tamata Thiessen
Interlink Books
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060-1804
9781566568265, $20.00, www.interlinkbooks.com

There's more to it than a good cup of coffee. "Cafe Life Sydney: A Guide to the Neighborhood Cafes of Australia's Harbour City" is a blend of travel guide and photography from Tamata Thiessen as she offers a tour of the best coffee houses in Sydney and what they offer besides a pick me up. With full color photos and a history of each establishment, "Cafe Life Sydney" is an excellent pick for any soon to be Australia traveler.


The Literary Shelf

Daniel Stein, Interpreter
Ludmila Ulitskaya
Overlook Duckworth
141 Wooster Street, New York, NY 10012
9781590203200, $27.95, www.overlookpress.com

Survival leads us down some very strange roads. "Daniel Stein, Interpreter" is a novel heavily inspired by the life of Oswald Rufeisen. Through one life time, Daniel works with the Gestapo, becomes a Catholic priest, goes to Israel, and much more. Through working with everyone, Daniel comes to understand the world much better. A novel originally written in Russian by Ludmila Ulitskaya and masterfully translated by Arch Tait, "Daniel Stein, Interpreter" is a riveting read of literary historical fiction, a grade-A pick for any library collection catering to the genre.


The Sports Shelf

Golf Foreplay
Ken Altshuler
Sellers Publishing
161 John Roberts Road, South Portland, ME 04106
9781416206293, $15.95, www.sellerspublishing.com

Golf has never been a game of brawn and strength, but of technique - something that can be learned. "Golf Foreplay: Everything You Need to Know About the Game -- Before You Try to Hit The Sweet Spot" is a guide to those who want to get a mental leg up on the challenges of the sport. From history to etiquette, to tips on technique, choosing your gear, and evaluating your handicap, "Golf Foreplay" is an everything you need to know guide to not look like a complete chump when you step onto the golf course.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Historical Jesus
Anthony Le Donne
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
2140 Oak Industrial Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802865267, $12.00, www.eerdmans.com

Regardless of their faiths, many historians agree there was a man named Jesus in Israel two thousand years ago. "Historical Jesus: What Can We Know and How Can We Know It?" discusses Jesus in history, trying to gain a better image of Jesus the man, and perhaps in the process gain a greater understanding in faith and history. Anthony Le Donne seeks to find the real story of Jesus's relationship with his mother, his ministry, and how he rebelled against the temples that held much of the religious power of their era. "Historical Jesus" is a fascinating read that looks at Jesus through both the eyes of faith and the eyes of history.

In the Spirit of St. Francis & The Sultan
George Dardess & Marvin L. Krier Mich
Orbis Books
Price Bldg, Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545
9781570759079, $20.00, www.orbisbooks.com

Faith is not a competition, so why does much of the world treat it as such? "In the Spirit of St. Francis & The Sultan: Catholics and Muslims Working Together for the Common Good" looks at both history and the modern day, and encourages a union of faith and states that enmity between the faiths is something that should be squashed rather than embraced like it seems to be so strongly today. Looking at this historical event as George Dardess & Marvin L. Krier Mich, offering comparisons and differences between the faiths but ultimately speaking on that the goal of these two faiths has one purpose which should be embraced - a better world for mankind. With a strong message, "In the Spirit of St. Francis & The Sultan" is a scholarly read that shouldn't be overlooked in any modern theological discussion, and for community and college religion collections.


The Economics Shelf

The Impact of Health Insurance in Low and Middle-Income Countries
Maria-Luisa Escobar, et al.
Brookings Institution Press
1775 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780815705468, $22.95, www.brookings.edu

When money is tight, health is usually the first thing to go. The editorial collaboration of Maria-Luisa Escobar, Charles C. Griffin, R. Paul Shaw, "The Impact of Health Insurance in Low and Middle-Income Countries" analyzes how many middling and lower money countries have tested new health care systems, trying reforms. Years later, Maria-Luisa Escobar and her collaborators put together a collection of essays dedicated to studying the effects of these policies in developing countries, offering them as evidence for the modern health care debate that continues around the world. "The Impact of Health Insurance in Low and Middle-Income Countries" is a studious and solidly recommended read for any social issues or health collection.


The Nautical Shelf

Liffey Ships & Shipbuilding
Pat Sweeney
Mercier History
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781856356855, $29.95, www.mercierpress.ie

Belfast had no monopoly on Ireland's ship building industry. "Liffey Ships & Shipbuilding" traces the history surrounding the shipbuilding industry in Dublin, focusing primarily on the docks known as the Liffey. Offering quite the comprehensive history tracing the development of the shipyard with its contributions to both world war and its fall as aviation took the stage, "Liffey Ships & Shipbuilding" is filled with black and white photos and proves to be quite the history lesson, especially for those with a love for all things nautical.

Essential Boat Maintenance
Pat Manley & Rupert Holmes
Sheridan House
145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
9781574093056, $34.95, www.sheridanhouse.com

You can't risk something going awry when you're miles into the ocean. "Essential Boat Maintenance: A Comprehensive Guide to Boat Improvement, Refitting and Repair" is a guide for keeping one's boat seaworthy and then some, with tips and advice on the many aspects of keeping a boat clean and worthy of use. From electrical issues to cosmetic issues to dealing with problems while at sea, "Essential Boat Maintenance" is a very useful resource for anyone who has a hobby or professional interest in boat maintenance.


The Archaeology Shelf

Philip's City
Fred Strickert
Liturgical Press
PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814657522, $39.95, www.litpress.org

As time goes on, we make connections to the legends and history that make our world. "Philip's City: From Bethsaida to Julias" discusses the archeological uncovering of et-Tell, what many of those working on the process believe to be from the Iron Age, biblical times and the time of David. Fred Strickert presents a fascinating study of how the temple and city fell into ruin, and makes for a thoughtful and important read for any curios about this period of history. "Philip's City" is a strong addition to history collections with a focus on the era of the Bible.

Handbook of Forensic Archeology & Anthropology
Soren Blau & Douglas H. Ubelaker, editors
Left Coast Press
1630 North Main Street, #400, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
9781611327939, $49.95, www.lcoastpress.com

Science has a useful habit of mixing together to advance many frontiers. "Handbook of Forensic Archeology & Anthropology" is a collection of essays and writings from various authors as they discuss the blending of these disciplines and what it can mean for both sciences. Although forensic science is usually attached to criminal justice, it focuses on using a bit of detective work which is often needed to understand the life and nature of our ancient ancestors, and the evolution of culture. Filled with five hundred pages of reference, indexes, figures, and more, "Handbook of Forensic Archeology & Anthropology" is an excellent and recommended addition to any educational, anthropology, or social science textbook collection.


The Terrorism Studies Shelf

Secret Affairs
Mark Curtis
Serpent's Tail
c/o Meryl Zegarek Public Relations
255 West 108th Street, Suite 901, NY, NY 10025
sarah.ward@profilebooks.com
9781846687631, $17.95, www.serpentstail.com

The thirst for oil is not America's alone. "Secret Affairs: Britain's Collusion with Radical Islam" is a study of declassified government files to reveal that the United Kingdom has had its hand in the rise of global terrorism, stating that the nation's thirst for oil caused it to support radical Islamic groups around the world and how some of the more cold and calculated spirit of the British Empire never faded. "Secret Affairs" is a fascinating read about where to place the blame in today's serious problem with radical Islam.


The Photography Shelf

English Ruins
Jeremy Musson
Merrell Publishers
38 High Avenue, 4th floor, Nyack, New York 10960
60 Cycle Media (publicity)
38 High Ave #1 Nyack, NY 10960
9781858945439, $50.00, www.merrellpublishers.com

England's history is long and ancient, and its remnants are there to see for anyone who seeks them. "English Ruins" is a blend of photography, history, and travel, as Jeremy Musson and photographer Paul Barker guide readers through the remnants of England's history that are spread throughout its countryside. Musson discusses the abandoned abbeys, castles, industrial ruins and much more, discussing their purpose in their prime and what has become of them. With a certain plea calling for a restoration movement, "English Ruins" is a wondrous full color photography book for anyone with a love of history and architecture.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

All-Breed Dog Grooming
Kennel Club of Great Britain
TFH Publications
1 TFH Plaza
Third and Union Avenues, Neptunes, NJ 07753
9780793806478, $39.95, www.tfh.com

A good looking dog can boost the confidence of the master, as well as leave the dog feeling happy themselves. "All-Breed Dog Grooming" is a comprehensive guide designed to help readers groom their own dog with many breeds to get them to the point of looking their very best. Composed by dog breeding experts, over a hundred and fifty different breeds are covered with tips and tricks for grooming them well and keeping the coats healthy. "All-Breed Dog Grooming" is a highly useful resource for anyone who wants a do it yourself approach to keeping their dog clean, groomed, and happy.


The Memoir Shelf

Deaf in DC
Madan Vashista
Gallaudet University Press
800 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002-3695
9781563684814, $29.95, www.gupress.gallaudet.edu

Deafness is an interesting condition, as you can perform as well as anyone else, but that one missing aspect- hearing, can prove damning. "Deaf in DC" is a memoir from Madan Vasishta, a man whose first memoir allowed him a scholarship at Gallaudet University, one of the most famous Deaf universities in the world. Showing a picture of the differences in being deaf in India and America and the discrimination that he still faces as a man with a PhD for not only his deafness but the color of his skin, "Deaf in DC" is a fascinating memoir for any memoir or Deaf studies collection.

The Interpreter's Journal
Benjawan Poomsan Becker
Paiboon Publishing
1442A Walnut Street
PO Box #256, Berkeley, CA 94709
9781887521994, $17.00, www.paiboonpublishing.com

In the information age, communication is king. "The Interpreter's Journal" is a memoir from Benjawan Poomsan Becker, a professional interpreter versed in Thai, Lao, and English. Discussing the importance of translation in today's world, the cultural barriers throughout our world and how they are overcome, her story comes out honest and to the point, as she tells a thoughtful story of coping with being new to the United States and the details of her career. "The Interpreter's Journal" is a unique memoir about a career that is vital to our country, but rarely gets the attention it deserves.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Sage Tales
Burton L. Visotzky
Jewish Lights Publishing
Sunset Farms Offices, Route 4
PO Box 237, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781580234566, $24.99, www.jewishlights.com

Good wisdom is timeless, valued at any level of technology and location. "Sage Tales: Wisdom and Wonder from the Rabbis of the Talmud" is a collection of traditional ancient Jewish stories as Rabbi Burton L. Visotzky shares these stories and brings to light their morales and wisdom and how they remain reverent even after thousands of years have passed. Blending education, spirituality, and more, "Sage Tales" is a core addition to any Judaic studies collection, enthusiastically recommended.

Festivals of Faith
Norman Lamm
KTAV
930 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
9781602801745, $27.50, www.ktav.com

In anticipation for celebration, it's easy to forget the why. "Festivals of Faith: Reflections on The Jewish Holidays" is a discussion from Rabbi Norman Lamm as he presents his studies and thoughts on the many holidays throughout the year, starting with Rosh Hashanah and ending with Tish'ah Be-Av, presenting the story of each of the holiday and what they should mean to all of us, and what to keep in mind in the observance and celebration. "Festivals of Faith" is an excellent addition to any Judaic studies collection.


The Library CD Shelf

Songs of Innocence & Experience
Lisa Howard
Ghost Light Records
c/o Miller Wright & Associates, Inc. (publicity)
1650 Broadway, Suite 1210, New York, NY 10019
miller@millerwright.com
$17.41 www.GhostlightRecords.com www.millerwright.com

Songs of Innocence & Experience: The Music of William Finn has world-class theatrical performer Lisa Howard perform some of the finest songs by Tony Award-winning composer William Finn. Music Director Vadim Feichtner leads a 14-piece band as well as backup vocalists to support Lisa Howard's crystal clear voice as she brings to life emotionally moving songs about the trials and tribulations of parenthood, family, love, and the ever-onward march of time. A joy to listen to and share, Songs of Innocence and Experience is also highly recommended as a beautiful Mother's Day gift. The tracks are "Listen To The Best", "Trina's Song/I Have Found", "I Don't Know Why I Love You" (duet with Derrick Baskin), "Sailing", "Bad Boy", "How To Make Delicious Chocolate Pudding", "When The Earth Stopped Turning", "Hold My Baby Back", "Father To Son/That's Enough For Me", "Infinite Joy", and "Song of Innocence and Experience".

Revolve
La Cherga
Asphalt Tango Records
c/o Flipswitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207, Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$30.00 www.flipswitchPR.com www.asphalt-tango.de

Revolve is the latest album by La Cherga, an Austria-based, pan-Balkan band founded a former Croatian punk musician and dub DJ. Elements of funk, rock, and soul fuse in music that captures the spirit of Sarajevo - people and land whose spirit continue to shine despite the toll of a decade of war. Brimming with vigor and the drive to conserve the core traditions of a culture as well as the yearning to blaze a fresh creative trail, Revolve is an excellent addition to international music shelves and highly recommended. The tracks are "Melaha" (4:47), "Sufi Dub" (4:22), "Resolve & Evolve" (3:30), "One" (3:47), "Votka Dot Kom" (4:17), "Vi" (4:09), "Afgan" (4:43), "Make a Change" (4:00), "Last Temptation" (3:41), "Rise Up" (3:25), and "Voda" (4:37).

Dakar-Kingston
Youssou Ndour
Rock Paper Scissors (publicity)
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2, Bloomington, IN 47404
$15.46 www.rockpaperscissors.biz

Dakar-Kingston is a pan-African album by reggae musician and citizen's activist Youssou N'Dour. N'Dour calls for unity, stressing that what Africans have in common is far more important than their differences. The compelling rhythms and call-to-action lyrics of Dakar- Kingston make it an unforgettable, motivating listening experience, highly recommended. The tracks are "Marley", "Medina", "Joker", "Bololene", "Bamba", "Black Woman", "Survie", "Africa Dreams Again", "Diarr Diarr", "Don't Walk Away", Bagn Len", "Leteuma", "Pitch Me", and "Redemption Song". 58 min. 43 sec.

New Life
Paul Cardall
www.PaulCardall.com
Shadow Mountain Records
Box 30178, Salt Lake City, Utah 84130-0178
$16.64 www.ShadowMountainRecords.com

Expert pianist Paul Cardall presents New Life, an album reflecting upon another's sacrifice that allows him to survive - for Cardall was born with a congenital heart disease, and after a lifetime of heart operations and a year-long wait for a transplant, he has received another man's heart. New Life is a profound expression of gratitude and admiration, as well as a glimpse into the eternal quest for spiritual enlightenment. The tracks are "The Traveler", "Letting Go", "Delayed", "Life and Death", "Gracie's Theme", "Journey Within", "Sign of Affection", "Restless Hope", "Coming Home", "Father in Heaven", "Sweet Is The Work", "New Life", "Gratitude", and "Come Thou Fount". A bonus DVD also offers Cardall's first live performance since receiving his transplant. Also published by Shadow Mountain Records is the highly recommended spiritual album "We Believe: Songs for Youth 2011" ($16.44) by Christian performer Jenny Phillips, a moving album of Sabbath-appropriate music to be enjoyed by youth, parents, and churchgoers.

Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85017
www.canyonrecords.com 1-800-268-1141

Three new releases from Canyon Records uphold their standing as a premier source for albums of authentic Native American music. Performed by the Porcupine Singers, "Lakota Classics: Past and Present, Vol. 1" ($15.75, 51 min. 18 sec.) is a superb rendition of Lakota cultural melodies ranging from memorial music to songs for princesses to a theme in honor of World War II veterans. Grammy-nominated singer Kevin Yazzie presents "Love: Songs of the Native American Church" ($15.76, 64 min. 24 sec.), an album rich in reverence for the divine as well as promoting the greatness of harmony between family, friends, and community. "Handprints of Our People" ($13.80, 67 min. 20 sec.) is performed by Aaron White (Navajo/Ute) and Anthony Wakeman (Pottawatomi/Lakota) and reaches out to connect with the vibrant core of life itself. The thoughtful melodies reflect on the eternal quest for growth, change, and balance in this profound and emotionally moving audio journey. All three are highly recommended as choice picks for Native American music collections.


The Library DVD Shelf

Kings of Pastry
A film by Chris Hegedus and D.A. Pennebaker
First Run Features
630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213, New York, NY 10036
$27.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com

Kings of Pastry is an extraordinary DVD capturing the no-holds-barred competition for the Meilleurs Ouvriers de France, France's Nobel Prize for pastry. Sixteen of the greatest and most talented chefs in a nation with a rich culinary history apply themselves to create their most exceptional desserts - from spun-sugar sweets to gravity-defying constructions. Even the occasional failure and disaster resulting from reaching just a little bit further than the laws of gravity and physics allow makes for a mouth-watering and soul-stirring presentation. Expert filmmakers Chris Hegedus and D.A. Pennebaker secured permission to capture this never-before- filmed event; their documentary also reveals the efforts of chef Jacquy Pfeiffer, co-founder of Chicago's French Pastry School, who returns to his childhood home in Alsace to practice for this grueling competition. Moments of anxiety, inspiration, struggle, joy, and complete culinary delight are all perfectly preserved in this extraordinary DVD of real-life Iron (Pastry) Chefs. 84 min.

Robin of Sherwood Set 1
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598285888 $79.99 www.acornonline.com

Robin of Sherwood Set 1 is the Blu-ray collection of all thirteen epsiodes from seasons 1 and 2 of this dramatic adaptation of a legend. Starring Michael Praed as the heroic Robin of Loxley, Ray Winstone as a mad Will Scarlet, and Nickolas Grace as the greedy and cunning Sheriff of Nottingham, Robin of Sherwood Set 1 is shot entirely on-location amidst historic English castles and pastoral countryside. Acclaimed Irish band Clannad provides the ethereal and beautiful music of this captivating dramatic production. Eight hours of special features enhance Robin of Sherwood Set 1, including five episode commentaries, a behind-the-scenes documentary, photo galleries with nearly 500 images, music-only tracks for four episodes, new featurettes, outtakes, PDF material of original story treatment and several scripts, and more. A 40-page booklet with extensive production notes rounds out this definitive edition of a classic. Highly recommended, especially as a gift to anyone who enjoys high-quality Blu-ray television. 3 Blu-ray discs plus 1 bonus DVD, 700 min. plus bonus, 1080p/full-screen (some bonus material 480p/widescreen), English and Polish subtitles.

Genius of Britain
Athena
c/o Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
$59.99 www.AthenaLearning.com www.acornonline.com

Genius of Britain: The Scientists Who Changed the World is a DVD thinpack set profiling some of the most extraordinary and brilliant British minds, and their extraordinary contributions to global scientific knowledge. Episodes are framed around modern-day geniuses analyzing the legacy of historic pioneers - from Stephen Hawking's view of Isaac Newton, to evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins' thoughts on Alfred Russel Wallace. A twelve-page viewer's guide plus a bonus disc "Stephen Hawking and the Theory of Everything" round out this exceptional and educational collection. Highly recommended. 5 episodes on 2 DVDs plus bonus disc, 236 min. plus 90 min. bonus, widescreen, SDH subtitles.

Murdoch Mysteries Season 3
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
www.acornonline.com
9781598286625 $69.99 Blu-ray / $59.99 DVD

Available as a 3-disc Blu-ray or 4-volume DVD boxed set, Murdoch Mysteries Season 3 collected the Gemini-nominated British mystery series featuring Toronto police detective William Murdoch (played by Yannick Bisson), an intellectual who keeps abreast of the latest in Victorian-era science, with the aid of an expert forensic pathologist (played by Gemini winner Helene Joy). Murdoch's efforts lead him to join forces with H.G. Wells and Nikola Tesla in the course of his efforts to uncover the criminals behind crimes ranging from murder to art forgery. Murdoch even puts the burgeoning new science of psychology to the test in this captivating collection. Bonus features include behind-the-scenes featurettes and an episode 13 alternate ending! 13 episodes, 624 min. plus bonus, 1080p/16:9 widescreen, SDH subtitles.

Identity: Catching the Crooks Who Steal Lives
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598285604 $39.99 www.acornonline.com

Identity: Catching the Crooks Who Steal Lives is a tense British mystery focusing on the police whose job it is to combat one of the fastest-growing criminal ventures: identity theft. DSI Martha Lawson (played by Keeley Hawes) has put together the best of the best for her investigative team: undercover specialist DI John Bloom (Aidan Gillen), ambition-driven DS Anthony Wareing (Shaun Peaks), arrogant DC Jose Rodriguez (Elyes Gabel), and IT expert Tessa Stein (Holly Aird); all are exceptionally talented, but could their interpersonal conflicts destroy the success they've achieved? The motives of the identity thieves they track down range from greed to a much more ruthless drive to conceal reprehensible actions. Investigative work, and the application of cutting-edge technology distinguish this superb modern police drama; bonus features include text interviews with the cast and cast filmographies. 2 DVDs, 6 episodes, 279 min., widescreen, SDH subtitles.

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

The new Discoveries... Vietnam series of widescreen, high-definition DVDs reveals the rich culture and soul-stirring beauty of Vietnam. "A 21st Century Awakening" (9781934682647) reveals daily life in modern-day Vietnam, with particular emphasis on the nation's amazing economic transformation into a notable world power. From the country's first university, the Temple of Literature, to the talented musicians of the Vietnam National Academy of Music, to the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, to the unique traditional dress that women wear, "A 21st Century Awakening" paints a vivid picture of both preserved traditions and contemporary culture. "Rice Baskets to World Heritage" (9781934682654) brings the viewer on a tour of how life has drastically improved for Vietnamese farmers - the near-famine caused by the collective farming rules of the 1972 Communist government is now but a memory. "Historic Treasures" (9781934682661) explores the most revered and historic sites in the nation, including Ba Dinh Square, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hue's Citadel, and much more. All three installments feature stunning photography and are exceptional additions to any public library DVD collection.

The Brain series
Learning ZoneXPress
PO Box 1022, Owatonna, MN 55060
www.learningzonexpress.com
$79.95 each / $219.95 set www.amazon.com

Two educational DVDs from Learning ZoneXPress, intended for viewers from grade 7 to adult, are brimming with invaluable information about brain development in young people. "The Brain: Activity, Sleep & Boredom" (20 min.) explores how all three of its titular aspects are crucial for developing brains. Physical activity is vital to keep the brain healthy as well as the body; sleep is indispensable to the brain's daily recuperation; and even simple boredom, or "doing nothing", plays a critical role to helping the brain process the world around it, and even the cornerstone to stimulating creativity. "The Brain: Pattern, Structure & Novelty" (21 min.) explores the importance of both structure and innovation in aiding young children with developing brains. Stability is necessary to help children feel secure and learn, but their brains are always in search of new interests to avoid boredom! Striking the proper balance between familiarity and exciting new surprises is essential to encourage learning and development. "The Brain: Developing Memory in Developing Brains" rounds out this exceptional series, highly recommended especially for public or grade school/high school DVD libraries and homeroom viewing.


The Philosophy Shelf

In Search of Civilization
John Armstrong
Graywolf Press
250 Third Avenue North, Suite 600
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555975807, $24.00, www.graywolfpress.org

Civilization is a term that has become hardly civilized. "In Search of Civilization: Remaking a Tarnished Idea" is a discussion of civilization and the very definition of the word. Too long it has been used as elitism, snubbing less technologically advanced cultures or cultures that are simply different. Author John Armstrong discusses the ideas and seeks to remind people that culture and civilization has many faces and definitions, using personal experience to blend in memoir to make for an intriguing read. "In Search of Civilization" is an enlightening and thoughtful read that will be hard to overlook.

What Place for the A Priori?
Michael J. Shaffer and Michael L. Veber, editors
Open Court Publishing Company
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60601
9780812696608 $44.95 www.opencourtbooks.com

What Place for the A Priori? is an anthology of essays by philosophers grappling with a conundrum dating back to at least the time of Plato and Aristotle: does "a priori" knowledge (that is, knowledge that does not require any appeal to experience) exist, and if so, how does it relate to other types of knowledge? Individual essays include "Evidence-based Psychotherapy: Values and the A Priori", "The Philosophical Insignificance of A Priori Knowledge", "A Dilemma for Naturalized Epistemology?", "A Priori Conjectural Knowledge in Physics: The Comprehensibility of the Universe" and much more. The result is a scholarly anthology that applies rigorous reasoning to an age-old contemplative prospect, and an excellent addition to college library philosophy collections.


The Native American Shelf

Thus Fell Tecumseh
Frank E. Kuron
Kuron Publishing
9780615415222, $21.95, www.amazon.com

The great Shawnee Chief Tecumseh perished in the Battle of the Thames in 1813. Colonel Johnson claimed that he killed Tecumseh, and even turned his alleged victory into a rhyming slogan that helped him win the vice-presidency of the United States in 1836, but was he really the one responsible? "Thus Fell Tecumseh" examines the mystery of Tecumseh's death, comparing accounts from diverse sources and meticulously weeding fiction from fact. Reconstructing Tecumseh's fateful last battle from British, Indian, American and Canadian testimonies, "Thus Fell Tecumseh" ultimately reveals who historical evidence really points to as dealing the killing blow. An excellent addition to Native American and American History shelves.


The Military Shelf

Grab Their Belts To Fight Them
Warren Wilkins
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591149613 $35.95 www.navalinstitute.org

Grab Their Belts To Fight Them: The Viet Cong's Big-Unit War Against the U.S., 1965-1966 is an analytical study of the early battles of the war between the Communist Vietnamese and the South Vietnamese and American forces, with especial attention paid to the tactics and strategies used by the Communist Vietnamese. In 1965 and 1966, the Communist Vietnamese forces adopted an aggressive tactic of "big unit" combat, intended to quickly and thoroughly yield a decisive victory. Yet the Communist Vietnamese did not have the firepower or mobility to support their offensive strategy, and their failure would force them to change tactics - as well as inducing the decision to launch the Tet Offensive. Grab Their Belts To Fight Them draws heavily upon an abundance of Communist sources to reinforce its portrait of the Communist Vietnamese perspective, including but not limited to Communist memoirs, unit histories, battlefield studies and reconstructions, and much more. The result is an absolutely invaluable contribution to military history shelves, especially those with a focus on the Vietnam War.


The Civil War Shelf

Defeating Lee
Lawrence A. Kreiser, Jr
Indiana University Press
601 North Morton Street
Bloomington, IN 47404-3797
9780253356161 $34.95 www.iupress.indiana.edu

Defeating Lee: A History of the Second Corps Army of the Potomac is an in-depth account of the Second Corps of the Union Army. Their involvement in the American Civil War included storming the Bloody Lane at Antietam, breaking Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg; blocking the Confederate retreat at Appomattox; and much more. They paid a high price for their service; 40,000 of the 100,000 men in the Second Corps were killed, wounded, or captured during the course of the war, the highest numerical losses of any Federal corps. The only previous in-depth history of the Second Corps was written in 1887 by former staff officer Francis Walker; Defeating Lee takes a modern, analytical approach to understanding the unit's history from its creation to the efforts of its veterans. A handful of black-and-white photographs as well as extensive appendices and notes round out this excellent contribution to Civil War history shelves.

The Irish General: Thomas Francis Meagher
Paul R. Wylie
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806141855 $19.95 www.oupress.com

Independent researcher and retired attorney Paul R. Wylie presents The Irish General: Thomas Francis Meagher, an in-depth biography of loyal Irishman, Civil War general, and frontier governor Thomas Francis Meagher. At his best, he has been lauded for his greatness; at his worst, he has been categorized as a hopeless drunkard. The Irish General follows Meagher from his childhood, to his involvement in the Irish revolution of 1848, exile to Tasmania, journey to New York, work as the editor of the "Irish News", and more. Meagher served on the side of the Union during the Civil War, and earned the rank of brigadier general; he was in charge of the legendary Irish Brigade during the Seven Days Battles, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville. Meagher's years as acting governor of Montana Territory are obscured by conflicting claims about the militia he formed against attacking American Indians, and the mystery of his death; The Irish General strives to distinguish fact from fabrication, and present a convincing case for its conclusions. The result is an excellent addition to public and college library American biography shelves.


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Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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