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Internet Bookwatch

Volume 19, Number 5 May 2009 Home | IBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Health/Medicine Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Gardening Shelf Biography Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf
American History Shelf World History Shelf Judicial Studies Shelf
Library DVD Shelf Library CD Music Shelf Audiobook Shelf
Psychology Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Computer Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf Sports Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
Business Shelf Social Issues Shelf Black Studies Shelf
Music Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf Crafts Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Education Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Aviation Shelf Nautical Shelf
Photography Shelf Science Shelf Native American Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Language Studies Shelf Wisconsin Shelf
Art Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Parenting Shelf
Travel Shelf Literary Shelf Fiction Shelf
Economics Shelf Political Science Shelf Poetry Shelf
Judaic Studies Shelf Fashion Shelf Philosophy Shelf
Jobs/Career Shelf Interior Design Shelf Civil War Shelf
Money/Finance Shelf Dance Shelf Library Science Shelf
International Studies Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Astronomy Shelf Gaming Shelf Developmental Disabilities Shelf
Agricultural Studies Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

I Love a Man in Uniform
Lily Burana
Weinstein Books
345 Hudson Street, 13th floor, New York, NY 10014
9781602860834, $23.95 www.weinsteinco.com 1-800-759-0190

I Love a Man in Uniform: A Memoir of Love, War, and Other Battles is the memoir of former exotic dancer Lily Burana, who once espoused anarchist politics and purple hair dye. Her life changed dramatically when she met Mike, a Military Intelligence officer, and fell utterly in love. They married shortly before Mike had to leave for Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Lily had to carry on in her strange new hometown alone, with little understanding of the military culture into which she had married. After Mike returned from his service, the couple moved to West Point, and encountered new problems - Mike suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition harshly seen as a weakness by the surrounding community. Lily herself endured crushing depression. It would be a long, hard road supplemented with the aid of therapy for the couple to save their marriage. Throughout it all, Lily's preconceived notions of being a military wife often seemed turned on their head by the real experience... but one bright side came from finding her place among a sisterhood of other military wives. A poignant, proud, and undeniably American testimony of life and love, highly recommended.

Jim Crow and Me
Solomon S. Seay, Jr. with Delores R. Boyd
NewSouth, Inc.
PO Box 1588, Montgomery, AL 36102
9781588381750, $25.00 www.newsouthbooks.com

Alabama civil rights lawyer Solomon S. Seay presents his memoir of practicing law during the turbulent civil rights era in Jim Crow and Me: Stories From My Life As A Civil Rights Lawyer. Raised by a preacher father whom Martin Luther King Jr. himself would cite as mentor and inspiration, Seay studied hard, and was one of only ten black lawyers in all of Alabama when he began his professional practice in 1957. His story is not a uniformly flowing narrative, but rather a series of intense vignettes, evoking the power and difficulty of challenging the old order and bringing a new standard of equality to America as a whole and the South in particular. Highly recommended.

Chasing a Dream in the Galapagos: A Personal Evolution
Bette Blaydes Pegas
Sunbelt Publications
1256 Fayette Street, El Cajon, CA 92020-1511
9780916251970, $14.95 www.sunbeltpub.com

Libraries interested in memoirs and travelogues revolving around nature will find Chasing a Dream in the Galapagos: A Personal Evolution to be vivid, inspirational reading. Pegas' journey to the Galapagos and observations of nature strengthened her relationship with her daughters and provided personal insights, revealed in this fine odyssey.

The College Roommate from Hell
Linda Fiore
Atlantic Publishing Group
1405 SW 6th Avenue, Ocala FL 34471
9781601382764, $24.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

From a roommate who lives like a pig to fights that lock roommates out or involve bill disputes, The College Roommate from Hell covers a common problem thousands of college students face: an intolerable roommate situation. More important - it outlines parameters for successful roommate situations, tells what can be expected and what is unreasonable behavior, and offers tips on mingling different lifestyles and habits. A 'must' for libraries catering to college students.

Hands of my Father
Myron Uhlberg
Bantam Books
c/o Bantam Dell Publishing Group
1540 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
9780553806885, $23.00 www.bantamdell.com

HANDS OF MY FATHER: A HEARING BOY, HIS DEAF PARENTS, AND THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE offers a memoir of Uhlberg's growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents, answering their questions about the hearing world and finding his world beautiful and challenging. His first language was American Sign Language - and his second was spoken English. His very different worlds receive poetic embellishment in a fine guide recommended for any general-interest collection.

Barbie and Ruth
Robin Gerber
Collins Business
c/o HarperCollins
10 East 53rd Street, New York NY 10022
9780061341311, $24.99 www.harpercollins.com

Any fan of Barbie dolls or collector of the dolls should also have BARBIE AND RUTH: THE STORY OF THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS DOLL AND THE WOMAN WHO CREATED HER. It tells of a Jewish immigrant child and business pioneer who founded Mattel, was forced out after a business scandal, and who began her own business, eventually changing the toy world. Business as well as general-interest collections will find this an inspirational read based on original research, interviews, and previously unpublished material.

Mushroom Magick
Arik Roper
Abrams
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
9780810996311, $19.95, www.hnabooks.com

Mushrooms fascinate some, and freak others out. "Mushroom Magick: A Visionary Field Guide" is an art book introducing viewers to the wonderful world of these fleshy fungi, which are as widely varied as they are interesting and beautiful. With particular emphasis on the psychedelic varieties, each mushroom species has its own listing as well as a watercolor painting to give viewers an idea of how to identify these mysterious mushroom types. "Mushroom Magick" is a fine read for the curious, the mushroom lover, or for the experimental.

The Genie In the Machine
Robert Plotkin
Stanford Law Books
1450 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
9780804756990, $29.95, www.sup.org

Computers have changed anything and everything about society. "The Genie In the Machine: How Computer-Automated Inventing is Revolutionizing Law & Business" takes a look at how the computer has now stepped into the field of creativity and invention, a science once thought to be the one thing computers cannot do that humans can. Artificial invention has many implications on society and will revolutionize it. But what does this mean in the field of legality and business? Asking and answering this tough yet vital question, "The Genie in the Machine" is a fine manual on technology and law.

Paradoxes of Peace
Nicholas Mosley
Dalkey Archive
1805 S. Wright Street, MC-011, Champaign, IL 61820
9781564785398, $13.95, www.dalkeyarchieve.com

Is war responsible for bringing direction to the lives of humanity? "Paradoxes of Peace" is a dissection of the place of war in human life. Mosley himself served during World War II, and he draws upon his experiences in this philosophical discussion about war and peace. An utterly fascinating piece of British literature, "Paradoxes of Peace" is a fine and highly recommended entry into any philosophical collection.

Power Line Communications in Practice
Xavier Carcelle
Artech House
685 Canton Street, Norwood, MA 02062
9781596933354, $99.00, www.artechhouse.com

In today's era of fast moving, worldwide information, ethernet and wireless internet are not the only options. "Power Line Communications in Practice" is Xavier Carcelle's complete and comprehensive treatise on this alternative source in today's world where information in any field is king. Carcelle introduces power line communications, what they are, what they can bring to the table that traditional internet technologies cannot. Backed heavily with examples supporting this technology, "Power Line Communications in Practice" remains honest and also outlines the challenges that power line communications face. Enhanced with reality-proven tests and countless illustrations of the technology in action, "Power Line Communications in Practice" is the definitive resource on its subject, and for that reason it is heavily recommended to community library collections focusing on communication technologies.

Obama: The Historic Front Pages
David Elliot Cohen & Mark Grenberg
Sterling Publishing Co.
387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016-8810
9781402769023, $24.95, www.sterlingpublishing.com

The front pages of newspapers have always been significant, but the presence of the first black president has brought a storm of headlines all its own. "Obama: The Historic Front Pages" is a coffee table book chronicling Obama's rise to power through the headlines of newspapers throughout America. The headlines range from those concerning his nomination as the first black presidential candidate of a major American political party, to his election, to his inauguration, and more. "Obama: The Historic Front Pages" tells Obama's story through the headlines that have captured the world's eyes, featuring front pages from nearly thirty countries, and transcript of Obama's speeches. "Obama: The Historic Front Pages" is the ideal gift for an Obamaniac.

The Inauguration of Barack Obama: A Photographic Journal
Washington Post
Triumph Books
542 S. Dearborn St #750, Chicago, IL 60605
9781600782848, $29.95 www.triumphbooks.com

Any collection seeking a definitive photographic souvenir of Barack Obama's election must have The Inauguration of Barack Obama: A Photographic Journal. It packs in a journal chronicling Obama's rise to President, through his entire campaign progress, and is a powerful tribute to the entire election process. A bright, beautiful book.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Be A Healthy Woman!
Gary Null & Amy McDonald
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street, New York, NY 10013
9781583228579, $29.95, www.sevenstories.com

Gary Null is a successful health and fitness writer. Amy McDonald has worked for almost twenty years in the medical publishing field. Together they have collaborated to produce "Be A Healthy Woman!", a comprehensive, 800-page instruction guide and manual for living a truly healthy life and lifestyle as a woman. Drawing upon up-to-date clinical data and published research, "Be A Healthy Woman!" addresses such fundamentally important issues as establishing a healthy diet; stocking a 'Natural Medicine Cabinet' for treating and preventing diseases; treating headaches and migraines; developing and maintaining healthy and beautiful skin, hair and nails; slowing the aging process; birth control options; cancer prevention; naturopathic approaches to dealing with infertility; natural childbirth and midwifery; homeopathic for pregnancy, digestive, diabetic, postpartum depression, and other commonly encountered problems of women. "Be A Healthy Woman!" is as informed and informative as it is 'reader friendly', making it an ideal addition for academic and community library Women's Health reference collections, and as an invaluable addition to personal and family health reference manual as well.

An Insider's Guide to Better Nursing Home Care
Donna M. Reed
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781591026716, $17.98, www.prometheusbooks.com

Nursing homes are plagued with horror stories of poor care which can lead to premature death. "An Insider's Guide to Better Nursing Home Care" is a guide for sons and daughters of elderly parents who seem destined for time spent in a nursing home. With advice and tips for giving one's parents the best care they can when they must use one of these facilities, "An Insider's Guide to Better Nursing Home Care" gives a series of tips and outlines about what to look for, what to look out for, and how to find the best facility to fill one's parents' special needs. "An Insider's Guide to Better Nursing Home Care" is a must for those who want to ensure their parents the best golden years possible.

Prickly Cactus
Concha Delgado Gaitan
Cypress House
155 Cypress Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781879384767, $14.95, www.cypresshouse.com

Why does the human body break down so easily? "Prickly Cactus: Finding Sacred Meaning in Chronic Illness" details author Concha Delgado Gaitan's battle with systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. It struck her in the prime of her life; she had to fight this chronic illness in order to keep the life she had worked so hard for. Written to inspire readers to fight their own illnesses by sharing a bit of the author's battle spirit, "Prickly Cactus" is a fine read for any who face a disease that nags them daily.

The AbSmart Fitness Plan
Adam Weiss
McGraw Hill Professional
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071598057, $18.95, www.mhprofessional.com

Getting in shape is a noble goal, but you can leave yourself in worse shape than you began if you do it wrong. "The Ab Smart Fitness Plan: The Proven Workout to Lose Inches and Strengthen Your Core Without Straining Your Back" takes a look at aerobic exercise and how crunches and sit ups alone are not a cure-all for fitness woes. Presenting a solid exercise program with research backing it up, designed to help readers lose weight and craft better bodies, "The Ab Smart Fitness Plan" is a fine read for those who want to kick their fitness program up a notch.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Secrets of Masonic Washington
James Wasserman
Destiny Books
c/o Inner Traditions
1 Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772665, $16.95, www.destinybooks.com

Could the secret brotherhood of the masons hold a key to understanding much of America's symbolism? "The Secrets of Masonic Washington: A Guidebook to Signs, Symbols, and Ceremonies at the Origin of America's Capital" is a look at the Masons and how they have shaped so much of Washington D.C. and what America holds dear in today's society. A treat for those who are intrigued by the possibility of secret societies and their impact on the world, "The Secrets of Masonic Washington" is a fine and intriguing read that has much to be enjoyed.

Pamela Colman Smith Commemorative Set
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
179 Ludlow Street, Stamford, CT 06902
http://www.usgamesinc.com
9781572816398, $30.00 1-800-544-2637

A deluxe set including two books, the Smith-Waite Centennial Edition Tarot Deck (a 78-card color deck reproduced from the original 1909 deck, with drawstring organza bag), a 5"x7" photo of Ms. Smith, three 5"x7" artwork reproductions by Ms. Smith, six color postcards, and a spread sheet guide, the Pamela Colman Smith Commemorative Set is the definitive tarot collector's resource, packaged in an attractive and space-saving deluxe keepsake case. The two books included in the set are "The Pictorial Key to the Tarot" by Arthur Edward Waite, in a new format, and "The Artwork & Times of Pamela Colman Smith" by Stuart R. Kaplan, a 102-page illustrated paperback with over 100 examples of Smith's non-tarot art. A compact yet exhaustively detailed collection, the Pamela Colman Smith Commemorative Set is also quite inexpensive for its high quality and detailed information. The Pamela Colman Smith Commemorative set is the perfect addition to a Tarot lover's collection, and an excellent gift set for anyone intrigued by the craft of Tarot.

Evolutionary Astrology
Deva Green
Llewellyn
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125-2989
9780738714516, $34.95 www.llewellyn.com

EVOLUTIONARY ASTROLOGY: PLUTO AND YOUR KARMIC MISSION comes from an astrology and founder of 'evolutionary astrology' and offers a survey of modern use blending chart interpretation with a focus on Pluto and code locations. This in-depth guide provides an excellent survey perfect for advanced and dedicated new age libraries, with chapters covering charts, aspects, and Pluto's importance.

The Sphinx Mystery
Robert Temple with Olivia Temple
Inner Traditions
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772719, $24.95 www.innertraditions.com

THE SPHINX MYSTERY: THE FORGOTTEN ORIGINS OF THE SANCTUARY OF ANUBIS provides nearly 300 years of eyewitness accounts of people who saw the secret chambers of the Sphinx and even went inside them before they were sealed in 1926. Here it's maintained the Sphinx was originally an Anubis, the Egyptian jacket god, with the face of a Middle Kingdom pharaoh. The author blends his expertise as a professor of history and philosophy to provide a fine in-depth probe of Egyptian mysteries.

The Witches' Almanac: Spring 2009 to Spring 2010
Theitic, editor
Hampton Roads Publishing
1125 Stoney Ridge Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22902-8719
9780977370344, $11.95, www.thewitchesalmanac.com

When you're witch on the go, you need a reference to keep up with what the year will bring. "The Witches' Almanac: Spring 2009 to Spring 2010" is a guide for the witch (or the witch in spirit) to the coming year and its pending spiritual happenings. Focusing on astrology and chronicling what each sign will face, complete with calendars, "The Witches' Almanac" is presented in the form of the old school farmer's almanacs, and is especially recommended for the spiritual witchcraft practitioner.


The Gardening Shelf

Growing Chinese Vegetables In Your Own Backyard
Geri Harrington
Storey Publishing
210 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247
9781603421409, $16.95, www.amazon.com

It's hard to make an authentic Chinese dish when you don't have all the ingredients. "Growing Chinese Vegetables in Your Own Backyard" is a gardening guide for those who want the true Chinese flavor and aren't prepared to go on a nationwide hunt to find the right produce store. With tips on growing Chinese species of plants such as winter melons, fuzzy gourd, mung beans, and more, "Growing Chinese Vegetables In Your Own Backyard" gives readers the knowledge they need to know to put themselves one step closer to authentic Chinese cuisine. "Growing Chinese Vegetables in Your Own Backyard" is a must for the Chinese food enthusiast who also likes to garden.

The Ever-Blooming Flower Garden
Lee Schneller
Storey Publishing
210 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247
9781603421393, $19.95 www.storey.com 1-800-827-8673

Written by professional flower garden designer Lee Schneller (owner of Lee Schneller Fine Gardens), The Ever-Blooming Flower Garden: A Blueprint for Continuous Color is not just any gardening guide - it offers an easy-to-use blueprint system to create and bring to life flower gardens that begin blooming in late spring and stay colorful until the end of autumn. The no-fail flowerbed plan consists of a five step system: questionnaires and checklists for choosing one's best plants, a flower catalog recommending 220 easy-care options, a plant planning chart/shopping list, and straightforward growing information with maintenance tips. Roughly half of The Ever-Blooming Flower Garden is devoted to a quick reference flower catalog, with color photos of each specimen and a simple line representing which months a given species is most likely to bloom. An excellent resource for flower-loving gardeners.

P. Allen Smith's Bringing the Garden Indoors
P. Allen Smith
Clarkson Potter Publishers
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
97803073510898, $32.50 www.clarksonpotter.com

P. ALLEN SMITH'S BRINGING THE GARDEN INDOORS: CONTAINERS, CRAFTS, AND BOUQUETS FOR EVERY ROOM comes from a notable garden designer known for his indoor garden designs. Each room of the house receives full-page photo embellishments to a discussion of houseplants and flower cuttings that can enhance a living space. Perfect for any who wish a more floral home atmosphere.

Bawa: The Sri Lanks Gardens
David Robson and Dominic Sansone
Thames & Hudson
500 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10110
9780500514467, $46.00 www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

BAWA features the work of an architect who has blended modern construction with the lush tropical landscape that is Sri Lanka. While this could also have been featured in our Arts section - and, indeed, is highly recommended for any college-level library strong in world architecture - it's reviewed here for its additional interest to any general-interest library strong in home and garden books. Its portrait of two gardens and their evolution offers many insights for any tropical garden enthusiast.

Easy Answers for Great Gardens
Marianne Binetti
Sasquatch Books
615 Second Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104
1570612137, $14.95, www.sasquatchbooks.com

Gardening is a great pastime, but it can be a bit overwhelming to start. "Easy Answers for Great Gardens: 500 Tips, Techniques, and Outlandish Ideas" is an introductory guide to the world of gardening, meant to help readers get their start and then some. Gardening does not have to be hours of tedious hard work; it can actually be quite fun and have many beneficial results. Written in a simple question and answer format, "Easy Answers for Great Gardens" has much knowledge to be drawn, and is highly recommended.


The Biography Shelf

Live Yankees
W.H. Bunting
Tilbury House
103 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, ME 04345
9780884483151, $30.00, www.tilburyhouse.com

Some families form family businesses, and some families form business empires that lives on for a century. "Live Yankees: The Sewalls and Their Ships" tells the story of the family and their strong force of merchant vessels that dominated sea trade as the nineteenth century drew to a close and the twentieth century began. Drawing stories not just from the Sewalls family themselves, "Live Yankees" also picks from the cornucopia of stories that played out on their ships. A biography of a family and a business, "Live Yankees" is well worth the read for those curious about business or seafaring history.

The Infamous King of the Comstock
Michael J. Makley
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
www.unpress.nevada.edu
9780874177794, $24.95 1-877-682-6657

The Infamous King of the Comstock: William Sharon and the Gilded Age in the West is the true-life story of one of Nevada's most notorious figures of Gilded Age capitalism. William Sharon earned a great deal of animosity, but even more wealth, from loaning money to mining operations and then foreclosing on them; when his business partner's enterprise failed and his partner died, Sharon benefitted immensely from his partner's remaining assets. To top it all off, he served in the Nevada Senate. The Infamous King of the Comstock is the absorbing story of not just one man, but the (somewhat) corrupt and money-hungry era in which he lived, highly recommended to historians and lay readers alike.

The Match King
Frank Partnoy
Public Affairs
250 West 57th Street, #1321, New York, NY 10107
9781586487430, $26.95 www.publicaffairsbooks.com

The Match King: Ivar Kreuger, the Financial Genius Behind a Century of Wall Street Scandals is the true-life biography of Swedish emigre and 1920's financier Ivar Kreuger, who amassed an immense amount of money raising capital from American investors and loaning it to European governments in exchange for matchstick monopolies - in an era when matches were a common household staple. Even after the 1930s collapse of Wall Street, Ivar continued to make money. But in 1932 the house-of-cards nature of Kreuger's empire came to light. The unrealistically high dividends that he paid to investors had led him to adopt more convoluted an fraudulent practices, from shell companies in tax havens to "creative" accounting figures to even forgery. At last his empire could no longer sustain itself; shares of his company became worthless in a matter of hours. The "Kreuger crash" that followed provoked the bankruptcy of millions, and prompted landmark securities regulations that still protect our marketplace today. An amazing true-life saga of the 1920's & 30's equivalent of Bernie Madoff, The Match King is highly recommended to scholars and lay readers alike, especially any studying the history of financial fraud.

H.J. Heinz: A Biography
Quentin R. Skrabec, Jr.
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
9780786441785, $39.95 www.mcfarlandpub.com 1-800-253-2187

H.J. Heniz: A Biography is the true-life story of entrepreneur and tycoon H.J. Heinz, perhaps best known for founding Heinz Ketchup, one of the most recognized brands in the world. Heinz build an industrialized food processing empire well before Henry Ford rose to greatness; yet in an era notorious for its ruthless robber barons, Heinz had a surprisingly good reputation for treating his employees well. Over forty black-and-white photographs, some never before published, illustrate this thoughtful and detailed portrait of a remarkable business founder whose remarkable life has all but vanished from public awareness.

Desert Days
Fred Wendorf
Southern Methodist University Press
PO Box 750415, Dallas, TX 75275-0415
9780870745249, $29.95, www.tamu.edu/upress

Uncovering ancient civilizations can uncover a lot about oneself. "Desert Days: My Life as a Field Archaeologist" are the reflections of lifelong archaeology enthusiast Fred Wendorf, who successfully pursued his dream career for the better half of a century. His career is one of adventure, revealing what has been lost to knowledge and science for thousands of years, but it is also the story of how Wendorf has matured as a person due to the unique nature of his career and his constant time abroad. "Desert Days" is a fine memoir to be enjoyed as both a personal testimony and as an overview of archaeology as a historical science.

Blessing of the Animals
Brenda Miller
Eastern Washington University Press
534 E Spokane Falls Blvd., Suite 203, Spokane, WA 99202
9781597660488, $17.95, www.ewupress.ewu.edu

When you stop to think about life, there is surely a lot to cross one's mind. "Blessings of the Animals" is a compilation of essays from Brenda Miller, reflecting on thoughts that she has gathered simply by going through life and pausing to consider things. "Blessings of the Animals" is her second collection; she brings more poignant reflections and does much to encourage readers to contemplate their own lives and what's around them. "Blessings of the Animals" is well worth the read.

Agnes Lake Hickok
Linda A. Fisher and Carrie Bowers
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806139838, $29.95 www.oupress.com

Agnes Lake Hickok was the first woman in the U.S. to own and operate a circus, spending some thirty years in the business before becoming the wife of Wild Bill Hickok, five months before he was killed. It's refreshing to see a review of her life, focusing on a colorful circus performer whose career spanned over four decades.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Roadless Rules
Tom Turner
Island Press
Suite 300, 1718 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20009
9781597264402, $$27.50, www.islandpress.org

Roads are a vital part of civilized society, but done incorrectly, they can destroy the environment. "Roadless Rules: The Struggle for the Last Wild Forests" tells the tale of the classic environment vs. development battle. Through the Clinton years, roads were kept in check by democratic environmental policies, but as George W. Bush gained the presidency, these rules were repealed and ever since, forest-conscious environmentalists have been in legal battles to protect the forests. "Roadless Rules" tells the developments of this story, and is an informed and informative read.

Nevada's Environmental Legacy
James W. Hulse
Univeristy of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166, Reno, NV, 89557-0166
9780874177695, $24.95

Nevada is not known for its environment, but with huge cities like Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson, its environment is under constant strain. "Nevada's Environmental Legacy: Progress or Plunder" investigates Nevada's natural landscape, and how it's under constant threat from many sources. From rampant logging to nuclear weapon testing, Nevada may truly become a desert wasteland if someone doesn't intervene. Informing Americans of a problem that is often ignored, "Nevada's Environmental Legacy" is a fine read for those concerned with the nation's environmental health.

Energy in a Changing Climate
Martin Nicholson
Rosenburg
c/o International Specialized Book Services (ISBS)
920 NE 58th Ave., #300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
9781877058813, $32.95, www.isbs.com

The environment is an confusing issue, but through proper study it can be understood quite well. "Energy in a Changing Climate" is an introduction into the topic of energy and how it influences the environment and climate of the world. Explaining some of the common terms thrown about in discussions that rage on about the debate today, author Martin Nicholson presents a manual that will give readers a basic understanding of the rapidly changing world of energy. Particular attention is paid to nuclear power. "Energy in a Changing Climate" is very much recommended reading from cover to cover.


The American History Shelf

The Timeline History of U.S. Presidents and First Ladies
Barbara Greenman
Thunder Bay Press
10350 Barnes Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121
9781592239924, $22.95, www.thunderbaybooks.com

Marriage is a partnership, and even at the most powerful position in the world wives hold some of the power. "The Timeline History of U.S. Presidents and First Ladies" is a collection detailing all of America's first couples throughout the history of the job's existence. Profiling both husband and wife, it speaks of the White House, presidential pets, children, life stories, even tales of assassination throughout the history of the United States. "The Timeline History of U.S. Presidents and First Ladies" is a great read for anyone learning to embrace America's long and great history.

New York Sings
Jerry Silverman
Excelsior Editions
c/o State University of New York Press (SUNY)
State University Plaza, Albany, NY 12246-0001
9781438426846, $24.95, www.sunypress.edu

From New Amsterdam to the modern day, New York has had a major place in today's world. "New York Sings: 400 Years of the Empire State in Song" is a collection of songs from Jerry Silverman, a folk musician who has composed many a song tracing the city's history from its earliest colonies to the sprawling metropolis it is today. In a way, the history of New York is the history of America, with many parallels to the country's progression as a whole. Each song has sheet music, lyrics, and more for musicians to perform themselves. "New York Sings" is a top pick for those who want to embrace their city's history through song.

Telling New Mexico
Marta Weigle, editor
Museum of New Mexico Press
113 Lincoln Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
9780890135563, $29.95

The history of New Mexico is long indeed. "Telling New Mexico: A New History" attempts to reveal New Mexico's long and complex story from its earliest days, when Native Americans first set foot on the soil of the future state, to a more modern look at its history in today's world. The braintrust of forty-five scholars and historians, "Telling New Mexico" brims with exquisite detail concerning the state's major events, legendary figures, and more. "Telling New Mexico" is a fine read for anyone who wants to understand how New Mexico became what it is today.


The World History Shelf

What Did the Ancient Israelites Eat?
Nathan MacDonald
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
2140 Oak Industrial Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802862983, $16.00, www.eerdmans.com

Diets throughout history can tell a bit about the people who ate them. "What Did the Ancient Israelites Eat?" is a deftly researched, scholarly look into the diet of Ancient Israel. Looking into anthropological evidence, "What Did the Ancient Israelites Eat?" examines the base ingredients, how they were combined, and how these foods affected the ancient Israelites as a people. Criticizing diet books that call for a return to a biblical diet, "What Did the Ancient Israelites Eat?" is a realistic look at a diet in a time where survival was much harder.

Brazza in Congo
Idanna Pucci
Umbrage
111 Front Street #208, Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167942, $40.00, www.umbragebooks.com

It was too easy for European colonialists to underestimate the African people. "Brazza in Congo: A Life and Legacy" tells the story of one remarkable man who chose peace and respect when many others in his position chose to treat Africans as sub-humans. To this day, the African capital of the Congo carries his name, and author Idanna Pucci will explain to readers why. Pietro Paolo Savorgnan di Brazza was a forerunner of peaceful relations in Africa throughout the later half of the nineteenth century. Though he did much to bridge the gap between Africa and Europe, Brazza's work was tragically cut short. "Brazza in Congo" is a must for anyone who wants to better understand African-European relations of this time period.

The Last Day of Naliboki
Mieczyslaw Klimowicz
American Literary Press
8019 Belair Rd., Suite 10, Baltimore, MD 21236
9781934696262, $29.95, www.americanliterarypress.com

Stalinist Russia is something that many Americans are ashamed to have been allied with. "The Last Day of Naliboki: The Untold Story Behind the Massacre" tells the story of the small Polish town of Naliboki. The early forties were a time of nightmare for this village, which was massacred by the Russians in 1943. If that wasn't enough, the survivors suffered further depredations from the Germans; the remainder of their town was burned to the ground, and they were placed in German labor camps. One of the few survivors, author Mieczyslaw Klimowicz tells the story of this tragedy in greater detail. "The Last Day of Naliboki" is well worth the read for those seeking a more complete picture of World War II.

A History Of The Modern Middle East
William L. Cleveland & Martin Bunton
Westview Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South, NY, NY 10016
www.perseusbooksgroup.com
9780813343747, $50.00, www.amazon.com

America's military, financial, and cultural involvement with the Middle East is as on-going as it is problematic both in terms of suppressing attacks on America targets and our economic reliance on Middle Eastern petroleum resources. Yet before the emergence of a beligerant and violent Muslim extremism that led to attacks on the American homeland, most Americans know very little about the history and cultures that comprise this area of the world. Now in a newly revised and significantly updated fourth edition, "A History Of The Modern Middle East", co-authored by the late William L. Cleveland (who was a Professor of History at the Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) and Martin Bunton (who is an Associate Professor of History at the University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada), is a comprehensive historical overview of the region beginning with an insightful analysis of the Ottoman and Egyptian reforms through the rule of European colonialists, down to the American invasion and occupation of Iraq. This latest edition addresses the evolving developments of the past few decades that have transformed Middle Eastern societies and the consequent tensions between the forces of modernization and conservative cultural and religious ideological resistance. Of special note is the new chapter on "America's Troubled Moment in the Middle East" which focuses upon the aftermath of the Iraq war and Iranian nuclear ambitions. Informed and informative, "A History Of The Modern Middle East" is an impressive and substantial work of seminal scholarship. Accessibly written for both academia and the non-specialist general reader with an interest in the 20th and 21st century history of the Middle East, "A History Of The Modern Middle East" is a highly recommended addition for academic and community library World History collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Judicial Studies Shelf

Interpreting in Legal Settings
Debra Russell and Sandra Hale
Gallaudet University Press
800 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002-3695
Chicago Distribution Center (distribution)
11030 S. Langley Ave., Chicago, IL 60628
9781563683961, $75.00, www.gupress.gallaudet.edu

How does one who cannot hear, or cannot speak, represent themselves in a legal procedure? "Interpreting in Legal Settings" is a legal exploration of the rights of the deaf and mute, in procedures where they must use an interpreter to speak to lawyers, judges, jury, and other officials. Ethics play a big part in this world, and authors Debra Russell and Sandra Hale, both professors in studies of deafness in their respective schools, draw into established legal cases for examples of well handled and improperly handled situations with impaired plaintiffs and defendants. "Interpreting in Legal Settings" is a must read for both those in the avenues of law and those dealing with deaf or mute people.

Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and the Law
Michael Mandelstam
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street #400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781843106920, $28.75 www.jkp.com

The safeguarding of vulnerable adults is a major area of work for protection and enforcement agencies, yet this is the first book to address the legal framework of such efforts. Particular emphasis is put upon issues concerning vulnerable adults harmed by abuse, neglect or omission. Case histories blend with community insights, as well as social and financial harm analysis, in a detailed, in-depth guide highly recommended for college-level collections strong in social science or criminal justice.


The Library DVD Shelf

America Dances! 1897-1948
Dancetime! Publications
c/o WC Books
1200 County Road Rt. 523, Flemington, NJ 08822
$49.95 www.DancetimePublications.com 1-888-854-5602

America Dances! 1897-1948: A Collector's Edition of Social Dance in Film is an archive of American film clips featuring dance, many of which are originally from the era of silent movies. From the "Comedy Cakewalk" and "Two Step" of the early 1900's, to the many variants of the Charleston in the 1920s, the Lindy Hop and the Jitterbug in the 1930's, to Rumba, and Conga in the 1940s, and much more, a vast plethora of dance styles and highlights have been preserved for posterity. An inspirational treasury that scholars and choreographers will find useful, and that fans of dance are sure to enjoy. 75 minutes.

Discoveries... Africa, Tanzania series
Bennet Watt HD Productions, Inc.
13021 - 244 Avenue SE, Issaquah, WA 98027
9781934682265, $24.95 each www.Bennett-Watt.com

Discover... Africa, Tanzania is a new four-volume DVD series exploring the wild areas of the East African nation of Tanzania, well known for the continent's tallest mountain (Mt. Kilimanjaro) and an infrastructure highly conducive to wildlife tourism and photo safaris, hosted by expert guides and safeguarded through strict game management and hunting regulation. "Arusha & Lake Manyara National Parks" includes portraits of the swamps, forest, Ngurdoto Crater, and even shallow alkaline lakes. This is the only northern safari circuit location where the rare and beautiful Colobus Monkey can be found. "Tarangire National Parks" showcases the park with the largest population of elephants on all of Tanzania, as well as some of the world's oldest baobab trees (which can survive for up to 3000 years!). "Ngorongoro Crater & Conservation Area" reveals an amazing contained ecosystem tucked away within crater walls, and a plethora of wild animals ranging from cheetahs on the hunt to black storks, hippos, zebras, warthogs, lions, and more. "Southern Serengeti & The Great Migration" reveals the broad, flat Serengeti Plain, known for the Maasai people who co-existed in harmony with wild animals for thousands of years. The highlight shows how the 1.5 million wildebeest (as well as 200,000 zebra and gazelle) habitually migrate from the Serengeti plains to the hills of Kenya's Maasai Mara in a clockwise fashion, traversing over 1,800 miles each year in search of food. All four DVDs are enthusiastically recommended to wildlife lovers, and perfect for armchair travelers, or anyone who would love to experience (or relive) the thrill of an African photo safari.

Pie in the Sky, Series 1
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
DVD, $49.99 www.acornmedia.com

Starring Richard Griffiths (whose previous appearances include "The History Boys" and "Harry Potter"), Pie in the Sky Series 1 is the debut boxed set of a British DVD series that blends elements of mystery, police drama, and comedy into a witty whole. 25-year police veteran Detective Inspector Henry Crabbe longs to take early retirement and open the restaurant of his dreams, which he calls "Pie in the Sky", but his accountant wife thinks his dream is a bottomless money pit, and his boss needs him to handle those intricate cases that he has a natural gift for! A surprisingly lighthearted crime drama (at least, as lighthearted as any crime drama can be), Pie in the Sky even weaves elements of culinary delight into its slyly sumptuous storytelling. Special features include an interview with star Maggie Steed, production notes, a biography of Richard Griffiths, and more. Highly recommended. 3 DVDs, 10 episodes, 488 minutes plus 18 minutes bonus program, 4:3 full screen, subtitles.

Murder Most English
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
DVD, $49.99 www.acornmedia.com

Murder Most English is the DVD debut of a British murder mystery series laced with scathing dark humor and shocking twists. Based on a series of detective novels by author Colin Watson, Murder Most English: A Flaxborough Chronicle features star talent Anton Rodgers (known for his work in "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" among other films), Christopher Timothy ("All Creatures Great and Small"), John Comer ("I Didn't Know You Cared") and Moray Watson ("The Darling Buds of May"). Featuring an unquestionably English hero who embodies British culture in every aspect of his attitude, down to wearing tweed and puffing on pipes, Murder Most English is an enthralling drama of the effort to unravel duplicity and bring order back to a most English town. 3 DVDs, 7 episodes, 344 minutes, subtitles.

Dancetime DVD! 500 Years of Social Dance Volume I: 15th-19th Centuries
Dancetime! Publications
c/o WC Books
1200 County Road Rt. 523, Flemington, NJ 08822
0966207483, $44.95 www.DancetimePublications.com 1-888-854-5602

Dancetime DVD! 500 Years of Social Dance Volume I: 15th-19th Centuries is an amazing video history of social dance from the courts of Italy, France, and England to the ballrooms of America. Viewers are treated to enthralling demonstrations of each style of dance as it arose, as well as the grand history of this wonderful pastime. Now the Dancetime! video series has been further enhanced on DVD with over 600 original source documents and historical timelines. Viewers may also investigate dance steps and instructional text simultaneously or separately from the program. An excellent survey of the evolution of an art form, highly recommended for public library collections along with its companion volume "Dancetime DVD! 500 Years of Social Dance Volume II: The 20th Century".

The Paris Concert
Jose Feliciano Band
MVD Entertainment Group
PO Box 280, Oaks, PA 19456
DVD, $19.95 www.MVDb2b.com 1-800-888-0486

The Paris Concert is a DVD recording of six-time Grammy Award-winning guitar player and singer Jose Feliciano and his five-piece band performing in Paris. With a masterful blend of flamenco, bossa nova, pop and jazz elements in their repertoire, they perform widely beloved pieces to an adoring crowd. Fans of internationally-influenced Latin music are sure to love this stellar video. Highly recommended. The songs played are "Chico And The Man", "Crazy Heart", "Billie Jean", "Como Fue", "I Got A Woman", "Rain", "Bamboleo", "If You Don't Know Me By Now", "Higher Ground", "Oye Guitarra Mia", "Beyond The Sea", "Affirmation", "Cherry, Cherry", "Porque Te Tengo Que Olvidar", "Money", "Oye Como Va", "Purple Haze", "Sunshine Of Your Love", "Que Sera", and "Light My Fire". 98 minutes, 16:9 picture format.

The Apostles' Creed Full-Length Version
T. N. Mohan, producer-director
Vision Video
PO Box 540, Worcester, PA 19490-0540
DVD, $99.99 www.visionvideo.com

The Apostles' Creed Full-Length Version is an over nine hour curriculum series by award-winning producer-director T.N. Mohan, now released as part of Christian History Institute's 25th anniversary celebration. Expert theologians speak of each phase of the Apostles' Creed in historical context, with a particular note as to how each part of the Creed is relevant to daily life in the modern era. Special features include a one-hour bonus program "Hymns of Our Fathers", audio sermons by Pastor Langdon Palmer, and the opportunity to download a companion guide to the series on Vision Video's website. An in-depth educational documentary of faith and scholarship, The Apostles' Creed is an enthusiastically welcome addition to Christian Studies DVD collections. 17 episodes, 9 1/2 hours.

Cardmaking
Sharyn Pak
On Air Video Inc.
8203 Westminster Rd., Elkins Park, PA 19027
DVD, $14.95 www.onairvideo.com

In Cardmaking: Greetings, Invites & Announcements, craft expert Sharyn Pak teaches the viewers how to create dozens of different types of unique, home-made cards with the beauty of store-bought cards but without the expense - and also without the impersonal nature of mass-produced products. Topics covered include how to create single-panel note cards and announcements, making single-fold and multi-fold greeting cards and invitations, window cards, money gift cards, pop ups, seasonal cards, and much more. A section on crafting aesthetically pleasing custom envelopes and a downloadable Materials & Tools list in PDF format round out this excellent DVD, recommended for public library collections as well as for private arts and crafts shelves. 120 minutes. Also highly recommended for the artistically inclined is "Paint Like Van Gogh: Learn From A Master" ($19.95, 66 minutes).

Crunchless Abs
Linda LaRue
411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
DVD, $19.99 each www.411videoinfo.com

Two new fitness DVDs hosted by registered nurse and athletic trainer Linda LaRue help serious belly flatteners strengthen their core muscles, burn midsection fat and increase back strength. Both are divided into three ten-minute segments, one for standing exercises, one for seated exercises, and one for floor exercises. "Crunchless Abs: Progressive Core Training" (38 min.) walks the viewer through each easy-to-follow workout, targeting abdominal muscles for a great foundation to improved fitness. "Crunchless Abs: 3-Dimensional Core Training" (33 min.) uses a simple weighted gel bal (an inexpensive floor mat is also recommended) and features movements designed to three-dimensionally sculpt one's abdomen. Both DVDs are a worthy supplement to fitness libraries, and enthusiastically recommended to anyone interested in improving their back and midsection.

Voices of Holocaust History
Deanne Scherlis Comer
c/o Beach Lloyd (distribution)
PO Box 2183, Southeastern PA 19399-2183
9780979277801, $25.00 www.beachlloyd.com 866-218-3253

Suitable for middle school to adult viewers, Voices of Holocaust History: Ruth Tells Her Story is a DVD of the story of Ruth Kapp Hartz's survival as a hidden child in Nazi-occupied France in 1941. Forced to conceal her Jewish identity, she survived in part to the courage of villagers who risked their lives to save Ruth's family. Increased Nazi persecution caused her to be placed within a convent for safekeeping. She became the real-life subject behind Stacy Cretzmeyer's book "Your Name is Renee". An incredible survivor's story, Voices of Holocaust History is highly recommended for school and public library DVD collections. 36 minutes.

John Deere Country Part 2
TM Books & Video
PO Box 279, New Buffalo, MI 49117
DVD, $14.95 www.tmbv.com 1-800-892-2822

John Deere Country Part 2 is a DVD anthology of true stories by John Deere farming equipment owners. The John Deere brand of tractors and equipment earned customer loyalty for many reasons - one of the most compelling is because of their willingness to give farmers extra time during the Great Depression to pay for their equipment. Archival footage of tractors and combines from the 1920s through the 1960s rounds out this engrossing DVD enthusiastically recommended for tractor aficionados of all ages and backgrounds. 1 hour 30 minutes.

Ian McKellen in the Royal Shakespeare Company's King Lear
William Shakespeare
PBS Home Video
c/o SSA Public Relations (publicity)
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
0793670667, $24.99 www.ssapr.com

Ian McKellen in the Royal Shakespeare Company's King Lear is a DVD presentation of William Shakespeare's great play of tragedy and betrayal. When King Lear plans to divide his kingdom among his three daughters, the tests he creates to measure their character reveals the corrupt poison two of their hearts, and hateful schemes they have plotted. This performance of King Lear features the incredible cast of the Royal Shakespeare Company, including Ian McKellen as the star performer and stellar supporting members Frances Barber, William Gaunt, Sylvester McCoy, and Philip Winchester. An exclusive interview with Ian McKellen rounds out this unforgettable production of an immortal classic. 173 minutes, closed captioned.


The Library CD Music Shelf

Don't You Want To Go?
Betse Ellis
Free Dirt Records
c/o Trade Root Music Group, LLC
PO Box 11451, Takoma Park, MD 20913
$16.99 www.traderootmusic.com

Don't You Want To Go? is the debut solo music CD album by Betse Ellis, well known for her fiddle playing as a founding member of "hillbilly riot" band The Wilders. Ellis' fiddle draws heavily upon traditional influences, and her music swells with the passion of a craftsmaster. Somes tracks of Don't You Want To Go? are traditional favorite songs, while others are original compositions; both types blend seamlessly into a flowing whole, highly recommended to fiddle music aficionados as well as public library collections. The tracks are "White River" (3:06), "John Henry" (3:50), "Run!" (1:54), "Looking the World Over" (2:56), "Bear Creek Sally Goodin'" (2:19), "Another Night Gone" (3:44), "La Cinquantaine" (3:03), "Walk Along John" (2:45), "Heaven Bells Are Ringing/Gone to View That Land" (4:37), "Mainz Waltz" (3:17), "Dont You Want to Go?" (4:27), "Hanson's Farewell" (3:51) and "In My Girlish Days" (5:19).

One Man's Music
Vince Bell and Ned Albright
Vincebell.com
7 Avenida Vista Grande, Ste 237, Santa Fe, NM 87508
Mere Words Media Relations (publicity)
kevin@merewordsmedia.com
$11.99 www.vincebell.com 505-466-6432

One Man's Music is the fifth album on CD released by musician Vince Bell, suitable for enjoying by itself or as a companion to Bell's autobiography of the same title. Featuring fourteen songs (three new compositions, and eleven popular favorites from Bell's previous albums) that tie to the story of Bell's life, One Man's Music features Bell's guitar in complementary tandem to the piano playing of Los Angeles pianist Ned Albright. The music traces a journey, and Bell's vocal stylings flow smoothly alongside the guitar chords. A stirring, thoughtful album, highly recommended. The tracks are "100 Miles from Mexico" (2:58), "I've Had Enough" (3:38), "The Other Side" (4:37), "Sun & Moon & Stars" (4:55), "Frankenstein by Gary Burgess" (3:57), "Pair of Dice" (1:52), "Queen Street" (4:38), "Bermuda Triangle" (2:59), "Mirror, Mirror" (2:42), "2nd Street" (3:05), "The Beast" (2:54), "Hard Road" (3:01), "Woman of the Phoenix" (3:04), and "One Man's Music" (2:58).

Ancient Sun
ThunderBeat
ThunderVision Records
PO Box 3700, Sedonia, AZ 86340
c/o New Leaf Distributing Company
9780981465197, $15.98 www.ThunderBeat.com

'Native American Music Award'-winning composer, teacher, shamanic practitioner, and reiki master ThunderBeat presents Ancient Sun, a beautiful music album on CD evoking the wonder and majesty of ancient Egypt with its wistful melodies. Primarily an instrumental album, Ancient Sun stirs the heart with its emotional melodies tapping deep into the rich history of one of the earliest cradles of human civilization. Highly recommended, especially for New Age music collections. The tracks are "Called to the Temple", "Ancient Sun", "Ra", "Sands of Time", "The Lion Kingdom", "SunRise", "Golden Sun", "Temple of the Priest", "Flight into Egypt", and "Journey to the Sun".


The Audiobook Shelf

Mike Hammer
Mickey Spillane
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969 , Ashland, OR 97520
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9781433252594, $33.00, 1-800-729-2665

Next to Sherlock Holmes, perhaps the most popular fictional detective is the late Mickey Spillane's Mike Hammer, a two-fisted guy who never goes anywhere without his faith Betsy (a snub nosed revolver). Of all the actors who have portrayed the Mike Hammer character in film or television, none were more definitive in the role than Stacy Keach. In this superbly recorded audio theater production, Stacy reprises his role along with a stellar cast in two Mike Hammer adventures, 'Oil and Water' and 'Dangerous Days'. Replete with music and sound effects, both stories are classic private eye adventures with plot twists and turns that keep the listener glued to these two stories as they unfold. Offering fully and expertly dramatized stories that will thrill and entertain dedicated mystery buffs, "Mike Hammer", with a total running time of 3 hours on 3 compact discs, is very highly recommended for personal and community library audio book collections.

Intuitive Eating
Elyse Resch, & Evelyn Tribole
Sounds True Audio
413 South Arthur Ave, Louisville, CO 80027
9781591796824, $29.95 www.soundstrue.com

Registered dieticians Elyse Resch and Evelyn Tribole present Intuitive Eating, an audiobook guide for dieters with an emphasis on practical, lifelong changes in overall eating patterns to promote nutrition and fitness. Centered upon ten principles, Intuitive Eating guides the listener to free the "Intuitive Eater" within by learning to do such things as decipher the body's physical and emotional hunger signals, making use of the "Satisfaction Factor" to gain a sensual, mindful relationship with food (rather than just mindlessly eat far more than one needs to be satisfied), incorporate more physical movement into one's lifestyle to promote well-being and self-respect, and much more. An excellent, empathetic guide to taking proper control and respect of one's relationship with food.

Jaws
Peter Benchley, author
Erik Steele, narrator
BBC Audiobooks America
42 Whitecap Drive, North Kingstown, RI 02852-7445
9781602835832, $29.95

Jaws, the novel that inspired the horror movie that left a generation terrified of shark attacks, is now available in unabridged audiobook format for the first time. Narrated by former Acting Company performer Peter Benchley, Jaws is sure to fascinate fans of the movie unfamiliar with its original source material. The novel features multiple twists of plot as well as entire characters that were trimmed from the film, and overflows with terror and tension at every turn. Highly recommended especially for horror fans. 8 CDs, 9 hours 38 minutes.

Etta
Gerald Koplan, author
Kirsten Potter, narrator
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
9781433259302, $90.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com 1-800-729-2665

Etta is an unabridged audiobook presentation of a Wild West novel by Emmy Award-winning television reporter Gerald Koplan. When Lorinda Jameson's bankrupt father kills himself, the nefarious Black Hand mafia closes in on her to take back their debts - or her head. Renaming herself "Etta Place", she strikes out West in search of her destiny. A shocking brush with death and murder puts her among the ranks of Butch Cassidy's lawless gang, the Wild Bunch. Etta meets Harry Longbaugh, popularly known as the Sundance Kid, and is swept up in an intense and exciting romance. A historical audio novel brought to life by award-winning performer Kirsten Potter, and, Etta is a thrilling tale sure to entice, inspire, and excite the listener. 8 CDs, 10 hours.

The Book of Unholy Mischief
Elle Newmark, author
Raul Esparza, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781436151153, $123.75 www.recordedbooks.com 1-800-638-1304

The Book of Unholy Mischief is an unabridged audiobook presentation of award-winning author Elle Newark's novel set in Venice at the beginning of the Renaissance. When Luciano the urchin street tough is conscripted to serve as a chef's apprentice in the kitchen of an aristocrat, he learns to pay attention to rumors. One of the most rampant bits of gossip concerns a mysterious text packed with little-known recipes for alchemical potions. Where could the hidden potion lore be? Murderous intrigue to possess the lost secrets unfold, in this absorbing epic. 10 CDs, 11 1/2 hours.

Everyday Practice Of Science
Frederick Grinnell
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Ave., NY, NY 10016-4314
9780195064575, $27.95, www.oup.com/us

For too great a percentage of the American public, science and 'the scientific method' are misunderstood and confusing. Public discourse on so many vital issues of the day see's controversial and contest between differing proponents all citing science as their rationale for differing views. Then there is the ingrained and continuing discounting of science as a means of understanding the world when science is felt to be in contradiction with religious or philosophical beliefs. These are but some of the reasons why "Everyday Practice Of Science: Where Intuition And Passion Meet Objectivity And Logic" by Frederick Grinnell (Professor of Cell biology and founder of the Program in Ethics in Science and Medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas) is so timely and useful. Drawing upon his long years of professional experience and expertise, Professor Grinnell provides an informed perspective on the subject as he demystifies the processes and provides context for understanding what science is all about and how it generally operates. Of special note is Professor Grinnell's commentary on science and religion while providing an holistic framework with respect to assessing how these two systems of human thought and experience interact. "Everyday Practice Of Science" is highly recommended reading for both students and non-specialized general readers with an interest in understanding how science works in or out of the laboratory setting.

Dead To The World
Charlaine Harris
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
CM020, $39.99, www.recordedbooks.com

One of the blockbuster television series hits of the season is 'True Blood' which first brought the adventures of Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic Louisiana bar maid, and Bill, her vampire lover, to popular attention. The series is based on the novels of Charlaine Harris who has added a whole new dimension to the vampire genre. "Dead To The World" finds that Sookie has broken up with Bill and finds herself thrust into a maelstrom of encounters that includes werewolves, were-panthers, shape shifters, witches, vampires -- and a genuine fairy. Once again there are thrills, chills, and mortal dangers -- along with Sookie's personal angst. This flawlessly recorded nine CD audio book edition is skillfully narrated by Johanna Parker who is amazing in her ability to give distinctive voices to every character. Providing ten solid hours of pure listening fun offering a genuine 'theater of the mind' experience, "Dead To The World" is a very highly recommended addition to community library audio book collections and an absolute 'must' for the growing legions of 'True Blood' fans.

Penguin Audio
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

For five novels Clive Cussler developed the world of the Oregon, a dilapidated ship packed with high-tech equipment led by Juan. Corsairs are pirates - and the Oregon becomes caught in a terrorist plot involving a vanished Secretary of state and a set of antique Islamic scrolls. Swift action and genuine protagonists make for a fast-paced story line, especially paired with actor Jason Culp's vivid narration in Clive Cussler with Jack Du Brul's Corsair (9780143144168, $29.95). Scott Brick narrates the longer unabridged version (9780143144151, $39.95) in an equally vivid, engrossing presentation. Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin's THREE CUPS OF TEA (9780143144465, $21.95) provides a vivid documentation - for younger listeners - of Mortenson's work building schools for Afghanistan and Pakistani girls. A chance rescue by villagers during a mountain climb led to his lifelong passion - and his face-off with death in his passion for educating girls at the grassroots level. The audio is inspirational and its condensed version for younger listeners - and many an adult - is truly inspirational. David Allen's MAKING IT ALL WORK (9780143143574, $34.95) comes from the chairman and founder of a successful global management and consulting firm and provides a powerful key to taking charge of daily commitments and creating goals. Both business and life are covered in this excellent survey, recommended for business and general lending libraries alike. Stephen King's THE REGULATORS (9780143143918, $39.95) is narrated by Kate Nelligan and tells of an Ohio summer in which a young boy's supernatural powers are just awakening - and a small town's nightmare of violence just beginning. A tense thriller comes to life in a gripping story by Stephen King (writing as Richard Bachman). Randy Wayne White's DEAD SILENCE (9780143144175, $39.95) receives veteran narrator George Guidall's warm, evocative voice as it tells of winter in New York and Doc Ford, who witnesses an abduction attempt and manages to save the senator involved. The successful kidnaping of her teen companion involves him in a deadly hunt in this gripping thriller come to life in audio format!

Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017
www.hachetteaudio.com

The Camel Club exists at the fringes of Washington DC and consists of four eccentric members whom society has forgotten. Three Camel Club novels are included in David Baldacci's box set THE CAMEL CLUB (1600245056, $29.98), telling of a shocking murder and the Club's involvement in an international plot, THE COLLECTORS in which Oliver discovers someone's selling America's secrets, and STONE COLD, in which men from Stone's past are being murdered. James Naughton, Tom Wopat and others provide a vivid audio drama. Ben Sherwood's THE SURVIVORS CLUB: THE SECRETS AND SCIENCE THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE (9781600241451, $34.99) provides keys to understanding what makes some people survivors and others 'not'. From the safest seat on an airplane to how to add years to life, this is an outstanding audio listen for any who would improve their lives. Nelson DeMille's THE GOLD COAST (1600245102, $44.98) receives a vivid reading by Christian Rummel, who has recorded many audiobooks, and tells of a Long Island powerhouse of wealth. Two men are heading for a dangerous collision of interests in a novel packed with suspense and high drama.

Brilliance Audio
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.brillianceaudio.com

David Liss' THE WHISKEY REBELS (1423326946, $38.95) receives narrator Christopher Lane's seasoned voice and award-winning narrative style as it tells of a former spy of general Washington who has been reduced to a drunk, accused of treason. Hid involvement with a married woman who is also a strong patriot involves them both in a dangerous opposing game in this brilliant historical audio. Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson's NEVER LAND BOOK 3: BLOOD TIDE (1423309669, $19.95) is an audio for young listeners but will also find many an interested adult. When an earthquake strikes Never Land Island, Captain Hook's discovery leads him to an evil plan involving violent mermaids. An intriguing, fun adventure results, suitable for all ages beyond the '7+' age recommendation. Jonah Lehrer's PROUST WAS A NEUROSCIENTIST (1423374207, $29.95) receives a strong narration by American actor and musician Dan John Miller as it inquires into the nature of art, science, and literature. A group of artists from a painter to a chef and a writer are used to show how each discovered an essential truth about the mind that science is only now backing up with research. Audio collections strong in nonfiction will relish this. Jill Conner Browne's AMERICAN THIGHS (1423311361, $26.99) receives a spirited narration by the author as it tells of growing up and learning a bout life. Stories range from fashion disasters to taking care of skin and provide insights on coming of age and learning about life.

Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration
Penney Peirce
Atria Books
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
1582702128, $24.00 www.simonandschuster.com

Our spirit, thoughts and body are all made of energy, and everyone has a personal vibration that communicates who we are to the world. FREQUENCY shows how to feel and work with personal vibration to change one's life, from improving relationships to solving problems. It's a top pick for health and new age collections alike, pairing scientific discovery with clues on how to work with personal vibration for maximum advantage.

The Alzheimer's Advisor
Vaughn E. James
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
0814409245, $19.95 www.amacombooks.org

Any library strong in books on aging and elder care will relish THE ALZHEIMER'S ADVISOR, a powerful survey of daily issues and strategies for handling loved ones with Alzheimer's. From legal and ethical problems to real-life situations, treatment options, and estate planning alike, this covers all facets and is a fine health library addition.

Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
www.prometheusbooks.com

Ellen Clegg's CHEMOBRAIN: HOW CANCER THERAPIES CAN AFFECT YOUR MIND (9781591026693, $18.95) is a key acquisition based on candid interviews with patients and physicians and scientists alike. It covers tactics for dealing with side effects and cognitive problems of chemotherapies and offer insights into both cancer research and treatment effects. Peter Bales, MD, MHSA's OSTEOARTHRITIS: PREVENTING AND HEALING WITHOUT DRUGS (9781591026150, $18.98) discusses everything from how joints become destroyed to how nutrients can combat osteoarthritis. Dietary recommendations accompany surveys of drugs, surgeries, and how nutritional intervention affects genes. Health collections will find both to be wonderful guides.

The e-Policy Handbook, 2nd Edition
Nancy Flynn
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814410650, $19.95 www.amacombooks.org

Digital abuse can tear companies apart - such abuse includes software pirating, inappropriate e-mails, and more. Businesses seeking protection from liability need the latest updated edition of The e-Policy Handbook: it has been newly updated to reflect the latest electronic developments and offers strategies for identifying and preventing data theft, customer information, and more. Step-by-step training and sample policies along with real-world case histories makes for a fine survey.

Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol: Drinking to Cope?
Matthew Tinsley and Sarah Hendrickx
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street #400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781843106098, $19.95 www.jkp.com

Collections strong in Asperger Syndrome and alcoholism will welcome an unusual connection between the two in Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol: Drinking to Cope? It uses the author's professional and personal experiences to survey ASDs and alcohol abuse, including the latest research linking the two and the author's own personal history as someone with an ASD diagnosis. A fine addition to any college-level health and medical issues library.


The Psychology Shelf

The Dream Encyclopedia, second edition
James R. Lewis
Visible Ink Press
43311 Joy Road #414, Canton, MI 48187-2075
9781578592166, $24.95, www.ktpublicrelations.com

Dreams are the theaters of our subconscious. Now in a newly updated and expanded second edition, "The Dream Encyclopedia" is a guide to interpreting dreams, whether it be by one who is curious about what their mind is trying to tell them, a psychologist, or simply one who wants something interesting to talk about with friends. Tackling nearly three hundred topics that commonly occur in dreams and offering interpretations for each of them, "The Dream Encyclopedia" breaks down each symbol and explains why one's mileage may vary on certain symbols. Offering much food for thought, "The Dream Encyclopedia" is very much recommended to the curious or professional reader.

How We Decide
Jonah Lehrer
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780618620111, $25.00 www.hmhbooks.com

The human decision-making process has been viewed as either rational or emotional but neuroscience has made new discoveries on how the mind works and this focus on decision-making uses this latest research to examine how people are using new science to make better judgements. From business to sports and military intelligence, this is a fascinating examination of how the human mind works, recommended for any health collection.

The Unwell Brain
F. Scott Kraly
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393705966, $18.95 www.wwnorton.com

Brain chemistry affects behavior patterns, and THE UNWELL BRAIN examines closely what is going on in the brain of a person suffering a debilitating psychological disorder. Neuroscience for lay readers is provided in clear discussions recommended for college-level audiences and advanced high school collections alike, complete with illustrative charts, graphs, and in-depth discussions of disorders.

The Age of Anxiety
Andrea Tone
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
Eleven Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780465086580, $26.95 www.basicbooks.com

History and psychiatry blend in THE AGE OF ANXIETY: A HISTORY OF AMERICA'S TURBULENT AFFAIR WITH TRANQUILIZERS. The last century has seen a huge increase in anti-anxiety medication: a trend Andrea Tone charts through manufacturers' files, FDA reports, government investigations, and interviews with patients, physicians and activists alike. Any health library needs this survey of American tranquilizer usage and its physical and social impact.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Knit One Below
Elise Duvekot
XRX Books
shopsales@xrx-inc.com
9781933064130, $19.95, www.xrx-inc.com

Professional looking knitting doesn't have to come from professional sources. "Knit One Below: One Stitch, Many Fabrics" is a guide for the amateur or hobbyist knitter who wants to create professional looking jobs for their family by their own, through strategically placed stitches. Using this technique, author Elise Duvekot explains how to work multiple colors into a job, making reversible fabrics, and generally improving one's wardrobe with this excellent skill. "Knit One Below" is a top pick for needlecraft enthusiasts, or those looking to get started in the hobby.

Quilts in my Cubicle
Barbara Holzman
American Quilter's Society
Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-3290
9781574329636, $22.95 www.AmericanQuilter.com

12 projects for quilters who want to add quilt-based inspirations to their cubicle covers 12 months of tiny wallhangings which represent mini quilt decorations for small spaces. From using fat quarter blocks to choosing variegated fabric that does some of the work, this is a fine blending of color photos, patterns and easy projects perfect for quilters seeking smaller gift-giving or decorating choices.

Martingale & Company
20205 - 144th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072-8478
www.martingale-pub.com

Lutradur is the new fabric that looks, feels and folds like translucent paper - without the tearing. It offers a world of new opportunities for quilters and crafters and there's no better place to explore than with Lesley Riley's Fabulous Fabric Art with Lutradur (9781571205544, $20.95) in hand. Chapters present nearly thirty techniques to make the most of Lutradur, covering materials, methods, and adding in color photos to embellish. LET'S PRETEND: WHIMSICAL QUILTS FOR KIDS by Cynthia Tiomaszewski (9781564778429, $24.95) provides designs for kids with fun images and bold colors. Projects are big enough for kids' quilts or wall hangings and offers a range of piecing and applique designs for fine embellishment. Lynn Roddy Brown's SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR BLOCK-SWAP QUILTS (9781564778581, $26.99) offers techniques for the blocks gathered from guild swaps, online trades and stashing. From cutting lists for making individual quilts if you don't have such a collection to directions for creating 15 scrap quilts, this packs in layouts and tips along with color photos and fun embellishments. Eva A. Larkin's FREE-MOTION QUILTING MADE EASY: 186 DESIGNS FROM 8 SIMPLE SHAPES (9781564778828, $26.99) tells how to turn simple lines into fine designs using basic familiar shapes to pair in different combinations. Step-by-step directions, practice exercises, and tips make free-motion quilting basics a snap. Sys Fredens' CONTEMPORARY CROCHET: 37 EUROPEAN DESIGNS (9781564778970, $21.99) offers nearly forty European crochet designs, from winter sweater to summer shells, pairing lovely color photos with materials, instructions and different angles. Deanne Eisenman's COUNTRY-FRESH QUILTS (9781564778215, $24.95) packs in traditional blocks with floral accents and presents five designs, from wall hangings to pillows and lap quilts - some 11 projects using these floral designs. Beginners and advanced quilters alike will find these projects clear, fun and easy. Sharon A. smith's PUNCHNEEDLE ON A GRAND SCALE (9781564778727, $19.99) tells how to move punchneedle projects to a new size using large-scale designs and decorator fabrics for background. Ten pieces can be used for purses, pillows and more in a needlework presentation offering a range of design options. Kathleen Tracy's REMEMBERING ADELIA: QUILTS INSPIRED BY HER DIARY (9781564778659, $24.99) provides a range of quilts inspired by the diary of a teen living in Northern Illinois at the Civil War time. Her journal on sewing and quilting serves as inspiration for patterns and a presentation that includes period photos for further context. Any knitter seeking the basics simply MUST have A TO Z OF KNITTING: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR THE BEGINNER TO ADVANCED KNITTER (9781564778144, $18.99). It packs in clear directions, color photos, and basics for all kinds of knitting, making details simple for any new to the topic. Suzanne Zaruba Cirillo's SUNBONNET SUE AND SCOTTIE AT PLAY: DESIGNS IN REDWORK AND APPLIQUE (9781564778833, $24.99) provides a vintage image with a new look. Any working with kids' quilts or crafts will find engaging these familiar sunbonnet Sue designs in redwork embroidery and applique, perfect for a range of nostalgia pieces. Karin Renaud's QUILTS FROM THE HEART II (9781584778505, $26.99) offers a range of new quilt designs using the same color palette that attracted quilters to her previous book. Some 18 projects appear in a fine collection of easy, traditional quilts for all skills levels. These are top picks for needlework and quilting personal libraries and lending collections catering to them.


The Computer Shelf

The iPod Book, 5th Edition
Scott Kelby
Peachpit Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0321569350, $19.99 www.peachpit.com

Any owner of the iPod whether it be the touch, nano, shuffle or more, needs THE IPOD BOOK, now updated in its 5th edition to reflect all versions of iPod. This is a 'show me' book, which means lots of visuals, a chatty style, and a focus on the most requested, useful things about the iPod. There's only one topic per page so it's not 'cluttered' with too much. Simply the perfect choice for iPod owners.

Adobe AIR Programming Unleashed
Stacy Tyler Young, et.al.
Sams Publishing
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0672329719, $44.99 www.informit.com/sams

Version 1.5 of Adobe AIR is included in this fine guide illustrating the application through a series of examples based on the official 1.5 release. Libraries strong in Adobe AIR development guides will appreciate a programmer's guide covering how to customize and tweak the program for maximum benefit. Included are downloadable examples and source code on the web, making for an even more valuable study tool.

How to Be a Geek Goddess
Christina Tynan-Wood
No Starch Press
555 DeHaro #250, San Francisco CA 94107
9781593271879, $24.95 www.nostarch.com

Learn technology decisions ranging from buying a computer to shopping for cell phones and using electronics, surfing the web, and controlling email with How to Be a Geek Goddess, an outstanding guide to handling computers with savvy. From botnets to keeping online shopping habits private, it's packed with the latest insider info.

Digital Engagement
Leland Harden and Bob Heyman
Amacom
1601 Broadway, new York NY 10019-7420
0814410723, $24.00 www.amacombooks.org

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT: INTERNET MARKETING THAT CAPTURES CUSTOMERS AND BUILDS BRAND LOYALTY is for marketing managers and startup entrepreneurs who want to stay current in cyber-marketing. Tips on how to more effectively use the latest technologies come from online marketing gurus who cover everything from building the better website to keeping connected through phone screens and more. Any library strong in business or computer marketing strategies needs this!

Scaling Lean & Agile Development
Craig Larman and Bas Voddie
Addison Wesley
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0321480961, $44.99 www.informit.com/aw

Lean thinking and development projects blend with agile practices and systems thinking in "Scaling Lean & Agile Development", a definitive and thoroughly 'user friendly' guide to organizational re-design moving from single-function teams to cross-functional teams. Leaders will learn the basics of agility in a software engineering guide perfect for libraries strong in agile software concepts.

Java for Programmers
Paul J. Dietel and Harvey M. Dietel
Prentice Hall
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0137001290, $59.99 www.informit.com/ph

Programmers with a background in high-level language programming will find this 1,100+ page reference packs in details key to Java and the Powerful Java Platform. Concepts are presented in fully tested programs which come with code highlighting and code descriptions of over 220 Java applications with over 18,000 lines of proven Java code. The result is a 'must' reference for any Java programmer and library seeking depth and comprehensive substance in a Java reference.

Lessons in DSLR Workflow with Lightroom and Photoshop
Jerry Courvoisier
Peachpit Press
1249 - 8th Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
032155423X, $44.99 www.peachpit.com

Once you've captured that prime image with your camera, use this guide for importing, organizing and editing images using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and Photoshop. Both programs are featured in this full-faceted coverage of DSLR integration with the programs, from customization options and blends with Photoshop to using advanced techniques to create surprising results. Tips from seasoned photographers lend to a guide highly recommended for either photography or computer libraries.

Enterprise Recipes with Ruby and Rails
Maik Schmidt
Pragmatic Publishers
P.O. Box 293325, Lewisville, TX 75029-3325
1934356239, $38.95 www.Pragprog.com

Over 50 'recipes' shows hot to blend existing legacy code using Ruby and Ruby on Rails, and how to create new applications based on existing models. Learn how to process a range of data pieces in all kinds of formats from XML to fixed-length records using a guide that even helps reuse existing C, C++, Java and other codes. A versatile, top pick for any computer library.

O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein Highway, Sebastopol CA 95472
www.oreilly.com

Want to learn how to create great user interfaces on the Web? U1 experts Bill Scott and Theresa Neil present over 75 design patterns for building web interfaces for interaction with Designing Web Interfaces (9780596516253, $49.99), which comes from the authors' years of experience, and provide six key principles to help in web technologies. Each chapter covers a design principle making for an excellent in-depth focus highly recommended for web designers. David Griffiths' HEAD FIRST RAILS (9780596515775, $49.99) covers everything from database interactions and Ajax integration to XML, dynamic graphing of data, and more. An added plus: it uses the latest research in cognitive science and learning theory to provide a visually rich presentation designed to jive with brain functions. A 'must' for an computer collection catering to Rails students. David Pogue's SWITCHING TO THE MAC: THE MISSING MANUAL LEOPARD EDITION (9780596514129, $29.99) considers the basics of how to switch from a PC-oriented world to a Mac environment in SWITCHING TO THE MAC, a key survey of Mac OS X and how to transfer files from PC to Mac, how to recreate software available only for Windows, and how to learn MacOS X 'Leopard'. It's a 'must' for any making the change, and for any general-interest library with any degree of computer information for users. Dan Fernandez and Brian Peek's CODING 4FUN 10 (9780596520748, $39.99) provides programming projects for Warcraft, YouTube and more, from building an Xbox game to using Wilmote to create an electronic whiteboard. Tips on fun coding use a range of free Microsoft software to cover some ten creative coding projects that are fun, revealing projects. David Stiller, et.al.'s ACTIONSCRIPT 3.0 QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE (9780596517359, $34.99) is written by four top experts in the industry and tells how to move from Actionscript 2.0 to 3.0 quickly. From differences between the two to step-by-step solutions for tasks, reviews of features and functions in this big upgrade make this a 'must' for any library catering to Flash programmers. Ian Molyneaux's ART OF APPLICATION PERFORMANCE TESTING (9780596520663, $34.99) is a pick for any advanced library strong in software engineering, showing how to set realistic performance testing goals, implement an effective application performance testing strategy, and use automated testing tools. It comes from a consultant with 30 years of experience in the IT industry and over 12 years experience with performance testing, and offers an excellent and detailed survey. Chris Grover with E.A. Vander Veer's FLASH CS4: THE MISSING MANUAL (97804596522940, $39.99) is deserving of ongoing recognition as a top pick for any web design or Flash library catering to animation software learners. Flash is the undisputed 'king' of such programs and the solutions to common issues located in FLASH CS4; THE MISSING MANUAL make for an invaluable, highly recommended basic handbook. Lesa Snider King's PHOTOSHOP CS4: THE MISSING MANUAL (9780596522964, $49.99) is for any collection wishing to appeal to Photoshop users. Most Photoshop guides assume a basic skills level - THE MISSING MANUAL does not; it offers a more casual chatty approach to Photoshop and avoids technical jargon as it explains layers, channels, and achieving polished, professional results. Curt Hibbs, Steve Jewett and Mike Sullivan's THE ART OF LEAN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT (9780596517311, $34.99) is for busy developers who can't afford sudden changes. It offers a 'Lean approach that's actually been tested for decades, showing how to apply Lean software development practices to increase productivity without disruption. Simon st. Laurent and Edd Dumbill's LEARNING RAILS (9780596518776, $34.99) tells how to build an application with a basic view and easy controller while learning Ruby. From connecting forms to models through a database, to using Rails to build applications from a different perspective, LEARNING RAILS offers fine keys to success. Diomidis Spinellis and Georgios Gousios' BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE: LEADING THINKERS REVEAL THE HIDDEN BEAUTY IN SOFTWARE DESIGN (9780596517984, $44.99) discusses software engineering and flexible software forms. Essays from over a dozen contemporary software engineers and designers offer analysis of notable software forms and what makes them ideal innovations. From complex models to user interfaces, it's an excellent survey for any software library.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Follow the Dog
Ruth Gordon
Pogo Press
8075 215th Street West, Lakeville, MN 55044
9781880654439, $22.95, www.pogopress.com

Dogs are commonly stated as man's best friend, and being policeman's best friend is no different. "Follow the Dog: A History of the St. Paul Police Canine Unit 1958-2008" follows the birth of the use of dogs for police work. Following the history from when the idea was pitched, the dogs were trained, the early days of the unit and how the first attempt fell apart, author Ruth Gordon does well in tracing the use of dogs in police work in St. Paul, offering a full view of its successes and failures. "Follow the Dog" is a fine read for anyone intrigued to learn about canines in police work.

The Healthy Way to Stretch Your Dog
Sasha Foster
Dogwise
403 S Mission St. Wenatchee, WA 98801
9781929242542, $24.95, www.dogwise.com

Stretching is an important part of human health, and dogs are not that far removed in their needs. "The Healthy Way to Stretch Your Dog: A Physical Therapy Approach" explains the importance of stretching for one's dog, and how proper use of the technique can help dogs live a longer life. All dogs can benefit from this practice, whether they are active or sedentary, as it helps their joints and muscles no matter how much or how little they are used. "The Healthy Way to Stretch Your Dog" is a fine acquisition for those dedicated to the health and longevity of their canine friend.

Your Dog's IQ
David Taylor
Thunder Bay Press
10350 Barnes Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121
9781592239870, $9.95, www.thunderbaybooks.com

Dogs have never been viewed as the most intelligent creatures, but they are quite clever. "Your Dog's IQ: How Clever is Your Canine?" is a guide to measuring how smart one's dog really is. With countless little tests one can run on one's dog, to learning how the canine mind works, training one's dog to be smarter, and the mental differences between breeds, "Your Dog's IQ" is a good manual all around. "Your Dog's IQ" is a must for dog lovers who want their dog to be smarter than the average dog.

Real Food for Dogs & Cats
Clare Middle
Fremantle Press
c/o International Specialized Book Services (ISBS)
920 NE 58th Ave., Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
9781921361357, $19.95, www.fremantlepress.com.au

Processed food has its health risks, but there is no food more processed than pet food. "Real Food for Dogs & Cats: A Practical Guide to Feeding Your Pet a Balanced, Natural Diet" is a guide to returning one's pets to their natural and instinctual diet. Raw foods are what dogs and cats traditionally eat, and both are usually carnivores. A return to a raw diet could bring pets countless benefits for both themselves and their owners. "Real Food for Dogs & Cats" is the ideal diet manual for one's best friends and companions.

Bear-ology
Sylvia Dolson
PixyJack Press
PO Box 149, Masonville, CO 80541
9780977372454, $18.00, www.pixyjackpress.com

Furry, curious, cute, but oh so deadly. "Bear-ology: Fascinating Bear Facts, Tales, & Trivia" is a charming little book for the young or not-so young bear lover who wants to learn more about the various species of this type of creature. Tracing the long history and folklore associated with the bear, which has been a central figure of countless myths, as well as more modern fictional representations such as Smokey or Winnie the Pooh. "Bear-ology" gives readers countless fun facts and fine reading about the ursine animal.

Animals Make Us Human
Temple Grandin
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780151014897, $26.00 www.hmhbooks.com

ANIMALS MAKE US HUMAN: CREATING THE BEST LIFE FOR ANIMALS comes form an animal scientist and autism advocate who explains how to fulfill the specific needs of dogs, cats, horses and wildlife and farm animals alike, showing how happiness enters their lives. Chapters cover cows, cats, dogs and more in animal-specific focuses perfect for any collection strong in either domestic or wild animals.


The Sports Shelf

Die Trying
Bo Parfet with Richard Buskin
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814410847, $23.00 www.amacombooks.org

When he left for Kilimanjaro in 2003 author Bo Parfet was an overweight Wall Street investment banker with little experience - not your usual candidate for mountain-climbing. None of his fellow climbers thought he'd make it to the top, but despite many ailments he reached the top of the mountain - and decided to climb all seven summits. His story is an inspiration to any who are not neo-professional athletes.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Slumdog Millionaire
Simon Beaufoy
Newmarket Press
18 E. 48th Street, New York, NY 10017
9781557048363, $19.95, www.newmarketpress.com

Winning many Oscars this past event, 'Slumdog Millionaire' has much for viewers and moviemakers to learn from. "Slumdog Millionaire: The Shooting Script" is a look at the screenplay for this runaway hit film that took theatres by storm. The story, following an eighteen-year-old boy on the cusp of millions, begins in tragedy and leads to the point where his life may finally turn around. "Slumdog Millionaire: The Shooting Script" is well worth the purchase for any who want to study the critically acclaimed film.

Rain/Drizzle/Fog
Darrell Varga, editor
University of Calgary Press
2500 University Drive, NW Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4
9781552382486, $34.95, www.uofcpress.com

Where does regional film lie in the modern world? "Rain/Drizzle/Fog: Film and Television in Atlantic Canada" is a look at the rise and decline of regional film in eastern Canada. Concerned with the state of modern TV, author Darrell Varga discusses programs that have grown into continent-wide sensations, as well as the early roots of television. Standing against the assimilation of Canadian culture into one identity, "Rain/Drizzle/Fog" is fascinating reading for anyone intrigued by the international history of television.

Television: The Life Story of a Technology
Alexander B. Magoun
The Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
9780801890727, $25.00 www.press.jhu.edu 1-800-537-5487

Written by Alexander B. Magoun (executive director, David Sarnoff Library), Television: The Life Story of a Technology lives up to its title with an in-depth examination of the history of a media that continues to transform the world. Though television has been prevalent only for approximately fifty years, the earliest conception of the technology that would become television had its roots over one hundred years in the past. Chapters cover the innovation that brought television into existence, and then to the masses; how its commercialization affected human culture; and how modern digital media is chipping away at television's dominance - indeed, could the Internet bring about television's final end? A handful of black-and-white photographs, a bibliography, and an index enhance this highly readable account, sure to fascinate lay readers and scholars alike.

Make Movies That Make Money!
Philip R. Cable
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson, NC 28640
9780786441631, $39.95, www.mcfarlandpub.com

There's a formula Hollywood has figured out, but you don't need millions to do it as well. "Make Movies That Make Money! The Low-Budget Filmmaker's Guide to Commercial Success" is a guide for filmmakers of any level, from those playing with their grandparent's video camera to independent producers with a moderate budget. Author Phillip Cable says you don't need a massive budget to gain success, and gives tips for these film makers without funds to make their mark in the world of Hollywood blockbusters. "Make Movies That Make Money!" is a fine and highly recommended guide for those who don't want to be a starving artist.

Jack & Walter
Ben Costello
Five Star Publications, Inc.
4695 W. Tyson Street, Chandler, AZ 85226
9781589851184, $45.00, www.jackandwalterbook.com

There is sometimes a chemistry between two people where it just clicks and there is gold. "Jack & Walter: The Films of Lemmon & Matthau" chronicles the career of the two legendary actors when they were placed together, though each was a legend in his own right. Author Ben Costello looks at the pair's joint films ranging from their earliest work together in 'The Fortune Cookie', to their most well-known film 'The Odd Couple', to their much more recent films 'Grumpy Old Men' and 'JFK'. Chapters also cover both men's solo careers. Each movie gets its own chapter, complete with production stills and personal photos in black and white. "Jack & Walter" is a must for any fan of either actor.

Milk: A Pictorial History of Harvey Milk
Dustin Lance Black, Introduction
Newmarket Press
18 E. 48th Street, New York NY 10017
9781557048288, $19.95 www.newmarketpress.com

Film collections interested in contemporary sagas and documentaries will relish Milk: A Pictorial History of Harvey Milk It comes from a screenwriter who in 2004 began to retell the story of a gay politician who was murdered in San Francisco. The making of the movie and results of research, interviews, and news stories makes for a powerful presentation.

The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made
David Hughes
Titan Books
144 Southwark Street, London SE1 OUP
9781845767556, $14.95 www.titanbooks.com

Any collection strong in science fiction movies of the past needs THE GREATEST SCI-FI MOVIES NEVER MADE. From Spielberg's NIGHT SKIES to Kubrick's CHILDHOOD'S END, this covers some legendary unmade films, expanding and updating a prior edition and revealing details of efforts that never made it to the screen and public eye.


The Business Shelf

Cashvertising
Drew Eric Whitman
Career Press
3 Tice Road, PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601630322, $14.99, www.careerpress.com

Being able to sell something is the life and death of any company. "Cashvertising: How to Use More Than 100 Secrets of Ad-Agency Psychology to Make Big Money Selling Anything to Anyone" is a look into the psychology of advertising and the statistics behind it. There are certain factors, however slight, can mean the difference between a good, effective ad that moves product and a bad ad which proves to be a waste of money or worse. "Cashvertising" is a must read for anyone in the advertising business.

Helping
Edgar H. Schein
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650, San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781576758632, $22.95, www.bkconnection.com

Good help is helpful, but bad help is better off not there. "Helping: How to Offer, Give, and Receive Help" is a book exploring the psychology of help in the world of business. Good intentions are perfectly fine, but even the best intentions can fail be it because of incompetence, disorganization, or simply stubborn pride. Hoping to encourage people to embrace a more effective way to help others, author Edgar H. Schein lays out a fine manual that will do much for those who need and want to help.

Macy's
Robert M. Grippo
Square One Publishers
115 Herricks Road, Garden City Park, NY 11040
9780757003097, $24.95, www.squareonepublihers.com

Some companies become so well known that they are a part of America's culture. "Macy's: The Store. The Star. The Story" takes a look at the retail chain Macy's and how, over the past century and a half of its existence, it has established itself as a cultural icon. Tracing the company's history from the dream of an ambitious entrepreneur named Rowland H. Macy (who was by no means a successful businessman) to becoming the leading name associated with Thanksgiving Day parades, "Macy's" is enhanced with full color photographs and detailed information. "Macy's" is a fascinating look an American icon and deserves an enthusiastic recommendation.

The Practice of Adaptive Leadership
Ronald Heifetz
Harvard Business Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422105764, $24.95, www.harvardbusiness.org

Adaptation is what makes humans human, and any leader who can't do it has no chance in today's fierce world of business."The Practice of Adaptive Leadership: Tools and Tactics for Changing Your Organization and the World" is a business leadership guide focusing on adaptation in a business world that can change drastically between one day and the next. Introducing some theory alongside proven examples of these techniques, author Ronald Heifetz presents some keen examples sure to improve the techniques of readers. "The Practice of Adaptive Leadership" is a fine and highly recommended read for new business leaders.

Goal!
Gladys Stone and Fred Whelan
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
9781884956959, $14.95 www.quilldriverbooks.com

GOAL! YOUR 30-DAY GAME PLAN FOR BUSINESS AND CAREER SUCCESS is a fine, basic introduction for any collection interested in setting and accomplishing career goals. Two experienced executive recruiters and coaches offer a structured program keyed to taking action, packing exercises with motivational insights in a guide perfect for both business and general-interest collections.

Global Warming is Good for Business
K.B. Keilbach
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno CA 93721
9781884956881, $24.95 www.quilldriverbooks.com

Entrepreneurs and business people can easily make money while conserving the environment: this isn't just theory but fact, based on the stories of successful endeavors presented here. From researchers into the latest 'clean' technologies to the corporate entities using them to advantage, Global Warming is Good for Business: How Savvy Entrepreneurs, Large Corporations, and Others are Making Money While Saving the Planet is a winner.

Executive Power
David J. Lieberman, Ph.D.
Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46256
9780470372821, $24.95 www.wiley.com

Success isn't just about making decisions: it depends on observation and savvy assessment of the environment around you. "Executive Power" packs in psychological assessments and business savvy, including persuasion techniques used by the FBI, mental health pros, and others. It offers a set of tactics that can be used on any person or situation, from regaining customer trust to getting people to work as a team in a business setting. An invaluable set of management tools, this is perfect for any business collection catering to executives.

The Principles of Successful Freelancing
Miles Burke
Sitepoint
48 Cambridge Street, Collingwood, VIC Australia 3066
9780980455243, $34.99 www.sitepoint.com

If you're thinking on freelancing on your own, then THE PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESSFUL FREELANCING is for you. It tells how to transition into freelance work, how to manage money and balance work and living, and how to create a business network of support. Any collection strong in entrepreneurial guides will find this an exceptional pick.

Twitter Power
Joel Comm
Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46256
9780470458426, $24.95 www.wiley.com

Twitter is an on-line micro-blog that allows users to broadcast their status to followers in 140 characters or less - and Twitter users helped broadcast terrorist attacks and some of the first news hitting the media. Business marketers who would apply business pursuits to Twitter will appreciate TWITTER POWER: HOW TO DOMINATE YOUR MARKET ONE TWEET AT A TIME. It is the first book to address business potentials of Twitter and is a pick for any library strong in alternative business marketing pursuits.

Ebay Business At Your Fingertips
Kevin W. Boyd
Alpha
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9781592577941, $16.95 www.penguin.com

There's a lot to know about doing business on eBay, but it's not information that needs to be absorbed all at once. EBAY BUSINESS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS is meant for small intense examinations a bit at a time and should be on the shelves of any potential ebay seller and any general-interest library catering to them. It covers everything from selling basics to PayPal account management, auction know-how, grading, handling shipments, and more. Perfect for beginning ebay sellers.


The Social Issues Shelf

Managing Humanitarian Relief
Eric James
Practical Action Publishing
c/o Stylus Publishing
22883 Quicksilver Drive, Sterling, VA 20166-2012
9781853396694, $49.95, www.styluspub.com

As evidenced from the recent FEMA disaster, a poorly managed humanitarian effort can make problems worse. "Managing Humanitarian Relief: An Operational Guide for NGOs" serves as a reference for humanitarian organizations on how to properly manage their company so that they serve as more of a boon for crisis than a bane. Intended for leaders and managers of these organizations, "Managing Humanitarian Relief" brings much wisdom that should be heavily be considered for any respectable company dedicated to their principles. "Managing Humanitarian Relief" serves as a warning as well as a manual; it is a must for those who want to avoid tragic bumbles.

Prisoned Chickens, Poisoned Eggs, revised edition
Karen Davis
Book Publishing Co.
PO Box 99, Summertown, TN 38483
9781570672293, $14.95, www.bookpubco.com

Chickens are one of the world's most embraced food animals, but the modern handling of them could make their tasty flesh not so sweet. Now in a newly updated and expanded revised edition, "Prisoned Chickens, Poisoned Eggs: An Inside Look at the Modern Poultry Industry" is an exploration of how chickens are handled in today's livestock farms. Focusing on the imporatnce of animal rights as well as environmental concerns, author Karen Davis calls out the industry as cruel and wasteful, and possibly endangering the world's chicken eaters. Arguing for a more vegetarian world, "Prisoned Chickens, Poisoned Eggs" is an intriguing look at the world of modern chicken farming.

Preventing Partner Violence
Daniel J. Whitaker & John R. Lutzker, editors
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
9781433804342, $69.95, www.apa.org

Domestic violence is a serious problem in America. "Preventing Partner Violence: Research and Evidence-Based Intervention Strategies" is a look at the tragedy of how love between two people has a shocking frequency of violence. Evaluating how the problem has risen and fallen through recent years, authors Daniel Whitaker and John Lutzker speak on the nature and origins of the problem, and sadly it's nothing new. Domestic violence has been occurring since humanity began, and preventing it has always been a problematic yet key goal of modern, civilized society. Aimed at those who work locally to intervene the problem before it starts and stop it before someone seriously gets hurt, Lutzker and Whitaker do well in giving readers an in-depth view of this serious issue. For anyone researching domestic violence, "Preventing Partner Violence" is an absolute must.

Food Fray
Lisa H. Weasel, Ph.D.
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814401643, $23.00 www.amacombooks.org

FOOD FRAY: INSIDE THE CONTROVERSY OVER GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD offers insights across the board, from researchers to activists, farmers and consumers, on genetically modified food, and is a pick for both general-interest and college-level libraries strong in health and food issues. It offers stories blending science with real-world anecdotes and pinpoints facts about agricultural biotechnology applications and world events. Perfect for classroom debate or personal reflection alike, it blends science with human experience.

Islamic Radicalism and Global Jihad
Devin R. Springer, James L. Regens and David N. Edger
Georgetown University press
3240 Prospect Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007
9781589012530, $26.95 www.press.georgetown.edu

Any college-level library strong in global terrorism or world issues - or even Middle Eastern social issues - will find Islamic Radicalism and Global Jihad a fine study surveying Islamic radicalism and its relationship to terrorism and the West. Their analysis of the origins and strategies of terrorists within the global jihad movement makes for an in-depth, detailed survey key to understanding the roots of terrorist activity. Highly recommended.

The Means of Reproduction
Michelle Goldberg
The Penguin Press
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9781594202087, $25.95 www.penguin.com

Cultural analysis lends insight and depth to a guide recommended for high school to college-level collections strong in women's issues in THE MEANS OF REPRODUCTION: SEX, POWER, AND THE FUTURE OF THE WORLD. The freedom of women has become the key human rights struggle of our times, and this surveys history and social issues on four continents to consider the wider, global issue.

Green Hell
Steve Milloy
Regnery Publishers
One Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington DC 20001
9781596985858, $27.95 www.regnery.com

The environmental movement has a darker agenda: that of regulating behavior, lifestyle choices, and American lives: so maintains Steve Milloy in GREEN HELL: HOW ENVIRONMENTALISTS PLAN TO CONTROL YOUR LIFE AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO STOP THEM. No matter what side of the picture you believe - reading this different approach offers a new perspective on the subject of sustainability's impact on personal choice.


The Black Studies Shelf

Voices of the African American Experience
Lionel C. Bascom, editor
Greenwood Publishing Group, Inc.
88 Post Road West, P.O. Box 5007, Westport, CT 06881-5007
9780313343476, $275.00 www.greenwood.com 1-800-225-5800

Voices of the African American Experience is a three-volume scholarly compendium of primary testimonies and sources of African-American history (speeches, articles, mission statements, hymns, spiritual songs, slave narratives, memoirs, essays, and much more), offering an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of African-Americans during the past four hundred years, in their own words. Each document is presented with an introduction and additional contextual information, the better to aid students, scholars, or lay people researching the African-American experience. A thoroughly accessible resource sure to fascinate readers of all backgrounds, Voices of the African American Experience deserves the highest recommendation especially for public and college library collections.

Black Manhood and Community Building in North Carolina 1900-1930
Angela Hornsby-Gutting
University Press of Florida
15 Northwest 15th St., Gainesville, FL 32611
9780813032931, $65.00 www.upf.com

Part of the "New Perspectives on the History of the South" series, Black Manhood and Community Building in North Carolina 1900-1930 is a close look at the role of black men in resisting racial oppression in North Carolina during the beginning of the twentieth century - a time notorious for use of poll taxes, literacy tests, and the grandfather clause to deny black men the right to vote, as well as segregationist Jim Crow laws. North Carolina's racial climate became so poor that roughly 57,000 black North Carolinians left the state during the period of 1900 to 1930. Histories of the time often focus disproportionately black women's efforts to resist or subvert the Jim Crow laws (including by forming interracial alliances with white women). Black Manhood and Community Building in North Carolina 1900-1930 gives the other side of the tale; the four sections are subtitled "African-American Churchmen Confront the Black Women's Era", "Fashioning Boys into Respectable Race Men", "Gender and Fraternity in North Carolina's Black Secret Society" and "Black Men Navigate the Terrain of Race Ambassador". Exhaustively researched with copious notes, Black Manhood and Community Building in North Carolina 1900-1930 is highly recommended for shedding light on a vital yet overlooked aspect of North Carolina's history and social evolution.

Passing Strange
Martha A. Sandweiss
Penguin Press
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014-3658
9781594202001, $27.95 www.penguin.com

PASSING STRANGE: A GILDED AGE TALE OF LOVE AND DECEPTION ACROSS THE COLOR LINE is a powerful, haunting account by a historian author who probes the secrets of Clarence King, a brilliant scientist who helped map the West after the Civil War. His little-known double life - as a celebrated white explorer and writer and as a black Pullman porter and steel worker - offers up a gripping saga of a man who lied because he wished to marry his wife publicly, presenting himself falsely as a black man to marry the woman he loved. Any library will find it a powerful, popular lend.


The Music Shelf

101 Razor-Sharp Slide Guitar Licks
Larry McCabe
Red Dog Music Books
PO Box 1074, Rocky Mount, VA 24151
9781934777015, $19.95, www.reddogmusicbooks.com

There are countless techniques to playing the guitar that can create their own unique sound. "101 Razor-Sharp Slide Guitar Licks: Electric Urban/Chicago Style" is a guide to the basic blues slide guitar style. Emphasizing the use of a slider, author Larry McCabe seeks to teach his readers to embrace the electric blues guitar style, made famous by the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughn. Enhanced with a CD to accompany the lessons, "101 Razor-Sharp Slide Guitar Licks" is a fine and recommended acquisition for the learning guitarist.

Busoni and the Piano, second edition
Larry Sitsky
Pendragon Press
PO Box 190, Hillsdale, NY 12529
9781576471586, $36.00 www.pendragonpress.com 1-518-325-6100

First published in the late 1970s, Busoni and the Piano has been re-issued in an updated second edition for the twenty-first century. Written by Larry Sitsky, a music teacher, performer, and scholar of Busoni's work, this newly revised second edition of "Busoni and the Piano" explores Busoni's influence upon early 20th century music. Chapters examine individual works of Busoni in depth, excerpting scores as needed to illustrate points; compare Busoni to other great composers such as Bach, Liszt, and Mozart; and scrutinize Busoni's view of aesthetics, including his theory of notation for the piano. A thoughtful and scholarly text highly recommended for serious scholars of the piano.

Storms: My Life with Lindsey Buckingham and Fleetwood Mac
Carol Ann Harris
Chicago Review Press
814 N. Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
1556526601, $24.95 www.ipgbook.com www.chicagoreviewpress.com

Carol Ann Harris' personal notes and taped diaries of her eight-year journey with Fleetwood Mac offers a powerful insider's survey of the band's rise to stardom from their first album to their eight-year odyssey. From success to addiction, STORMS details a hurricane of action and events perfect for any fan of Fleetwood Mac.

Bruce Springsteen and Philosophy
Randall E. Auxier and Doug Anderson, Editors
Open Court
Box 300, Peru, IL 61354-3000
0812696476, $18.95 www.opencourtbooks.com

Libraries strong in either philosophy or popular music - or both - will welcome Bruce Springsteen and Philosophy, a guide to Springsteen's music linking lyrics with modern philosophy. Here eighteen Springsteen fans who are also philosophy buffs offer their survey of topics ranging from the musician's concept of the soul to 'fatalism' in one of his songs.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Confederate States Paper Money
George S. Cuhaj, editor
Krause Publications
700 E. State Street, Iola, WI 54990-0001
0896897060, $27.99 www.krausebooks.com

Over 350 color photos and prices in up to six grades of condition offer complete coverage of Upham and other notes and fine history about the Confederacy and individual Southern states, in the process of producing a useful identification and value guide for money collectors. An outstanding survey highly recommended for any collector's library.

Krause Publications
700 E. State Street, Iola, WI 54990-0001
www.krausebooks.com

All levels of coin and paper money collector will find an important reference in Allen G. Berman's Warman's Coins and Paper Money, 4th edition (0896896838, $24.99), which has been updated to reflect the latest information. From listings for US, World and Ancient currency to tips on how to collect, how to grade currency, and over 700 color photos for identification, this is a 'must' for any serious collector. George S. Cuhaj edits the 12th edition of STANDARD CATALOG OF WORLD PAPER MONEY GENERAL ISSUES 1368-1960 (0896897303, $80.00), which includes a DVD with pages of the book allowing for image enlargement up to 300%. A brilliant idea for collectors needing feature details, this packs in a comprehensive feature by more than 230 note-issuing authorities, including 25,100 bank note varieties priced in up to three condition grades. A top pick for any collector's library.

Whitman Publishing
3101 Clairmont Road, Suite C, Atlanta GA 30329
www.whitmanbooks.com

From a history of money in early America to different British coins and tokens for America and early American pieces, along with foreign coins usually collected with colonials, Q. David Bowers's Whitman Encyclopedia of Colonial and Early American Coins (9780794825416, $49.95) is a 'must' reference for any in-depth coin collector's library. It's the only authoritative reference on all pre-Federal coinage, offering good-size color photos of pieces along with historical and collecting insights. Paul Rynearson's COLLECTING ANCIENT GREEK COINS (9780794825560, $29.95) tells how to build a collection of ancient Greek coins, from the basics of evaluation and getting started to grading, cataloging and photographing a collection. From watching for forgeries to cleaning coins, over 25 different types of ancient Greek coins are covered, here. The silver Peace Dollar issued from 1921-1935 commemorated the end of the war and Roger W. Burdette with Barry Lovvorn's guide to their issue, A Guide Book of Peace Dollars (9780794826697, $19.95) explores these coins, covering all dates and mintmarks and studying patterns, errors and die varieties and the history of the Peace dollar. Coin collectors and libraries catering to them will find this specialty item an important acquisition, as it blends history with the latest values. J. Hewitt Judd, M.D.'s UNITED STATES PATTERN COINS (9780794822538, $39.95) offers a full-color 10th edition covering rare and beautiful U.S. pattern coins. History blends with values in an excellent coverage recommended for any coin collector's reference library. Q. David Bowers' GRADING COINS BY PHOTOGRAPHS: AN ACTION GUIDE FOR THE COLLECTOR AND INVESTOR (9780794827014, $19.95) should be in every coin collector's library: it covers the finer art and process of grading, which can save hundreds or thousands of dollars. Step-by-step grading instructions for all US coins provide collectors with much-needed specifics key to developing a solid, valuable coin collection.


The Crafts Shelf

Paper Crafts with Style
Trafalgar Square Publishing
PO Box 257, Howe Hill Road, North Pomfret, VT 05033
Independent Publishers Group (distributor)
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
9781570764271, $24.95 www.trafalgarbooks.com 1-800-888-4741

Paper Crafts with Style: Over 50 Designs Made with Cut, Folded, Pasted, and Stitched Paper lives up to its title; each two-page spread features easy-to-follow directions of a simple and elegant paper craft, opposite a full-page photograph of the potential creation. From lacy table menus to paper flowers to beautiful giftwrapping, Christmas decorations, and much more, Paper Crafts with Style is packed cover to cover with inexpensive, attractive projects. Enthusiastically recommended for anyone with an interest in paper crafts.

All Beaded Up By Machine
Terry White
American Quilter's Society
Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-4290
9781574329698, $26.95 www.americanquilter.com

Bead embellishment can be used on a range of projects, from needlework and quilting to home decor, and there's no better place to begin than with All Beaded Up By Machine, a survey of 9 projects showing how to use machine beading to create wallhangings, fashion accessories, and more. Each project receives color photos and clear step-by-step patterns for easy completion. Any library catering to needleworkers or crafts learners will find it a fine pick.

Shaped Beadwork
Diane Fitzgerald
Lark Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9781600592775, $24.95 www.larkbooks.com

SHAPED BEADWORK is an outstanding jewelry crafting guide for any who would weave patterns to make lovely two- and three-dimensional forms. Moving from individual beading patterns, most instructions cover complete pieces of jewelry in a series of patterns that can be easily modified to create unique jewelry pieces. Auhtor Diane Fitzgerald is the 2008 recipient of the Bead & Button Show Excellence in Bead Artistry Award. Any library catering to jewelry-makers and beaders will welcome her unique presentation.

Making Beautiful Jewelry
Tone Rorseth
Martingale & Company
20205 - 144th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072-8478
9781564778963, $18.95 www.martingale-pub.com

From stringing wires and stitching to decoupage and working with beads and paper, MAKING BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY is an outstanding collection of jewelry designs perfect for libraries strong in jewelry-making instruction. Full-page color photos of finished products accompany instructions on their making, in a lovely display of color.

Glass Engraving: 25 Projects for the Home
Sonia Lucano
Potter Craft
c/o Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780307452375, $12.95 www.crownpublishing.com

25 projects help home crafters turn ordinary glass into pieces to give as gifts or display around the house, pairing color images with text in a guide where all displays are featured as templates. The patterns and illustrations are lovely, clear accompaniments to this beginner's engraving guide, recommended for libraries strong in basic crafts introductions.

The Paper Architect
Maria Victoria Garrido Blanchini, et.al.
Potter Craft
c/o Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780307451477, $24.95 www.pottercraft.com

Crafters who would create miniature replicas of the world's great architecture, from the London Eye to the Parthenon and the Golden Gate Bridge, will relish this collection of fold-it-yourself buildings and structures offering 20 templates for construction. Step-by-step, clear directions accompany easy and fun diagrams, photos and templates perfect for paper crafters and libraries catering to them.


The Cookbook Shelf

The Belarusian Cookbook
Alexander Bely
Hippocrene Books
171 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
9780781812092, $24.95, www.hippocrenebooks.com

The cuisine of Belarus owes much to its Russian and Ukrainian neighbors, but has its own unique flavor. "The Belarusian Cookbook" is the first cookbook of its kind. Focusing on the cuisine of these lesser known Slavic people, author Alexander Bely brings readers a sample of nearly two hundred Belarusian recipes such as Herring Fried in Batter, Simplest Babka, and Leavened Slizhyki, among other fine recipes. With more staples of the style of cooking and seasonal dishes for the holidays, "The Belarusian Cookbook" is a fine compendium for those looking for a new ethnic flavor to enjoy.

European Peasant Cookery
Elisabeth Luard
Grub Street
c/o Casemate
1016 Warrior Road, Drexel Hill, PA 19026
1904943365, $34.95, www.casematepublishing.com

Even without much financial freedom, a good, tasty dish could still be made by the peasantry. "European Peasant Cookery" is a guide to the cuisine of the salt of the earth of classical Europe. These recipes have been cooked for centuries by people who had this food as some of the only sunshine in their lives. A wide range of dishes are presented from throughout the region such as Belgian Cod with Beer, English Roast Pork and Apple Sauce, German Pumpkin Soup, and much more than that. Each recipe includes its requirements, an estimation for preparation and cooking time, for ease of execution in one's own kitchen. "European Peasant Cookery" is a finely recommended read as both a historical interest and a fine cookbook.

The Yellow Door
Simon Dougan
Blackstaff Press
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9780856408281, $41.95, www.dufoureditions.com

Food attracts people, and people attract stories. "The Yellow Door: Our Story, Our Recipes" is the story of Simon Dougan's award winning deli and catering service, the yellow door. Telling of his company's rise to success and their philosophy of embracing the local flavors and ingredients, "The Yellow Door" is filled with the recipes that made Dougan's business a hit, such as Cashel Blue Tart, Mushroom Soup, Dougan's own take on steak, and Champagne Mojito. There's a wide range of flavors and fine tastes appealed to, with full color photos of the entrees. "The Yellow Door" is a fine and highly recommended read, sure to give chefs and their culinary devotees something very special to enjoy.

Cooking for Two
Jessica Strand
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
9780811863483, $19.95, www.chroniclebooks.com

Not everyone cooks for a family of four or just for themselves."Cooking for Two: Perfect Meals for Pairs" is a collection of recipes meant for those who only cook for themselves and someone close to them. These recipes are tailored to smaller quantities for those cooks who are tired of always having containers full of leftovers. With recipes such as Chunky Chicken pot pies, Vegetable Curry, and Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi, there is no shortage of variety presented in this cookbook. Featuring full color photographs and more, "Cooking for Two" is perfect for the small quantity chef.

101 Healthiest Foods
Joanna McMillan Price & Judy Davie
Ulysses Press
PO Box 3440, Berkeley, CA 94703
9781569756669, $14.95, www.ulyssespress.com

Healthy foods are the cornerstone of a healthy body."101 Healthiest Foods: A Quick and Easy Guide to the Fruits, Vegetables, Carbs, and Proteins That Can Save Your Life" is a guide to a huge list of nutritious foods that can do wonders for one's health. Covering the many aspects of nutrients ranging from carbs to proteins to fats, getting the most out of one's vitamins, and more, "101 Healthiest Foods" is a fine read for those who want to change their eating habits for the better.

Mexican Modern
Fiona Dunlop
Interlink Books
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060-1804
9781566567442, $29.95, www.interlinkbooks.com

Mexican food did not stop with just tacos and burritos, and modern Mexican chefs are as innovative as those of any other nation. "Mexican Modern: New Food from Mexico" breaks from the standard Mexican tradition that so many American cooks associate and brings readers and cooks new dishes from south of the border. With fine spins on something as simple as marinated shrimp, to seafood broth, to desserts such as strawberries with cheese and honey, the Mexican diet can revolutionize one's own. Each entry has the dish's Spanish name, ingredient list, and step by step directions. "Mexican Modern" is a fine choice for those who want to expand their culinary horizons.

Donburi Mania
Kentaro Kobayashi
Vertical
1185 Ave. Of the Americas 32nd Floor, New York, NY 10036
9781934287491, $14.95, www.vertical-inc.com

One doesn't have to spend years under a Japanese cook to eat authentic Japanese food. "Donburi Mania: Easy Japanese Cooking" is a guide by Kentaro Kobayashi to capturing the true essence of Japanese cooking without being a wizard of the kitchen. With a focus on donburi, a Japanese dish of fish or meat and vegetables, more than seventy types are presented, such as Cha Shao Donburi, Marinated Sashimi Donburi, and even Japanese breakfast donburi. "Donburi Mania" is a fine introduction to meals from the land of the Rising Sun.

Abundantly Wild
Teresa Marrone
Adventure Publications
820 Cleveland St. S, Cambridge, MN 55008
1591930340, $22.95

The grocery isn't the only place to find a good meal. "Abundantly Wild: Collecting and Cooking Wild Edibles" is a guide to those in the Midwest to finding food in their natural surroundings, and how to harvest food to cook in their own home. Filled with nearly three hundred recipes using sixty-five different fruits and vegetables one can find naturally growing, "Abundantly Wild" also has chapters on the benefits of eating naturally growing foods and how processed foods can do more harm than good. A true do-it-yourself cooking guide, "Abundantly Wild" is a strong consideration for any concerned with health and budget.

The Flavors of Asia
Mai Pham
DK Publishing, Inc.
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780756643058 $35.00 www.dk.com

The Flavors of Asia is a gorgeous, hardcover cookbook collecting recipies from forty of the best chefs in India, Asia, and America. Each of the 125 recipes is presented with numbered, step-by-step instructions, a beautiful full-page photograph of the dish, and insightful comments on the origin and use of the recipe. Recipes include "Baechoo Kimchi", "Spicy Lemongrass Tofu", "Singapore Chili Crab", "Banana Blossom Salad with Chicken", and more. Additional comments on more general Asian culinary techniques such as stir-frying round out this user-friendly cookbook excellent for chefs of all skill and experience levels. A worthy compendium of culinary delight.

100 Meals for $5 or Less
Jennifer Maughan
Gibbs Smith
PO Box 667, Layton, UT 84041
9781423602842, $12.99, www.gibbs-smith.com

You don't have to spend a lot to eat well. "100 Meals for $5 or Less" is a guide to being a fine cook without spending a lot of money. The recipes include such favorites such as Bean Barley Soup, Vegetable Lasagna, as well as more unique recipes in Fake Steak and Fish Stick Casserole. With extra tips on making a grocery budget work and resisting the temptation of non-budget efficient foods, "100 Meals for $5 or Less" is a fine investment for those cooking on a tight budget.

500 Cakes
Susannah Blake
Sellers Publishing
Box 818, Portland, ME 04104
9781416205340, $16.95 www.sellerspublishing.com

From quick and easy refrigerator cakes to gluten-free cakes and pound cakes, 500 CAKES is packed with quick, easy cake recipes paired with color photos on facing pages. It's an outstanding collection certain to prove a winning pick for libraries and personal collections alike, packing in a huge variety of recipes.

The Karoo Cookbook
Rose Willis
Struik Publishing
9781770076105 $22.00 www.struik.co.za www.amazon.com

The Karoo region is famous for its lamb and its rural ambiance, and this South African cookbook gathers a host of dishes from the Karoo, from a Savory Chicken Pie with a creamy chicken and chutney filling to a Nectarine Pie and a Potato Cake. Any international library will appreciate the color photos throughout and the attention to a regional cuisine little known outside of South Africa.

Sustainable Sushi
Casson Trenor
North Atlantic Books
Box 12327, Berkeley, CA 94712
9781556437694, $15.95 www.northatlanticbooks.com

How can a desire for eating a dish stay in touch with the health of oceans in general? This pocket guide covers dozens of the most common fish and shellfish one might encounter at a sushi bar, survey how these fish are caught, safety, and how they are in today's fishery crisis world. The author is a sustainability expert who offers clear insights perfect for seafood enthusiasts.

Food Festivals of Italy
Leonardo Curti & James O. Fraioli
Gibbs Smith
Box 667, Layton UT 84041
142360332X, $35.00 www.gibbs-smith.com

FOOD FESTIVALS OF ITALY: CELEBRATED RECIPES FROM 50 FOOD FAIRS covers some 50 of Italy's most diverse food fairs, packing in 100 recipes featuring festival foods and blending a cookbook with a travelogue filled with photos of the Italian countryside. Pasta with Red Onions and Spec, Porterhouse Steaks Florentine, and more are accompanied by full-page, vivid color photos making this an inviting addition to any ethnic cookery collection.

Fine Cooking Fresh
Editors of Fine Cooking
Taunton Press
Box 5507, Newtown, CT 06470-5507
9781600851094, $19.95 www.taunton.com

Over 350 recipes from Fine Cooking's Fresh magazine offers a pairing of local ingredients with recipe ideas and techniques for producing seasonal dishes. Packed with color photos and discussions of how to get the most flavor from fresh food selections, Fine Cooking Fresh is an outstanding survey recommended for any cookbook library.

Cookie Craft
Valerie Peterson & Janice Fryer
Storey Publishers
210 MassMoca Way, North Adams, MA 02147
9781580176941, $18.95 www.storey.com

At once a baking and decorating guide, COOKIE CRAFT is a fine pick for any library catering to home bakers, offering inspiration and tricks to turn the average cookie into eye-catching 'edible art'. Designs and techniques tell how to turn the cookie into a tasty piece of attractive art, and provide pictures to accompany recipes for the basic cookie and its artistic transformation. A fine guide to cookie decorating.

Made in Spain
Jose Andres with Richard Wolffe
Clarkson Potter Publishers
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
9780307382634, $35.00 www.clarksonpotter.com

MADE IN SPAIN: SPANISH DISHES FOR THE AMERICAN KITCHEN deserves repeated, ongoing recommendation as a powerful companion volume to the TV show, presenting both a culinary tour of the country and recipes reflecting local traditions. From Tolosa Black Beans to Shrimp Cooked on a Griddle, these are often surprisingly easy recipes home cooks can duplicate with confidence, paired with fine color photos and detailed dialogue on Spanish culture and cuisine. Highly recommended.

Annual Recipes 2009
Cooking Light
Oxmoor House
Box 2262, Birmingham, Al 35201-2262
0848732367, $34.95 www.oxmoorhouse.com

The annual recipe collections of Cooking Light are treasure troves modifying proven dishes to new standards, gathering recipes from the past year of Cooking Light and packing in more than 800 recipes reflecting world cuisines. The latest trends in healthy cooking accompany dishes modified to reflect new focuses and interests: any general-interest cooking collection will find it a popular lend with the name brand 'Cooking Light' fueling interest.


The Education Shelf

Mentoring Beginning Teachers, second edition
Jean Boreen & Collaborators
Stenhouse Publishers
PO Box 11020, Portland, ME 04104-7020
9781571107428, $21.00, www.stenhouse.com

Professional teaching requires more than one can learn from a college degree. Now in a newly revised, updated and expanded second edition, "Mentoring Beginning Teachers: Guiding, Reflecting, Coaching" is a guide for elder teachers who want to give their rookie co-workers the wisdom they need to execute their jobs well. Bringing the latest research and advice on mentoring into this new edition, "Mentoring Beginning Teachers" advises elder teachers to start dialogue with their younger co-workers to inspire them and improve their skill, therefore improving the education their students receive. Intended for those working in any level of primary or secondary education, "Mentoring Beginning Teachers" is a solid read for any experienced teacher who wants to give back.

Organizing Higher Education for Collaboration
Adrianna J. Kezar & Jaime Lester
Jossey-Bass
c/o Wiley
111 River Street, 4th Floor, Hoboken, NJ 07030
9780470179369, $40.00, www.josseybass.com

For something as important as an institution of higher education, one mind cannot bear the entire burden. "Organizing Higher Education for Collaboration" is authors Adrianna J. Kezar & Jaime Lester's emphasis on the critical importance of collaboration between educators and administrators in the world of colleges and universities. With chapters focus on moving towards collaborations, reorganizing to emphasize specific issues, and how to act in a collaborative environment, "Organizing Higher Education for Collaboration" offers much scholarly knowledge that can only improve today's educational institutions.

Learning from the Children
Cindylee Villareale
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court, St. Paul, MN 55117
9781933653716, $17.95, www.redleafpress.org

Everyone has something to teach. "Learning from the Children: Reflecting on Teaching" is the memoir of a teacher who tells of the many life lessons she gained from teaching for nearly two decades. In the early elementary school years, children mature rapidly and new lessons emerge as time rolls on. Author Cindylee Villareale lets readers into the lessons learned, and how they can be applied to everyday life. "Learning From the Children" is a unique look into what teachers can learn from the people are they supposed to be teaching.

Community College Transfer Guide
Don Silver
Adams-Hall Publishing
PO Box 491002, Los Angeles, CA 90049
9780944708842, $19.99, www.adams-hall.com

Community college is a bridge, but crossing that bridge is harder than one would think. "Community College Transfer Guide: What You Need to Know to Get Into a Four-Year College or University" is a guide for the community college student who is attempting to make that crossing. Success is very plausible with the right methods, and author Don Silver hopes to give readers what they need. Outlining the process step by step, "Community College Transfer Guide" is a guide that should be strongly considered for those in a community college, or even those entering a community college with intent to transfer later. "Community College Transfer Guide" is vital and highly educational.

Explore Your Community
Don Bastian, Marcy Weiland, & David Nelson
Attainment Company, Inc.
PO Box 930160, Verona, WI 53593-0160
1578616832, $33.00, www.attainmentcompany.com

The community is the world to some people, and exploring it is essential. "Explore Your Community" is a guide for children on living in harmony with their community, and how a little etiquette goes a long way. With chapters describing how to get around town, as well as interacting with people with kindness and courtesy in situations from riding a bus to ordering a pizza, the authors seek to teach younger readers essential manners. "Explore Your Community" is a fine library and curriculum supplement acquisition for elementary to middle school children.

Peer Support Strategies
Eric W. Carter & collaborators
Paul H. Brookes
PO Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
Maple Press Distrubution Center
I-83 Industrial Park, 60 Grumbacher Road, York, PA 17406
9781557668431, $29.95, www.brookespublishing.com

The support of one's peers is an invaluable thing. "Peer Support Strategies for Improving All Students' Social Lives and Learning" is a resource for the creation of peer support groups, examining how such groups can help students with disabilities. These relationships between standard and special education students can help both parties in the greater scheme of things as social skills and self-esteem will be much improved among all. Explaining how to implement these groups and how to arrange activities, "Peer Support Strategies for Improving All Student's Social Lives and Learning" is a recommended read especially for school administrators.

Smart Copyright Compliance for Schools
Rebecca P. Butler
Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781555706463, $75.00, www.neal-schuman.com

Copyright law is a thin line to toe in the world where money is tight - such as public schools. "Smart Copyright Compliance for Schools" is the educational administrator's guide to the confusing world of copyright law. With entertainment companies like the MPAA and RIAA going after suspected media pirates more fiercely than ever, not breaking these laws is key to avoiding a headache and a loss of much of the school's funds to lawsuits. Author Rebecca P. Butler explains the copyright laws a school will run into with much detail, and explains how to do everything the legal way while still doing what teachers want to do. "Smart Copyright Compliance in Schools" is enhanced with indexes and helpful quick references for readers, making it a must for any administrator not fully up to date with modern copyright law.

Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwinpress.com

Strategies designed to deepen understanding of basic math concepts offer nine strategies students can use in problem-solving, from working backwards and finding patterns to using a simpler problem to understand foundation concepts. Math teachers will find Alfred S. Posamentier and Stephen Krulik's Problem Solving in Mathematics Grades 3-6 (9781412960670, $28.95) a fine collection of real-life, successful strategies perfect for blending into a classroom. The third updated edition of Carla F. Shelton and Alice B. Pollingue's THE EXCEPTIONAL TEACHER'S HANDBOOK: THE FIRST-YEAR SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER'S GUIDE TO SUCCESS (9781412969147, $35.95) offers a winning survey of step-by-step instructional practices for getting the most from a special ed classroom. From recognized disabilities and handling parents to plans for furthering professional learning and placing students in the least restrictive environment, this provides a winning set of different approaches. Kay Psenick's ACCELERATING STUDENT AND STAFF LEARNING: PURPOSEFUL CURRICULUM COLLABORATION (9781412971461, $27.95) tells how to use collaborative curriculum design to add new life and focus into ideas for improving student learning, From handling assumptions about learning and professional development to clarifying standards and working with students both singly and in groups, this is a fine collaborative development focus. The third updated edition of Pam Robbins and Harvey B. Alvy's THE PRINCIPAL'S COMPANION: STRATEGIES FOR MAKING THE JOB EASIER (9781412965507, $40.95) provides principals with resources to address the modern challenges of leading a school into the next level of achievement. It comes from an educational leadership consultant and an experienced principal who examines leadership skills, vision, teacher assessment strategies and more, offering research-based ideas keyed to specific and common issues. Cathie Summerford's ACTION-PACKED CLASSROOMS, K-5: USING MOVEMENT TO EDUCATE AND INVIGORATE LEARNERS, 2ND EDITION (9781412970914, $31.95) tells how to blend movement and music into a classroom to help kids stimulate their brains and increasing learning ability. Games and activities for teachers in K-5 settings make for a fine tool packing in sample activities in math, language, health and more. Paul D. Houston, et.al. edit LEADERS AS COMMUNICATORS AND DIPLOMATS (9781412949446, $28.95), an outstanding sixth volume in a series on educational leadership. It offers school leaders approaches to change and empower leadership strategies and is packed with tips from successful leaders. Linda Denstaedt, et.al.'s WINNING STRATEGIES FOR TEST TAKING GRADES 3-8 (9781412967037, $28.95) is filled with insights on how to teach basic test preparation skills. Presented here is a 3-week unit of test-taking skills maximizing classroom time and using engaging strategies for all kinds of tests. Cathie Summerford's ACTION-PACKED CLASSROOMS, K-5 (9781412970914, $31.95) appears in its 2nd updated edition covering using movement to educate learners. Games and activities form the foundation for a research-based guide offering movement objectives tied to standards-based instruction for active learning. The second updated edition of Lorraine O. Moore's INCLUSION STRATEGIES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (9781412971089, $28.95) provides teachers, parents and child care providers with an outstanding set of early childhood keys to helping beginning learners. This updated edition offers the latest details on IDEA 2004, resource listings of organizations, and many reproducible handouts for students and parents alike. The 3rd updated edition of Carolyn Warner's PROMOTING YOUR SCHOOL: GOING BEYOND PR (9781412958134, $35.95) is a powerful handbook for any educator or school leader seeking techniques for strengthening the partnership between schools and the community. Examples from successful schools pair with discussions of educational priorities in a fine survey. All are fine picks for any educator's library or libraries catering to educators.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Spiritual Survival in a Radically Changing World-Time
William Patrick Patterson
Arete Communications
773 Center Boulevard Box 58, Fairfax, CA 94978-0058
9781879514874, $25.00 www.gurdjieff-legacy.org

'The Fourth Way' is a spiritual teaching for modern times and directly confronts technology and its potential for damaging spirituality. G.I. Gurdjieff's teaching of The Fourth Way is the focus of a guide presenting not just the concept, but how it works in the real world. Case history examples pack a survey of philosophy and ideas perfect for any spirituality collection, including new age libraries.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Time Hunter
George Mann & David J. Howe
Telos
c/o Fitzhenry Whiteside Limited
195 Allstate Parkway, Markham, Ontario, L3R 4T8
9781845831042, $19.95, www.telos.co.uk

Time is rarely on one's side, but for Honore and Emily, Time is more adversarial than they would have thought. "Time Hunter: Child of Time" is a science fiction adventure following 1950s London pair Honore and Emily as they find themselves thrown through time. They must strive to find out why they are in this predicament, and who is behind all of this madness. The conclusion to the fan favorite Time Hunter series, "Time Hunter: Child of Time" is sure to give readers a dose of what they enjoy.

Escape from Hell
Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle
TOR Books
175 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
0765316323, $24.95 www.tor-forge.com

Any library or individual owning and enthusiastic about Niven and Pournelle's INFERNO will relish ESCAPE FROM HELL, a survey of science fiction writer and Dante's hell survivor Alan Carpenter, who is haunted by his trials and who must return to hell to liberate souls trapped there unfairly. His return to Hell may lead him into a trap he can't escape from this time, in a harrowing suspense fantasy perfect for prior fans.

Baen Books
Box 1403, Riverdale, NY 10471
www.baen.com

From a computer war game so realistic and addictive that people are too busy playing it to begin a real war to a secret organization that uses a form of telepathy to cause commanders to be unable to think of command words, Christopher Anvil's War Games (1416556028, $22.00) is a satisfying collection of examinations of the many faces of war - with a healthy dose of humor thrown in. Science fiction libraries will find this an excellent and memorable acquisition. Hal Colebatch and Paul Chafe and Matthew Joseph Harrington's MAN-KZIN WARS XII (1416591419, $23.00) tells of conquerors at uneasy truce with humans, and expands on the world and concepts created by best-selling writer Larry Niven. From a human secret agent and her kzin companion who infiltrate a planet newly occupied by the kzin to the kzin's involvement in a cache of anti-matter, these are outstanding, rich stories perfect for prior fans and libraries catering to them. Poul Anderson's DAVID FALKKAYN: STAR TRADER (1416555201, $22.00) tells of a flamboyant member of a star trading team, David, who has his own new ship and an unusual crew to help him. Joining the complete publication of Anderson's Technic Civilization series, it makes for a powerful story of a young star trader's journeys. Andre Norton's SEARCH FOR THE STAR STONES (1416559994, $24.00) is not a new title but the combo of the originally published ZERO STONE and sequel UNCHARTED STARS under one cover. Newcomers in particular will relish having both books together in the blended story of Murdoc Jern, who uncovers an alien device in a ring and a long-vanished alien race's hidden powers. His journey will change his life. Sharon lee and Steve Miller's DUAINFFY (1416555528, $24.00) tells of one Rebecca, a ruined woman involved in a terrible accident with a drunken man that leaves her handicapped. Her new quiet life as a herbalist and gardener is shaken when she is allowed to view two very different futures: one as an abused wife, one as a princess - and makes some choices that will send her on an unexpected path.


The Aviation Shelf

Flying Across America
Daniel L. Rust
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806138701, $45.00 www.oupress.com

FLYING ACROSS AMERICA: THE AIRLINE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE tells of a different history of flight, which once was considered an exhilarating adventure. Commercial aviation evolved from the 1920s to modern times, and this history adds luxurious color photos and descriptions to cover the changing face of flying as faster planes and onboard amenities were developed. From artistic illustrations and advertising reproductions to lively surveys of changing perceptions of flight as a travel option, this is a fine addition to any general-interest collection.


The Nautical Shelf

Handbook of Offshore Cruising
Jim Howard
Sheridan House
145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
9781574092790, $29.95, www.sheridanhouse.com

Enjoying the breeze of the ocean for an extended period of time is the relaxation many dream of having. "Handbook of Offshore Cruising: The Dream and Reality of Modern Ocean Cruising" is a guide to the offshore cruising; while the reality is never truly like the dream, there is still much to enjoy and embrace during the trip. A how to manual, "Handbook of Offshore Cruising" contains chapters on the boat itself, maintaining it along with other vital cruising gear, the daily tasks one must do while at sea, and what to do when one is ready to return to land. "Handbook of Offshore Cruising" is a must read for those who want to make their nautical fantasy into a reality.

Spirit of the Nikkei Fleet
Masako Fukawa
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC V0N 2H0 Canada
9781550174397, $39.95, www.harbourpublishing.com

Canada, like America, is not made up of entirely one sort of immigrant. "Spirit of Nikkei Fleet: BC's Japanese Canadian Fishermen" is a look at Japanese Canadians in British Columbia. Telling the story of a people not immediately accepted, who took to fishing to earn their keep as they slowly earned their rights in Canadian society, "Spirit of the Nikkei Fleet" also describes and how Canada made the same tragic mistake as America during World War II and forcibly imprisoned its own Japanese-Canadian citizens for no crime. A collection of stories allowing readers to experience the lives of a dedicated yet oppressed people, "Spirit of the Nikkei Fleet" is a finely recommended tale.

Paradise Cay Publications
Box 29, Arcata, CA 95518-0029
www.paracay.com

Lin and Larry Pardey's COST-CONSCIOUS CRUISER: CHAMPAGNE CRUISING ON A BEER BUDGET (9780964603653, $29.95) follows the ideas of their successful SELF-SUFFICIENT SAILOR and CAPABLE CRUISER, offering sailors plans for getting away, keeping costs and maintenance time under control, and building up to cruising longer distances. From comparisons of gear considered 'necessary' by sailors to understanding maintenance costs involved, COST-CONSCIOUS CRUISER is a key acquisition for any sailor who dreams of cruising. Michael Greenwald's THE CRUISING CHEF COOKBOOK, 2ND EDITION (0939837463, $19.95) has been in print for over 20 years and is a cookbook for sailors, packing nautical wisdom with short stories and a wealth of recipes for cooking under sail. An outstanding nautical cookbook reference and a 'must' for any cruiser.


The Photography Shelf

Picturing New York
The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
11 West 53 Street, New York, NY 10019
9780870707636, $39.95, www.moma.org

Though a picture may be worth one thousand words, it will still take a multitude of pictures to sum up the metropolis of New York. "Picturing New York: Photographs from the Museum of Modern Art" draws from black and white photographs of New York over the length of a century, telling the story of its architecture, its people, and everything one could yearn to learn about one of the biggest cities of the modern age. Drawn from the skills of countless expert photographers, the Museum of Modern Art does much in revealing the true life of a city. "Picturing New York" is a fine coffee table book for those who want to embrace New York.

Historic Photos of Ernest Hemingway
James Plath
Turner Publishing Company
200 - 4th Avenue North, Suite 950, Nashville, TN 37219
9781596525160, $39.95 www.turnerpublishing.com

Historic Photos of Ernest Hemingway is a striking coffee table book of vintage black-and-white photography of Nobel Prize for Literature-winning author Ernest Hemingway, the hard-drinking brawler of an author (and former war correspondent) whose larger-than-life reputation was reflected in the legendary exploits of his literary heroes characterized by grace under pressure. Each full-page photograph features a brief, descriptive contextual caption James Plath (award-winning Professor of English at Illinois Wesleyan University and a member of the Hemingway society). A visual "must-have" for Hemingway fans and scholars alike.

Harri Peccinotti
Derek Birdsall
Damiani
c/o DAP
155 6th Avenue, Fl. 2 New York City, 10013
9788862080743, $60.00

The human body is a beautiful thing, and the right approach can only make it more beautiful. "Harri Peccinotti" is a look at fashion designer, photographer, and general artist Harri Peccinotti and his work, particularly his portrayal of the female form. Author Derek Birdsall tells Harri's story with an emphasis on his art; though it features the form of many nude women, it is designed to inspire other emotions rather than lust. For over forty years, Peccinotti has worked in this field of art, leading the charge through the sexual revolution of the sixties, and breaking many barriers including one on black models. "Harri Peccinotti" is a fine coffee table book, and is highly recommended, but is not meant to be keept where young children would have easy access to it.

Robert L. Chapman's Ireland
Christiaan Corlett
Collins Press
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781905172771, $44.95, www.dufoureditions.com

The home of a beautiful people and a beautiful natural landscape, Ireland has much to treat the eyes. "Robert L. Chapman's Ireland: Photographs from the Chapman Collection 1907-1957" draws from the collections of famed Irish photographer Robert Chapman who captured the beauty of the Irish nation during the first half of the twentieth century. The best of an archive of thousands of photos, "Robert L. Chapman's Ireland" is quite the collection of black and white photography that is sure to please the eye and give much to talk about. "Robert L. Chapman's Ireland" is a fine choice for coffee table literature.

The Nikon Creative Lighting System
Mike Hagen
Rocky Nook
26 West Mission St Suite 3, Santa Barbara CA 93101
9781933952413, $34.95 www.rockynook.com

THE NIKON CREATIVE LIGHTING SYSTEM USING THE SB-600, SB-800, SB-900, AND R1C1 FLASHES is for photographers already seasoned in basics but who need lessons on flash photography and advanced light systems. Step-by-step methods for using the latest Nikon flash units teach all the steps needed to achieve amazing flash photos. Any library strong in photography basics needs this.

Lighting and the Dramatic Portrait
Michael Grecco
Amphoto Books
c/o Watson-Guptill
770 Broadway, New York NY 10003
0817442278, $29.95 www.amphotobooks.com

Photographer Michael Grecco's images are used to supplement a photography course in book form, discussing celebrity and editorial photography with an eye to revealing everything from the basics of cameras and hardware choices to how he departed from photojournalism. An outstanding survey carries readers on a journey of insight and progressive education using the photographer's experience and eye.

Amherst Media
Box 586, Buffalo, NY 14226
www.amherstmedia.com

Kirk Tuck's MINIMALIST LIGHTING: PROFESSIONAL TECHNIQUES FOR STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY (9781584282501, $34.95) tells how to create pro-quality studio results without a huge fiscal investment. From using the power of window light for 'free' light setups to handling both commercial modifiers and simpler home-supply store items, this is a fine winner. Bill Hurter's MASTER POSING GUIDE FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS (9781584282518, $34.95) tells how to build a good relationship with couples and blend visual design with image management for best results. Both book are strong picks for any serious photography library: they abound with color examples and specifics key to a photographer's success.


The Science Shelf

Recountings
Joel Segel
AK Peters
888 Worcester Street, Suite 230, Wellesley, MA 02482
9781568814490, $49.00, www.akpeters.com

Though never in the eye of popular culture, these men kept society advancing with their minds. "Recountings: Conversations with MIT Mathematicians" is a collection of interviews and anecdotes from the geniuses of MIT who have pursued mathematics as their life's careers and obsessions. These men have been responsible for major scientific advances throughout history and picking their minds in a volume that's more interesting than one could think math class could ever be. "Recountings" is an intriguing look at mathematics and the men behind it.

Remarkable Creatures
Sean B. Carroll
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
222 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116
9780151014859, $26.00 www.hmhbooks.com

REMARKABLE CREATURES: EPIC ADVENTURES IN THE SEARCH FOR THE ORIGINS OF SPECIES offers the stories and biographies of three men - Darwin, Wallace, and Bates - who returned from their explorations each formulating the theory of evolution, blending these early explorers with experiences of later expeditions and pioneering naturalists in two centuries of scientific inquiry and discovery. General interest collections strong in lay science will find this a lively survey.

The Crowded Universe: The Search for Living Planets
Alan Boss
Basic Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016-8810
9780465009367, $26.00 www.basicbooks.com

Humankind is at a turning point in the search for extraterrestrial life and here astronomer Alan Boss argues that in coming years we'll find living planets - and find them to actually be common-place. Radical new ideas about planetary formation and discoveries of universe inhabitants make for a case for staying in the space race and make for a lively survey recommended not only for high school to college-level science libraries, but for general-interest collections as well.

The Art and Politics of Science
Harold Varmus
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393061284, $24.95 www.wwnorton.com

Harold Varmus is a global scientist whose work strives to bridge science and society to solve global challenges, and readers have a treat in store with a memoir detailing his remarkable careers and choices. He didn't decide he was drawn to medicine until he was a year into a PhD in English literature - his shift to medical school brought him into the forefront of cancer research, but later he changed again from an academic scientist to a political one. A delightful survey of his life and influence evolves.


The Native American Shelf

University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
www.oupress.com

FORGOTTEN FIRES: NATIVE AMERICANS AND THE TRANSIENT WILDERNESS by Omer C. Stewart (9780806140377, $24.95) is edited with introductions by Henry T. Lewis and M. Kat Anderson, and provides a powerful survey of American Indians by one of the first anthropologists to recognize that Native Americans made a strong impact across a range of environments. Original research and insights first presented in the 1950s still hold true today in a powerful collection recommended for anthropology and college-level Native Studies collections. Garrett Epps' PEYOTE VS. THE STATE: RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ON TRIAL (9780806140261, $19.95) details the six-year battle between two men with different visions of religious freedom. Al Smith was a substance-abuse counselor to Native Americans, Dave Frohnmayer was an Oregon attorney with his hands full politically and personally. But both found themselves at the U.S. Supreme Court asking about the rights of Native Americans to worship God through the use of peyote. This account of a basic Native struggle is a 'must' for any college-level Native American collection.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Murder, She Wrote: A Slaying in Savannah
Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
NAL
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9780451225054, $21.95 www.penguin.com

A SLAYING IN SAVANNAH is part of a best-selling series of murder mysteries and deserves a spot in any general lending library, particular those strong in Southern culture. Jessica learns an old friend has passed away and left her millions - but she has to use the money to help a literacy fund she once helped establish years ago - and solve a mystery within a month. A dangerous set of interactions evolves.

Berkeley Prime Crime
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

Linda O. Johnston's DOUBLE DOG DARE (9780425222324, $6.99) tells of Kendra's struggle with a missing P.I. boyfriend and sidekick, her involvement with his eccentric family, and her search to discover the truth: was he kidnapped or murdered, or just run away? J.M.C. Blair's THE EXCALIBUR MURDERS (9780425222539, $6.99) is set in the time of King Arthur and tells of Merlin's investigation into the murder of one of Arthur's squires. Superstition and danger run rampant as Merlin battles time to find the truth. Terri Thayer's STAMPED OUT (9780425223291, $6.99) provides a 'Stamping Sisters' mystery, first in a new series, and tells of April, ready for a fresh start in her life. Her work with her father on the restoration of a famous mansion seems like a fine project - until murder evolves. Jeffrey Cohen's A NIGHT AT THE OPERATION (9780425228159, $7.99) provides a fine double feature mystery telling of a missing ex-wife and some dangerous rumors about her possible murder. To clear his name, Elliot finds himself involved in an increasingly dangerous case just as his theater starts to fall apart.


The Language Studies Shelf

Lost Languages: The Enigma of the World's Undeciphered Scripts
Andrew Robinson
Thames & Hudson
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780500288160, $29.95 www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Any collection strong in language development and linguistic history needs LOST LANGUAGES. It begins with the stories of three great decipherments - Egyptian hieroglyphs, Minoan Linear B and Mayan glyphs - and considers the remaining enigmatic scripts of the world. The latest scholarship in decipherment as well as the competition for success receives a vivid blend of scholarly analysis and history.

Finding Our Tongues
Dean Falk
Basic Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780485002191, $26.95 www.basicbooks.com

Science, social science and language libraries alike at the high school to college levels will appreciate FINDING OUR TONGUES: MOTHERS, INFANTS & THE ORIGINS OF LANGUAGE. It provides a new theory of communication: that parents all over the world in all cultures use 'baby talk' to communicate with their children, and that it's this language that formed the foundation of human language. His discussion of 'motherese' is a delightful piece of original research.


The Wisconsin Shelf

The Flavor of Wisconsin
Harva Hachten & Terese Allen
Wisconsin Historical Society Press
816 State Street, Madison, WI 53706
9780870204043, $29.95, www.wisconsinhistory.org

Everyone needs to eat, and everyone does it differently. "The Flavor of Wisconsin: An Informal History of Food and Eating in the Badger State" is a look at the history of Wisconsin and its food - and despite stereotypes, it's not just cheese. Exploring a rich culinary culture, "The Flavor of Wisconsin" examines the eating habits of Wisconsinites which tell their tale as a people, and as a melting pot of immigrants like much of the rest of America. Including nearly five hundred recipes of exquisitely Wisconsinite cuisine such as War Bread, Serbian Djuvec, Chippewa Wild Rice, and more. "The Flavor of Wisconsin" serves as both as a culinary history and cookbook, and executes both very well.

Wildflowers of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes Region, second edition
Merel R. Black and Emmet J. Judziewicz
University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe St, 3rd fl., Madison, WI 53711-2059
www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress
9780299230548, $29.95 1-800-621-2736

Now in an updated second edition, Wildflowers of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes Region is a full-color field guide packed with wildflower listings cover to cover. Each listing features a color photograph of the wildflower, and a brief information block concerning its size, description, fruit, status, a county graph of its geographic distribution in Wisconsin, and more. More than 1,100 species from 459 genera in 100 families of wildflower are covered in this excellent, user-friendly resource catalog.

Wisconsin Barns
Nancy Schumm-Burgess
Far Country Press
PO Box 5630, Helena, MT 59604
9781560374831, $14.95, www.farcountrypress.com

Barns are history, and to appreciate them is to appreciate history. "Wisconsin Barns" is a collection of full color photographs of these monuments to agriculture found throughout the state of Wisconsin. Focusing on barns of all shapes, sizes, and history, author Nancy Schumm-Burgess gives readers quite the complete view of barns, both historical and in modern-day use, and their relevance to the world today. "Wisconsin Barns" takes a mundane subject and presents another piece to the puzzle of the world.

Sweet and Sour Pie
Dave Crehore
Terrace Books
c/o University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, 3rd Floor, Madison, WI 53711-2059
9780299230609, $19.95, www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress

Every region has its own unique childhood lessons and Wisconsin is no different. "Sweet and Sour Pie: A Wisconsin Boyhood" is a memoir reflecting on author Dave Crehore's time growing up in the great state of Wisconsin. Filled with charming stories sure to make readers laugh at loud at the forthright honesty of childhood, "Sweet and Sour Pie" is of uniquely Wisconsin composition, but will still ring true to people from any state, possibly any country. "Sweet and Sour Pie" is a solidly recommended read as a sample of Americana, and of the unique childhood we've all experienced.

Making Milwaukee Mightier
John M. McCarthy
Northern Illinois University Press
2280 Bethany Road, DeKalb, IL 60115
9780875803944, $39.00, www.nuipress.niu.edu

Good urban planning can solve many problems for a city, and Milwaukee is a fine case study. "Making Milwaukee Mightier: Planning and the Politics of Growth" is a look at the development of this Wisconsin city for the better half of the twentieth century. A city ran by socialist mayors in a time where fear of communism was at its strongest, Milwaukee is a unique city and has developed like no other city around it. A piece of history that traces the story of Milwaukee as a city from the time surburbanization struck, "Making Milwaukee Mightier" is a fine read to those intrigued with the development of America's major cities.


The Art Shelf

Line: 7 Elements of Art
Jane Castillo
Crystal Productions
PO Box 2159, Glenview, IL 60025
9781562906054, $19.95, www.sevenelementsofart.com

So simple, yet so complex. "Line: 7 Elements of Art" takes a look at lines, something the untrained artist would not notice, but the trained artist would know makes up just about everything about the subject. Written for starter art students, "Line" is an entry in a series dedicated to the many aspects of art. Focusing on lines, one of the most crucial and subtle elements, author Jane Castillo gives readers what they need to know to appreciate and apply lines in their own work. "Line" would do well in any art studies collection.

Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese
Frederick Ilchman
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
9780878467396, $65.00, www.mfa.org

In the peak of the Renaissance, competition between artists was higher than ever. "Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese: Rivals in Renaissance Venice" is a look at the fierce rivalry that raged on throughout the sixteenth century. The three titular artists, each from similar backgrounds and influences, shared a fierce rivalry and the desire to be better than their peers. All three were widely considered by many to be some of the best artists to ever emerge from Venice. Their lives are traced through each of their works, and the works of their rivals. "Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese" is enhanced with full color reproductions of their classic artworks, and is a must for those studying Italian Renaissance art.

Green Graphic Design
Brian Dougherty
Allworth press
10 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010
9781581155112, $24.95, www.allworth.com

As time rolls on, everything is going green, including art. "Green Graphic Design" is a look at how graphical design is one of the many industries becoming more and more environment- friendly. Eco-friendly inks are only the start of it; author Brian Dougherty says one does not have to sacrifice artistic merit or the client's wishes in order to stay ahead of the eco-friendly game. A must for the artist who cares for the environment as much as his or her work, "Green Graphic Design" is a top pick.

Highs and Lows
Jean-Jacques Sempe, author & artist
Anthea Bell, translator
Phaidon Press
180 Varick Street, 14th floor, New York, NY 10014
9780714846736, $29.95 www.phaidon.com

Highs and Lows is the sixth black-and-white artbook album featuring the simple, beautifully drawn cartoons of Jean-Jacques Sempe, now available in English for the very first time. Featuring captions translated by Anthea Bell - perhaps best known for her work bringing "Asterix the Gaul" to English speakers - Highs and Lows perfectly captures humanity in a crossroads of ever-expanding crowds, construction, and computerization. For example, one two-page cartoon features a veritable sea of humans crammed together, to the extent that one can only see their jam-packed faces, and a grand white banner reading "Less is More!" A worthy addition to international cartooning shelves, highly recommended for public library collections and casual readers alike.

Great Masters of Cuban Art: Ramos Collection
Zeida Comesanas Sardinas
University Press of Florida
15 Northwest 15th Street, Gainesville, FL 32611-2079
0615240453, $60.00 www.upf.com 1-800-226-3822

Great Masters of Cuban Art: Ramos Collection is a bilingual English/Spanish coffee table book featuring striking, full color reproductions of Cuban painting from 1800 to 1958. The works, selected from the Ramos Collection by the Museum of Arts and Sciences to create an international traveling exhibit, provide a visual catalogue of how Cuban art has evolved over the course of one and a half centuries. A wealth of previously unpublished Cuban art history information, as well as details of how Cuban artists used musical scenes, religious practices, moments from urban and rural daily life, and more to fuel their creations, Great Masters of Cuban Art: Ramos Collection is a stunning and worthy addition to any artbook collection. Highly recommended, especially for public library collections and artbook shelves.


The Christian Studies Shelf

The 7 Great Prayers
Paul & Tracey McManus
Vanguard Press
387 Park Avenue South, Floor 12, New York, NY 10016
9781593155490, $15.95, www.the7greatprayers.com

Prayer is a simple and powerful way to improve one's life. "The 7 Great Prayers For a Lifetime of Hope and Blessings" is a guide to improving one's life through simple daily prayers that will do much for one's spirit. Covering everything from money troubles to medical problems, rough relationships, and just finding a valuable thing to live for, authors Paul & Tracey McManus hope to change the way their readers live for the better. "The 7 Great Prayers" is a fine choice for many a Christian reader.

Raising Boys to be Like Jesus
Sharon Norris Elliott
Judson Press
PO Box 851, Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851
9780817015411, $16.00, www.judsonpress.com

Being more like Jesus is what many Christians desire, but how does one foster that desire in one's children? "Raising Boys to Be Like Jesus" is a Christian guide to raising one's boys right, using the role model of the Lord. With advice on facing sin, being a good leader, establishing good relationships, treating women right, and sound financial practices, "Raising Boys to Be Like Jesus" is a fine and highly recommended read for Christian parents trying to do the right thing.

Christianity in Crisis
Hank Hanegraaff
Thomas Nelson
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
9780849900068, $22.99, www.thomasnelson.com

Saying one is a Christian and actually being one are two different things. "Christianity in Crisis: 21st Century" is a look at major figures in mainstream Christianity who, according to author Hank Hanegraaff, are destroying modern Christianity by corrupting its verse to their own purposes, and departing wildly from the message of Christ. Calling out the words spoken by these leaders of cults of personality, Hanegraaff offers a read that, while Christian, is of interest to non-religious readers as well. "Christianity in Crisis" is of interest to any reader concerned with the state of modern Christianity.

Lydia
Richard S. Ascough
Liturgical Press
PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814652695, $14.95

While the apostle Paul is well known, the people who made his work possible are not. "Lydia: Paul's Cosmopolitan Hostess" is part of a series dedicated to these people, the series dubbed 'Paul's Social Network'. Lydia was a woman who embraced Paul's message and served as a hostess for Paul's campaign of faith, giving support to one of the leaders of early Christianity. Having researched this little known woman, author Richard S. Ascough gives readers the best picture he can of one of history's behind the scenes players. "Lydia" is well worth the read for Christian scholars and those simply intrigued by the history of early Christianity.

Heroic Living
Chris Lowney
Loyola Press
3441 N. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657
DeChant, Hughes, & Associates (publicity)
1440 N. Kingsbury, Chicago, IL 60622
9780829424423, $22.95, www.loyolapress.com

Heroism isn't about fame and fortune. It's about doing what most people fail to do. "Heroic Living: Discover Your Purpose and Change the World" is a guide to better living through finding what should be driving one's purpose in life. Drawing from Ignatian spirituality practices inspires readers to make long term changes, improve their lives, and find what drives their spirituality. "Heroic Living" is well worth the read for those who need a reason to push forward.

Close to Home
Molly Sabourin
Conciliar Press Ministries
PO Box 76, Ben Lomond, CA 95005-0076
9781888212617, $15.95, www.conciliarpress.com

Balancing motherhood with anything is a challenge, and author Molly Sabourin is trying to balance it with being an Orthodox Christian. "Close to Home: One Orthodox Mother's Quest for Patience, Peace, and Perseverance" is a Christian parenting manual from proud Orthodox Christian Molly Sabourin. Frank and honest, she tells her story of the overwhelming job that is being a mother, and how even finding time to pray is a challenge. Hoping to spread a message of hope to other Orthodox mothers, "Close to Home" is something to consider for these women in need.

Foundations of Spiritual Formation
Paul Pettit
Kregel
PO Box 2607, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9780825434693, $22.99, www.kregel.com

What Would Jesus Do? It's put on many a T-shirt to sell, but the sentiment holds true. "Foundations of Spiritual Formation: A Community Approach to Becoming Like Christ" is a combination of many minds coming together and discussing the need for churches to lead their community in viewing Christ as more of the role model he is. "Foundations of Spiritual Formation" is written in two parts; the first helps leaders lay the foundation for spiritual growth, while the second seeks to help readers embrace the more practical knowledge one needs in pursuing godliness. "Foundations of Spiritual Formation" is a strong pick for any religious leader who wants to push their congregation to higher heights.


The Parenting Shelf

Feminist Art and The Maternal
Andrea Liss
University of Minnesota Health
111 Third Avenue South, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9780816646234, $24.95, www.upress.umn.edu

Carrying a child within oneself, feeding a child with one's own breast; there is nothing more feminine than motherhood. "Feminist Art and the Maternal" is a look at motherhood and what it means to feminists and their art. Each chapter covers a different aspect of motherhood from a different feminist artist who offers her own perspective on pregnancy, childbirth, raising a child, and being the mother in a family. "Feminist Art and the Maternal" is a fine read for the feminist who cherishes motherhood as well as art.

Helping Hyperactive Kids: A Sensory Integration Approach
Lynn J. Horowitz and Cecile Rost
Hunter House Publishers
PO Box 2914, Alameda, CA 94501-0914
9780897934817, $14.95, www.hunterhouse.com

All kids are balls of boundless energy - but some are more so than others. "Helping Hyperactive Kids - A Sensory Integration Approach: Techniques for Parents and Professionals" is a guide to helping hyper children without resorting to drugs with nasty side effects such as Ritalin. Explaining why hyperactive children are so hyper, authors Lynn Horowitz and Cecile Rost discuss that controlling them is very much possible with the right methods, which can be used by anyone, be they therapist or parent. "Helping Hyperactive Kids - A Sensory Integration Approach" is a top pick for the parent who wants to help without drugs.


The Travel Shelf

The Out Traveler: South Florida
Paul Rubio
Alyson Books
245 West 17th St., Suite 1200, NY, NY 10011
9781593501037, $15.95, www.alyson.com

A specialized travel book for visitors to South Florida, whether for business or pleasure, "The Out Traveler: South Florida" compiled and written by Paul Rubio includes the Florida Keys, Orlando, and the Tampa Bay Area, as well such major destination areas as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, and St. Petersburg. But "The Out Traveler: South Florida" is so much more than an ordinary travel guide as it features a historical overview of the LGBT experience in Floridal from the 1950s down to the present day; Floridian culture, music, and celebrities; as well as LGBT events, spas and gyms, transportation, and shopping. The chapters dedicated to 'where to go' and 'what to do' in the various and varied Southern Florida communities is detailed, informative, and profuse. In a handy pocket-sized and eminently portable edition, any and all LBGT travelers to Southern Florida would be well advised to utilize Paul Rubio's "The Out Traveler: South Florida" to plan their itineraries to not only get the 'biggest bang for the buck' but to acquire truly memorable experiences from their visit.

Perspectives of Saskatchewan
Jene M. Porter
University of Manitoba
301 St. John's College, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N2
9780887551833, $49.95

Saskatchewan is one of the most important provinces of Canada, and "Perspectives of Saskatchewan" is a scholarly look at the rise of this region. "Perspectives of Saskatchewan" traces the area's history, as well as how Saskatchewan has been very important in crafting some things that Canada holds very dear, such as its nationalized health care system. The book also contains chapters on Saskatchewan's rich politics, its economic rise, its art, and its literature, among other contributions to the world. "Perspectives of Saskatchewan" is a fine pick for any who want a vivid picture of the province.

Seaworld Discovery Cove & Aquatica
Kelly Monaghan
The Intrepid Traveler
PO Box 531, Branford, CT 06405
9781887140805, $15.99, www.intrepidtraveler.com

The ocean is filled with marvelous wonders, but it's a dangerous place to just dive into. "Seaworld Discovery Cove & Aquatica: Orlando's Salute to the Seas" is a guide to Seaworld in Orlando and what one can find for family entertainment at the renowned aquarium. Seaworld and the surrounding parks have much to offer travelers to embrace for their entire family, including plenty of things to do after the children have gone to bed. "Seaworld Discovery Cove & Aquatica" is well worth the read for any family planning a trip to Orlando.

The Beatles' London
Piet Schreuders, Mark Lewisohn, & Adam Smith
Interlink Books
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060-1804
9781566567473, $20.00, www.interlinkbooks.com

The biggest band of the twentieth century, the Beatles are legends of London. "The Beatles' London: A Guide to 467 Beatles Sites" is a guide for those who are visiting London or already live there, and have a fascination with the fab four. Chronicling the Beatles' tale by tracing their steps through London and noting particular sites where major and not so major events happened to the band, "The Beatles' London" features a level of detail that fans are sure to love. "The Beatles' London" is a top pick for any diehard Beatles fan visiting the capital city of Great Britain.


The Literary Shelf

Contemporary Turkish Short Fiction
Suat Karantay
Citlembik Publications
c/o Nettleberry
44030 123rd St., Eden, SD 57232
9789944424479, $21.50, www.nbnbooks.com

The fall of the Ottoman Empire was not the fall of Turkish literature. "Contemporary Turkish Short Fiction" is a collection drawing from the pens of thirty-two writers who speak through their prose from countless stations of society; a good percentage of these writers are female. All featured writers are fairly new to the Turkish literary scene, and offer a fresh view of modern Turkey and what concerns the Turkish people today. With a strong presence of the traditional Turkish style, "Contemporary Turkish Short Fiction" is a fine compilation that presents Turkish fiction to English readers well.


The Fiction Shelf

We Agreed to Meet Just Here
Scott Blackwood
Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008
9781930974807, $26.00, www.wmich.edu/newissues

Award winning author Scott Blackwood brings readers something to chew on with "We Agreed to Meet Just Here", a collection of short stories focusing on family relationships. The dark side of family ties are a recurring theme - even the purest, most genuine bonds can turn sour, and sometimes one can't even rely on one's own blood. Deftly composed by a master of prose, "We Agreed to Meet Just Here" is a fine addition to any short fiction collection.

Hog to Hog
Jack Smith
Texas Review Press
Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77341-2146
9781933896236, $24.95

Ignorance is bliss until it dumps you into trouble. "Hog to Hog" follows Bernie Sapp as he finds himself under the thumb of corrupt politician Dick Columbus. Winding up in prison, Bernie Sapp must find a way to foil Columbus's plans or else he may be behind bars for the rest of his existence. A biting comedy that calls out society for its many faults, "Hog to Hog" is quite the treat.

The President's Therapist
John Wareham
Welcome Rain Publishers
30 East 21st Street, New York, NY 10010
1566499542, $24.95

What goes on inside the mind of the most powerful man in the free world? "The President's Therapist: And the secret intervention to treat the alcoholism of George W. Bush" is a novel exploring a fictionalized alcohol problem of the last president of the United States, George W. Bush. Told from the perspective of the president's psychologist, it's a story with a unique twist and perspective, blending real events from the past eight years into the tale. "The President's Therapist" is unique, highly recommended, and sure to please.

Medieval Bedazzle
Tecoa T. Washington
Tate Publishing
127 E Trade Center Terrace, Mustang, OK 73064-4421
9781606046951, $22.99, www.tatepublishing.com

History isn't always the whole truth and nothing but. "Medieval Bedazzle" is a novel about a historical cover up, concerning how the truth of history around Shakespeare's time is threatening to ruin the careers of some historians. An English King's true legacy is called into question; opposing Shakespeare all those years ago may have cast a nasty light on him that is undeserved. But the fallibility of one of history's most beloved writers makes the truth unappealing, and it's up to a single young physics teacher to call who is right - the bard or history. "Medieval Bedazzle" is an intriguing spin on the world of Shakespeare, highly recommended.

On the Brink of Bliss and Insanity
Lisa Cerasoli
Five Star Publications
1193-392nd Road, Utica, NE 68456
9781589851214, $15.95, www.onthebrinkofbliss.com

What can you do when everything falls apart around you? "On the Brink of Bliss and Insanity" is the story of Annie. Attracted to a prick, newly unemployed, Annie's life seems to be a on a downward spiral that she cannot control. Add in an utterly fascinating cast of characters and one has the recipe for an intriguing and story, sure to compel the reader. "On the Brink of Bliss and Insanity" is wryly written, and a top pick for new fiction.

Other Useful Numbers
Sarah Broughton
Parthian
c/o Dufour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781902638508, $21.95, www.parthianbooks.co.uk

What may work against some people the most is their own mind. "Other Useful Numbers" is a novel following Tracy, a woman who could not possibly be described as a morally upright and productive member of society. Leeching off her friends in a never-ending quest to find another woman named Anita, it soon becomes apparent that the greatest enemy Tracy faces in her task is her own mind, which has been tormenting her all this time. "Other Useful Numbers" is a fine read about the people who fall into the cracks of society.

Mission to Sonora
Rebecca Cramer
Imago Press
3710 East Edison, Tucson, AZ 85716-2912
9781935437000, $15.00, www.dakotacom.net

When you're a former forensic scientist, you'd think it'd be easier to escape your career. "Mission to Sonora: Book 1 of the Linda Bluenight Series" follows Linda and her son as they discover a corpse while on a nature hike. This discovery is just the start of Linda's troubles as there are those who don't want her former expertise applied to the discovery of that corpse, and she starts to get hunted through her everyday life. A story of facing the past and doing what's right, "Mission to Sonora" is a fine and highly recommended piece of mystery fiction, sure to please.


The Economics Shelf

The Rise of China and the Demise of the Capitalist World Economy
Minqi Li
Monthly Review Press
146 West 29th Street, Suite 6W, New York, NY 10001
9781583671825, $16.95, www.monthlyreview.org

Over a billion people call the People's Republic of China home, and the communist principles that the government once held so dear have loosened greatly. "The Rise of China and the Demise of the Capitalist World Economy" is a look at China as a global economic powerhouse. Combining its Marxist philosophies with capitalism, China could very well change the way the world does business in the near future. A must have for both political and economics students, "The Rise of China and the Demise of the Capitalist World Economy" is a vital read.

The Economics of Production, second edition
Bruce R. Beattie, C. Robert Taylor, & Myles J. Watts
Krieger Publishing Company
1725 Krieger Drive, Malabar, FL 32950
9781575242958, $72.00, www.krieger-publishing.com

A product needs to be produced first before it can be sold. "The Economics of Production" is the newly updated and expanded second edition of a text focusing on production and the economics behind it. Composed in a simple to understand style, the book is an ideal introduction into the field of production economics, as well as a solid reference for more advanced students of the science. With chapters covering the technical aspects needed, input and output and their impact on a company's finances, multiple production lines, monopolies, and so much more, "The Economics of Production" is a complete and comprehensive reference on the subject. "The Economics of Production" is a text enthusiastically recommended to any economics college course.

The Trend of Economic Thinking
F.A. Hayek
Liberty Fund
8335 Allison Pointe Trail, Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46250-1684
9780865977426, $12.00, www.libertyfund.org

Economic thinking, just like any other school of thought, has had its own evolution over the years. "The Trend of Economic Thinking: Essays on Political Economists and Economic History" is a collection of essays from renown economic scientist F.A. Hayek chronicling the ideas of one of the best economic minds fo the twentieth century. His essays discuss the past history of economics from the times of Adam Smith, to his own contemporary times where capitalism and communism were at each others throats at every front. A must read for any economics student or simply one who wants a better grasp of how money works in the world, "The Trend fo Economic Thinking" is a fine choice in any regard.

Tax Policy
Alan D. Viard, editor
American Enterprise Institute
1150 Seventeenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780844742786, $25.00, www.aei.org

Taxes are at the forefront of politics always, but now they are perhaps more than ever. "Tax Policy: Lessons from the 2000s" examines the mostly over decade of 2000 to 2010, what economists have learned from the tax policies of the Bush Administration, and how the Obama administration can learn much from the mistakes and triumphs of Obama's predecessor. Taxes affect more than what people pay to the government - they can determine the very success of an economy. "Tax Policy: Lessons from the 2000s" is a fine addition to any economic studies collection.


The Political Science Shelf

Is Socialist Revolution in the U.S. Possible?, expanded edition
Mary-Alice Waters
Pathfinder
PO Box 162767, Atlanta, GA 30321-2767
9781604880182, $7.00, www.pathfinderpress.com

With the recent fear from right-oriented political shows that socialism is taking over America, one must seriously ask - could it really happen? "Is Socialist Revolution in the U.S. Possible? A Necessary Debate" is a look at the issue, and this expanded edition is updated with some of the events that have occurred in recent months adding new fuel for thought of this debate. Mary-Alice Waters believes that America may be heading down this road, and her ideas will give readers much to ponder. "Is Socialist Revolution in the U.S. Possible?" is well worth the read for those concerned about America's future.


The Poetry Shelf

Terra Lucida
Joseph Donahue
Talisman House
PO Box 3157, Jersey City, NJ 07303-3157
9781584980629, $15.95, www.talismanpublishers.com

Joseph Donahue's work has earned him what many pursue throughout their lives but fail to get - the admiration of his peers. "Terra Lucida" is Donahue's newest work, focusing on the flow of verse through history and thought, offering poignant meanings to the nature of the world. Thought-provoking and intriguing, "Terra Lucida" is a fine and highly recommended read for poetry fans who like to use their mind. "00": The more we/fathom, the more//incredulous we become,/as if hearing, that first time,//the flicker of twins/inside a womb...

Paper Shoes
Pavel Strut
Carnegie Mellon University Press
5032 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15289-1021
Cornell University Press Services (distributor)
PO Box 6525, Ithaca, NY 14851
9780887485008, $17.95, www.amazon.com

The world has many voices, and Pavel Strut is now a Czechoslovakian voice to be enjoyed by the American people. "Paper Shoes" is a masterfully translated piece from Ema Katrovas bringing the work of Pavel Strut to American and English-speaking readers for the first time. With both the original Czech language and English side by side, "Paper Shoes" is a fine recommendation. "Parents and Children": You will not meet/parents with unwanted children/on Sunday morning walks/or afternoons when the sun stoops crooked in the sky/But when darkness falls/out of buildings creep/and throw shattered glass into the sky/the children of unwanted parents.

New Depths of Deadpan
Michael Gizzi
Burning Deck
71 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence, RI 02906
Small Press Distribution (distributor)
1341 Seventh St., Berkeley, CA 94710
9781886224964, $14.00, www.burningdeck.com

A humorous statement said in a plainspoken way - deadpan. "New Depths of Deadpan" is an anthology of poetry from Michael Gizzi, who uses his charming sense of humor to offer some verse that is deadpan in every sense of the word, calling it a combination of comedy and tragedy. "Eye High": To yawn is a luxury liner. Tomorrow/I might remember to shimmer up the street, but now/I just want to look like myself: a mirror opposite a full head of hair./And each week waves pressed in a book.

Ohio Violence
Alison Stine
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336, Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574412581, $12.95, www.unt.edu/untpress

Poetry, among many other things, reflects the skill of the poet to conjure up images and emotions through the use of more than just words, but words with cadence, rhythm, and resonance. An award winning poet, Alison Stine has truly mastered the craft of creating just such verse and "Ohio Violence" is a representative compilation of her work. The theme of these free form lyrics is that of emotional conflicts and interpersonal distress in the seemingly placid environs of the American Midwest. Thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Ohio Violence" is highly recommended reading and an excellent introduction to one of contemporary America's best and brightest in the poetry field. 'White Fence': These nights I think I know what the world wants./Mostly, an ending: the glaciers awake, harbors//turned to meadows. But you, you were different,/alert at the edge, awaiting some directions. We seek//death because we are strange to it. Mostly I imagine/you riding your bicycle into the trees, as far as you//could, until dead wood. What was it your were/seeking? the forest's center stillness, more limbs//on the ground than in air? Other times I think/I told you to go, turning to the light to see what fell there.//Nothing, then the whitest wing, water moths of snow/which clung to trees until the trees thinned, half//in shadow, half gone, in this way like acid. this then/is your gift to me: distance, a white fence. Ask yourself//is this what you wanted? Go on. Ask me anything.

To Keep the Light Burning
Anne Le Marquand Hartigan
Salmon Poetry
c/o Dufour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781903392966, $21.95, www.salmonpoetry.com

Death is not the end, except when it happens to you. It's an agonizing process otherwise. "To Keep the Light Burning: Reflections in Times of Loss" is a collection of poems from Anne Le Marquand Hartigan, focusing on the human spirit's challenges when faced with loss. Each poem has a preface explaining its meaning and nature to the reader, alongside the poem itself. "To Keep the Light Burning" is a top pick for poetry lovers who have lost another love. "The Hawser": In the deep pause of night/I can think of you/heavy-limbed and lying//turn to me across the ocean/throw out an arm/let its weight fall across me//as a rope from boat to shore.

The Formal Impulse
John Pidgeon
Parallel Press
372 Memorial Library, 728 State Street, Madison, WI 53575
http://parallelpress.library.wisc.edu
9781934795057, $10.00 1-800-636-0071

The Formal Impulse is a flat-spined chapbook of free-verse poetry by published Wisconsin poet John Pidgeon. Individual poems have previously appeared in periodicals such as "Rosebud", "The Iconoclast", and more, but they never before been gathered into one collection. The Formal Impulse offers brief contemplations on historical figures, great works of art, forgotten timeless moments, and inspirational quotations or instants. The result is a moving anthology that leaves much to ponder in the wake of its insights. "The Formal Impulse": Is more than the lean Apollonian / instinct to influence / the lush strut and dance / of those hopelessly Dionysian. // It isn't on the outside looking in, stopping up its own breath; / nor some decorative wreath / for a stanza solid as a tombstone.

The Raven and Other Poems
Edgar Allan Poe, author
Gahan Wilson, illustrator
Papercutz
40 Exchange Place, Suite 1308, New York, NY 10005
9781597071406, $9.95 www.papercutz.com 1-800-886-1223

Part of the "Classics Illustrated" series presenting great works of literature in a vivid new format, The Raven and Other Poems offers nine dark poems by legendary American visionary of horror and despair Edgar Allan Poe. The poems presented here are "The Raven", "Annabel Lee", "Lines on Ale", "The City in the Sea", "The Sleeper", "Eldorado", "Alone", "The Haunted Palace", and the "Conqueror Worm", each accompanied by gleefully ghoulish color illustrations. An excellent, inexpensive introduction to Poe's immortal work sporting a sturdy hardcover binding, The Raven and Other Poems is especially recommended for public library collections.

The Junction
Tomas Venclova
Bloodaxe Books
c/o Dufour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781852248109, $23.95

Offering readers a taste of the life in Lithuania, "The Junction" is a collection of poetry from one of the nation's finest poets in Tomas Venclova. Addressing the issues that are uniquely Lithuanian but will ring well with much of society and most importantly humanity, Venclova's poems speak well and give an indepth look into the mind of a citizen of the Eastern European country. "The Junction" is a fine read and something to be treasured by poetry enthusiasts. "An Attempt at Describing a Room": o the pillows and the palettes and the earrings made of gold/but the map will never show it as the address is annulled//but the boulevard is glowing and the tea turns into air/but the wires stretch into nowhere and the essence is unclear//tongue of flame begins to flicker midnight strikes you as you write/and the lobsters shrimp and fish break through the canvas with their sight//since the border of the fishbowl stretches out our windowpane/where the blind and artless shepherds tend the nutshells in the brine//hardness sets the liquid plaster you I cease to hear or see/void of gratitude and happy underneath the spreading tree.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Living Jewish Life Cycle
Goldie Milgram
Jewish Lights Publishing
PO Box 237, Sunset Farm Offices, Rt. 4, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781580233354, $19.99, www.jewishlights.com

Celebrating the life of a Jew should be more than a bar or bat'mitzvah. "Living Jewish Life Cycle: How to Create Meaningful Jewish Rites of Passage at Every Stage of Life" is a Jewish guide to bringing more meaning to living the life of a Jew. Weddings, the birth of a child, retirement, divorce, and death are all major aspects of life but so often do not get the attention they deserve, and placing meaning and ritual on these can only spur one's faith stronger. "Living Jewish Life Cycle" is a fine guide to ritual in one's life and how more of it can be a good thing.

Did Moses Really Have Horns?
Rifat Sonsino
URJ Press
633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017-6778
9780807410608, $16.95, www.urjbooksandmusic.com

Now in the sixth millennia of existence, Judaism has quite an expanse of its own legacy of lore. "Did Moses Really Have Horns? And Other Myths About Jews and Judaism" explores the rich historical folklore about Judaism, its people, and its history. From the many myths surrounding important figure Moses, to taking the book of Genesis literally, to answering why Christians and those of other faiths believed various old wives tales about the Jewish people, "Did Moses Really Have Horns?" is intriguing and enlightening about a people's history. "Did Moses Really Have Horns?" is a top pick.

Surviving the Holocaust with the Russian Jewish Partisans, second edition
Jack Kagan and Dov Cohen
Vallentine Mitchell
5824 NE Hassalo Street, Portland, OR 97213-3644
International Specialized Book Services (ISBS)
920 NE 58th Ave., Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
0853034168, $22.95, www.vmbooks.com

The stories of those faced with the Holocaust share similar qualities, but each have their own unique take of the tenacity of the human spirit. Now in a newly revised and expanded second edition, "Surviving the Holocaust with the Russian Jewish Partisans" tells of authors Dov Cohen and Jack Kagan, who hail from war torn Russia. When the Nazis pressed their way into Soviet territory, their lives were wedged between being persecuted due to their faith, and the brief light that came when their home nation reclaimed their town. Living in an active war zone adds a new dimension to what many European Jews experienced due to the time, and show how Russian Jews resisted Germany's notorious genocide. "Surviving the Holocaust with the Russian Jewish Partisans" is a fine read for those looking for another perspective on the Holocaust.

20th Century Jewish Religious Thought
Arthur A. Cohen & Paul Mendes-Flohr, eds.
Jewish Publication Society
2100 Arch St., 2nd fl., Philadelphia PA 19103
9780827608924, $50.00, www.jewishpub.org

The theologies of Judaism are not fixed in either time or place, but are continuing to be interpreted, expanded, shaped, and evolved with each new generation of Rabbi's and social activists. Long out of print and now once again made available to a new generation of students and readers, "20th Century Jewish Religious Thought" is a compilation of 140 informed and informative essays compiled from some of the best minds in the field of Judaic studies. Deftly co-edited by Arthur A. Cohen and Paul Mendes-Flohr, the topics addressed range from charity, death, family love, suffering, tradition, the Torah, and so much more. This 1163-page compendium is enhanced with a comprehensive index and represents ideas and commentaries that are as inspired and inspiring as they are thoughtful and thought-provoking. "20th Century Jewish Religious Thought" is a highly recommended and core addition to personal, rabbinical, academic, and community library Judaic Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

The Creative Jewish Wedding, second edition
Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer
Jewish Lights
Route 4, PO Box 237, Woodstock, VY 05091
9781580233989, $19.99, www.jewishlights.com

Tradition is a fine thing, but that doesn't mean you can't put your own spin on it. Now in a newly revised and expanded second edition, "The Creative Jewish Wedding: A Hands-On Guide to New & Old Traditions, Ceremonies & Celebrations" is a guide for Jewish couples who are soon to be wed but want to do something more than what's expected of them. With advice and tips for every step of the way from the inventories to the ceremony itself, "The Creative Jewish Wedding" is a must-read manual for the traditional yet forward thinking and creative Jew who wants to make their wedding personal and unique.

Eichah: A Modern Commentary on the Book of Lamentations
Leonard S. Kravitz and Kerry M. Olitzky
URJ Press
633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017-6778
9780807410615, $14.95 www.urjpress.com

Rabbi Leonard S. Kravitz, Ph.D. (professor of Midrash and Homeletics, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York) and Kerry M. Olitzky, D.H.L. (executive director, Jewish Outreach Institute) present Eichah: A Modern Commentary on the Book of Lamentations, a translation and close examination of the Jewish holy text that is The Book of Lamentations. The Book of Lamentations covers the destructions of the Temples and the subsequent calamities that Tishah B'Av suffered; yet it is so much more, about the crucial role that Jerusalem played in the religious lives of Jews. A profound and thoughtful religious study, Eichah is a welcome addition to scholarly Judaic Studies shelves, yet remains accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Highly recommended, especially for college library collections.

Spiritual Journey Home
Nathan Katz
KTAV
930 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
9781602801165, $27.50, www.ktav.com

There is much eastern philosophy can do for western religions. "Spiritual Journey Home: Eastern Mysticism to Western Wall" follows on one Jew's journey into the farther east. A conservative Jew by tradition, he speaks on what he has learned as he has traveled through the Middle East and Southern Asia through India, Afghanistan, Nepal, among other countries and what he has learned from their people and their traditional beliefs. He then reflects on the lessons he learned and how they apply to modern Judaism. "Spiritual Journey Home" is intriguing, enlightening, and will give religious readers much to think about.


The Fashion Shelf

Growing More Beautiful
Jennifer Robin
Arteful Press
Kelley & Hall (publicity)
5 Briar Lane, Marblehead, Massachusetts 01945
9780981732206, $29.95 www.artefulpress.com

Growing More Beautiful: An Artful Approach to Personal Style is a gorgeously illustrated guide to beauty and fashion, written by expert artist and image consultant Jennifer Robin. Chapters teach the reader how to continue to grow beautiful as one grows older, from the effective use of color to build one's wardrobe, to finding garments that fit and flatter one's body, to skillfully organizing one's closet, to the discreet application of makeup, to proper shopping for clothing and swimwear that best complements one's body. A spiritual aspect to Growing More Beautiful reaches beyond physical appearance, touching upon the importance of creating balance in one's life, nourishing one's artistic self, and being aware of the impact of one's physical and social environment. Full color artworks and photographs on virtually every page enhance this in-depth, easy-to-follow fashion guide highly recommended for women of all ages.


The Philosophy Shelf

Nietzsche's Animal Philosophy
Vanessa Lemm
Fordham University Press
2546 Belmont Avenue, University Box L, Bronx, NY 10458-5172
9780823230280, $24.00 www.fordhampress.com 1-800-247-6553

Part of the "Perspectives in Continental Philosophy" series, Nietzsche's Animal Philosophy: Culture, Politics, and the Animality of the Human Being is a thoughtful re-examination of Nietzsche's views on culture, civilization, politics, morality, and the animalistic nature of humankind. What exactly does it mean for the human animal to have culture - the main thing that distinguishes humans from beasts - and how does humankind's instinctive, animalistic side shape its culture? Nietzsche saw culture as created by human's animal side, not erected as a moral barrier against it. Chapters address such topics as "Politics and Promise", "Culture and Economy", "Giving and Forgiving", "Animality, Creativity, and Historicity", and more. A scholarly and measured philosophical study by author Vanessa Lemm (Associate Professor at the School for Political Science, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago de Chile), recommended for college library philosophy shelves.

The Wizard of Oz and Philosophy
Randall E. Auxier & Phillip S. Seng
Open Court
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60601
9780812696578, $18.95, www.opencourtbooks.com

There is something to think about in everything, even stories featuring flying monkeys. "The Wizard of Oz and Philosophy: Wicked Wisdom of the West" takes a look at the beloved film and story, and what it teaches humanity. Everything from why Dorothy wants so direly to escape a cheerful fantasy world to the role of Toto is discussed in a fascinating way. "The Wizard of Oz and Philosophy" asks many questions and presents many answers, and is a must for anyone evaluating the effects of popular culture on the way people think.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Sell Yourself in Any Interview
Oscar Adler
McGraw Hill
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10121-2298
Gulotta Communications, Inc. (publicity)
341 Lexington Street, Newton, MA 02466
9780071549097, $14.95, www.mhprofessional.com

An interview is really about sales. "Sell Yourself in Any Interview: Use Proven Sales Techniques to Land Your Dream Job" is a guide to treating interviews as they should be treated - venues to sell oneself as an invaluable addition to the company one is applying to. Adler encourages those who are preparing for an interview to read their interviewer and react accordingly, much like one would do in sales. With advice on proper resume construction, and other minor tips that would never come to mind for many, "Sell Yourself in Any Interview" is a must read for anyone about to face an interview for the job they must have.


The Interior Design Shelf

Influential Country Styles
Judith Miller
Watson Guptill
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
9780823084654, $27.50, www.watsonguptill.com

The serenity of the country is what so many desire in their home. "Influential Country Styles: From Simple, Elegant Interiors to Pastoral and Rustic Homes" is a guide to embracing the peace of the rural home. With interior design tips on laying out a country home, author Judith Miller uses her expertise in explaining how a quaint and relaxing country home should be. Drawing inspiration from quiet cottages and other rural locations around the world, she gives much advice to apply her principles well, making "Influential Country Styles" a fine choice.

The Complete Guide to Finishing Basements
Editors of Cpi
Creative Publishing International
400 First Avenue North, #300, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781589234543, $24.99, www.creativepub.com

A basement can be as fine a living space as any other area of the house. "The Complete Guide to Finishing Basements: Step-by-Step Projects for Adding Living Space Without Adding On" is a home improvement guide for those who want to turn their utility room basement into a room to be enjoyed by the entire family, or just one person. Basements present their own challenges, such as moisture, lack of heat and light, among other issues, but many ideas are presented to remedy these. With extra advice on morphing one's basement into many types of more useful rooms, "The Complete Guide to Finishing Basements" is a fine choice for anyone who wants to make their bottom level something special.


The Civil War Shelf

The Seventh Star of the Confederacy
Kenneth W. Howell
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336, Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574412598, $34.95 www.unt.edu/untpress

In 1861, Texas became the seventh state in the Confederacy and was plunged into blood-soaked fighting with the North. Edited by Kenneth W. Howell (associate professor, Prairie View A&M University), The Seventh Star of the Confederacy: Texas During the Civil War is an anthology of the latest scholarly research by expert historians concerning how Texans experienced the American Civil War. Individual essays include "Frontier Defense: Enlistment Patterns for the Texas Frontier Regiments in the Civil War", "Defending the Lone Star: The Texas Cavalry in the Red River Campaign", "Prison City, Camp Ford: Largest Confederate Prisoner-of-war Camp in the Trans-Mississippi", "The Confederate Governors of Texas", and many more. A handful of black-and-white illustrations and an index enhance this cutting-edge historical study. Especially recommended for college and public library collections strong in Texas history.

Commanding Lincoln's Navy
Stephen R. Taaffe
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591148555, $37.95 www.navalinstitute.org 1-800-233-8764

Commanding Lincoln's Navy: Union Leadership During the Civil War is the story of how the Union's Navy leadership, particularly President Lincoln's Secretary of the Navy, Gideon Welles, contributed to winning the American Civil War. From blockading Confederate ports to cooperating with the Army in amphibious assaults to controlling the Mississippi and its tributaries, the Navy's success in its role can be traced to Welles' overall talent for choosing good leaders - though some of his early choices may have lent too much priority to political connections, seniority, and availability over record and individual character, his skill improved as the conflict continued, and he became increasingly efficient at finding the right man for the job. An inset handful of black-and-white photographic plates illustrates this thoughtful, well-researched account.


The Money/Finance Shelf

Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is
Natalie Pace
Vanguard Press
387 Park Avenue South, 12th Floor, New York City, NY 10016
9781593154912, $24.95, www.vanguardpress.com

Wealth is the state of being set for life and not panicking for your next paycheck. "Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is: Investment Strategies for Lifetime Wealth" is a collection of simple and easy tips to follow in the world of investment. Calling her methods the 'Buy My Own Island' plan, the author's ambitious nature fueled her transformation from indigent to millionaire, and she became one of the most trusted stock brokers on Wall Street. Here, she hopes to help others who were in her situation claim their own piece of the wealth that America has to offer. "Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is" is just what some readers may need to find themselves exponentially richer in the coming years.


The Dance Shelf

Beyond Isadora
Joanna Gewertz Harris
Regent Press
2747 Regent Street, Berkeley, CA 94705
9781587901614, $40.00, www.regentpress.net

Dance has captivated audiences for thousands of years. "Beyond Isadora: Bay Area Dancing 1915-1965" explains that this fact is still true to this day. Focusing on the theater and dance of San Francisco for the better part of the first half of the twentieth century, author Joanna Gewertz Harris outlines the importance of dance as an art form during this era. With countless black and white photos peppering the history, the feel of the era is transmitted well. "Beyond Isadora" is a fine read that will grab readers, especially fans of dance, and never let go.

Traditional Barn Dances
Dudley & Jacqueline Laufman
Human Kinetics
9224 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674
9780736076128, $59.00, www.humankinetics.com

Throwing down a barn dance can be much more fun than one would think. "Traditional Barn Dances with Calls & Fiddling" is a dance manual focusing on the barn dance style of dancing, also commonly referred to as square dancing. Each dance comes with a fiddle tune accompanying it, a history of that dance, and of course, lessons on the dance itself. Also of high interest is the included DVD which has a video glossary demonstrating each of the moves alongside full demonstrations for choice dances. On top of that, there are two CDs with the music featured within the book, excellent for practicing along to. "Traditional Bard Ances with Calls & Fiddling" is a fine reference for those intrigued with this traditional dance style.


The Library Science Shelf

Developing a Compensation Plan for Your Library, second edition
Paula M. Singer & Laura L. Francisco
American Library Association
50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
9780838909850, $55.00, www.alastore.ala.org

Libraries aren't made of money, but one can't expect people to work for free. "Developing a Compensation Plan for Your Library" is the newly revised and expanded second edition of the acclaimed manual of good budgeting practices for the human resources side of library management. This resource gives head librarians everything they need to know to deal with today's job market, not to mention dips in staff morale. Libraries are employers like any other company, albeit one with limited resources, and authors Paula Singer and Laura Francisco give librarians the crash course they need to best understand a complex and effective hiring process that will help the library as well as its employees. "Developing a Compensation Plan for Your Library" is a fine addition to community library science collections.

Protecting Intellectual Freedom In Your Academic Library
Barbara M. Jones
ALA Editions
c/o American Library Association
50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
www.alastore.ala.org
9780838935804, $55.00, www.amazon.com

Protecting the integrity of library collections and the library acquisition process against community forces that would seek to restrict those collections in accordance with a special interest criteria is a constant struggle for both community and school libraries throughout the country. In "Protecting Intellectual Freedom In Your Academic Library: Scenarios From The Front Lines" Barbara Jones (Caleb T. Winchester University Librarian at Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut) draws upon her many years of professional experience and expertise to address the issue of protecting intellectual freedom as represented in school libraries both public and private, grade level or collegiate. Offering illustrative case studies, Jones provides narrative treatment of common situations tailored to academic libraries. Of special note is the provision of detailed, practical, applicable information on dealing with challenges seeking to delete or restrict materials in library collections. Enhanced throughout with sidebars offering sample polices, definitions of key terms, and analysis of important statues and decisions affecting the protections of intellectual freedom in a library environment, "Protecting Intellectual Freedom In Your Academic Library" should be considered required reading by library board members and library staff members at all levels of responsibility. Also very highly recommended is ALA companion book by Pat R. Scales "Protecting Intellectual Freedom In Your School Library: Scenarios From The Front Lines" (9780838935811, $55.00).

Library Partnerships
Tasha Squires
Information Today Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055
9781573873628, $39.50 www.infotoday.com

LIBRARY PARTNERSHIPS: MAKING CONNECTIONS BETWEEN SCHOOL AND PUBLIC LIBRARIES tells how to connect to share resources and ideas between school and public libraries. It comes from a young adult library consultant who examines different possibilities for such partnerships, from summer reading programs to book talks, and is directed to librarians who would share information in the face of tight budgets and limited funds. Any library catering to library science students needs this.


The International Studies Shelf

Ukraine
Anders Aslund
Peterson Institute for International Economics
1750 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036-1903
9780881324273, $26.95, www.petersoninstitute.org

After the fall of the Soviet Union, its former states had much to overcome. "Ukraine: How Ukraine Became a Market Economy and Democracy" is about one of the possible success stories, as Ukraine has been establishing itself well over the past two decades. Author Anders Aslund, a man who has had strong ties to the Ukraine since before its independence, observes its growth, but does not hold back in his criticism. A rigid but hopeful analysis of the political and economic story of the Ukraine, "Ukraine" is well worth the read for world economics and politics students.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

101 Best Beginnings Every Written
Barnaby Conrad
Quill Driver Books
c/o Linden Publishing
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721-9875
www.woodworkerslibrary.com
9781884956867, $15.95, www.amazon.com

One of the little known facts about professional book reviewers is that if they are any good at all, they receive hundreds books every month requesting reviews -- far more than they could ever hope to cope with. That compels them to practice a kind of literary triage -- whittling down the numbers of submissions to what they can actually handle given their time and resources. A major part of that sifting process (especially with fiction) is to open the book and read the first page or two. If it's good enough to 'hook' them, then that book will make it into the acceptance pile. If it's not -- then that book will be discarded from consideration. Because booksellers and librarians (and often, the general reading public) take their cues from book reviewers, that's why how a book begins is so vitally important as to whether or not it will be deemed a critical or commercial success. That's also why "101 Best Beginnings Every Written: A Romp Through Literary Openings For Writers And Readers" by Barnaby Conrad (a published author of more than 30 titles) is so valuable as an instructively useful guide which is enhanced with informed and informative commentary, annotations, and insights. To put it succinctly, every aspiring author seeking to perfect their craft would be well served to give a careful reading to "101 Best Beginnings Every Written: A Romp Through Literary Openings For Writers And Readers".

The Elements of Narrative Nonfiction
Peter Rubie
Quill Driver Books
c/o Linden Publishing
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
9781884956911, $15.95

There are better ways to relate true events than simply stating the facts. "The Elements of Narrative Nonfiction: How to Write & Sell the Novel of True Events" is an exploration of narrative nonfiction, also sometimes called creative nonfiction. Numerous huge hit books in recent years have simply been creatively relayed true stories told in an entrancing way. "The Elements of Narrative Nonfiction" is a must read for those who want to adapt life's true stories into novel form, or who yearn to be more accessible to a wider audience.

Bookmaking
Marshall Lee
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
9780393732962, $31.50, www.wwnorton.com

The publishing industry has been experiencing rapid changes in both technology and the marketplace these past few years. Now in a newly updated and significantly expanded third edition, "Bookmaking: Editing/Design/Production" continues to be the premiere instruction manual and reference for the publishing of books. Of special value for those new to publishing or who aspire to become publishers, "Bookmaking" covers every aspect of manuscript editing, book design, and the printing/binding processes of book production in extensive and thoroughly 'user friendly' detail. Of special note is the information provided on computer-centered methods of publishing -- including the growing phenomena of electronic books (popularly known as ebooks). Also critically valuable is the information concerning the distribution of books. The author, Marshall Lee, draws upon his more than fifty years of professional experience and expertise in the field of publishing to provide a sound manual that continues to be considered the 'bible' of the industry and an invaluable, recommended addition to professional, academic, and community library reference collections.

MLA Handbook For Writers Of Research Papers, seventh edition
Modern Language Association
26 Broadway, 3rd fl., NY, NY 10004-1789
9781603290241, $22.00, www.mla.org

The Modern Language Association is the premier reference resource of the proprieties of written English. Now in an updated and expanded seventh edition, "MLA Handbook For Writers Of Research Papers" continues to be a comprehensive, current, and authoritative guide to research and writing in an online environment offering simplified guidelines for citing works published on the Internet, as well as citing works from other sources including digital files and graphic narratives. This new edition is enhanced with more than two hundred additional examples, several research project narratives, and research paper formats. Of special note is the chapter devoted to abbreviations. Absolutely indispensable, the "MLA Handbook For Writers Of Research Papers" is an essential addition to personal, professional, academic, and community library reference collections.

Getting Started As A Freelance Writer, expanded edition
Robert W. Bly
Sentient Publications
1113 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302
www.sentientpublications.com
9781591810698, $19.95, www.amazon.com

The nice things about being a freelance writer include being your own boss, setting your own hours, picking out your own subject matter, seeing your name in print, and basically being in charge of what, when, where, why, and how you make money from your writing. The not-so-nice aspects of freelance writing include the massive competition you face when trying to solicit business, sell your work, and manage the business aspects of your do-it-yourself career. Now in a newly revised and significantly expanded edition, "Getting Started As A Freelance Writer" by Robert W. Bly (himself a professional writer with an average annual income of more than $600,00) who draws upon his more than 25 years of experience and expertise is an ideal instruction manual for anyone who aspires to a successful and profitable career as a freelance writer. Bly provides pertinent and reliable advice and instruction covering every aspect of freelance writing including where to find work, how to obtain paying assignments, how to negotiate fees and contracts to best effect, turning out saleable manuscripts, getting paid on time and in full, and so much more. Of special note and value are Bly's comments on getting started and avoiding common mistakes, writing and selling poetry, as well as the commercial sale of short stories, novels, and essays. "Getting Started As A Freelance Writer" is an ideal and invaluable 'how to' manual that should be considered mandatory reading for anyone who seeks to earn their living (full-time or part-time) through their writing.

Dan Poynter's Self-Publishing Manual: Volume 2
Dan Poynter
Para Publishing
PO Box 8206, Santa Barbara, CA 93118-8206
9781568601465, $14.95, www.parapublishing.com

Dan Poynter is a living legend in the publishing industry. Originally published in 1979, his 'The Self-Publishing Manual' is in its 16th revised edition and 22nd printing. Now a second volume has been written with the specific focus of writing, printing, and selling the self-published book by utilizing cutting edge technologies and the latest up-to-date techniques. This is an indispensable instruction manual and reference for everything from copy writing a book; to print runs and inventories, to putting out downloadable, CD and eBook editions through 'Virtual Book Publishing'; to creating additional revenue streams though audios, videos, magazine excerpts, foreign language sales; employing short-run book printers; setting up a publishing company (including tax breaks); as well as low-cost/no-cost book promotion and marketing. Also available in a Large Print Edition (9781568601472) and an eBook edition (9781568601489), no aspiring or practicing self-published author should be without their very own copy of "Dan Poynter's Self-Publishing Manual: Volume 2" sitting side-by-side on their reference shelve with the latest edition of what is now "The Self-Publishing Manual: Volume 1"!

The Creative Writing MFA Handbook
Tom Kealey
Continuum
80 Maiden Lane, New York, NY 10038
9780826428868, $19.95, www.continuum-books.com

Everyone can put a pen to paper and write. What makes you so special? "The Creative Writing MFA Handbook" is a guide to the world of higher education and writing degrees, drawing from the wisdom and experience of countless writers and professors of writing as they reflect on the process of acquiring a degree in writing, and what to do with such a degree after college. "The Creative Writing MFA Handbook" is a must read for anyone going into higher education to improve their craft of writing.

A Syllable of Water
Emilie Griffin, editor
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
9781557255662, $20.00, www.paracletepress.com

How does faith play into the writing of a Christian? "A Syllable of Water: Twenty Writers of Faith Reflect on Their Art" draws on how religion and faith intertwine with the creative process of crafting prose and the world of fiction. The twenty writers offer advice that is not purely Christian and useful to writers that are secular or belong to other faiths, but they do speak on how their faith has impacted them and their work. A fine guide for the amateur writer of faith, "A Syllable of Water" is a strong choice.


The Self-Help Shelf

Embracing Your Inner Mediocrity
Vince Stone
Sterling Press Books
1807 Westland Drive, NW, Cleveland, TN 37311
0982129009, $22.99, www.sterlingpressbooks.com

Not everyone is going to be a rock star with thousands of adoring fans. "Embracing Your Inner Mediocrity: Making Peace with Reality" is an inspirational de-inspirational guide. Not everyone is going to be the absolute best, writes Vince Stone, and sometimes realizing that is the best way to make peace with oneself. A self-help manual that doesn't believe in you, "Embracing Your Inner Mediocrity" helps the reader restrain his or her ego while remaining focused on being as capable as he or she can humanly be.

It's All About Him
Lisa E. Scott
Cedar Fort
2373 W 700 S, Springville, UT 84663
9781599552187, $9.99, www.cedarfort.com

Couple implies two, but there are those who think couple means 'me'. "It's All About Him: How to Identify and Avoid the Narcissist Male Before You Get Hurt" is a guide for women to identifying and distancing oneself from the overly egotistical potential boyfriend before love shackles one to a person who doesn't reciprocate the feeling. Honest and straight to the point, "It's All About Him" explains why some women find themselves falling for a man who loves himself more than her. "It's All About Him" should be read by any women who feels she's being overly neglected (or worse) by her man.

When I Get Married
Jerusha Clark
NavPress
PO Box 35001, Colorado Springs, CO 80935
9781600060564, $14.99, www.navpress.com

A beautiful or handsome spouse, a great sex life, a beautiful family. "When I Get Married: Surrendering the Fantasy, Embracing the Reality" is a guide to not expecting the world out of one's married life and how not thrusting saintly expectations upon one's spouse can do wonders for one's life and happiness. Written for the married, the soon to be married, or simply the singles who dream, "When I Get Married" is a highly recommended manual to getting the most out of one's married life.


The Astronomy Shelf

The Hunt for Planet X
Govert Schilling
Copernicus Books
233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013
9780387778044, $27.50, www.springer.com

Much to the controversy of many, Pluto is no longer a planet by scientific definition. "The Hunt for Planet X: New Worlds and the Fate of Pluto" is a look into the outer reaches of our solar systems and the things that clasp to the outer reaches of the solar system. Chronicling the debates that have been raging for centuries about what lies beyond Neptune, "The Hunt for Planet X" is a real life mystery that many of today's scientists have dedicated themselves to solving, but the mystery may be up to future generations to solve. "The Hunt for Planet X: New Worlds and the Fate of Pluto" is a fascinating read for anyone who loves astronomy.


The Gaming Shelf

True Combat Chess
Timothy Taylor
Everyman Chess
c/o The Globle Pequot Press
PO Box 480, 246 Goose Lane, Guilford, CT 06437-0480
9781857445848, $24.95, www.everymanchess.com

Chess is derived from old war games, and winning battles is the key to winning the game. "True Combat Chess: Winning Battles Over the Board" is a guide to treating chess like a long bout of combat against one's opponent, with an aggressive combat-based strategy to winning the game of chess. Written by former national champion Timothy Taylor, Taylor hopes to inspire readers with his wisdom and anecdotes so that they too can be successful in their own games. "True Combat Chess" is a fine read for the chess enthusiast of any skill level.


The Developmental Disabilities Shelf

Top Ten Tips
Teresa A. Cardon
AAPC
PO Box 23173, Shawnee Mission, KS 66283-0173
9781934575307, $21.95, www.asperger.net

Autism presents many challenges, but they can be dealt with quite well. "Top Ten Tips: A Survival Guide for Families with Children on the Autism Spectrum" is a guide for families dealing with these special needs children. The ten tips are not ten overall tips, but rather ten tips for each of the challenges of everyday life ranging from brushing teeth, hobbies, doctor's appointments, and much more. "Top Ten Tips" is a solid and highly recommended read sure to help many a parent.

Autism Spectrum Disorders and AAC
Pat Mirenda & Teresa Iacono
Paul H. Brookes Publishing
PO Box 10624, Baltimore, MD 21285-0624
9781557669537, $49.95, www.brookespublishing.com

Autism has become more prominent in modern society, so understanding it is more important than ever. "Autism Spectrum Disorders and AAC" is a look at people with autism and augmentative and alternative communication - also known as AAC. These individuals have special needs and often need unique techniques for effectively communicating with them. With chapters on encouraging natural speech, literacy, adjusting abnormal behavior, facilitating classroom participation and helping them establish bonds, Pat Mirenda & Teresa Iacono give a manual that is a necessity for educators dealing with these special needs people. As such, "Austism Spectrum Disorders and AAC" belongs in any collection on autism.


The Agricultural Studies Shelf

How to Raise Sheep
Philip Hasheider
Voyageur Press
400 First Avenue North, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9780760334812, $19.95, www.voyageurpress.com

Sheep are some of the most useful livestock and raising them can be a very fulfilling endeavor. "How to Raise Sheep: Everything You Need to Know" is a complete and comprehensive reference to the world of sheep farming. From the purchase of one's first herd, to raising them and maintaining their health, author Philip Hasheider covers it all. With chapters covering any goal one would raise sheep for, whether to show sheep, produce meat, or produce wool, everything is discussed in depth. "How to Raise Sheep: Everything You Need to Know" is a must for any would-be sheep breeder or caretaker.

The Winter Harvest Handbook
Eliot Coleman
Chelsea Green Publishing
PO Box 428, 85 North Main Street, Suite 120, White River Junction, VT 05001
9781603580816, $29.95, www.chelseagreen.com

Winter has been symbolized as death, but that notion can be proven wrong. "The Winter Harvest Handbook: Year-Round Vegetable Production Using Deep-Organic Techniques and Unheated Greenhouses" explains that winter cultivation is not only possible, but can thrive just as well as any in the harshest of winter conditions. Describing the methods needed to get freshly grown vegetables during a time never thought possible, "The Winter Harvest Handbook" is a heartily recommended read for those who love farming and gardening, and don't want to stop because of the calendar.


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