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Library Bookwatch

Volume 5, Number 12 December 2010 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Library Science Shelf American History Shelf
Biography Shelf Audiobook Shelf Library CD Music Shelf
Sports Shelf Military Shelf Poetry Shelf
Bilingual Shelf Library DVD Shelf Gardening Shelf
Agriculture Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf Political Science Shelf
Environmental Studies Shelf Music Shelf Native American Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Psychology Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf
Economics Shelf Philosophy Shelf Mathematics Shelf
Christian Studies Shelf Gaming Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf
Fiction Shelf Judicial Studies Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Hunting/Fishing Shelf Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Nautical Shelf Business Shelf
Art Shelf Computer Shelf Photography Shelf
Crafts Shelf Library Reference Shelf Education Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

The Great Moonpie Handbook
Ron Dickson
Pelican
1000 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LA 70053
9781589808577, $14.95, www.pelicanpub.com

The Moonpie lies in Southern American culture, not noticed until it's gone. "The Great Moonpie Handbook" is a collection of humor and writings dedicated to this classic treat, tracing its roots from 1917, and how it got its start as a cheap and delectable treat to being a staple for many Americans today. From Tennessee to the modern day, Ron Dickson puts forth a read that is educational, humorous, and intriguing. "The Great Moonpie Handbook" is a choice pick for anyone who wants to know the story behind tossing cookies, marshmallow, and chocolate together.

The Simple Art of EatingWell Cookbook
Jessie Price & The EatingWell Test Kitchen
The Countryman Press
c/o W. W. Norton
PO Box 748, 1206 VT Route 12, Woodstock, VT 05091
9780881509359, $35.00, www.countrymanpress.com

A good diet does wonders for one's overall health. "The Simple Art of EatingWell Cookbook" delves into how to put on one's chef hat and create delicious and healthy meals that delight the taste buds as well prove to be healthy and filling. A wide array of dishes with everything from soups and salads to making fine meat dishes and desserts, "The Simple Art of EatingWell Cookbook" is in full color and will prove to be a favorite for anyone who is trying to improve their diet.

The Skinny On...
Jim Randel
Rand
265 Post Road West, Westport, CT 06880
www.theskinnyon.com

Jim Rand has created a series of books to help readers understand a variety of concepts quickly. "The Skinny On" series gives a comprehensive overview of many of these topics and will help readers pursue whatever they please. "The Skinny On Success: Why Not You?" (9780981893594, $14.95) outlines the traits of successful people and how one can get in the baits of success. "The Skinny on Creativity: Thinking Outside the Box" (9780984441884, $14.95) is a guide to how to tap one's own creative potential in their personal or business pursuits and think of things new done before. "The Skinny on Time Management: How to Maximize Your 24-Hour Gift" (9780984139392, $14.95) is a guide to getting the most out of your day where wasting time seems like an art form for many of us. "The Skinny On The Art of Persuasion: How to Move Minds" (9780982439005, $14.95) is a guide to understanding how to convince people to see things your way, something that is very much needed to succeed on many avenues in the business world.

Lost in Learning
Eva Koleva Timothy
Athenaeum
PO Box 699, 234 May Street, Enfield, NH 03748
9780615343945, $39.95, www.enfieldbooks.com

If you're the stupidest person in the world, but you have the willingness to learn, you're far less stupid than you thought. "Lost in Learning: The Art of Discovery" is a collection of photographs and arts in devotion to the human quality that is perhaps the most important one to our advancement as a species - learning. Icons of education throughout history. From explorers seeking to learn what lies beyond the horizon, to astronomers seeking to learn what's in the stars, and much more, "Lost in Learning" is a thoughtful look at learning through photography and art, a grade-A pick that shouldn't be missed for history and art collections.


The Library Science Shelf

Everyone Plays at the Library
Scott Nicholson
Information Today Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055
9781573873987, $39.50, www.infotoday.com

EVERYONE PLAYS AT THE LIBRARY: CREATING GREAT GAMING EXPERIENCES FOR ALL AGES comes from a librarian and game designer who shows how gaming programs can be successfully integrated into school and public libraries. Games for all age groups are surveyed in this outstanding analysis of library gaming, including determining user needs, achieving library goals, and more. Very highly recommended!

Let's Pretend
Rebecca C. Bane
Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781555707286, $55.00, www.neal-schuman.com

The imagination is a terrible thing to let go to waste. "Let's Pretend: 50 Start-to-Finish Preschooler Programs for the Busy Librarian That Imagination" is a guide for librarians to helping their pre-school students come to learn through imagination. Each chapter presents a subject for librarians to encourage their young students to follow, complete with color photographs. Each topic includes potential props, music to play, ways to stimulate their minds and let them run wild. Packed cover to cover with plenty of great ideas, "Let's Pretend" is great for any librarian with a flare for the dramatic and wants to rub a bit of that flare onto their younger patrons, a core addition to any library science collection.

Reading Places
Christine Pawley
University of Massachusetts Press
P.O. Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
9781558498228, $28.95, www.umpress.umass.edu

READING PLACES: LITERACY, DEMOCRACY, AND THE PUBLIC LIBRARY IN COLD WAR AMERICA blends a history of libraries with a survey of an experimental regional library service in the early 1950s. Using interviews and library records, Christine Pawley considers the influence of ordinary reading choices and shows how reading blended with formal proceedings to direct literary policy. Bookmobiles brought books to rural areas: three years later state officials judged it a huge success, but local communities were divided on their impact. A fine survey of political and social change, this is an excellent social and literary analysis.

No Shelf Required
Sue Polanka
ALA Editions
50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
9780838910542, $65.00, www.alastore.ala.org

The rise of the E-book can prove to be the bane and boon of the library of the future. "No Shelf Required: E-Books in Libraries" looks into the future surrounding e-books and the future of the library. Analyzing e-books and their many varieties, Sue Polanka gives librarians a complete and comprehensive understanding of the e-book and how to more successfully integrate it into one's business. E-books can be a powerful tool for libraries and education, and "No Shelf Required" covers everything needed, ranging from legal issues to indexing to technology and so much more, making it a truly important resource no modern librarian should be without.


The American History Shelf

Steamboats West
Lawrence H. Larsen and Barbara J. Cottrell
The Arthur H. Clark Company
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780870623851, $34.95, www.ahclark.com

Steamboats West: The 1859 American Fur Company Missouri River Expedition is a historical chronicle based on the journals of Dr. Elias Marsh and Charles Henry Weber, as well as the official accounts of Charles P. Chouteau and Capt. William Franklin, revealing the saga of the American Fur Company's headline-making travels. Their 1859 trek was, at the time, the longest steamboat trip in North American history; the journey's chronicle includes environmental portraits, interactions with the Native peoples of the upper Missouri, and even never-before-published journal excerpts about the technological advances that made the voyage possible. An extraordinary narrative offering an unforgettable glimpse into the events of America's westward expansion, Steamboats West is highly recommended especially to college library collections.

Founders: The People Who Brought You a Nation
Ray Raphael
The New Press
38 Green Street, 4th floor, New York, NY 10013
9781595584175, $21.95, www.thenewpress.com

Founders: The People Who Brought You a Nation is an immensely readable, up-close and personal portrait of seven crucial individuals among a "sampling of Revolutionary Americans", the type of people who are all but overlooked in the wake of legends such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. For example, Robert Morris was the wealthy merchant whose personal credit helped keep the emerging nation of America solvent; his critical contribution to America's stability is all but unknown today. The other personages portrayed are private Jospeh Plumb Martin, who served in Washington's army and chronicled his battle experience; Mercy Otis Warren, a political woman who wrote one of the first histories of America; Timothy Bigelow, a blacksmith who resisted British authority the year before Lexington and Concord; conservative Henry Laurens of South Carolina, a prisoner of Britain; Thomas Young, a country doctor who advocated revolution. The quintessential founding father George Washington himself is also portrayed, in this aptly researched, riveting account of a handful of the people who labored and paid with their blood for America's independence. Highly recommended, especially for public and college library American History shelves.

The United States and the Second World War
G. Kurt Piehler and Sidney Pash, editors
Fordham University Press
2546 Belmont Avenue, University Box L, Bronx, NY 10458-5172
9780823231201, $46.00, www.fordhampress.com

The United States and the Second World War: New Perspectives on Diplomacy, War, and the Home Front is an anthology of essays by learned historians examining assorted aspects of America's role in the Second World War. Individual writings include "General George S. Patton and the War-Winning Sherman Tank Myth", "Veterans Tell Their Stories and Why Historians and Others Listened", "American Pacificism, the 'Greatest Generation,' and World War II", "Hiroshima and the U.S. Peace Movement: Commemoration of August 6, 1948-1960" and many more. An index rounds out this thoughtful historical assessment with the benefit of hindsight, highly recommended particularly for college library American History shelves.


The Biography Shelf

Leonard Cohen, A Remarkable Life
Anthony Reynolds
Omnibus Press
c/o Music Sales Limited
257 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010
9789781849381383, $24.95, www.omnibuspress.com

"Leonard Cohen, A Remarkable Life" is a stunning, detailed biography of the famous poet/musician gypsy balladeer, beloved of generations since the early 60's. Faithful to the myriad of quirky twists and turns of personality, character, and voice, "Leonard Cohen" traces the elusive songmaster to the authentic source of himself, if it is at all possible to do that in a mere biography. Overcoming difficulties of conflicting sources and stories, the basic reclusive ness of his subject, and the relentless passage of time, author Anthony Reynolds has put as much of the true feel of the life of Leonard Cohen into this biography as it is possible to imagine. Always in the moment, both as a performer and as human star of his own life, subject Leonard Cohen does not lend himself to easy accessible analysis or dissection. He prefers to let his songs speak for him. That is what Reynolds has allowed to happen in this "Remarkable Life" of the great poet and songwriter. Beginning in Montreal and tracing ravels to Hydra, New York, Europe, L.A. and abroad, Cohen's life in performing, tours, music, and creativity is explored. Using many sources including friends, lovers, fellow musicians, managers, and more, a dazzling jigsaw of vivid life experiences emerges. Not ignoring the drug issues, negative reviews and other darker themes present in the thread, "Leonard Cohen A Remarkable Life" achieves the impossible by remaining true to its subject, a difficult and enigmatic man with a great gift. All Leonard Cohen fans will want to own this biography.

Flying Over the Golden Arches
Donald R. Conley
Beaver's Pond Press
7104 Ohms Lane, Suite 101, Edina, MN 55439
9781592983490, $14.95, www.BeaversPondPress.com

Flying Over the Golden Arches is the memoir of author Donald R. Conley, who recollects life in Depression-era Chicago, flying the skies of Europe when it was wracked by World War II, making his mark in Ray Kroc's McDonald's Corporation, and a brush with tragedy that nearly cost the lives of his family. Conley shines through as a devoted father, a decorated U.S. Army bomber pilot, a masterful businessman, and a human being who rises up to meet life's many challenges. An uplifting and inspirational true testimony, Flying Over the Golden Arches is a highly recommended addition to memoir and biography shelves.

Queen of the Confederacy
Elizabeth Wittenmyer Lewis
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336, Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574413007, $19.95, www.unt.edu/untpress

Queen of the Confederacy: The Innocent Deceits of Lucy Holcombe Pickens is the aptly researched and enthrallingly presented biography of Lucy Holcombe Pickens (1832-1899), wife of Francis Wilkinson Pickens, the man who became the secessionist governor of South Carolina as America hurtled toward the Civil War. Lucy possessed a strong will, and the determination to aspire to greater heights than those of a typical Southern belle. She urged Pickens to undertake a diplomatic mission to the court of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, and hers was the only female face to appear upon Confederate paper currency. After the Civil War, she struggled with hard times as did many Southerners, yet her regal charm remained of great renown. The saga of a truly extraordinary woman, Queen of the Confederacy is especially recommended for American History and biography collections.

Jose Antonio Navarro
David McDonald
Texas State Historical Association
1155 Union Circle #311580, Denton, TX 76203-5017
9780876112441, $24.95, www.TSHAonline.org

Jose Antonio Navarro: In Search of the American Dream in Nineteenth-Century Texas is a solidly researched biography of well-known Tejano leader Jose Antonio Navarro (1795-1871), a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and a champion of the rights of all people of Mexican descent in Texas. He worked to ensure that the 1836 Consultation creating the Texas Republic and the 1845 draft of the state constitution would not limit political rights to those of white skin. Navarro envisioned Texas as a place where people of all colors and backgrounds could realize their dream. A handful of black-and-white photographs illustrate this rich and compelling account of an inspirational and dedicated leader. Highly recommended.

The Imprint of Alan Swallow
W. Dale Nelson
Syracuse University Press
621 Skytop Road, Suite 110, Syracuse, NY 13244-5290
9780815609520, $17.95, www.SyracuseUniversityPress.syr.edu

The Imprint of Alan Swallow: Quality Publishing in the West is the biography of publisher, teacher, and poet Alan Swallow (1915-1966). His pioneering work in the publishing field including founding Swallow Press, and bringing to print such literary figures as Allen Tate, Anais Nin, and Yvor Winters. A handful of vintage black-and-white photographs illustrate this thoughtful, deftly researched account of an erudite man who made an immeasurable contribution to the literary history and culture of the American West.

Higher and Faster
Robert M. White and Jack L. Summers
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
9780786449897, $29.95, www.mcfarlandpub.com

Higher and Faster: Memoir of a Pioneering Air Force Test Pilot is the firsthand life story of Robert M. White (1924-2010), a retired major general in the United States Air Force who lived through the Great Depression, served as a pilot and endured as a prisoner of war during World War II, continued to serve in Korea and Vietnam, and dared to be an experimental test pilot of the Air Force. A handful of black-and-white photographs illustrate this compelling testimony of one man's exceptional aeronautical accomplishments and dedicated military service. Higher and Faster is an excellent addition to military and aviation memoir shelves.

Broadcasting the Civil War in El Salvador
Carlos Henriquez Consalvi
University of Texas Press
PO Box 7819, Austin, TX 78713-7819
9780292722859, $55.00, www.utexaspress.com

Media has its role in any conflict, as the public's opinion means more than one thinks. "Broadcasting the Civil War in El Salvador: A Memoir of Guerrilla Radio" is a history of the El Savador civil war in the 1980s, with a focus on the radio work of Santiago, who broadcasted Radio Venceremos who rallied against the Salvadoran government and the United States which backed it. The war was not one with a clear victor, but it did lea to progress, and provides an intriguing look at how the United States becomes the enemy. "Broadcasting the Civil War in El Salvador" is a fascinating read and very highly recommended.


The Audiobook Shelf

Dead Man's Chest
Kerry Greenwood, author
Stephanie Daniel, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd, Jackson, ME 04921
9781742148953, $77.95, www.bolinda.com

Dead Man's Chest is the complete and unabridged audiobook adaptation of author Kerry Greenwood's mystery, following the Hon. Miss Phryne Fisher, her adoptive daughters, and her trusted maid and her beloved dog, as they attempt to enjoy a pleasant seaside holiday. Yet mystery inevitably follows them, and they become involved in a conspiracy involving a gang of teenage ne'er-do-wells, a missing butler and his wife, and the rumor of seaside buried treasure. The always impeccable Fisher is aware of how greed can drive people, but she braves the threat around her armed with exquisite sensibilities and the practicality of a pearl-handled Beretta for self-defense. A thoroughly enjoyable adventure, Dead Man's Chest is skillfully read aloud by theater veteran Stephanie Daniel, and highly recommended especially for mystery lovers and public library audiobook collections. 7 CDs, 8 hours 33 minutes, tracks every three minutes for easy bookmarking.

Gone West
Jim Weiss, author and narrator
Greathall Productions, Inc.
PO Box 5061, Charlottesville, VA 22905-5061
9781882513642, $14.95, www.greathall.com 1-800-477-6234

Gone West: Bold Adventures of American Explorers and Pioneers is an engaging nonfiction audiobook, presenting true stories of American frontiersmen and women with a smooth narrative flair. Written and performed by Jim Weiss, Gone West includes brief yet memorable stories of Lewis and Clark, Sacagawea, Mr. Fulton and his steamboat, as well as broader history lessons about the hardships of the Oregon Trail, the labors of the railroad men, and much more. Listeners of all ages will be entranced by this enjoyable and educational audiobook, especially recommended for high school and public library collections. 1 CD, 80 min.

Vlad: The Last Confession
C.C. Humphreys, author
Colin Moody, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd, Jackson, ME 04921
9781742148304, $118.95, www.bolinda.com

Vlad: The Last Confession is the complete and unabridged audiobook adaptation of a novel about the Transylvanian Prince Vlad, inspiration for the mythos of "Dracula". His enemies despised him as "The Impaler", and his cruelty was well known - but he was also a warrior and a ruler, capable of heroism as surely as ruthlessness. Narrated by theatre and movie actor Colin Moody, Vlad: The Last Confession a gripping, involved, and dramatic portrait of the multifaceted man behind the vampire myth, worthy of the highest recommendation to audiobook connoisseurs and public library collections alike. 14 CDs, 15 hours 49 min.

The Last Gunfighter: Sudden Fury
William W. Johnstone with J.A. Johnstone, authors
George Guidall, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781449820695, $72.75, www.recordedbooks.com

The Last Gunfighter: Sudden Fury is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a western adventure starring Frank Morgan of the popular "The Last Gunfighter" series. An unknown monster is wreaking havoc among the loggers of the Redwoods; when the local timber baron puts a bounty on the creature, thugs converge from all sides for their chance at the money. But Frank Morgan doesn't want just money; he is determined to unravel what, exactly, is going on! George Guidall's smooth narration lends the perfect touch to this enthralling blend of mystery and Western adventure.

Running Scared
Lisa Jackson, author
Jack Garrett, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781449825669, $123.75, www.recordedbooks.com

Running Scared is the audiobook adaptation of Lisa Jackson's romantic suspense novel, originally published under the title "Wishes". Fifteen years ago, Kate Summers was grief-stricken by the loss of her husband and daughter; when the opportunity to adopt a newborn baby boy was thrust at her, she could not turn it down, illegal though the circumstances might have been. Now she and her teenaged son are in dire peril, as the past threatens to catch up with them both. The one man Kate can turn to for help has his own shameful secrets, in this taut novel yet ultimately satisfying novel. 16 CDs, 18.25 hours.

Pinheads and Patriots
Bill O'Reilly
Harper Audio
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022-5299
9780061950742, $29.99, www.harpercollins.com

Charismatic and conservative television commentator Bill O'Reilly reads aloud the unabridged audiobook adaptation of his nonfiction book Pinheads and Patriots: Where You Stand in the Age of Obama in the same sweeping, brook-no-nonsense tone of voice he to address the world on "The O'Reilly Factor". O'Reilly's 2008 interview with then-Senator Barack Obama is included within this cutting-edge critical look at how America has been changing during Obama's presidential term. O'Reilly specifically focuses on the actions of people he considers selfish, or even evil - the "pinheads" - and the people he considers selfless and noble - the "patriots" - with a strong qualification that many Americans, President Obama included, have a litany of both pinheaded and patriotic deeds. Other talking points include the changes in America's healthcare, national security, immigration problems, environmental issues, and the economic meltdown. Though O'Reilly is sharply critical of President Obama, he is not unilaterally negative toward everything Obama has done; O'Reilly makes particular note of times when, in his opinion, the President acted appropriately or has been unfairly lambasted. "Pinheads and Patriots" is ultimately not just about affixing praise and blame; it also serves as a source of guidance to the American people, touching upon the most important recent national issues that one needs to keep in mind when exercising one's democratic right to vote. Highly recommended. 6 CDs, 6 1/2 hours.


The Library CD Music Shelf

Memory
The pickPocket Ensemble
c/o Rock Paper Scissors (publicity)
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2, Bloomington, IN 47404
$21.49, www.rockpaperscissors.biz, www.pickpocketensemble.com

Memory is an album of "cafe music" by the eclectic pickPocket Ensemble, a musical group that draws from Balkan boogies, Arabic ornaments, Middle Eastern melodies, North African blues, and much more in their original repertoire of musical fusion. Their adventurous blending of ethnic and cultural musical boundaries makes for a unique listening experience, characterized by intimacy and revolutionary redefinition. Memory is a choice pick for library and international music collections. The tracks are "Home", "3 a.m.", "If", "Sometimes Never", "Bird in a Web", "For Those Who've Left", "Seriously", "Memory", "That Dream Again...", and "Nowhere Else".

Leap of Faith
Patricia Shih
Shih Enterprises Inc.
PO Box 1554, Huntington, NY 11743
$15.00, www.patriciashih.com, www.cdbaby.com

Patricia Shih has dedicated her music CD album "Leap of Faith" to "those who dare to dream and leap"; fittingly, the music surges with inspiration while the lyrics contemplate moments of dilemma that can forever change one's life. A profound performance reverberating with love, the drive to better oneself, and the wondrous power of human creativity, "Leap of Faith" is a transcendental listening experience. The tracks are "Leap of Faith" (2:36), "Small Blue Marble" (3:51), "Be the One" (4:17), "Mother-in-Law's Lament" (3:09), "Island" (4:12), "Children of the Dust" (5:20), "Two Good Legs" (2:57), "The Choice" (4:57), "Human Catastrophe" (4:14), "My Child's Song" (2:55), "Living with All Hope" (4:16) and "The Color Song" (2:36). Also by Patricia Shih and highly recommended is the music CD album "Woman With One Closed Eye" ($15.00).

Nagore Sessions
EarthSync
Flipswitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207, Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$16.98, www.earthsync.com

Nagore Sessions is the latest album from Earthsync, which supports the chants of three traditional Sufi dargah singers with Middle Eastern percussion as well as contemporary Western instruments. Nagore Sessions draws upon when Earthsync came to Nagore after the terrible 2004 tsunami, as part of the Laya Project in homage to the many cultures and peoples directly affected by hard times. The Sufi culture of South India brought a welcome infusion to their spiritual and rhythmic understanding. In their travels, they drew inspiration from Nagore holy sites, the philosophies of fellow Sufi singers, and even Southern Indian "Kollywood" pop music (cousin to better-known "Bollywood" tunes). A rich and rewarding experience, Nagore Sessions is highly recommended especially for international music CD shelves. The tracks are "Baghdad Guru" (7:09), "The Saint" (6:43), "Ya Allah (Nagore Sessions Version)" (7:31), "Allahu Allah" (4:19), "Ya Haja" (5:45), "Into Your Eyes" (7:27), and "Mahane Mohabbat" (8:18).

Singing in the Dark
Susan McKeown
www.susanmckeown.com
Hibernian Music
PO Box 2349, New York, NY 10009
Rock Paper Scissors (publicity)
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2, Bloomington, IN 47404
$16.99, www.rockpaperscissors.biz, www.singinginthedark.com

Irish vocalist Susan McKeown presents Singing in the Dark, a haunting album inspired by McKeown's meeting with the families and loved ones of those suffering from mental illness. The endemic problem of depressions strikes especially close to McKeown's heart, as people of her native land and those of her musician's profession are more likely than average to fall prey to depression and even suicide. "Singing in the Dark" draws upon classical poetry about madness and mental illness to heart-rending music. The result is an unforgettable album not only about pain and suffering, but also hope and the resolve to move forward. The tracks are "In a Dark Time" (3:13), "A Woman Like That (Her Kind)" (4:08), "The Nameless One" (5:39), "The Crazy Woman" (4:29), "In Darkness Let Me Dwell" (3:41), "Mad Sweeney" (5:23), "Anthem" (5:50), "Gracias a la Vida" (3:57), "The Crack in the Stairs" (3:38), "Good Old World Blues" (4:26), "Angel of Depression" (2:49), and "So We'll Go No More A-Roving" (3:49).

Into the Shadow Garden
Copal
Halytha Music
Flipswitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207, Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$21.84, www.copalmusic.com

Into the Shadow Garden is the debut album of the five-piece band Copal, who hearkens to inspiration from music styles around the globe - including Eastern European, Middle Eastern, Nordic, and more. Violin strains, vocals, cello, bass, and drums merge into a heady, passionate performance whispering of hidden treasures and secret nights. A liquid blend of modern flair and classical elegance, Into the Shadow Garden is highly recommended. The tracks are "Roots" (8:44), "Ether" (7:46), "Ungaro" (3:35), "Ceutara" (5:22), "Velvet" (3:54), and "Shadows" (7:53). 35 min 16 sec.

When May Came
Raina Rose
Trade Root Music Group (publicity)
john@traderootmusic.com
$14.99, www.rainarose.com

Recorded live, When May Came is a self-produced music CD of eleven mellifluous, haunting songs by Raina Rose and her band of Austin musicians. The songs blend storytelling, heart, and a balanced musical accompaniment into an unforgettable whole. "When May Came" is a smoothly flowing album, highly recommended to connoisseurs of independent and original music. The tracks are "Sun Comes Back" (3:43), "Your Neighbor's Trampoline" (3:49), "Let Me Down Easy" (3:37), "If You're Gonna Go" (4:27), "Desdemona" (3:58), "Nashville" (3:34), "Pretty Good Today" (4:03), "Stone Around My Neck" (4:33), "What Do You Bury?" (5:17), "Heart Broken Open" (4:18), and "Bluebonnets" (4:26).

A Hot and Spicy Christmas
Irene Nachreiner with her Latin Jazz Band
Turquoise Water Music
c/o The Creative Service Company
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
$12.97 IreneSings.com CDbaby.com

A Hot and Spicy Christmas is a distinctive holiday music CD, featuring the liquid smooth voice of Irene Nachreiner singing traditional Christmas carols to unique musical arrangements performed by her vibrantly exotic Latin Jazz Band. The result is a holiday fusion of holiday cheer and modern pizzazz, perfect for parties or just getting into the Christmas spirit. The tracks are "Fum, Fum, Fum" (2:34), "Patapan/God Rest Ye Merry Gentlement" (3:16), "Sweet Baby Jesus" (3:49), "Sing We Now of Christmas/Noel Nouvelet" (3:50), "O Come, O Come Immanuel" (3:44), "Ring Out Bells" (3:21), "Rocking" (2:50), "Silent Night" (4:28), "Il Est Ne Le Divin Enfant" (3:46), "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly" (2:39), "What Child Is This?" (3:35), "The Babe of Bethlehem" (3:07), "Cantique de Noel (O Holy Night)" (3:46), and "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" (3:59).


The Sports Shelf

Inside Sport Psychology
Costas I. Karageorghis & Peter C. Terry
Human Kinetics
PO Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
9780736033299, $23.95, www.humankinetics.com

The mind of an athlete is an incredibly focused one. "Inside Sport Psychology" is a thoughtful analysis of the mind and focus of today's athletes and what drives them further in their pursuits in life, far and beyond a casual player. These writings are designed to help would be competitors find their zone and excel in their athletic pursuits, realizing that all the physical conditioning in the world won't matter if your brain isn't their with it. "Inside Sport Psychology" is an excellent and very useful read for athletes who realize that stupid mistakes are the best way to lose.

Clemente! The Enduring Legacy
Kal Wagenheim
Markus Wiener Publishers
231 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08542
9781558765276, $24.95, www.markuswiener.com

Clemente! The Enduring Legacy is an anthology of memories, testimonies, and tributes to Roberto Clemente, the first Latino baseball superstar, who perished in 1972 when his plane crashed while he attempted to fly relief supplies to earthquake sufferers in Nicaragua. Clemente's legacy is not only one of exceptional skill in the sport of baseball, but also true heroism. Clemente advocated civil rights, listening to others, and inspiring others; the nobility of his character shines through in this enriching and rewarding collection that honors his efforts, and his example. Highly recommended.


The Military Shelf

A Coast Guardsman's History of the U.S. Coast Guard
C. Douglas Kroll
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591144335, $34.95, www.navalinstitute.org

A Coast Guardsman's History of the U.S. Coast Guard is a solid survey of the history, values, and purpose of the United States Coast Guard. Chapters discuss predecessors to the Coast Guard, including those who performed lifesaving or lighthouse services and the Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation, as well as how Coast Guard traditions came to be. A wealth of true stories from active duty, reserve, auxiliary, and civilian members of the Coast Guard team add an unforgettably personal touch to this inspirational resource and testimony. History of the U.S. Coast Guard is an excellent addition to American military history and marine studies shelves.

Victory in Defeat
Gregory J. W. Urwin
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591148999, $38.95, www.navalinstitute.org 1-800-233-8764

Victory in Defeat: The Wake Island Defenders in Captivity is the true story of the U.S. forces of the tiny Wake Island outpost during World War II. When they surrendered to the Japanese on December 23, 1941, it was the beginning of their true fight for survival - weathering three and a half years in Japanese POW camps. Ultimately, the defeated Americans (the majority of which were Marines) endured captivity with a notably higher survival rate than most other Allied POWs in the Pacific. Victory in Defeat reveals how this virtual miracle came to be, through a combination of solid discipline, esprit de corps, mutual help networks, and sheer good fortune - most Wake Islanders endured in two camps outside Shanghai, one of few locations that Japanese authorities allowed the Red Cross to help POWs. Historical evidence also reveals that the guards at Shanghai were notably less brutal than those of POW camps in the Japanese empire, a factor that further contributed to POW survival. Victory in Defeat is an in-depth, solidly researched, and accurately presented chronicle of survival and courage, and a welcome contribution to World War II military history shelves.

Racing the Sunrise
Glen Williford
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road, Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591149569, $37.95, www.navalinstitute.org

Racing the Sunrise: Reinforcing America's Pacific Outposts, 1941-1942 is a thoughtful analysis of America's historic comeback from the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Written by Glen Williford, co-founder of the Coast Defense Study Group (the only American historical society dedicated to the Coast Guard), Racing the Sunrise chronicles American efforts to rebuild its military presence in the Philippines and Hawaii, as well as the labor to supply Bataan and Corregidor in early 1942. Racing the Sunrise is also an acutely accurate reminder of the human cost to the immense work to counter the Japanese, and even discusses defensive efforts to guard lines of communication to Australia. A detailed and thorough accounting supplemented with notes, a bibliography, and an index, Racing the Sunrise is an invaluable addition to World War II military and naval history shelves, highly recommended.


The Poetry Shelf

Li Po Comes to America
Alex Stolis
Parallel Press
372 Memorial Library, 728 State Street, Madison, WI 53575
9781934795156, $10.00 http://parallelpress.library.wisc.edu

Li Po Comes to America is a chapbook of free-verse poetry in which almost every poem is titled after a law of physics or science - or a stop on Li Po's multifaceted travels. Individual vignettes flesh out a spiraling narrative of external and internal journey, making for a singularly memorable poetic experience. "Fermat's Principle / Santa Monica: Where is the sun when we need it- / all I have is a broken watch, a half tank / of gas and a dope-sick friend in the back. // You never wanted to hear the end / of the story - never needed to remind / the stars to drink themselves sober."

New & Collected Poems
U. A. Fanthorpe
Arts Council England
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781907587009, $52.95, www.dufouredtions.com

A rise to fame usually comes with a decline in quality. Not so for U. A. Fanthorpe. "New & Collected Poems" is a massive volume of the work of U. A. Fanthorpe, looking at her popular and illustrious career as she spent her eighty year life in devotion to the art. Covering twenty five years of her work, this massive tome provides a wide selection of her work, to truly give understanding to her life's purpose. "New & Collected Poems" is a core addition to any English poetry collection, enthusiastically recommended. "Lumb Bank, Early": Hodge and Tigger, home from their night-shift,/Leave small parcels of mouse-meat on thresholds.//The morning chorus has hallooed itself hoarse;/But collared doves still call, unstoppable as MPs.//Between the beds Apollo stalks, god-footed,/Not missing anyone out./Breaths into sleeping ears//His secret gift: phrase, image, first line, last line,/Pattern, whatever it is. The sleepers sigh, roll over.//The gift is god-given. It keeps till breakfast.

The Chimney Stone
Rob Winger
Nightwood Editions
PO Box 1779, Gibsons, BC V0N 1V0
9780889712492, $17.95, www.nightwoodeditions.com

With an assortment of award winning work already before him, Rob Winger brings readers another fine volume with "The Chimney Stone". Thoughtful work as he discusses what's hot on the tongues of people today, he offers unique perspectives in the form of entertaining verse. "The Chimney Stone" is an excellent addition to any collection. "Ghazel for Another Here": How can your busted, angry heart be Ontario?/That red country truck was my grandfather's Bible./Your skin's no accident a shovel and rose, a breached levy. Elima.//Your psychoanalysis has forgotten/its mirror//A flame don't always need no match to burn.//There are Soviets in the space heater;/put down your rifle and write.


The Bilingual Shelf

A Life Crossing Borders
Rev. Santiago Tafolla, author
Carmen Tafolla and Laura Tafolla, editors
Arte Publico Press
University of Houston
452 Cullen Performance Hall, Houston, TX 77204-2004
9781558855977, $16.95, www.artepublicopress.com

A Life Crossing Borders: Memoir of a Mexican-American Confederate is the firsthand testimony of Rev. Santiago Tafolla, edited by his great-granddaughters and published as part of the Recovering the U.S. Hispanic Literary Heritage series. Tafolla was born in Santa Fe in 1837, nine years before Mexico lost the territory following the Mexican-American War. Tafolla offers an eyewitness account of racism and slavery; he served in the Texas Indian Wars and the U.S. Civil War, and during the last 35 years of his life, he labored as a Methodist circuit preacher when most Hispanics were Catholics. A Life Crossing Borders includes a transcript of the complete memoir in its original Spanish, as well as an English translation of the transcript, and sample pages of Tafolla's handwritten account. An indispensable primary account of the turbulent times in nineteenth century North America, A Life Crossing Borders is highly recommended especially for college and public library collections.


The Library DVD Shelf

Championship Productions
2730 Graham Street, Ames, IA 50010
www.championshipproductions.com

Ray Lokar, a high school basketball coach of thirty years' experience, presents two DVDs filled with wisdom, hands-on experience and practical strategies for fellow coaches. "Fundamentals Factory for Youth Basketball" (276 min., $49.99) is packed with drills, exercises, life lessons, coaching suggestions, and more to guide gym teachers and parents-turned-coaches in the skill and art of progression-based skill instruction. "Building an Effective Youth Basketball Practice" (50 min., $29.99) particularly focuses on how to structure practice sessions with goals and purpose, the better to build youth basketball skill and teamwork. Both DVDs are hands-on practical, absolute "must-haves" for any would-be youth basketball teacher, worthy of the highest recommendation.

Dogs Decoded
PBS
c/o SSA Public Relations (publicity)
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608833269, $24.99, www.ssapr.com

Dogs Decoded: Understanding the Human-Dog Relationship is a fascinating DVD documentary about man's best friend. Dogs have been domesticated longer than any other animal, but only recently has research established that dogs have a unique talent - they are able to read and respond to human emotions. Dogs can be taught to respond to human pointing, unlike wolves or even apes. Puppies retain juvenile traits that allow them to be conditioned according to their master's needs, unlike wolf cubs that remain naturally aggressive and even destructive when raised in captivity. New discoveries in the genetics of dogs offer a world of insight into both human and canine ways of life. Dogs Decoded is an amazing tour of scientific revelation, highly recommended for dog lovers and public library collections. 56 minutes, widescreen, subtitles.

Circus
PBS
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608832736, $34.99 DVD /, $39.99 Blu-ray, www.ssapr.com

Circus is an extraordinary DVD documentary of the annual 350-show, town-to-town tour of the Big Apple Circus. From seventh and eighth-generation circus performers, to newcomers looking to earn their place in the spotlight, to the crushing effects of an economy turning sour, Circus is a behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs of this incredible entertainment industry. Special features include character profiles, bonus footage of circus daily life, and more. An absolute "must-have" for anyone who has ever wondered what life as a circus member is truly like, highly recommended especially for public library collections. 3 discs, 6 hours, widescreen, subtitles.

Joy Bauer's Slimdown Workout
Acacia
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 650, Silver Spring, MD 20910
9781598285185, $16.99, www.acacialifestyle.com

Registered dietitian Joy Bauer and world-class trainer Lisa Wheeler present Joy Bauer's Slimdown Workout, an excellent DVD for shedding pounds, boosting one's energy, and strengthening muscles. The only equipment needed for optimal benefit from the two 20-minute cardio and strength-training segments are light hand weights and a mat. Bonus material includes ten weight loss tips, advice on healthy snacks, and suggested diet-friendly meals. Joy Bauer's Slimdown Workout is an easy-to-use addition to fitness DVD collections, and highly recommended. 50 min.

Personal Training with Jackie: Crunch-Free Xtreme Abs
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98, www.anchorbayentertainment.com

Personal Training with Jackie: Crunch-Free Xtreme Abs is a fitness DVD hosted by Jackie Warner, known for her hit fitness TV shows "Work Out" and "Thintervention", focusing on how to tone one's abdominals without doing crunches. Instead, Crunch-Free Xtreme Abs reveals two original 15-minute workouts; one can be done from a standing position, and the other is an invigorating floor routine. No equipment other than inexpensive hand weights is recommended to feel the full force of the workout. Best done three times a week to shed fat and improve one's abdominals, Crunch-Free Xtreme Abs lives up to its title and is highly recommended. 32 min.

Waterlife
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
077221266X, $320.00, www.bullfrogfilms.com

Licensed for public performance, Waterlife is a sobering documentary about the Great Lakes, which have been severely polluted and threatened. From the risk of an Asian carp invasion through the Chicago river (which would have a devastating impact on the lake's indigenous life), to the problems of insufficient regulation to curtail private or industrial pollution, to the inherent difficulties of managing a common resource shared between two nations and ten states, Waterlife is a vividly eye-opening account of serious environmental issues. Highly recommended, especially for high school classroom and public library collections. 109 minutes, 16:9 format.

The Red Baron
Monterey Media Inc.
566 St. Charles Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360-3901
9781569943960, $26.95 DVD/, $34.95 BluRay, www.montereymedia.com

The Red Baron is a dramatic movie based on life of the real Red Baron of history. During World War I, Baron Manfred von Richthofen was the one of the best pilots there was - a legend in his day, respected on both sides of the titanic conflict. Richthofen and his fellow officers including Lieutenant Voss uphold a sportsmanlike code to their fierce aerial duels. Yet the German high command ruthlessly manipulates his code of chivalry, and when he falls in love with the beautiful nurse Kate he begins to understand the true complexity and severity of war. Ultimately it is his duty to return to the skies again and again, when each new mission just might be his last. A moving portrayal of one man's love, losses, and principles even as he fulfills the terrible demands of war, The Red Baron is utterly unforgettable and highly recommended.

The Guilty
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598285260, $39.99, www.acornonline.com

The Guilty collects on DVD a provocative thriller that first aired on public television in the 1990s and was a finalist at the International Film Festival. A high-stakes London attorney (played by Michael Kitchen) forces sex on his secretary while drunk; an ex-convict (played by Sean Gallagher) searches for his biological father, only to be absorbed into a cruel conspiracy. No one is truly innocent in this dark psychological drama about justice all too often denied. 2 discs, 201 min, SDH subtitles.

Lionsgate
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.98 each, www.411videoinfo.com

Two energetic workout DVDs from fitness expert Denise Austin make excellent additions to any exercise video library. "Quick Burn Cardio" (50 min.) lives up to its title with a vigorous, fat-burning routine. Interval training, ab sculpting and cardio weight training form the core of this easy-to-follow workout, which expects no equipment other than inexpensive hand weights. A music-only option and a custom workout option further enhance this choice pick. "Shrink Your Fat Zones Pilates" (46 min.) concentrates on three tailored workouts of specialized Pilates techniques for slimming one's waist, sculpting one's upper body, and toning the buns and thighs. Designed to help the viewer begin to look and feel better about their body in just twenty-one days, "Shrink Your Fat Zones Pilates" is refreshing, user-friendly, and a great way to stay fit during the winter holidays! Also highly recommended for fitness lovers who especially enjoy dance is "Dance with Me Groove & Burn" (50 min.) hosted by Bill Blanks Jr.

I.M. Pei: Building China Modern
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
1594589666, $295.00, www.bullfrogfilms.com

I.M. Pei: Building China Modern is a DVD documentary about the work of Pritzker Architecture Prize winner I.M. Pei, a staunch proponent of modernism in architecture. Now well into his eighties, Pei has returned to his ancestors' home of Suzhou, China to create a modern museum in the city's oldest neighborhood. Striving to balance architectural advancement with respect for the grandeur of China's heritage, Pei works on his most challenging - and most personal - task yet. Documentary extras include interviews with I.M. Pei, architect Charles Jencks, and philosopher John B. Cobb, Jr., and a rare bonus lecture that Pei gave about the Suzhou Museum at the Louvre. Highly recommended. 53 minutes, SDH captioned.

Sheeba
Questar
307 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60601
9781594645891, $19.99, www.questarentertainment.com

Sheeba is a family-friendly movie about the bond between a boy and his dog. Young Clay is unhappy at having to leave his friends and his daily life in New York City, but he finds a new brown-and-white four-footed friend in Sheeba. When Wax, the town bully, takes Sheeba away, Clay must use his head to hold his own against the older boy. Clay's adventures pull him deeper into trouble, but his father and Sheeba are there to help him in his hour of greatest need. Sheeba a warm-hearted adventure of learning to adapt and mature with a little assistance from man's best friend, highly recommended. 91 minutes. Also highly recommended from Questar is "Bear With Me", the wilderness adventure of 11-year-old Emily and an ursine friend.

Dance Off the Inches: Country Line Dance Party!
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98, www.anchorbayentertainment.com

Dance Off the Inches: Country Line Dance Party! is an enthusiastic fitness DVD with a wild country twist. Getting in shape can be a blast, and instructor Amy Blackburn shows how country line dance shuffles, kicks, and stomps can burn fat and boost energy. A "Dance Off the Inches Step Guide" quickly familiarizes the viewer with the 10 steps needed to enjoy the whole program. "Country Line Dance Party" is a user-friendly workout for viewers of all ages and backgrounds, and deserves a place in DVD fitness libraries dedicated to cardiovascular health, variety, and just plain fun.

Element: Yoga for Stress Relief & Flexibility
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98, www.anchorbayentertainment.com

Yoga instructor Ashley Turner hosts Element: Yoga for Stress Relief & Flexibility, an inexpensive DVD offering two yoga programs to improve one's physical and mental health. The "Stress Relief" program emphasizes controlling one's breath, longer holds, and forward bends in order to heighten mental acuity and foster higher quality sleep. The "Flexibility" program lives up to its title with vinyasa techniques have enhanced agility, dampened pain, and promoted greater freedom of movement for countless generations. An excellent, low-impact workout for viewers of all ages and backgrounds, Element: Yoga for Stress Relief & Flexibility is an excellent addition to any fitness DVD library. 73 min.

Digital Footprint: Watch Where You Step
Learning ZoneXPress
PO Box 1022, Owatonna, MN 55060
$79.95, www.learningzoneexpress.com

Digital Footprint: Watch Where You Step is an educational DVD designed to teach viewers of all ages and backgrounds about one's "digital footprint" - the data left behind on the Internet and other digital records from any computer related activity, from using one's debit card or being recorded on security cameras to sending pictures by cell phone, posting material on social networking websites, and much more. Once information reaches the world wide web, it's effectively there forever; this can be compromising or even harmful if the information is something unsavory (like nude pictures or private, sexual chat logs), or something that a would-be stalker or identity thief can use (like one's address, social security number, telephone number, or other personal information). Digital Footprint covers how one can survey one's own footprint, the perils of "sexting" (sending sexual text messages or photos by cell phone), how to keep one's digital footprint small and unobtrusive, and ways to counter negative effects of a digital footprint that's grown too big. In today's information-saturated society, where researching the digital footprint of a prospective employee is par for the course, being aware of one's digital footprint and the lasting repercussions that a fleeting moment of digital indiscretion can have are more important than ever. Digital Footprint: Watch Where You Step deserves the highest recommendation for classroom viewing and public library collections.


The Gardening Shelf

Big Gardens in Small Spaces
Martyn Cox
Timber Press
133 S.W. Second Avenue, Suite 450, Portland OR 97204-3527
9780881929072, $27.95, www.timberpress.com

Horticultural expert Martyn Cox presents Big Gardens in Small Spaces: Out-of-the-Box Advice for Boxed-in Gardeners, a handy instructional manual illustrated with full color photographs on almost every two-page spread. Step-by-step instructions walk the reader through how to squeeze as many plants as possible in a small garden, grow one's own fruit, vegetables, and herbs, cultivate rare and unusual plants, and much more. A list of resources and an index round out this easy-to-use, hands-on practical guide enthusiastically recommended for any gardener who is necessarily restricted in space.


The Agriculture Shelf

Storey's Guide to Raising Dairy Goats, fourth edition
Jerry Belanger & Sara Thomson Bredesen
Storey Publishing
210 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247
9781603425803, $19.95, www.storey.com

Written by veteran goat raiser Jerry Belanger and licensed cheesemaker Sara Thomson Bredesen, Storey's Guide to Raising Dairy Goats is now in a newly revised fourth edition, enhanced with updated information on diagnosing and treating diseases, expanded coverage on breeding, tips on pygmy goat breeds, more material on milking and cheesemaking, and an expanded resource section. Raising Dairy Goats lives up to its title with practical, no-nonsense basics on all dimensions of goat care, and is an absolute "must-have" for anyone considering a dairy goat of their own. "If you can't or won't want to milk at 12-hour intervals, even when you're tired or under the weather, or if the thought of staying home weekends and vacations depresses you and you can't count on the help of a friend or neighbor, then don't even consider raising goats." Also highly recommended is the revised and updated second edition of "Storey's Guide to Raising Meat Goats" (9781603425827, $19.95) by farmer and animal husbandry expert Maggie Sayer.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Living Maya
Robert Sitler
North Atlantic Books
PO Box 12327, Berkeley, CA 94712
9781556439391, $16.95, www.northatlanticbooks.com

2012 is a hot topic in metaphysics circles, but where lies the truth? "The Living Maya: Ancient Wisdom in the Era of 2012" looks into the history of the Mayan culture and tries to draw parallels to the 2012 phenomena and looks to this ancient culture for an idea of what it truly means. Thoughtful with plenty to add to the debate, "The Living Maya" is a top pick for additions to metaphysics collections.

More Haunted Montana
Karen Stevens
Riverbend Publishing
PO Box 5833, Helena, MT 59604
9781606390252, $12.95, www.riverbendpublishing.com

Certified ghost hunter Karen Stevens, author of "Haunted Montana", presents More Haunted Montana, an anthology of thirty-four additional paranormal occurrences, most of which are in locations that Montana visitors and tourists can go see for themselves. From a ghostly ex-landlady who sleeps in a Missoula bead-and-breakfast inn, to a barstool ghost in Billings who doesn't care to be disbelieved, More Haunted Montana is packed with jaw-dropping testimonies as well as helpful tips for would-be paranormal explorers. A spooky treat for anyone who's ever enjoyed curling up with a true ghost story, More Haunted Montana is highly recommended.


The Political Science Shelf

Understanding Missouri's Constitutional Government
Richard Fulton and Jerry Brekke
University of Missouri Press
2910 LeMone Boulevard, Columbia, MO 65201
9780826219039, $19.95, www.umsystem.edu/upress

Understanding Missouri's Constitutional Government is a close study of Missouri's state government. Chapters cover Missouri's state constitution, bill of rights and distribution of powers, legislature, executive department, judiciary, and more. An accessible, educational text for readers of all backgrounds, Understanding Missouri's Constitutional Government lives up to its title with well-researched, succinctly presented descriptions, and is an invaluable addition to public, high school, and college library political studies shelves.

Political Profiles: Michael Bloomberg
Sandra H. Schictman
Morgan Reynolds
620 South Elm Street, Suite 387, Greensboro, NC 27406
9781599351353, $28.95, www.morganreynolds.com

Michael Bloomberg has earned a unique place in the eyes of the people in one of the most populous cities in the world. "Political Profiles: Michael Bloomberg" looks at the self-made billionaire and currently three-term New York City mayor. Going between partisan lines with a dedication to New York City, turning down attempts at higher office, "Political Profiles: Michael Bloomberg" is a truly fascinating read, and an excellent addition to any short political biography collection.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Energy Savers Booklet
Susan Russell
U. S. Dept. of Energy
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
1000 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20585
978057894253, $10.95, www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/

"Energy Savers Booklet: Tips on Saving Energy & Money at Home" is a handy fact and tips book filled with green ideas to help save both planet and pocketbook. Concise chapters on home energy use, air leaks, heating and cooling, water heating, windows, lighting, appliances, home offices and home electronics, driving and car maintenance, and renewable energy help open the way to savvy energy saving. Many creative tips and resources are cited, plus a list of resources for further information on energy saving.


The Music Shelf

Easy Hanon, Exercises for the Beginning Pianist
Arranged by Jonathon Robbins
Santorella Publications
13 Pleasant Avenue, Danvers, MA 01923
TS265, $8.95, www.santorellapublication.com

"Easy Hanon" is a handy set of Hanon-inspired keyboard exercises specifically designed for the inexperienced or beginning pianist. Divided in three sections, there are 10 exercises for the right hand, 10 exercises for the left hand, and 10 more specialized exercises for both hands. The exercises in printed in large staff and eighth notes (rather than 16th notes), easier to read than the smaller staff, compact Hanon advanced editions. Complete fingering for both hands is written out for the first phrase of each exercise. In the specialized exercises for both hands, the purpose or goal of each specific exercise is written in parentheses underneath the title number of the exercise. "Easy Hanon" is a compact, useful piano pedagogy tool especially designed to help coax less experienced pianists to develop masterful keyboard techniques, skills and strengths. Also recommended in this series is "Hanon Complete, The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises (ISBN OEP505, $9.95)," "Basic Scales, Chords, Arpeggios, and Cadences Complete for Piano In All Keys (by Margaret L. White, ISBN 1890281263, $9.95)," "Basic Keyboard Chords - Popular Chords in Diagram Form With Accompaniment Patterns (ISBN 1890281123, $5.95)," and "Basic Guitar Chords - Picture Chords With Exercises and Tablature (ISBN 1890281158, $5.95)."

The Best of Christmas Piano Vocal Songbook
Arranged by Jonathon Robbins
Santorella Publications
13 Pleasant Avenue, Danvers, MA 01923
TS268, $14.95, www.santorellapublication.com

"The Best of Christmas Piano Vocal Songbook," available with or without CD, is a set of popular arrangements of 28 beloved familiar Christmas carols. Arranged for piano and medium vocal range, all songs are of easy to intermediate difficulty to perform. "The Best of Christmas" includes such secular numbers as "Up on the Housetop," "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer," and "Jolly Old St. Nicholas" in addition to many more traditional carols and songs of Christmas. "The Best of Christmas" should provide easy holiday entertainment and recreation for many recitals, parties, gatherings, and performances. All arrangements are fully scored and illuminated. Also recommended in this series is "The Best of Christmas Easy Piano Songbook (with CD, arranged and performed by Craig Stevens, TS264w/CD, $19.95)," Jazz Piano Cocktails - Popular Jazz Standards (with CD, arranged and performed by Craig Stevens, TS298 w/CD, $14.95)," "Christmas Treasures - Piano Duets One Piano Four Hands (arranged by Kirk Whipple & Marilyn Morales, TS168, with CD, $16.95)," "The Best of Christmas Big Note Songbook for Piano (arranged by Jonathon Robbins, TS267, $14.95)," and "Holiday Harmony Easy Piano (with CD, arranged by Jonathon Robbins, TS266w/CD, $14.95)."

An Annotated Bibliography of Guitar Methods, 1760-1860
Eric Stenstadvold
Pendragon Press
PO Box 190, Hillsdale, NY 12529
www.pendragonpress.com
9781576471852, $65.00, www.amazon.com

"An Annotated Bibliography of Guitar Methods, 1760-1860" is number 4 in a series titled Organologia: Musical Instruments and Performance Practice, edited by Ardal Powell. "An Annotated Bibliography of Guitar Methods..." presents comprehensive listings of known methods publications first listed chronologically by country, including England, France, Germany, Austria (Vienna), Italy, Portugal, Spain and the U.S.A., during the time periods specified. These listings by country include author, shortened title, and date of publication, with occasionally some other brief information. This is followed by complete alphabetical bibliographic listings of publications, each of which includes complete transcriptions of the title pages, the dating (probable in some cases) of the publication, a brief description of the contents of the guitar teaching method plus further details of interest such as publisher identification or later editions released in other locations. The "Annotated Bibliography of Guitar Methods, 1760-1860" contains over 300 records of different methods for guitar by 200 authors. Some are well known, but others are more obscure. Some are presented in this collection for the first time in recent history. "An Annotated Bibliography of Guitar Methods, 1760-1860" is a valuable scholarly resource for music librarians, historically authentic guitarists, musicologists and others who study the printing and publishing of music in 18th and 19th centuries.


The Native American Shelf

Plains Indian Regalia & Customs
Bad Hand
Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764335365, $49.99, www.schifferbooks.com

"Plains Indian Regalia & Customs" is a spectacular collection of new and old restored photographs of many plains Indians' special clothing, tools and weapons, as well as many historic scenes of plains Indians taken from the early 1800's to the present. Restoration of old time photographic processes of daguerreotypes, ambrotypes and tintypes is carefully described in the introductory pages. A modern reproduction of many historic photographs was achieved by applying the old photographic processes to modern Indian people (models) of today. Thus the reader sees history brought to vivid current life by comparing the pair of photos, old and new, side by side. The author has created a collage of Native American history through costume and ceremony, and much accompanying lore enriches these photographs. Chapters are partially arranged by tribe, for the first 6 chapters on Blackfeet, Cheyenne, Comanche, Crow, Hidatsa and Mandan, and the Lakota. Then other subjects common to many of the tribes are explored. From the Buffalo Dance to Dandies and Two-spirit People, to Captives, Weapons, Body Painting, and War Honors and Coups, most areas of cultural and historic interest that relates intrinsically to style of dress or appearance are touched on. Roles of men and women, boys and girls are also further described, with more color photographs. In all "Plains Indian Regalia & Customs" covers a broad spectrum of detailed information about customs and dress of many of the representative Plains Indian tribal groups. The Appendix contains a number of observations written by a variety of white and other cultural observers in addition to the words quoted from different Native Americans of the Plains peoples. The author cautions: "I leave it to the individual reader to interpret these various observations from a variety of people that worked and lived with and around Plains Indians, as well as the words left to us by Native people themselves (p. 216)." "Plains Indians Regalia & Customs" is a rich source of current visual and historical data about a fascinating group of peoples whose descendants still thrive in North America.


The Cookbook Shelf

One World Vegetarian Cookbook
Troth Wells
Interlink Publishing Group, Inc.
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060
9781566568340, $35.00, www.interlinkbooks.com

"One World Vegetarian Cookbook" is a gorgeous collection of 120 + easy to prepare vegetarian recipes that are both nourishing and sustainable. Presenting a focus on using, buying or growing "green," organic vegetables that are as free of contaminants as possible, "One World Vegetarian Cookbook" delivers a life-enhancing message in the form of promoting caring, responsible vegetarian and vegan cooking. Needless to say, it is cuisine that is fresh, appetizing, and zesty, with international influences. Recipes are divided into four categories: starters, soups and snacks, main dishes, salads, side dishes and sauces, and desserts, drinks, and cakes. All sections are vividly enriched by color photographs of mouth-watering foods. How about Corn-on-the-cob in coconut milk, from Tanzania, spiced with turmeric, lemon, and coriander (p.24)? Or Mushroom Stroganoff from Europe with fresh garlic, paprika, nutmeg, balsamic vinegar, and yogurt (p. 110)? Perhaps an unusual recipe for Butternut squash curry has appeal (p. 79)? There is even a veggie shepherd's pie version called Veggie fulani pie, with lentils, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and spices (p. 148). Of course there is no end to creative side dishes and salads using fresh vegetables. Of note is the Lentil salad with feta cheese and vegetables on page 184, of Mediterranean extraction. Finally there are the sweets. From Irish Barm brack, a lightly fruited bread that is not too sweet but delightful, to Ho-ddeock, or Korean cinnamon buns, there is no shortage of delicious vegetarian dessert recipes. measurements for cooking are presented in both standard and metric for most ingredients, and recipes are vegan or vegan-adaptable by substituting soy margarine, milk or yogurt for the dairy equivalents. Complete with informative sidebars, a vision of compassion for all living creatures, and an international offering of vegetarian feasts, "One World Vegetarian Cookbook" is a culinary indulgence whose time is now.


The Psychology Shelf

The Handy Psychology Answer Book
Lisa J. Cohen
Visible Ink
4331 Joy Road, #414, Canton, MI 48187
9781578592234, $21.95, www.amazon.com

Compiled and written by licensed clinical psychologist and researcher Lisa J. Cohen, "The Handy Psychology Answer Book" is a 450-page compendium comprised of 800 questions and answers about how the human mind works and what psychology is all about. Written specifically for the non-specialist general reader, "The Handy Psychology Answer Book" covers a wide spectrum of issues ranging from 'what makes a marriage last', 'why do toddlers have temper tantrums, 'how can we maintain a healthy brain', 'why are adolescents so reckless, personality tests, drug use and addiction, sexual abuse, Gestalt psychology, the contributions of Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, B. F. Skinner, and a great deal more. Beginning with the basics of human psychology, to major movements within the science of psychology, to forensic psychology, "The Handy Psychology Answer Book" covers every major aspect of the field. Superbly written and organized, "The Handy Psychology Answer Book" is enhanced with the inclusion of an substantial glossary, an extensive bibliography, and a comprehensive index, making it a highly recommended core addition to academic, community, professional, and personal Human Psychology instructional reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

How To Publish Your Nonfiction Book
Rudy Shur
Square One Publishers
115 Herricks Road, Garden City Park, NY 11040
www.squareonepublishers.com
0757000002, $16.95, www.amazon.com

Book publishing is one of the most competitive markets there are. The downturn in the national economy has compounded the difficulty for first time authors getting published. This is especially true when dealing with non-fiction subject matter. In "How To Publish Your Nonfiction Book", veteran publisher Rudy Shur (currently head of the editorial program of Square on Publishers) draws upon his extensive experience and expertise to compile a 233-page compendium covering every aspect of publishing a non-fiction title. Novice authors in particular will appreciate the descriptions of how publishing actual works, how to maximize chances of acceptance when submitting a manuscript for publication, evaluating publisher contracts, dealing with common publication problems and pitfalls, potential resources available to authors seeking publication, and so much more. Enhanced with the inclusion of a glossary, an extensive resource list, and a comprehensive index, "How To Publish Your Nonfiction Book" is thoroughly 'user friendly', informed, informative, and strongly recommended for anyone seeking to turn their ideas and researches into a published non-fiction title that will prove to be successful for library acquisitions, academia, as well as the general reading public.

The Author's Toolkit
Mary Embree
Allworth Press
10 East 23rd Street, Suite 510, NY, NY 10010
www.allworth.com
9781581157475, $19.95, www.amazon.com

Even in a difficult economy compelling the major New York publishing houses to substantially cut back on their new book titles lists there has been no significant reduction of the numbers of titles being published. This is because more and more aspiring authors are turning to small presses, niche publishers, or are self-publishing. That's why this newly updated and expanded third edition of Mary Embree's "The Author's Toolkit: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing and Publishing Your Book" continues to be a timely and invaluable instructional reference work for aspiring authors regardless of the genre or categories they are working in. Detailed, practical, sensible, 'hands on' information on every aspect of the writing and publishing process is superbly laid out and completely accessible ranging from developing and researching both fiction and non-fiction ideas, organizing plots and developing characters, writing and editing, avoiding common pitfalls and problems, recruiting a literary agent, attracting publisher attention, dealing with publishing contracts, promotion/publicity, and more. Of special interest in this new edition is the attention paid to new developments in electronic publishing, print-on-demand options, and utilizing social media as a marketing tool. Informed, informative, and thoroughly 'user friendly', "The Author's Toolkit" is an invaluable reference and an essential read for anyone seeking to launch or sustain a professional writing career.

Merchants Of Culture
John B. Thompson
Polity
c/o Blackwell Publishing
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
www.blackwellpublishing.com
9780745647869, $25.00, www.amazon.com

From cuneiform tablets to papyrus reeds to the early centuries of movable type, publishing was a power in the world and aimed at the needs and necessities of the cultural elite. But then in the 19th century literacy began to spread down to the growing middle classes and address the interests of ordinary people. But it was up until the invention of desktop publishing in the later decades of the 20th century that ordinary people had access to publishing. The rapid technological advances of the 21st century thus far have continued to compel the publishing industry into new modes of production, distribution, and fiscal survival with the coming of such innovations and electronic publishing and Kindle readers. "Merchants of Culture: The Publishing Business In The Twenty-First Century" by John B. Thompson provides an informed and informative history and description of how trade publishing operates, as well as the contributions and responsibilities of key components of the publishing industry including agents and booksellers, as well as the publishers themselves. Of particular interest is Thompson's analysis of how digital publishing is beginning to dramatically affect and alter trade publishing. Superbly researched and presented, "Merchants of Culture " is a seminal addition for academic library collections and essential reading for members of the publishing industry (including authors and book reviewers!) seeking to adapt to the constantly changing influences of modern technologies upon the art and economics of trade publishing.


The Economics Shelf

The Last Shall be First
Anders Aslund
Peterson Institute for International Economics
1750 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036-1903
9780881325218, $21.95, www.piie.com

Financial crisis has not engulfed America alone. "The Last Shall Be First: The East European Financial Crisis" looks at the crisis that stewed in Eastern Europe for a year and half. Ten new countries entered the European Union and this brought many problems to the countries involved. Examining the crisis and what can be learned from it for the future, "The Last Shall be First" is a must read for anyone who is trying to gain a greater understanding of the world's finances at large.

Money Mavericks
Lars Kroijer
Financial Times
c/o Pearson Publishing Group
1330 Avenue of the Americans, 35th floor, NY, NY 10019
9780273731986, $27.99, www.pearson-books.com

Playing the market has its challenges and risks, but some played big to win big. "Money Mavericks: Confessions of a Hedge Fund Manager" is a business memoir from Lars Kroijer as he reflects on his work with a London hedge fund through the tumultuous years of 2002 to 2008. Through these years, Kroijer worked on the edge of the industry and dealing with the bubble industry and the problems that face it. "Money Mavericks" is a fascinating read with much insight into the details of money management in the hedge fund market.

Debt, The IMF, and the World Bank
Eric Toussaint & Damien Millet
Monthly Review Press
146 West 29th, Suite 5W, New York, NY 10001
9781583672228, $17.95, www.monthlyreview.org

Not every country can possibly be as financially booming as the United States. "Debt, the IMF, and the World Bank: Sixty Questions, Sixty Answers" is a scholarly discussion of world finance and the challenges faced by smaller countries around the world looking toward a free market to solve all of their economic woes. Stating that what works for many first world countries won't work in some emerging markets, "Debt, the IMF, and the World Bank" is a fascinating text and research, educated in the potential of the future of the world economy.

Antitrust Law and Economics, second edition
Keith N. Hylton, editor
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court, Northampton, MA 01060-3815
www.e-elgar.com
9781847207319, $180.00, www.amazon.com

The newly published second edition of the fourth volume of Edward Elgar Publishing's outstanding 'Encyclopedia of Law and Economics' series, "Antitrust Law and Economics" deftly edited by Keith N. Hylton (Honorable Paul J. Liacos Professor of Law, Boston University School of Law) provides students and attorneys with an informed and informative series of eleven presentations of antitrust law drawn from a distinctively economic orientation. The selected and representative articles cover such thematically appropriate issues antitrust enforcement, antitrust provisions of the Sherman Act, boycotts, monopolies, predatory pricing, vertical restrains, competition, market concentration, patent litigation, licensing, and more. Enhanced with figures, tables, and a comprehensive index, making it a valued addition to professional, corporate, and academic library Economics Studies reference collections, "Antitrust Law and Economics" is thoughtful, thought-provoking, and essential reading for corporate managers in general, and antitrust attorneys in particular.


The Philosophy Shelf

Collingwood On The Moral Principles Of Art
Christopher Dreisbach
Susquehanna University Press
c/o Associated University Presses
2010 Eastpark Blvd., Cranbury, NJ 08512
www.aupresses.com
9781575911243, $48.50, www.amazon.com

In "Collingwood On The Moral Principles Of Art", the late R. G. Collingwood presents an articulate, thoughtful and thought-provoking theory of judgement as to moral condemnations of some to works of art thought to have aesthetic value by others. the role of 'moral duty', moral values, and aesthetic values is central to "Collingwood On The Moral Principles Of Art" and addresses issues that are still with us today as evidences by public policy debates over governmental funding of works of art that elements of the general public find offensive, and the recurring calls for governmental regulation of artistic activity and display. Informed and informative, "Collingwood On The Moral Principles Of Art" presents his views on the concept of mind, on aesthetic theory, moral theory, and the moral principles of art. Enhanced with copious notes, and extensive bibliography, and a comprehensive index, "Collingwood On The Moral Principles Of Art" is a strongly recommended addition to academic library Philosophy and Art Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Conversations with Emmanuel Levinas
Michael de Saint Cheron
Duquesne University Press
600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282
9780820704289, $18.95, www.dupress.duq.edu

Some minds do more than simply expose the state of the world, they explore it. "Conversations with Emmanuel Levinas: 1983-1994" is a collection of interviews from Michael de Saint Cheron as he presents his many conversations with Levinas, as they discuss the nature of the modern world and what modern philosophy meant as the Cold War ended and western Communism crumbled. With faith, philosophy and thought, "Conversations with Emmanuel Levinas" is an excellent read for anyone who wants a sharp mind's take on our world.


The Mathematics Shelf

A Concise Introduction To Pure Mathematics, third edition
Martin Liebeck
CRC Press
6000 NW Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 300, Boca Raton, FL 33487
www.crcpress.com
9781439835982, $59.95, www.amazon.com

Now in an updated and expanded third edition, "A Concise Introduction To Pure Mathematics" by Martin Liebeck provides an informed and informative presentation into a representative selection of fundamental ideas in mathematics including the theory of solving cubic equations, the use of Euler's formula to study the five Platonic solids, the use of prime numbers to encode and decode secret information, the theory of how to compare the sizes of two infinite sets, the limits of sequences and continuous functions, the use of the intermediate value theorem to prove the existence of nth roots, and so much more. Of special note is the inclusion of solutions to all of the odd-numbered exercises. An ideal, accessible, elegant, 'student friendly', and highly recommended choice for classroom textbooks for highschool and college level mathematics curriculums, "A Concise Introduction To Pure Mathematics" is further enhanced with a selective bibliography, and index of symbols, and a comprehensive index.


The Christian Studies Shelf

The Sanctuary of Women
Jan L. Richardson
Upper Room Books
1908 Grand Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212
9780835810302, $22.00, www.sanctuaryofwomen.com

The wisdom of women is rife throughout the Bible. "The Sanctuary of Women: A Companion for Reflection and Prayer" is a collection of musings from Jan L. Richardson on the wisdom of women and its application in life. Drawing strongly from scripture that is spread throughout the Bible, Richardson provides an inspirational read that will give many women much to embrace through their lives. "The Sanctuary of Women" is an excellent pick, very highly recommended.

Bishop Herbert Vaughan And The Jesuits
Martin John Broadley, editor
Catholic Record Society
668 Mount Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620-2731
9780902832251, $90.00, www.amazon.com

In the 1870s, Bishop Herbert Vaughan of Salford, England, was the center of a controversy to result in the intervention of the Pope and the settling of questions of authority between newly restored bishops and religious orders such as the Jesuits that had been unsettling the English Catholic Church. In "Bishop Herbert Vaughan and the Jesuits: Education and Authority", Father Martin John Broadley (a priest in the Catholic diocese of Salford and lecturer at the University of Manchester) has created a 280-page detailed history drawing from both English and foreign archival sources, including documents, letters, and Bishop Vaughan's personal diary. The precipitating issue was the authority of the bishop over Jesuit provision of secondary educational services the Catholic community -- a community that has evolved to the point of developing a commercial and professional middle class demanding education for their children, even if it was not in accord with the wishes and rights of Bishop Vaughan (who later was to become Cardinal Archbishop of Westminister) with respect to such an educational program. Deftly edited and superbly presented to include illustrations, abbreviations, and informed and informative introduction, a bibliography, an index, and twelve appendices, "Bishop Herbert Vaughan And The Jesuits" is an impressive, seminal, and highly recommended contribution to English Roman Catholic History collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Gaming Shelf

A Guide to Chess Improvement
Dan Heisman
Everyman Chess
246 Goose Lane, Guilford, CT 06437-0480
9781857446494, $28.95, www.everymanchess.com

You can be a natural, but even Chess grandmasters seek ways to improve their game. "A Guide to Chess Improvement" is a guide to finding and improving one's chess tactics for a better and more driven game. Stating that improving one's game is a combination of tactics analysis, quick thinking, and general practice, Dan Heisman gives a guide for anyone who wants to play better to win, making "A Guide to Chess Improvement" invaluable to novice and intermediate chess player with a thirst for improvement.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Best Jewish Books for Children and Teens
Linda R. Silver
The Jewish Publication Society
PO Box 960, Herndon, VA 20172-0960
9780827609037, $20.00, www.jewishpub.org

It's important to keep the faith strong during the mentally stressful time of the teenage years. "Best Jewish Books for Children and Teens" is a guide for to picking books that encourage Jewish teens to find a faith-driven read that will relate to them as they grow older and into young adults. Aimed at many ages from picturebooks for young readers to young adult novels for teenagers, "Best Jewish Books for Children and Teens" is a useful read for any Jewish community leader or librarian.


The Fiction Shelf

The House of Ulysses
Julian Rios
Dalkey Archive
1805 S. Wright Street, MC-011, Champaign, IL 61820
9781564785978, $14.95, www.dalkeyarchive.com

Nothing is original but the twists and turns on the classics. "The House of Ulysses" is an intriguing postmodernist take from Spanish author Julian Rios, as he takes James Joyce's famed novel Ulysses and offers a new view point and twists into these beloved characters, much like Joyce's own work was inspired by the classics of Homer. Thoughtful, humorous, and intriguing reading expertly translated by Nick Caistor, "The House of Ulysses" is a core pick for any world literature collection.

Shine in Kashmir
Chris Catagna
Atria Books
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
9780982681206, $26.78, www.amerincanpublishing.com

Being dumped into the thick of it makes you evaluate your spiritual life quickly. "Shine in Kashmir" is a novel of American Justin Conrad as he experiences India and everything within it during his travel and learns much through the many spiritual mysteries within India, looking into Buddhism, Hindu traditions, and the countless other things that lie within the mystic history of the Indian sub-continent. With plenty to think about, "Shine in Kashmir" is a solid and very recommended novel.

Murder in the Chilcotin
Roy Innes
NeWest Press
#201, 8540-109 Street, Edmonton, AL T6G 1E6
9781897126691, $19.95, www.newestpress.com

The search for the truth may bring about the truth you don't want. "Murder in the Chilcotin" tells the story of a dead Mountie and those who are trying to find whose responsible. Coswell, a RCMP inspector finds his comrade's cruiser at the bottom of a ravine. With the help of the local tribal police, he finds that racial tensions may start to boil and there's more to this crime than meets the eye. "Murder in the Chilcotin" is a riveting thriller, highly recommended.

The Bodies Beneath the Table
W. D. Ehrhart
Adastra Press
16 Reservation Road, Easthampton, MA 01027
9780982249574, $18.00

With plenty of experience writing, former Marine W. D. Ehrhart has plenty to write about. "The Bodies Beneath the Table" is a collection of poetry from Ehrhart as he provides a level headed view of the world with a shifting perspective. With fantastic verse, "The Bodies Beneath the Table" is a good addition to any poetry collection. "Epiphany": What I remember is you at twenty-six/in the shower naked beside me,/soap cascading the length of that/heart-stopping eye-popping sight,/me like a kid in a candy shop./most beautiful woman in all the world/ and mine. All Mine. All I see to this day.

Thief of Midnight
Catherine Butzen
Stark House Press
2200 O St., Eureka, CA 95501
9781933586311, $15.95, www.starkhousepress.com

If there is belief there is existence. "Thief of Midnight" tells a two sided story. The Bogeymen are a vanishing breed, as they fade from the fears and thoughts of humanity. As they begin to strike and kidnap children to restore fear, they find themselves apposed by monster hunters and those who seek to restore reality to its mundane status, a Society for the Security of Reality. "Thief of Midnight" is an exciting story and very highly recommended.

Look Long into the Abyss
A. R. Homer
Llumina Press
7915 West McNab Road, Tamarac, FL 33321
9781605945316, $14.95, www.illumina.com

The Nazis had their way with Europe during World War II, taking everything it had to offer. "Look Long into the Abyss" tells the story of Lt. Gina Cortazzo, hot on the trail in 1945 to recover the lost art from the Nazi's pillaging of Europe. Racing against time as the Germans become more on edge as the war draws to a close, Gina finds love and finds that that love may be cut short by those out to stop her recovery. An exciting adventure of romance, "Look Long into the Abyss" is an excellent read, and very highly recommended.

Rasputin's Legacy
Troy Matthew Carnes
Black Rose Writing
2250 Military Road, Tonawanda, NY 14225
9781935605416, $18.95, www.blackrosewriting.com

When you possess great power, all too often people want that power used for evil. "Rasputin's Legacy" tells the story of the grandson of Giorgi Lazarov, a boy with the powers to predict the future. He soon learns that his power is inherited from the crazed monk Rasputin, and two powerful individuals learn of his power and want to harness it for their own use - Hitler and Stalin. Caught between two evils and a coming war machine, Giorgi must find a way to maintain his humanity. "Rasputin's Legacy" is a thrilling read, highly recommended.

Frozen Time
Anna Kim
Ariadne
270 Goins Court, Riverside, CA 92507
9781572411722, $12.95

When life is blown apart, it can be hard to move on. "Frozen Time" tells the story of a red cross worker in Kosovo who seeks to help a lost soul find his wife and move on with his life. Trapped between working with the life of her client and staying as an impartial investigator, author Anna Kim tells a story of being pulled between the desire to help one move on and leaving the hope of the past behind. "Frozen Time" is a touching novel, and is very highly recommended.

Diving Mimes, Weeping Czars, and Other Unusual Suspects
Ken Scholes
Fairwood Press
21528 104th St. Ct. E, Bonney Lake, WA 98391
9780982073087, $17.99, www.fairwoodpress.com

The world often throws the unusual at you, and not always for bad reason. "Diving Mimes, Weeping Czars, and Other Unusual Suspects" is a collection of short stories from Ken Scholes providing an unusual assortment of thought and idea through his chosen medium. From post apocalyptic alien invasions and the need to ward them off, and the current roles of mythological figures as well as the challenges of dating with a secret identity. "Diving Mimes, Weeping Czars, and Other Unusual Suspects" is a humorous as well as enlightening read, that is excellently crafted and hard to put down.

The Cosmopolitans
Nadia Kalman
Livington Press
The University of West Alabama, Station #22, Livingston, AL 35470
9781604890679, $17.95, www.livingstonpress.uwa.edu

Culture shock is over quickly, the toughest part of immigration is the long haul. "The Cosmopolitans" tells the story of Russian-Jewish immigrant family in the Molochiniks, as they find themselves in suburban Connecticut trying to find their place in their lives. With a thoughtful focus on the characters and the differences and many similarities one faces in a new world, "The Cosmopolitans" proves to be a fine and fun read.

The Bridge of Peace
Cindy Woodsmall
WaterBrook Press
12265 Oracle Boulevard, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
9781400073979, $13.99, www.waterbrookmultnomah.com

Being creative and thoughtful are not the ways of the old. "The Bridge of Peace" tells the story of schoolteacher Lena Kauffman, who lives under the Old Order of Amish. Fiery and driven, she often finds herself clashing against the establishment of the school board. With few allies, and a strong friendship with Grey Gaber on the school board, she finds many challenges to her life and she may find new truths yet. "The Bridge of Peace" is a fast paced and intriguing novel of Amish life and their challenges, highly recommended.

I Shall Not Want
Debbie Viguie
Abingdon Press
201 8th Ave. South, Nashville, TN 37202
9781426701900, $14.99, www.abingdonpress.com

A dog can be quite the gift. But not much of one when it's paired with murder. "I Shall Not Want" tells of a string of murders of homeless people as they were granted a dog by a charity organization. Joseph Tyler and Cindy find themselves charged with getting behind the meaning of these murders, a challenge that doesn't seem as it will be easy, as the truth has plenty of reason to keep itself hidden. "I Shall Not Want" is a riveting mystery that will keep the pages turning.

Settlement
Ann Birch
Rendezvous Press
c/o Napoleon & Company
235-1173 Dundas Street East, Toronto, ON M4M 3P1
9781926607047, $22.95, www.napoleonandcompany.com

An ocean still separated different worlds in the nineteenth century. "Settlement" tells the story of Anna Jamesson, an Englishwoman who arrives in Toronto in 1836. Facing a strange world with different customs than what she's used to. This strange world may spring her into a situation of unusual romance, unfaithfulness, and the search for true love. Providing a fascinating look at nineteenth century Toronto, "Settlement" is an excellent literary read with much thought and love for history put into the writing.


The Judicial Studies Shelf

All Judges are Political
Keith J. Bybee
Stanford Law Books
1450 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
9780804753128, $19.95, www.sup.org

Can a judge truly do his job and remain apolitical? "All Judges are Political: Except When They Are Not: Acceptable Hypocrisies and the Rule of Law" is an analysis of the role of the judge in interpreting the law of America. Keith Bybee comes to readers with an intriguing dissection of the call for and call against the activist judge, stating that observing both rule of law and making political decisions are both qualities of an excellent judge. "All Judges are Political" is a fascinating examination of the role of the Judicial, highly recommended.


The Self-Help Shelf

The Language of Emotions
Karla McLaren
Sounds True
PO Box 8010, Boulder, CO 80306
9781591797692, $18.95

Understanding your emotions is understanding you. "The Language of Emotions: What Your Feelings Are Trying to Tell You" delves into emotions and what they mean to one's life. Karla McLaren hopes to help readers understand why they feel the way they do and how to push themselves towards a happier life. With much thought and understanding, "The Language of Emotions" is a fine and very solidly recommended read, not to be missed.

We Really Need to Talk
Paul J. Donoghue
Sorin Books
PO Box 428, Notre Dame, IN 46556
9781933495231, $16.95, www.sorinbooks.com

The key to happiness is to avoid a glut of misunderstanding. "We Really Need to Talk: Steps to Better Communication" is a guide for anyone who is struggling to understand their friends and family, and how through more efficient communication, one can attain a greater understanding of themselves and those around them. Authors of many books on the subject, Paul J. Donoghue & Mary E. Siegel will do well in helping readers, making "We Really Need to Talk" a fine pick, highly recommended.

Define Your Own Way
Nicole Roberts Jones
The Pilgrim Press
700 Prospect Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115-1100
9780829818703, $18.00, www.thepilgrimpress.com

It's up to the woman to decide her path in life. "Define Your Own Way: Empowering Young African American Women" is an inspirational read targeted at Black women who want to push themselves to succeed further in their lives and find their own inspiration and drive. With no shortage of wisdom, "Define Your Own Way" is a thoughtful and very solidly recommended read that shouldn't be missed by any young black women in charge of her own destiny.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Sacred Space
Douglas E. Cowan
Baylor University
PO Box 97363, Waco, TX 76798
9781602582385, $24.95, www.baylorpress.com

Science Fiction has always been looking into the future for a better time. "Sacred Space: The Quest for Transcendence in Science Fiction Film and Television" is an analysis of modern science fiction on television and what it means to modern culture and philosophy, the hope that technology will help readers win the day in the many problems humanity faces, and the reality that some of these problems will never be done with. "Sacred Space" is a fascinating read on the ideas that go behind today's science fiction television.


The Hunting/Fishing Shelf

Flyfisher's Guide to Nevada
Jan Nemec
Wilderness Adventures Press
45 Buckskin Road, Belgarde, MT 59714
9781932098747, $28.95, www.wildadvpress.com

Some people need Vegas's flashy lights to find fun in Nevada. Other only need its natural bounty. "Flyfisher's Guide to Nevada" is a guide for those who want to find the wonderful lakes and rivers throughout the state of Nevada and the fine natural places that lie throughout the state. A resource packed cover to cover with information for the fly fisher with plenty of black and white photographs spread throughout, "Flyfisher's Guide to Nevada" is a must for any adventurous fly fisher.


The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

Graphic Novels and Comic Books
Kat Kan, editor
H. W. Wilson
950 University Avenue, Bronx, NY 10452
9780824211004, $35.00, www.hwwilson.com

The graphic novel has shifted from a long comic book to a media format all its own. "Graphic Novels and Comic Books" is a collection of essays of essays on the topic, tracing its history from Will Eisner's work 'A Contract with God' to the modern day where it has broken away from its brethren the comic book. Looking at how graphic novels can now become legitimate literature, "Graphic Novels and Comic Books" is a fine and educational read with plenty to teach, highly recommended.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

A Patient's Guide to Heart Rhythm Problems
Todd J. Cohen
The John Hopkins University Press
2715 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
9780801897757, $16.95, www.press.jhu.edu

An irregular heart can make a lot of problems happen fast. "A Patient's Guide to Heart Rhythm Problems" is a guide to those facing heart health problems and want to protect themselves from serious health problems that can occur. Todd Cohen, a doctor with a focus in the areas of pacemakers and other heart related ideas, gives readers what they need to know to avoid the worst of heart related problems when your heart can be summed up as 'a bad ticker'. "A Patient's Guide to Heart Rhythm Problems" is an excellent and very highly recommended read that shouldn't be overlooked for those with heart problems.

A Smart Woman's Guide to Heart Health
Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe
Fitzhenry & Whiteside
195 Allstate Parkway, Markham, Ontario, Canada, L3R 4T8
9781554551576, $21.95, www.fitzhenry.ca

Being good to your heart is being good to your life. "A Smart Woman's Guide to Heart Health: ..and the Hearts of the Men They Love" is a woman's guide to better understanding the importance of cardiovascular health. Many women's health concerns such as menopause can play a role in everyday heart health, and heart disease has been proven to be the leading cause of death for many Americans. With additional tips for men's heart health and what a woman can do to help them, "A Smart Woman's Guide to Heart Health" is a valuable health resource, highly recommended.


The Nautical Shelf

Cape Horn to Starboard
John Kretschmer
Burford Books
101 East State St., #301, Ithaca, NY 14850
9781580801621, $16.95, www.burfordbooks.com

A sea voyage in the modern day isn't as dangerous as it used to be, but there is still plenty of peril. "Cape Horn to Starboard: The Classic Chronicle of Rounding the Horn In a 32-Foot Sloop" is a nautical memoir from John Kretschmer as he recalls his journey on the seas as he tells a story of life and how being a boat only makes it more interesting. "Cape Horn to Starboard" is an excellent addition to any sailing or memoir collection.


The Business Shelf

A Quick Start Guide to Online Selling
Cresta Norris
Kogan Page
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749461591, $14.95, www.koganpage.com

The internet is a new avenue for sales for many businesses. "A Quick Start Guide to Online Selling: Sell Your product on eBay, Amazon and Other Online Marketplaces" is a guide to getting start ed on the online market place and how to flourish and succeed well on these avenues. Looking at elements such as payment retrieval, advertising, and more, "A Quick Start Guide to Online Selling" is full of invaluable information, and a strong resource.


The Travel Shelf

Eat Smart in France
Ronnie Hess
Ginkgo Press
PO Box 5346, Madison, WI 53705
9780977680122, $14.95, www.eatsmartguides.com

French food, while delicious, isn't renown for being entirely inviting for outsiders. "Eat Smart in France: How to Decipher the Menu, Know the Market Foods, & Embark on a Tasting Adventure" is a guide for enjoying France for its food and wine, by embracing its culture and understanding its menus and dialect in the name of good food. A focused travel guide that executes its focus excellently, "Eat Smart in France" is not to be missed by the food loving traveler looking towards Paris.


The Art Shelf

500 Vases
Lark Crafts
Lark Books
67 Broadway, Asheville, NC 28801
9781600592461, $24.95, www.larkbooks.com

With many forms, the vase has been an art form the world over. "500 Vases: Contemporary Explorations of a Timeless Form" is a collection of photographs on the many variations and tweaks to the wonders of the vase. Each entry provides a full color photo, its type, its date, its dimensions all to provide a bit of insight on the vase. A fine pick for those who love crafts, "500 Vases" may serve as the inspiration any pottery crafter needs to make something wonderful.


The Computer Shelf

Beginning PHP and MySQL, fourth edition
W. Jason Gilmore
Apress
c/o Springer
223 Spring Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10013
9781430231141, $49.99, www.apress.com

In web development, two languages have taken a strong place in crafting today's most valuable websites. "Beginning PHP and MySQL: From Novice to Professional" is a complete and comprehensive guide to learning and understanding these two disciplines in web design and how to use them to craft a useful and excellent website. Using these features allow for more complete data bases, interactivity with users, W. Jason Gilmore also explores how to integrate these concepts with the basic web building language of HTML. "Beginning PHP and MySQL" is a powerful and very valuable tool for web design students.


The Photography Shelf

Contemporary Pin-Up Photography
Tom Denlick
Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764336768, $39.99, www.schifferbooks.com

Glamor and elegance never truly go out of style. "Contemporary Pin-Up Photography" is collection of plenty of work from Tom Denlick on these sensual and delectable pin up photos inspired by the pin up photos and art of the 1930s through 1960s. With a classic style, beautiful women, these cheesecake photos will sure to raise the eyebrow of many men in addition to having its way as art. "Contemporary Pin-Up Photography" is a strong choice for a coffee table collection, and an excellent addition to any modern photography collection.

New York Photographs 1968-1978
Paul McDonough
Umbrage
111 Front St. Suite 208, Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167997, $45.00, www.umbragebooks.com

You don't always need words to tell a story. "New York Photographs 1968-1978" looks at the storied work of Paul McDonough, known for his many black and white artistic photographs that talked with a story of humanity and people going about their lives in everyday New York City. Famed strongly for his work, this collection brings some of his best work, along with an analytical essay from Susan Kismaric. For a fine analysis of people in one of America's most diverse cities, "New York Photographs 1968-1978" is an excellent collection for both coffee tables and art history collections.


The Crafts Shelf

Making Elegant Jewelry for Special Occasions
Kalmbach Books
21027 Crossroads Circle, PO Box 1612, Waukesha, WI 53187-1612
9780871164254, $17.95, www.kalmbach.com

Jewelry isn't just for jewelers anymore. "Making Elegant Jewelry for Special Occasions" is a guide for making jewelry oneself with a professional flare for their own applications and style to their accessories. With special touches that can be applied for many occasions, "Making Elegant Jewelry for Special Occasions" is a fine pick for anyone who would be bored with something off the rack so to say and always wants to appear with their own original touch.


The Library Reference Shelf

The Facts on File Guide to Research, second edition
Jeff Lenburg
Facts on File
132 West 31st Street, 17th Floor, New York, NY 10001
9780816081219, $55.00, www.infobaselearning.com

Good research is valuable in many aspects and pursuits in life. "The Facts on File Guide to Research: Finding Information in Print and Online" is an educational guide to researching using the internet. The internet is an incredibly powerful tool with tons of information, however not all of its good. As an open media, it can be hard at times to find genuine information in a sea of opinion. Jeff Lenburg gives advice on using Google and other search engines to their full power, cautions about the use of Wikipedia, and much more. From finding the information to creating a comprehensive bibliography, Lenburg gives readers all the information they need to use the internet well, making "The Facts on File Guide to Research" an invaluable and ecclesiastically recommended resource.


The Education Shelf

Guided Instruction
Douglas Fisher & Nancy Frey
ASCD
1703 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
9781416610687, $22.95, www.ascd.org

You can't make anyone learn anything, but you can guide them in the right direction. "Guided Instruction: How to Develop Confident and Successful Learners" is a guide from Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey on how to help kids gain a grasp on the need to learn in the class room. Encouraging teachers to make sure their kids are understanding what is being told to them, keep attention strong, and how to help students with the will but are falling behind, "Guided Instruction" is a fine pick for any teacher who wants their students to want to learn as much as they want to teach.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com


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