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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Where's Meriden?
Hiram M. Drache
Hobar Publications
c/o Finney Company
8075 - 215th Street West
Lakeville, MN 55044
9780913163474 $29.95 www.finneyco.com
Where's Meriden? The Demise of Small Town U.S.A. is a fascinating examination of the history
and economy of author Hiram M. Drache's home town of Meriden, Minnesota from 1855 to the
modern day. Although there is a fair amount of information about ordinary people, as well as
Drache's own family, the primary focus traces an evolving pattern in American agriculture. A
century ago, small towns like Meriden existed to serve small farmers and agricultural
communities. As agricultural technology improved, farming required less labor, and food prices
became cheaper. Over time this drastically reduced the number of agricultural jobs available, and
priced inefficient small farmers out of the market as more efficient industrialized agriculture took
over. Thus, small towns like Meriden were no longer useful, as nearly all the agricultural farmers
and workers they once served moved to (or commuted to) the cities, where the jobs were.
Where's Meridan? does not pass judgment on those who lament the loss of the rural way of life,
but does point out that America's need for cheap food made these transformations effectively
inevitable. An absorbing, accessible chronicle that remembers the human element of rural
American history yet doesn't miss the forest for its trees, Where's Meriden? is highly
recommended.
Fit for a Frankenstein
Paul McComas & Greg Starrett
Walkabout Publishing
PO Box 151
Kansasville, WI 53139
www.walkaboutpublishing.com
9781482622331 $8.99 www.amazon.com
Award-winning author Paul McComas and debut co-author Greg Starrett have prepared a fresh,
funny, and highly recommended novella. Suitable for readers of all ages, Fit for a Frankenstein is
a rambunctious riff on classic 1940's horror movies. Ygor is an expert body snatcher capable of
surviving a hanging, and his friend Frankenstein inspires fear wherever the two of them go.
When they come to a small alpine town, they find themselves at odds with local tailor Klaus
Hauptschmidt and his ebullient teenage daughter Gretl. A monstrously wild adventure
ensues!
The Way North
Ron Riekki, editor
Wayne State University Press
The Leonard N. Simons Building
4809 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201-1309
9780814338650, $18.95, http://wsupress.wayne.edu
The upper peninsula of Michigan has crafted its own culture, independent from the rest of the
state. "The Way North: Collected Upper Peninsula New Works" is a collection of poetry and
fiction from authors who call that northern peninsula of the state home, sharing their own insight
and introspection throughout on the unique nature of this sub-state. "The Way North" is a
powerful and much recommended addition to literary compilations focusing on the
Midwest.
Everyday Las Vegas
Rex J. Rowley
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 0166
Reno, NV, 89557-0166
9780874179057, $39.95, www.unpress.nevada.edu
Las Vegas is more than a flashy tourist trap... for some, it's home. "Everyday Las Vegas: Local
Life in a Tourist Town" discusses the lives of the people who choose to live in Sin City, growing
up there, raising families with the bright lights and casinos not too far away. Touching on the
many topics that people might not realize are a major focus for those who live in the town,
offering a social and economic insight into the lives of the people who call the town home,
"Everyday Las Vegas" is a fascinating and much recommended addition to history and social
issues collections, and for those who want another perspective on the city.
The Art Shelf
Carrying on Irregardless
Peter Morin, Martine J. Reid, Mike Robinson, authors
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
c/o Harbour Publishing
Po Box 219, Madeira Park, BC, V0N 2H0
9780981234120 $24.95 www.harbourpublishing.com
"Carrying on Irregardless: Humour in Contemporary Northwest Coast Art" is a marvelous book
summarizing the first art exhibition to focus on humour in Northwest Coast First Nations art,
mounted at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in Vancouver. Included are over 100
spectacular and wildly funny color photographs of artwork by 28 highly respected Northwest
Coast artists. There are some hilarious moments in this unusual art book, including the cover
artwork titled "Things Are Looking Native, Natives Are Looking Whiter (a split black and white
photograph showing half a young Native American woman with a squash blossom hairstyle and
half showing Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia in Star Wars, wearing a squash blossom hairstyle),"
by Nicholas Galanin, giclee, 2012. One of the reviewer's favorites is "Breakfast Series," by
Sonny Assu, a mixed media artwork digitally printed on a foam core representing cereal boxes
with Native American-transformed art and titles, such as Frosted Treaty Flakes, or Salmon
Loops, Lucky Beads, or Bannock Pops. Here are some seriously ironic yucks for those who are
awake and paying attention. To help the reader appreciate the full impact of this unusual art form
and expression, there are three essays by esteemed Northwest Coast art critics: "Another One
Bites the Dust" by Peter Morin, "The Irony of Things: Humour in Contemporary Northwest
Coast Art" by Marine Reid, and "Northwest Coast Humour: Informing Our Struggle in the
World" by Mike Robinson. In addition, there are brief artist biographical profiles of 24
contributing Native American artists at the end of the book. However, this is not a book that
needs to be overexplained. If the reader relaxes, the inner meaning of each artwork is
unavoidable and brilliant.
The Humor Shelf
Tails Don't Lie
Adrian Raeside
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175998 $12.95 www.harbourpublishing.com
Tail Don't Lie is an uproarious, full-color collection of canine-themed comic strips by editorial
cartoonist and dog lover Adrian Raeside. Mixed-breed Koko, pure breed Sakura, their loving (if
sometimes exasperated) owners, and more friends engage in foibles that show how dogs rescue
humans just as often as humans rescue dogs. "'Did you do anything for your mom on Mother's
Day, Koko?' 'I sure did! Every Mother's Day, I'd bring my mom a dog biscuit in bed.' 'We're so
much alike, eh boy?' 'But I bet you didn't scarf down the card when your mom's back was
turned.'" Tails Don't Lie also has some choice words denounce those who negligently leave their
pets locked in a hot car for "only a few minutes" (it only takes a few minutes in a hot car for a
dog or a child to get fatal heatstroke), or are otherwise cruel to animals. Highly recommended,
especially as a gift for canine aficionados!
The Psychology Shelf
Wild Mind
Bill Plotkin
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way
Novato, CA 94949
9781608681785, $17.95, www.newworldlibrary.com
The human mind is a curious and hard to understand thing. "Wild Mind: A Field Guide to The
Human Psyche" discusses how to better understand the psyche and find our own potential for our
spirituality and happiness. Bill Plotkin looks to our nature and environment in trying to
understand why we do the things we do and try to better piece ourselves together through it all.
"Wild Mind" is a strong addition to general psychology and spirituality collections, highly
recommended.
The Needlecraft Shelf
Scraps Plus One!
Joan Ford
The Taunton Press
63 South Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470
www.taunton.com
9781600855191, $24.95, www.amazon.com
Quilting is a traditional, practical, and artistic form of needlecraft that continues to enjoy a huge
and enduring popularity. Compiled and presented by quilting expert Joan Ford, "ScrapTherapy
(R) Scraps Plus One!: New Patterns to Quilt Through Your Stash with Ease" is a superbly
illustrated, 208 page compendium showcasing twenty major quilt making projects utilizing all
manner of fabric scraps. The first major section is replete with practical advice on getting started,
selecting, shaping, and sorting fabric scraps, piecing the quilt, and more. The second major
section showcasing individual quilt making projects that even the most novice of beginners can
follow thanks to the clarity of the step-by-step directions afforded by the author. Enhanced with
two appendices (Quiltmaking Basics & Quiltmaking 101: Machine Quilting), a Glossary, a
Metric Equivalents chart, and an Index, "ScrapTherapy (R) Scraps Plus One!: New Patterns to
Quilt Through Your Stash with Ease" is enthusiastically recommended for personal and
community library Needlecraft reference collections and Quilt making supplemental reading
lists.
Crochet Cool
Tanya Bernard, author
Angel Gray, photographer
Sellers Publishing
161 John Roberts Road
South Portland, Maine 04106
9781416208921 $19.95 www.sellerspublishing.com
"Crochet Cool: Fun Designs for Kids Ages 1-6, 20 Cool Patterns for Boys and Girls" is a fun
collection of patterns and instructions for clothing and accessories for all seasons. These pattern
designs for both sexes come with complete instructions, materials list, difficulty key, and size
range. Hence we have a Star Stitch Sundress, for girls, surfer shorts for boys, a chevron poncho,
and a Toasty Tot Beanie and Scarf . Charming color photographs accompany all patterns, along
with specific materials and color numbers. One stunning project that charms wearers of both
sexes is the Houndstooth Fedora, which is sure to result in delighted modeling by the lucky child
who is the designated recipient. "Crochet Cool" is full of crochet projects in bright, modern
colors with universal appeal.
Crochet One-Skein Wonders
Judith Durant & Edie Eckman, editors
Storey Publishing
210 Mass MoCA Way
North Adams, MA 01247
9781612120423 $18.95 www.storey.com
Featuring step-by-step instructions, easy-to-follow diagrams, and a wealth of full-color
photography, Crochet One-Skein Wonders lives up to its title with 100 crochet patterns
categorized by fiber weight, designed expressly to transform one's extra skeins into creative
delights suitable for everyday use or gift-giving. Coasters, scarves, purses, fingerless gloves, hats,
cowls and capes, doll clothes, tea cozies and more fill this elegant, creative, and practical-minded
project guide. Highly recommended for intermediate to advanced crocheters (the reader's
familiarity with the basics of crochet is presumed).
Fabulous Feathers & Fillers
Sue Nickels, author
American Quitter's Society
P.O. Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002
9781604600605 $24.95 www.americanquilter.com
"Fabulous Feathers & Fillers: Design & Machine Quilting Techniques" is a fascinating how-to
craft book about designing feathers and other motifs in machine quilting stitching patterns,
usually shown on solid color fabrics, to display the quilting design. Chapters are presented on
Supplies, Designing Feathers, Machine Quilting Feathers, Machine Quilting Fillers, Quilting the
Quilt - Start to Finish, and Feather Patterns and Projects. The last chapter has patterns and
instructions for 10 projects plus a border quilting pattern and a pattern for a 1/4 inch crosshatch
grid. This surprisingly complex fabric art form is carefully displayed, dissected, and
demonstrated in elegant completed projects and lovely color photos.alongside clear black and
white pattern diagrams. "Fabulous Feathers and Fillers" is a specific how to book that will find
an appreciative, ambitious audience.
Easy Openwork Knit Tops
Kennita Tully, author
Annie's Knitting
306 East Parr Road, Berne, IN 46711
9781596357419 $15.95 AnniesCatalog.com
"Easy Openwork Knit Tops" is a collection of 5 openwork projects complete with instructions
and diagrammed patterns that feature drape and texture flattering to women in all sizes. Here are
five lovely stylish shrugs, sheer vests and coverups, titled Star Mesh, Sheer Comfort, Garter
Ease, and Captivating Mesh Duo, a sleeveless undersweater and overjacket. All patterns begin
with a sidebar listing skill level, sizes, finished measurements, and materials needed, followed by
step by step instructions and pattern notes. Several display photos of each sweater project are
exquisitely displayed. This is a collection of treats for the intermediate skilled knitter.
The Business Shelf
Motivation
Brian Tracy
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
9780814433119 $9.95 www.amacombooks.org
Part of the "Brian Tracy Success Library", Motivation is a pocket-sized hardcover guide written
especially for managers, and packed with tips, tricks, and techniques for encouraging one's
workers to deliver their best performance. Chapters address how to apply the Pareto principle, the
value of brainstorming, identifying and countering common demotivators (notably "fear of
failure" and "fear of rejection"), management by objectives, and much more. "The self-image of
employees is greatly influenced by the way they are treated by their managers and the executives
of the company. If they are respected by the organization's leaders, they will view themselves in a
more positive way and, as a result, perform at higher levels." Quick to browse yet brimming with
a lifetime's worth of wisdom, Motivation is highly recommended.
The Gen Y Handbook
Diane E. Spiegel
Select Books
1 Union Square West, Suite 909
New York, NY 10003
9781590799567, $15.95, www.selectbooks.com
The new generation has whole new ways of communicating. "The Gen Y Handbook: Applying
Relationship Leadership to Engage Millennials" discusses how today's business leadership can
try to reach out and understand the modern internet generation, know what they seek, what they
worry about, and how to gain an understanding of them and realize their potentials and talent.
"The Gen Y Handbook" is a must for business leadership collections.
Lean Analytics
Alistair Croll & Benjamin Yoskovitz
O'Reilly & Associates, Inc.
1005 Gravenstein, Hwy N.
Sebastopol, CA 95472-2811
9781449335670, $29.99, www.oreilly.com
Quick and to the point business practices are key to an agile business. "Lean Analytics: Use Data
to Build a Better Startup Faster" is a guide to making a quicker and more excellent business
guide designed at making a more effective startup business plan by quickly analyzing data, build
better business ventures, and humor through it all. "Lean Analytics" is a strong addition to
business reference collections and improving one's business for the long and short term, highly
recommended.
The CIO Paradox
Martha Heller
Bibliomotion
33 Manchester Road, Brookline, MA 02446
9781937134273, $34.95, www.bibliomotion.com
Technology is increasingly important in every single business. "The CIO Paradox: Battling the
Contradictions of IT Leadership" explores the concept the Chief Information Officer and his role
in the corporate leadership. Martha Heller discusses the growing presence of technology
departments for many big businesses and corporations and how their presence screws with
common corporate ideas about how things should be ran. Drawing on her over decade of
experience in IT fields, Heller offers practical advice and wisdom for better management of IT.
"The CIO Paradox" is a must for any business management and reference collection dealing with
technology.
Decide
David Wethey
Kogan Page USA
1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19102
9780749466299, $19.95, www.koganpageusa.com
Good decisions are what we want, but don't make often enough. "Decide: Better Ways of Making
Better Decisions" is a motivational read from David Wethey who provides practical insight on
the act of decision making, and how to take the ideas he suggests and make them well for any
situation, whether it be everyday life or making good business decisions for an entire company.
Insightful and inspirational, "Decide" is a strongly recommended pick for self-help and
motivational collections, not to be missed.
Interpretive Planning for Museums
Marcella Wells, Barbara Butler, and Judith Koke
Left Coast Press, Inc.
1630 North Main Street, #400
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
9781611321579, $26.95, www.LCoastPress.com
Museums sell no products directly, so keeping them afloat may prove quite a bit more
troublesome. "Interpretive Planning for Museums: Integrating Visitor Perspectives in Decision
Making" is a museum business management guide discussing how to best have museum flourish
and succeed, staying financially secure at the same time while still delivering the educational
experience that a museum should seek to provide. "Interpretive Planning for Museums" is a must
for any museum curator and administrator's reference collection for better business practices,
highly recommended.
Speaking Up
Frederick Gilbert
Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc.
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781609948962, $24.95, www.bkconnection.com
In the bureaucracy of business, it's easy to be lost in the shuffle. "Speaking Up: Surviving
Executive Presentations" is a guide for those who want to encourage those in middle
management to let their voices be heard in the volatile business world, get noticed, and make a
difference in the company's success by embracing a higher level of leadership. "Speaking Up" is
a must for inspirational collections focusing on business and career success.
The Poetry Shelf
Fearing Water
Marjorie Saiser
Parallel Press
372 Memorial Library
728 State Street
Madison, WI 53575
9781934795477 $10.00 http://parallelpress.library.wisc.edu
Fearing Water is a chapbook of free-verse poetry in which poet Marjorie Saiser reflects upon the
obstacles to overcome in the evolution a parent-child relationship. From the mother taking care
of the child, to the passage of time until the adult child has become the caretaker of the parent,
Fearing Water is a journey that appeals to the intimately familiar challenges and troubles of
readers of all walks of life. Emotional and poignant, Fearing Water plumbs the depths without
reservation. "I Didn't Know I Loved": I didn't know I loved her big hands / slicing iceberg lettuce
/ with a thick-bladed knife. // Her thumb hooked over the lip of the shallow melmac bowl / she
carried to the table. // Embarrassing low-class no-class entrees / like her swiss steak, / her bean
soup in a kettle.
Club Icarus
Matt W. Miller
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336
Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574415049, $12.95, www.unt.edu/untpress
Poetry can sing the world to us if we so let it. "Club Icarus" is a collection of poetry from award
winning poet Matt W. Miller who takes life and presents its song and bring new life to the
medium of wordplay. "Club Icarus" is well worth adding to any contemporary poetry collection,
much recommended. "The Beauty of a Nail": hangs on it being/unseen as when/it suspends
a/painting or some/caught on camera/moment on a plain wall/or the way within/the wall it holds
up/the house, the pipes,/the unrolled insulation or even/when somewhat seen/as when it holds a
man/up to a martyrdom-/always it is the tool,/not the meaning.
Elegy Owed
Bob Hicok
Copper Canyon Press
PO Box 271
Port Townsend, WA 98368
9781556594366, $22.00, www.coppercanyonpress.org
Trying to capture the essence of a world that doesn't make sense can prove hard. "Elegy Owed" is
a collection of offbeat poetry from Bob Hicok as he explores the enticing nature of the world
touching on his views of the world and his attempts to understand it with mixed results. "Elegy
Owed" is an enticing addition to humorous and contemporary poetry collections. "Making Do":
Out here, no one would know/If I set the bit of human jaw I found under the house/on the grass
above a dress, a flowered dress I stretch to the full length of wind and walk away, giving
memory/some privacy./A dress that appeared one morning/after a storm, beside the woman
who'd been wearing it,/who asked if this was her life or some other window/being opened, and
left before I could answer,/almost as if I'm making her and this poem and my past/up as I go, to
help me feel nothing//goes to waste, not even waste.
In Someone Else's House
Christian Barter
BkMk Press
c/o University of Missouri-Kansas City
5101 Rockhill Road
Kansas City, MO 64110
9781886157859, $13.95, www.spdbooks.org
Where we may be invited by don't belong. "In Someone Else's House" is a collection of poetry
from Christian Barter, who presents stories of life and honesty along the way, presenting an
honest and insightful spin on it. "In Someone Else's House" is a must for contemporary poetry
collections, very much recommended. "Providence": That painting is a map/with people living on
it./That symphony is a set of instructions/with geraniums/growing from the clefts./That
architecture is a luke-warm ribcage/woven together with tiny songs.//That poem is an
argument/fluttering in the midst of a migration.//That belief is a roof/with starlight shining
through its perforations.
Four Elemental Bodies
Claude Royet-Journoud
Burning Deck
71 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence, RI 02906
9781936194131, $20.00, www.spdbooks.org
Language is used for communication, but we can always develop new ways of communication.
"Four Elemental Bodies" is a collection of poetry from French poet Claude Royet-Journoud,
deftly translated by Keith Waldrop, who revolutionizes language and touches on new concepts of
communicating his points. "Four Elemental Bodies" is a core addition to any international and
unique poetry collection, highly recommended.
South x South
Charles Hood
Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19
Athens, OH 45701
9780821420386, $16.95, www.ohioswallow.com
Living in an extreme world leaves us to gain a whole new appreciation for the world. "South x
South" is a collection of poetry and memoir from Charles Hood, who touches on his journeys to
the south pole and finding a different way of viewing the world. "South x South" is insightful
with its own brand of humor, much recommended. "Arrival Forms": Field notes on Satan in
Antarctica: When he walks past a turned-off TV,/it glows blue. Like a penguin's, his tongue is
stiff, barbed. When/stirred by more than usual lust, Stan shuffles and brays. Crinkled/jazz eyes,
red as grief. On the landing card the airport/under profession, he always writes in a small neat
hand//as in the astronomical sense, I am a singularity.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Dragonology
Marketing Department
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street
Somerville, MA 02144
ologyworld.com
9780763623296 $19.99 www.candlewick.com
Dragon lovers everywhere will adore Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons, a
suprisingly inexpensive yet visually stunning giftbook crafted with love and care. The pages are
beautifully illustrated in full color and feature numerous lift-the-flap sections, removable papers,
or touchable dragon scales(!). As a result Dragonology is a little too delicate for very young
children, or the wear and tear of public library shelves. Older children and adult dragon fans are
sure to enjoy this fanciful imagining of what it might have been like to scientifically study
dragons, perhaps in the Middle Ages or the Renaissance. Some tips for the care of hatchling
dragons include, "Keep iron and flint objects away from [dragon] chicks, or live in a fireproof
house. Do not release young dragons into the sewerage system of a large city. Mind your lanuage
around chicks - they may repeat what you say over and over in front of visitors. It is not
recommended to leave children and hungry dragons alone. Hide all shiny or valuable objects." A
present to be treasured any day of the year, Dragonology is highly recommended, as are other
titles in the "Ology" series of wonderously illustrated, quasi-interactive books, including
"Egyptology,", "Wizardology", "Illusionology", "Pirateology", "Mythology", "Monsterology",
"Spyology", "Oceanology", "Vampireology", and "Alienology".
Reaper's Legacy
Tim Lebbon
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2197
9781616147679, $17.95, www.prometheusbooks.com
A vicious attack almost wipes London off the map... and it may as well have to some. "Reaper's
Legacy" is book two of Tim Lebbon's Toxic City series, featuring a destroyed London and its
survivors who go beyond what is normally expected of humans. With roaming soldiers
threatening the survivors, Jack and his few friends struggle to survive as a man called reaper
bears down on him and the other refugees. "Reaper's Legacy" is a strong addition to those with a
love of modern flavored science fiction and fantasy, recommended.
The Crystal Scepter
C. S. Lakin
Living Ink Books
c/o AMG Publishers
6815 Shallowford Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421
9780899578934, $14.99, www.AMGPublishers.com
The call of prophecy is a tough one to shake. "The Crystal Scepter" is a fantasy from C. S. Lakin
tells of the world of Elysiel. A final curse destines a young man to rescue the scepter from the
keeper. Facing his long journey as a hero to fulfill the prophecy, Perthin must find allies and the
relics he needs to live up to the destiny thrust upon him and finds prophecies are easier declared
that fulfilled. "The Crystal Scepter" is a fun read for fantasy fans, highly recommended.
Without a Summer
Mary Robinette Kowal
Tor
c/o Tor/Forge Books
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
9780765334152, $24.99, www.tor-forge.com
Finding love can feel so difficult when the weight of the world bears down on your shoulders.
"Without a Summer" is a blend of fantasy and romance from Mary Robinette Kowal who
provides tells of a true magic world not too unlike our own. Jane and Vincent return from
Belgium and find that their country is struggling. As they face the weight of their romance on
their world, "Without a Summer" is an enticing read with plenty of twists and turns, a must for
fans of Kowal's work, highly recommended.
I Left My Haunt in San Francisco
Mark Everett Stone
Camel Press
PO Box 70515, Seattle, WA 98227
9781603819275, $15.95, www.camelpress.com
Humanity has enough demons lurking among it, we don't need those from hell too. "I Left My
Haunt in San Francisco" is a supernatural thriller as Kal Hakela as he finds that San Francisco
may well be under attack from certain enemies, and its main protector isn't the most appreciative
to Kal's efforts. A riveting fantasy with plenty of twists and turns, "I Left My Haunt in San
Francisco" is a strong addition to general fiction collections, not to be missed.
The Raven's Warrior
Vincent Pratchett
YMAA Publications
PO Box 480
Wolfeboro, NH 03894-0480
9781594392580, $14.95, www.ymaa.com
When fate determines your death, one goes through anything to defy it. "The Raven's Warrior" is
a novel of ancient fantasy, set amongst the time of the Celts. A dying warrior is saved, only to be
enslaved and be shipped far from hold, to the ownership of wizards and witches. As death looms
for him again, his heroism will take him past slavery and lead for him to become legend himself.
"The Raven's Warrior" is an excellent pick for fans of the low fantasy genre, enthusiastically
recommended.
The Christian Studies Shelf
10 Things Pope Francis Wants You to Know
John L. Allen
Liguori
1 Liguori Drive, Liguori, MO 53057-9999
9780764824371, $3.99, www.amazon.com
A new pope with new ideas about how the papacy should be done. "10 Things Pope Francis
Wants You to Know" discusses the new papacy of Pope Francis, who has sought to change many
new things about how the Papacy and the Catholic Church is viewed throughout the world. John
L. Allen, senior Vatican analyst for CNN, seeks to present this knowledge for those curious about
the new pope. "10 Things Pope Francis Wants You To Know" is a strong addition to Catholic
and Christian collections, recommended.
Fearless Church Fundraising
Charles LaFond
Morehouse Publishing
4775 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112
9780819228635, $26.00, www.churchpublishing.org
Money is essential to get anything done. "Fearless Church Fundraising: The Practical and
Spiritual Approach to Stewardship" is an advisory for church leaders on how to more effectively
fund raise for their organization, staying true to their principals, and doing good in the process.
With well researched and practical advice through it all, "Fearless Church Fundraising" is an
absolute must for research collections, highly recommended.
The Story of Scripture
Robert L. Plummer
Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9780825443152, $8.99, www.kregelpublications.com
The origins of the Christian Bible are of much concern to skeptics and Christians alike. "The
Story of Scripture: How We Got Our Bible and Why We Can Trust It" is Robert L. Plummer's
Christian driven take on the origins of the Christian Bible and its incalculable value to the
modern-day faithful. "The Story of Scripture" is a worthy addition to Christian studies
collections, recommended. Also from Robert Plummer is "Understanding the Bible: A Guide to
Reading and Enjoying Scripture" (9780825443169, $8.99), which discusses how to gain a better
and more comprehensive appreciation for the Bible.
Falling in Love with God
Bob Hostetler
Leafwood Publishers
c/o Abilene Christian University Press
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891123743, $14.99, www.leafwoodpublishers.com
A unique relationship with God is something that we all seek to relish from life. "Falling in Love
with God" is a faith driven memoir from Bob Hosteler who shares his own experiences in
building that powerful bond with God, and what that deep and personal affair with the creator
can carry out into our life as, "Falling in Love with God" is a strongly recommended addition to
Christian living collections and inspirational collections.
The End of Suffering
Joseph F. Girzone
Orbis Books
PO Box 308
Maryknoll, NY 10545-0308
9781626980259, $20.00, www.orbisbooks.com
Life has suffering and it is inspired to find a way to halt that suffering. "The End of Suffering" is
a Christian spiritual and self-help read from Joseph F. Girzone as he shares stories of being the
shepherd of life and tending to the flock of life, meeting their needs, and spreading the message
of Christ in the process. Comforting and insightful, "The End of Suffering" is a strong addition to
Christian collections, highly recommended.
Partnering with the King
John L. Hiigel
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568
Orleans, MA 02653
9781557259974, $16.99, www.paracletepress.com
Following the words of Christ is easier said than done. "Partnering with the King": Study the
Gospel of Matthew & Become a Disciple of Jesus" is an inspirational Christian spirituality guide
from John L. Hiigel, presenting thirty-one passages to help readers assert themselves as disciples
of Christ and worthy of spreading his message. "Partnering with the King" is a must for any
Christian spirituality collection focused on renewing and empowering our faith, highly
recommended.
One Bible, Many Versions
Dave Brunn
InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400
Downers Grove, IL 605151426
9780830827152, $16.00, www.ivpress.com
The Bible has been translated and retranslated into countless languages over the past two
millenia. "One Bible, Many Versions: Are All Translations Created Equal?" discusses Bible
translations and how to better compare them when looking for the most faithful translation.
Comparing, contrasting... and even debating the value of multiple translations of the Holy Bible,
"One Bible, Many Versions" is a fascinating study of translation and how it can apply to
faith.
The Fiction Shelf
The Great Wild West
Jeff Appelquist
Beaver's Pond Press
7108 Ohms Lane
Edina, MN 55439
9781592989935, $27.99, www.BeaversPondPress.com
We can go to war with the world around us, but the toughest conflict is always our ourself. "The
Great Wild West: An American Journey" is a novel from Jeff Appelquist following the highly
storied life of Jedediah Magnus West, a veteran of multiple conflicts, who has faced business
success and failure all around the world, but when he finally returns home, he has to cope with
his own pain and the pain of those so very close to him. "The Great Wild West" is an enticing
and exciting read that should prove hard to put down.
The Home Jar
Nancy Zafris
Switchgrass Books
Northern Illinois University Press
2280 Bethany Road
DeKalb, IL 60115
978087580806884, $16.95, www.niupress.niu.edu
Our world is made up of endless little odd situations. "The Home Jar" is a collection of short
fiction from Nancy Zafris who presents an assortment of stories about scattered people in many
occupations and purposes, finding their journey faced with even stranger situations and learning
things they never thought possible from it all. With plenty of humor and frank irony, "The Home
Jar" is a strong addition to contemporary short fiction collections, highly recommended.
Seaside Harmony
Evangeline Kelley
Guideposts
16 East 34th Street, new York, NY 10016
9780824932466, $13.99, www.guideposts.org
The charm of the past often can come with the mystery of the past. "Seaside Harmony" is a
Christian novel following Caroline Marris and her sisters as they find their mother's favorite Inn
in aging and forgotten condition, and seek to restore it. But in the process they find the lost
history of the inn, and must learn to work together to solve it and find so much more in their lives
than they ever thought possible. "Seaside Harmony" is an enticing delve into charming
contemporary fiction and the allure of the quiet inn.
Black Flame
Gerelchimeg Blackcrane
Groundwood Books
c/o Douglas & McIntyre Ltd.
110 Spadina Avenue, Suite 801
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2K4
9781554981359, $15.95, www.groundwoodbooks.com
Far from home, we seek to only return to its comfort. "Black Flame" is a novel following a
Tibetan Mastiff, Kelsang, who is brought to the streets of Lhasa to struggle to survive only to
find refuge with an aging painter. Taken from his home again, Kelsang struggles against those
who would take him for his rare nature to find something being home. "Black Flame" is an
adventurous read that will charm dog lovers everywhere, highly recommended.
The Blue Note
Eve Winter
Regent Press
2747 Regent Street, Berkeley, CA 94705
9781587902338, $18.00, www.regentpress.net
The world of technology offers a whole new world for those curious about the world at large.
"The Blue Note: Electronic Erotica" is a twist on the work of romance from Eve Winter is a
collection of thoughts and ideas from Eve Winter who presents her own twist of searching for
love, presenting a dual story of pursuing love offline and online and throughout the world around
us. "The Blue Note" is an enticing twist of romance, highly recommended reading.
His to Command
Opal Carew
St. Martin's Griffin
175 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010
9780312674632, $14.99, www.stmartins.com
To surrender entirely is a secret desire some keep. "His to Command" is a romance of high
society from Opal Carew, who follows successful businesswoman Kate, who is determined to
empower her world under Matthew Pearce enters her life and brings her deepest darkest secrets.
Twisting with themes of domination and submission all throughout, "His to Command" is a
riveting read that should prove so very hard to put down, highly recommended.
Dancing With Trouble
Omotunde E. G. Johnson
Langdon Street Press
212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 290
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781935204763, $16.99, www.langdonstreetpress.com
Africa is a troubled continent with many of its states in turmoil. "Dancing with Trouble" is a
novel focused on a fictional African nation that shares so many of the problems with the modern
region. As an immigrant who left the country for America returns, he sees his homeland in utter
disarray and looks for how he can personally help and try to bring his homeland into the modern
century... if it can even be saved. "Dancing With Trouble" is a much recommended and choice
pick for general fiction collections, very much recommended reading.
The Andalucian Friend
Alexander Soderberg
Crown
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780770436056, $26.00, www.crownpublishing.com
A life quiet can be made loud with the introduction of a single element. "The Andalucian Friend"
tells of Sophie, a young mother alone, but living a content life with no thrills. When Hector
Guzman enters her world, she's attracted to him, and the minefield of a life of crime and violence
that comes with him makes her question it. But Sophie can't force herself to flee... even against
all common sense, with her own fate in the balance. "The Andalucian Friend" is riveting blend of
thriller and romance that will keep the pages turning all the way through.
Grave Consequences
Lisa T. Bergren
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9781434764324, $14.99, www.davidccook.com
There is rarely a choice we can make that doesn't have a heavy weight. "Grave Consequences"
follows Cora Kensington, having the time of her life as she sees Europe with her family. But love
strikes her where it may hurt her the most, and anywhere she turns she is going to bring pain to
someone... and the choices are daunting. "Grave Consequences" is a riveting tale of historical
romance, a treasure and highly recommended.
A Place to Belong
Lauraine Snelling
Bethany House Publishers
c/o Baker Publishing Group
11400 Hampshire Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55438
9780764204173, $14.99, www.bethanyhouse.com
So often, love is not listed as a vital ingredient to marriage. "A Place to Belong" is a historical
novel, as Cassie Lockwood struggles with her life on her future husband's ranch. As she drifts
away from her fiance, who is dedicated to the idea of love but nothing seems to be sparking... and
even his eyes seem to be elsewhere. She realizes a bit of excitement in her life is what she needs,
no matter the cost. "A Place to Belong" is a riveting read of romance and fiction, much
recommended reading.
Wolves of the North
Harry Sidebottom
The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
9781590207833, $26.95, www.overlookpress.com
As Rome struggles to keep the empire together, pressures push it apart. "Wolves of the North:
Warrior of Rome" is a historical adventure following Ballista, a legionnaire charged with
combating the Heruli, the feared tribes preventing the Roman expansion northwards. With
renown for author Harry Sidebottom's dedication to historical accuracy, "Wolves of the North" is
a riveting adventure of historical fiction, an absolute must for any one in love with the classical
period of Ancient Rome.
Sinners and The Sea
Rebecca Kanner
Howard Books
c/o Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl.
New York, NY 10020
9781451695236, $22.99, www.simonandschuster.com
To be scorned from the world... and to have a second chance at the world. "Sinners and the Sea"
is a story of Biblical fiction about Noah's wife, who in the Bible does not bear much story herself.
Author Rebecca Kanner uses the popular Christian legend to tell her story, of a woman spurned
from her village, finding comfort under Noah, and her own personal struggles to find peace with
her sons and the coming calamity. An intriguing read, "Sinners and the Sea" is riveting Biblical
fiction, an absolute must for fans of the genre.
The Computer Shelf
Getting to Know ArcGIS for Desktop, third edition
Michael Law & Amy Collins
ESRI Press
380 New York Street
Redlands, CA 92378-8100
9781589483088 $84.95 www.esri.com/esripress
Now in its third updated edition featuring new topics about online resources and raster data, as
well as new exercises and learning tools, Getting to Know ArcGIS for Desktop is an excellent
text for classroom instruction or personal use. Full-color computer screenshots on almost every
page illustrate this hands-on, practical-minded guide to using the ArcGIS for Desktop software
show maps and data, as well as make queries and analyses of data. An accompanying trial disc of
ArcGIS for Desktop software (requires a Windows operating system and certain minimum
computer specifications) rounds out this detailed pedagogical guide, designed to teach readers by
having them undertake straightforward activities with numbered step-by-step instructions. "By
default, ArcMap does not put labels on top of each other. This means that, depending on the scale
and the part of the map you are looking at, some features in a layer may not be labeled. If you
want to be sure every feature in a layer is labeled, you can tell ArcMap to place overlapping
labels." An absolute "must-have" for anyone who needs to master ArcGIS for Desktop
quickly!
The Self-Help Shelf
Activate Your Goodness
Shari Arison
Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100
Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
9781401937973, $14.95, www.hayhouse.com
Making the world a better place is often its own reward. "Activate Your Goodness: Transforming
the World Through Doing Good" is an inspirational read from Shari Arison, who encourages
readers to embrace their inner goodness and find their drive to a better life by doing good things
for those around us, the community, and the environment. "Activate Your Goodness" is a
powerful read for personal inspiration collections, highly recommended.
Let Me Tell You a Story
James O'Keefe with Josh O'Keefe
Andrews & McMeel
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449407773, $19.99, www.andrewsmcmeel.com
Good health is attainable for those with the drive to reach for it and succeed. "Let Me Tell You a
Story: Inspirational Stories for Health, Happiness, and a Sexy Waist" is a collection of
inspirational stories of those who have strove for success, telling their story of better
understanding their own push for better health and wellness in their own ways. From stories of
finding a diet that works for them, exercise that tones the body, and more, "Let Me Tell You a
Story" is an inspirational read designed to give readers that extra bit of motivation for life and
living.
The Memoir Shelf
My Greek Drama
Gianna Angelpoulos
Greenleaf Book Group Press
PO Box 91869
Austin, TX 78709
9781608325818, $26.95, www.greenleafbookgroup.com
Greece has faced many challenges in recent years, and many seek to restore its worthiness of its
heritage. "My Greek Drama" is a memoir from Gianna Angelpoulos, a Greek patriot who is
strongly troubled be her country's recent economic and political struggles and has done much in
public service and was vital in bringing the Olympic games to the country in 2004. An insightful
and personal story of modern Greece, "My Greek Drama" is an enticing and much recommended
addition to international biography collections, highly recommended.
Rugged Mercy
Robert Wright
Washington State University Press
PO Box 645910, Pullman, WA 99164-5910
9780874223149, $26.95, www.wsupress.wsu.edu
The call of the doctor is a noble one, but to risk one's own life consistently is an act of heroism.
"Rugged Mercy" is the story of Robert H. Wright, a doctor of Idaho who throughout the regions
many rough winters gained a reputation for daring to cross the frontier west to help those in need.
His grandson, who carries on his name, seeks to tell his stories of daring and adventure through
this tough time where emergency medical care almost guaranteed death. "Rugged Mercy" is an
exciting read of true adventure, highly recommended.
My Great Grandfather Was Stonewall Jackson, volume 1
David Jonathan Sawyer
Biographical Publishing Company
95 Sycamore Drive
Prospect, CT 06712-1493
192988284X, $19.00, www.amazon.com
Even as generations past, hatred lives on. "My Great Grandfather Was Stonewall Jackson: The
Story of a Negro Boy Growing Up in the Segregated South" is an autobiographical novel from
David Jonathan Sawyer who shares his journey of growing up in the deeply racist south, and how
he took pride in his ancestral ties to the Confederate general as strength to help him through his
toughest times. "My Great Grandfather Was Stonewall Jackson" is a strong pick to historical
blends of memoir and novel, recommended. Also consider volume 2, "Stonewalling in the
Shadow of a Legend" (1929882858, $19.00), continuing his story.
The Turk who Loved Apples
Matt Gross
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
11 Cambridge Center
Cambridge, MA 02142
9780306821158, $15.99, www.perseusbooksgroup.com
The world is a huge place, and coming to understand it all is a curiosity in itself. "The Turk Who
Loved Apples: And Other Tales of Losing My Way Around the World" is a memoir of world
travel from Matt Gross, who shares his life's journeys and the constant stories he sees, meeting
farmers, other travelers, and his strange ways of getting around through the world with humor
and a lot of life. "The Turk who Loved Apples" is a poignant and riveting read for travel memoir
collections, much recommended.
Polka King
Jimmy Sturr
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781937856342, $24.95, www.benbellabooks.com
Respect in your field is sometimes all you seek. "Polka King: The Life and Times of Polka
Music's Living Legend" is the memoir of Polka star Jimmy Sturr, who recounts his long career
where has claimed Grammys and countless television appearances. Sharing his stories of world
travel, unusual anecdotes, and plenty of humor, as well as the insight into the genre of Polka,
"Polka King" is a strong addition to any musical history or autobiography collection, highly
recommended.
Beyond the Bear
Dan Bigley & Debra McKinney
The Lyons Press
246 Goose Lane
Guilford, CT 06437
9780762784554, $22.95, www.lyonspress.com
Bear attacks seem like a crazy nightmare, but they do happen and it can be life changing.
"Beyond the Bear: How I Learned to Live and Love Again After Being Blinded by a Bear" is a
memoir from Dan Bigley with Debra McKinney, as he shares his story of a vicious attack from a
grizzly bear and the attacks that left him seriously injured and without the ability to see. A long
road to recovery which will never be full, "Beyond the Bear" is an insightful read of coping with
the tragedy of life and living life to the fullest in spite of it all.
Once Upon a Gypsy Moon
Micheal Hurly
Center Street
c/o Hachette Publishing Group
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017-0010
9781455529339, $19.99, www.centerstreet.com
When we're on the ropes in life, sometimes all we need out of life is a single desperate gambit.
"Once Upon a Gypsy Moon" is a memoir from Michael Hurley, who recounts when life pushed
him up against the wall and how an impulsive trip allowing him to sail around the world gave
him a whole new perspective on life and living in the process. Sharing his journey and what he
has learned and with an inspiring message on the power of adventure, "Once Upon a Gypsy
Moon" is an excellent addition to memoir and inspirational collections.
Nine Lives
Brandon Baltzley
Gotham Books
c/o Penguin Publishing USA
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
9781592407910, $26.00, www.us.penguingroup.com
Sometimes we have many passions, all intertwining with one another for one weird cocktail of a
life. "Nine Lives: A Chef's Journey From Chaos to Control" is a memoir from Brandon Baltzley
who shares his unique journey through life. A love of cooking starting early on, he found his
primary calling very young... and an interest in music made him a very non-standard cook, far
from the image of the poofy hats and white shirts. But such wandering passions gave him
demons, and those demons almost claimed his life many times. A riveting, hard to put down
story of a life, "Nine Lives" is a must for memoir and biography collections, enthusiastically
recommended.
The Girl Got Up
Rachel M. Srubas
The Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500
Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814634493, $16.95, www.litpress.org
To rise again after apparent death is to have a second chance. "The Girl Got Up: A Cruciform
Memoir" is a faith-driven memoir from Rachel M. Srubas who tells her story, drawing her own
story of resurrection, finding her place in life as a woman, as a Christian, while being completely
honest and realistic about what she has seen. "The Girl Got Up" is a strong addition to Christian
studies and memoir collections, highly recommended.
The Social Issues Shelf
Orphan Justice
Johnny Carr
B&H Publishing Group
127 Ninth Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37234-0143
9781433677984, $14.99, www.bhpublishinggroup.com
Adoption takes commitment not everyone can easily adopt. "Orphan Justice: How to Care for
Orphans Beyond Adopting" looks into the Christian perspectives on orphaned children, and what
people can do when adoption isn't possible. Worldwide, countless children suffer without aid,
and Johnny Carr presents ideas on what they can do to help these children through political
movements all the way up to adoption itself. "Orphan Justice" is a must for social issues and
Christian studies collections, highly recommended.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Darkness Before Dawn
Ace Collins
Abingdon Press
PO Box 801
Nashville, TN 37202
9781426714672, $14.99, www.abingdonpress.com
Justice has different definitions for everyone. "Darkness Before Dawn" is a Christian-driven
novel from Ace Collins, telling the story of Meg Richard's, who is pregnant when she loses her
husband to a young drunk driver. Faced with the weight of single motherhood, and denied justice
for her loss, she is lured by a different sort of retribution, and the dark path that beckons.
"Darkness Before Dawn" is a strong addition to Christian fiction and suspense collections, highly
recommended.
The Forbidden Book
Joscelyn Godwin & Guido Mina Di Sospiro
The Disinformation Company
220 East 23rd Street, Suite 500
New York, NY 10010
9781938875014, $24.95, www.disinfo.com
The flares and conflicts of faith can lead to much in the way of murder. "The Forbidden Book" is
a Biblical thriller from Joscelyn Godwin & Guido Mina Di Sospiro, presents a murder mystery
that digs into the deep and esoteric nature of Islam and Western civilization, a worldwide
adventure that explores the conflicts of faith and how they can easily drive people to kill, and the
metaphysical aspects that may seep into our souls. "The Forbidden Book" is an exciting thriller
for fans of the genre, highly recommended.
Date Certain
Reuben Eisenstein
Fithian Press
PO Box 2790, McKinleyville, CA 95519
9781564745392, $12.95, www.danielpublishing.com
We all live on a clock, but knowing that timer can put us on the ropes. "Date Certain" is a novel
following Benjamin Stone, a physician who is struck with the sudden knowledge of when he is to
die. Struggling with this knowledge, his other touches of precognition gives him terror... and the
opportunity to do something about the mysteries around him. "Date Certain" is a riveting blend
of paranormal mystery, very much recommended reading.
Yesterday's Echo
Matt Coyle
Oceanview Publishing
595 Bay Isles Road, 120-G
Longboat Key, FL 34228
9781608090761, $26.95, www.oceanviewpub.com
Forgiveness is hard to achieve... especially when forgiving oneself. "Yesterday's Echo" is a
thriller following troubled Rick Cahill, who can't forgive himself for his wife's death, and no one
else seems to forgive him either. When a new woman presents herself in his life, and asks for his
help, one part wants him to flee, undeserving; another part seeks redemption. But the biggest
obstacle might not be another murderer, but instead his own demons tearing him apart.
"Yesterday's Echo" is an excellent thriller, hard to put down all the way through.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Changing Reality
Serge Kahili King
Quest Books
c/o The Theosophical Publishing House
PO Box 270
Wheaton, IL 60189-0270
9780835609111, $16.95, www.questbooks.net
If your reality seems burdensome, why not alter it? "Changing Reality: Huna Practices to Create
Life You Want" is a spiritual read from Serge Kahili King who presents a twisting idea of
spirituality and shamanism, taking traditional Hawaiian faith ideas and offering them for wider
understanding and ideas. "Changing Reality" is a strong addition to spirituality and reference
collections and for those seeking a new take, highly recommended.
Conversation: The Sacred Art
Diane M. Millis
Skylight Paths Publishing
Sunset Farms Offices, Route 4
PO Box 237
Woodstock, VT 05091
9781594734748, $16.99, www.skylightpaths.com
Speaking does volumes to others and the self. "Conservation: The Sacred Art: Practicing
Presence in an Age of Distraction" is an inspirational and spiritual read from Diane M. Millis
who advises readers on how to better connect with others with the power of speech and listening
in return. Attention, self-awareness, and other ideas can lead to more meaningful interpersonal
relationships. "Conservation" is a strong addition to spirituality and reference collections, not to
be missed.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Secret Practices of the Sufi Freemasons
Baron Rudolf von Sebottendorff
Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street
Rochester, VT 05767
9781594774683, $14.95, www.innertraditions.com
Free Masonry and the metaphysical nature behind it isn't strictly a western concept. "Secret
Practices of the Sufi Freemasons: The Islamic Teachings at the Heart of Alchemy" explores the
original writing by Baron Rudolf von Sebottendorff, who wrote of Oriental freemasonry, and its
ties to the Islamic Holy book the Qur'an. Touching on the spiritual ideas that lie beneath it, its
relation to alchemy, and many other topics, "Secret Practices of the Sufi Freemasons" is a
fascinating read for anyone curious about the old ways of the occult in history.
The Buddhist Studies Shelf
Wisdom of the Kadam Masters
Thupten Jinpa
Wisdom Publications
199 Elm Street
Somerville, MA 02144
9781614290544, $16.95, www.wisdompubs.org
Wisdom comes in many forms, but ultimately, the goal is to realize it. "Wisdom of the Kadam
Masters" is a modern translation of the Buddhist classic as Thupten Jinpa, renown English
translator of Buddhist literature, as he presents this renown insights of this Tibetan classic for
English readers. For readers of Buddhist literature, "Wisdom of the Kadam Masters" is a strongly
recommended addition to Buddhist Studies and spirituality collections.
A Straight Road with 99 Curves
Gregory Shepherd
Stone Bridge Press
PO Box 8208
Berkeley, CA 94707
9781611720112, $14.95, www.stonebridge.com
Buddhism often offers much insight on our spirits and ideals for life. "A Straight Road with 99
Curves: Coming of Age on the Path to Zen" is a spiritual memoir from Gregory Shepherd as he
tells his story of traveling the world and piecing together his own ideas of the world, traveling,
find his own place, finding his calling, and breaking from the traditional path to enlightenment.
"A Straight Road with 99 Curves" is a must for spiritual and Buddhist memoir collections, highly
recommended.
The Crafts Shelf
Crystal Play
Anna Elizabeth Draeger
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle, Waukesha, WI 53186
www.kalmbachbooks.com
9780871164766, $21.95, www.amazon.com
Making jewelry is an enduringly popular hobby for tens of thousands of people from all walks of
life. Jewelry designer Anna Elizabeth Draeger draws upon her years of experience and expertise
in "Crystal Play: Fun & Fabulous Designs for Stitched Jewelry", a profusely illustrated, 112 page
instruction book showcasing 25 imaginative designs for bracelets and accessories. Each design
features a complete materials list and 'user friendly' step-by-step directions. Enhanced with
practical and insightful tips on color and design, "Crystal Play: Fun & Fabulous Designs for
Stitched Jewelry" also features a 'basic review' section addressing fundamental techniques. Fun,
practical, imaginative, "Crystal Play: Fun & Fabulous Designs for Stitched Jewelry" is very
highly recommended for personal and community library Hobby & Crafts reference
collections.
Bewitching Bead & Wire Jewelry
Lark Books
387 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10016
9781454707561, $26.95, www.larkcrafts.com
Charming beads and jewelry can make many a wondrous jewelry and many a fun project.
"Bewitching Bead & Wire Jewelry: Easy Techniques for 40 Irresistible Projects" is a do it
yourself jewelry guide from Lark Books who provide full color guides and illustrations on getting
the most out of one's artistic endeavors and creating wondrous and fun projects with easy
techniques even beginners can get a hold of and flourish in their lives. "Bewitching Bead & Wire
Jewelry" is a much recommended addition to any crafts collection, not to be missed.
The Photography Shelf
Portrait Of Boulder
Steve Mohlenkamp, photographer
Farcountry Press
PO Box 5630, Helena, MT 59604
www.farcountrypress.com
9781560375401, $26.95, www.amazon.com
"Portrait of Boulder" by photographer Steve Mohlenkamp is a 120 page compilation of full color
photography showcasing the people and images of Denver, Colorado. Each full color image is
informatively captioned. Enhanced with a succinct Foreword by Silvia Pettem, "Portrait of
Boulder" is a delight to simply browse through and is an especially recommended acquisition for
Denver's academic and community libraries -- as well as an enduringly popular memento for
visitors and native denizens alike!
Images of America Fort Missoula
Tate Jones
Arcadia Publishing
420 Wando Park Blvd.
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
9780738599557, $21.99, www.arcadiapublishing.com
Montana has a bigger role to play in America's military history than most realize. "Images of
America Fort Missoula" is a collection of photography and history of Fort Missoula in Montana,
offering its many roles throughout the fort's history from its press westward, to its dark role in
World War II, to its modern place as the Million Dollar Post. "Images of America Fort Missoula"
is filled cover to cover with black and white photography, very much recommended reading, not
to be missed.
The Scots
Tiffany Alvarado McKenna
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10110-0017
9780500290781, $21.95, www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
A new technology lead to a chance to capture history as it happened. "The Scots: A Photohistory"
analyzes the history of the Scottish people during this early time of photography. Capturing the
Scottish people and their triumph throughout the middle of the nineteenth century and into the
early twentieth, all of this photographs prove endlessly fascinating with a historical explanation
and outlook all throughout. "The Scots" is a must for those seeking a photography book with a
strong focus on Scottish history.
The Education Shelf
Your Complete Guide to College Success
Donald J. Foss
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
9781433812965 $29.95 www.apa.org/books
Your Complete Guide to College Success: How to Study Smart, Achieve Your Goals, and Enjoy
Campus Life is an absolute must-have for any college-bound adult. Chapters teach the basics of
time management, strategic reading, preparing for tests, meet the challenge of mathematics
courses, common pitfalls to avoid in campus life, and much more. "I recommend that you pick
your exercise with the long term in mind. Look around; no one plays football after age 30 unless
they are paid enormous sums of money to do so - and then they can't walk a few years later...
consider using your university recreation center to learn or improve a lifetime sport - tennis,
handball, squash, hiking or jogging, mountain biking, etc. Lessons are usually free or very
inexpensive." A practical, no-nonsense resource that backs up its advice with a wealth of
references, Your Complete Guide to College Success is enthusiastically recommended especially
as a gift to aspiring high school graduates!
Let's Be Scientists!
Nancy N. Heilbronner
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813
Waco, TX 76714-8813
9781618210241, $24.95, www.prufrock.com
A little bit of science can help us so much throughout our life. "Let's Be Scientists!: Authentic
Learning in the Science Classroom" is a reference for teachers that encourages scientific themed
learning in the classroom, talking over the many aspects of the scientific method that may be
applicable to many subjects. Encouraging critical thinking, debate, experimentation, labs, and
much more, "Let's Be Scientists!" is a must addition to many an education collection focused on
science and learning.
Word Nerds
Brenda J. Overturf, Leslie H. Montgomery, & Margot Holmes Smith
Stenhouse Publishers
477 Congress Street, Suite 4B
Portland, ME 04101-3451
9781571109545, $20.00, www.stenhouse.com
A better vocabulary is more useful than many believe. "Word Nerds: Teaching All Students to
Learn and Love Vocabulary" discusses the furtherance of vocabulary in many schools, with a
focus on high poverty areas where vocabulary teaching games, activities, and encouragement of
reading writing is making a difference that teaches a love of language. With plenty of insight on
how to better teaching vocabulary and language arts in these tougher to teach areas, "Word
Nerds" is a strong addition to any education and educator's reference collection, highly
recommended.
Digital Storytelling in the Classroom, second edition
Jason B. Ohler
Corwin Press, Inc.
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-2218
9781452268255, $36.00, www.corwinpress.com
Stories are an invaluable tool for sharing and teaching. "Digital Storytelling in the Classroom:
New Media Pathways to Literacy, Learning, and Creativity" discusses digital storytelling and its
effective methods for education from Jason B. Ohler, who suggests many ways to use new
media, exploring how it can work and how to better teach readers through these methods through
interactivity and other elements exclusive to digital media. "Digital Storytelling in the
Classroom" is a strong addition to educational studies collections.
The Kindness Curriculum
Judith Anne Rice
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court
St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
9781605541242, $24.95, www.redleafpress.org
It's never too early to learn good will. "The Kindness Curriculum: Stop Bullying Before It Starts"
discusses what early childhood educators can do to inspire better habits and friendship among
their students, trying to root out the early symptoms of bullying and inspire them to encourage
support, feeling better about themselves and encouraging better feelings in others as well. "The
Kindness Curriculum" is a powerful read and addition to education collections focusing on
counseling and early childhood.
The Cookbook Shelf
Ice Cream
Eliq Maranik
H. F. Ullmann
c/o 60 Cycle Media Relations LLC
38 High Avenue, Nyack NY 10960
www.ullmann-publishing.com
9783848003600, $19.99, www.amazon.com
One of the most popular and ubiquitous desserts is ice cream in all its flavors and permutations.
Ice cream enthusiast Eliq Maranik has compiled "Ice Cream", a superbly illustrated, 160 page
compendium of recipes showcasing the versatility and variety of ice creams. Beginning with an
informed and informative history of ice cream, followed by a comprehensive section devoted to
Homemade Ice Cream, followed by sections devoted to The Components of Ice Cream;
Equipment, and Ice-Cream Guide, and Ice Cream Tasting. "Ice Cream" then concludes with a
roster of different kinds of ice cream ranging from Vanilla, to Caramel, to Coconut, to Mango,
and more! Then come the sections devoted to Sorbets, Granitas, and Ice Pops. Of special note is
the concluding section feature Extras including ice cream toppings and sauces. A joy to simply
browse through, "Ice Cream" is a 'must' for dedicated ice cream enthusiasts everywhere!
The Traveling Soup Pot, A Savory Journey Through Many Lands
Mary Chamberlin, author
Foreword by Michel A. Escoffier
Mary Chamberlin Cookbooks
2750 Carmel Knolls Dr., Carmel, CA 93923
9781935530275 $35.00 www.TravelingSoupPot.com
"The Traveling Soup Pot" is a master's collection of delectable international soup recipes inspired
and influenced by Chef Mary Chamberlin, along with her husband, Captain Roy Chamberlin and
the legendary Michel Escoffier, descendant of Auguste Escoffier, also known as "the King of
Chefs and the Chef of Kings." Here are over 100 imaginative soup recipes from global sources,
arranged by area of origin. We have Mock Bird's nest Soup from China, Alan Wong's Red &
Yellow Tomato Soup from Hawaii, Chicken Mulligatawny Soup from India, Portuguese Fish
Stew, Swedish Soup with Dumplings, Lobster Bisque and Crabmeat & Brie Soup from France,
Chilled Vichyssoise from England, Irish Stew, Leek & Potato Soup from Wales, chilled soups,
Island soups, Mexicali Tortilla Soup, and finally Clam Chowder New California style, and many
more from the American continent and others of hybrid or mixed origins. Recipes are divided
into chapters based on origin, or type, such as chilled soups. An interesting 10th chapter offers
"From Hobo to Must Go Soups," a combination of upscale versions of Hobo Stew, Mulligan
Stew, and leftover miracle worker soup. Standard measurements and clear, step by step
instructions make these fabulous soups accessible to all. A bit of culinary history is woven into
each recipe, fascinating details that make the experience of offering of "The Traveling Soup Pot"
all the more savory. Here indeed are fabulous gourmet and comfort food classic soups for every
taste and budget. This edition is also spectacularly presented, with a special illustration of a Ford
Tri-Motor airplane from the Roaring 20's on the cover, carrying a wandering, giant covered soup
pot! Colored photos also decorate the chapters and further inspire the gourmet soup chef, amateur
or not.
Mac N' Cheese To the Rescue
Kristen Kuchar
Ulysses Press
P.O. Box 3440, Berkeley, CA 94703
9781612431680 $12.95 www.ulyssespress.com
Classic boxed macaroni and cheese mixes are the standard for Western comfort food, from
childhood, through college and young adulthood into old age. "Mac N' Cheese To the Rescue:
101 Recipes to Spice Up Everyone's Favorite Boxed Comfort Food" is a great collection of
multiple varieties of nourishing, tasty dishes that can be created starting from one humble boxed
mix of pasta and powdered cheese sauce. In the introduction, the author tells of three different
kinds of Macaroni and cheese mixes used in these tasty recipes: They include Regular Mac N'
Cheese, deluxe Mac N' Cheese, and Microwavable Mac N' Cheese. Basic preparation instructions
for each type of mac n" cheese are given, non specific to any one particular brand name.
Following are 8 chapters of over 100 recipes that feature a mac n' cheese packaged mix. Chapter
categories vary from Breakfast and Snacks and Appetizers to Vegetarian, Poultry and Fish, and
Beef, Lamb and Pork. Some of the imaginative entree titles are Carbonara Mac, Carolina Pulled
Pork, Vegetarian's Fiesta, Santa Fe Pepper Pasta, Mini Mac Burgers, Good Morning Mac N'
Cheese, and Oktoberfest Casserole. Recipes are simple, using ordinary grocery store stocked
ingredients, with step by step instructions. An example of the economy of effort is Superbowl
Mac which simply combines prepared boxed mac n' cheese, shredded cooked chicken, chopped
celery, Gorgonzola cheese, and prepared buffalo sauce. Presto, you have a Superbowl favorite
delicacy transformed into a handy, tasty meal in a bowl. Another favorite for vegetable lovers is
Spinach Artichoke Mac, which adds canned or frozen artichoke hearts, spinach and roasted red
peppers to prepared mac n' cheese, plus jarred Alfredo sauce, Asiago and Parmesan cheeses, and
seasonings. Delicious transformations are achieved with only a few added tasty touches. "Mac N'
Cheese To the Rescue" is a lovely gift to the college bound graduate, the parent of a young
family, or the thrifty single adult who cooks just a little. It is a truly versatile sampler that helps to
reinvent and jazz up a basic beloved food.
OMG that's Paleo?
Juli Bauer, author
Scribe Publishing Company
29488 Woodward, Suite 426, Royal Oak, MI 48073
9780985956240 $24.99 www.scribe-publishing.com
"OMG that's Paleo?: 100 Recipes That Will Make You Say "OMG"" is a creative collection of
fabulous recipes arranged in categories including Poultry, Beef, Pork, Fish/Seafood, Slow
Cooker, Sweet & Savory Breakfasts, Baked Goods, 5-Ingredient Meals, Side Dishes, Snacks, and
Desserts. Whether or not you agree with Ms. Bauer's Paleo food theory, there is no doubt these
are some delicious and healthy, easy, creative recipes. For example, how about Blackberry
Glazed Grilled Pork Chops? Or Grilled Swordfish with Peach and Avocado Salsa? For breakfast,
try Caramelized Onion Frittata, or Blueberry Waffels with Blueberry Maple Compote. Using the
slow cooker, try Pork Green Chile, Mushroom Gravy Slow Cooked Rump Roast, or Pumpkin
Seed Salsa Chicken Stew. A favorite chapter is 5-Ingredient Meals, offering Slow Cooked Salsa
Chicken, Bangers and Mash, and Savory Steak and Mushrooms. For Side Dishes we have Bacon
Pecan Brussels Sprouts, or Apple and Jicama Salad. For Snacks there are recipes for Pumpkin
Granola, smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs, and Herb Carrot Fries with Roasted Garlic Dip. There
are even desserts, such as Chocolate Coffee Caramel Bars, Swett Potato Brownies with Vanilla
Bean Ice Cream and Caramel Cheesecake Bars. "OMG That's Paleo?" can open your senses to a
whole new palate and healthful eating style. There are also creative answers to such questions as
how do you eat a no bun lifestyle? Answer: substitute plantains. For those who have adventurous
palates, or those who simply would like to try a healthy change in cooking, Recipes are
no-nonsense, step by step, use standard measurements, and recognizable ingredients. "OMG
That's Paleo?" offers a great jumping off point.
Cooking for the Specific Carbohydrate Diet
Erica Kerwien
Ulysses Press
PO Box 3440
Berkeley CA 94703-3440
9781612431741, $15.95, www.ulyssespress.com
Trying to balance carbs perfectly is often a curious struggle for many. "Cooking for the Specific
Carbohydrate Diet" is a health-driven cookbook from Erica Kerwien who shares her recipes
designed for making the most of a specific diet designed for perfectly balancing the
carbohydrates for their diet that might require more comprehensive measuring. With full color
photos and recipes for every preference of taste and diet, "Cooking for the Specific Carbohydrate
Diet" is an excellent addition to general cookbook collections, highly recommended.
The Betty Crocker Big Book of Cakes
General Mills editorial staff
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9781118364031 $19.99 www.BettyCrocker.com
"The Betty Crocker Big Book of Cakes" is a classic contemporary cake sampler. Providing
inspired, easy to prepare cakes in 200 recipes embellished with over 100 full color photographs
of finished cakes, "The Betty Crocker Big Book of Cakes" is a dazzling rainbow of selections,
complete with a special section with illustrations that shows how to bake, assemble, ice, and
decorate cakes. Cakes are divided into basic cakes, one-layer cakes, tube and loaf cakes, fancy
layer cakes, rolled, pudding, and upside-down cakes and cheesecakes, party decorated cakes, and
tiny cakes. Some stunning recipe examples are Banana-Cinnamon Cake, Caramel Snickerdoodle
Cake, Grasshopper Cake, Heavenly Almond-Apricot Layer Cake, Peanut Butter Silk Cake,
Chocolate Tiramisu Cake, Key Lime Coconut Cream Cake, Boozy Bourbon Chocolate
Cupcakes, and Caramel Cappucino Cheesecake. For extra spice there is Chipotle Devil's Food
Mini Cupcakes and Zinfandel Wine Cupcakes. Extra fun is packed into small servings in Mini
Royal Fruitcakes and Espresso Petits Fours, not to mention Chocolate-Almond Cheesecake Bites.
Standard measurements are used, with a metric conversion guide at the end. With streamlined
instructions, nutritional information, plus extra instruction pages on baking, frosting, and
decorating cakes, there is nothing left out except the heavenly aroma of your chosen cake baking
project. "The Big Book of Cakes" from Betty Crocker is a signature collection that lives up to the
established reputation for attainable excellence in home kitchens.
Cocktails
Eliq Maranik
H. F. Ullmann
c/o 60 Cycle Media Relations LLC
38 High Avenue, Nyack NY 10960
www.ullmann-publishing.com
9783848002849, $19.99, www.amazon.com
The cocktail party is an American social tradition. Now even the most novice of cocktail party
hosts or hostesses can provide their guests with an amazing variety of cocktails thanks to
"Cocktails: Fancy & Delicious Recipes For All Tastes", a superbly illustrated, 160 page
compendium of knowledgeably compiled by cocktail expert Eliq Maranik. Beginning with
essential instructions on getting started (including equipment and utensils, terminology,
ingredients for the home bar, glassware, and mixing/serving techniques), "Cocktails: Fancy &
Delicious Recipes For All Tastes" showcases basic cocktail recipes, then goes on with
instructions for frozen cocktails, shots and shooters, long drinks, hot drinks and after-dinner
cocktails, and even non-alcoholic cocktails ideal for designated drivers and teetotalers. Of special
note is the section providing a Cocktail Recipe Index for spirits and for liqueurs. Thoroughly
'user friendly' from beginning to end, "Cocktails: Fancy & Delicious Recipes For All Tastes" is
very highly recommended for personal and community library reference collections.
The Sports Shelf
All the Babe's Men
Eldon L. Ham
Claire Noble
Potomac Books, Inc.
22841 Quicksilver Drive
Dulles, VA 20166-2012
97815979382, $29.95, www.potomacbooksinc.com
The big score, perhaps sealing victory. "All the Babe's Men: Baseball's Greatest Home Run
Seasons and How They Changed America" discusses the place of the home run, not just in the
game of baseball but how it has taken its place in America's culture and psyche. From the
evolution of the game of baseball which put so much focus on the big time home run hitters and
the problems it has wrought, author Eldon L. Ham also touches on home run society in American
life. "All the Babe's Men" is a strongly recommended addition to sports history collections with a
side focus on sociology.
The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Plugged In
Keith Veronese
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Drive
Raleigh, NC 27614
9781605490472 $16.95 www.twomorrows.com
Plugged In: Comics Professionals Working in the Video Game Industry is an anthology of brief
yet enlightening interviews with comic professionals (especially writers) who have been called
upon to apply their storytelling skills in video gaming. From Trent Kaniuga (CreeD) and his
years working on Blizzard Entertainment's wildly popular game Diablo III, Elliot Maggin's
candid discussion of early Atari, and much more, Plugged In is equally fascinating to comic book
fans, video game enthusiasts, and anyone interested in tips, tricks, and insights about working in
the field. A wealth of black-and-white photographs of key pop culture comics, games, and game
screenshots round out this fascinating anthology! "The money, day-to-day, is much better in
video games, though, but I've also found the bar for quality is much lower. That is, I had to clean
up a lot of truly lousy writing in video games, where to even break in the door in mainstream
comics the quality bar is far, far higher."
Astronaut Academy: Re-Entry
Dave Roman
www.yaytime.com
First Second Books
175 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10010
9781596436213 $9.99 www.firstsecondbooks.com
Astronaut Academy: Re-Entry is an off-the-wall wacky black-and-white graphic novel of sci-fi
silliness. The charm of the exuberant, loosely anime-inspired art lies in its simplicity. At the
futuristic space academy, young recruit Hakata Soy has to deal with an ill-tempered roommate,
an attractive yet hot-headed Fireball champion, and the depredations of a horrifying, heart-eating,
shape-shifting monster! Fortunately, most people in Astronaut Academy have an extra heart or
two to spare, but running completely out of hearts is as good as Game Over! How can the
Academy's students protect their hearts from a greedy fiend with a talent for mimicking the
person one adores the most? Despite its fiendish villain, Astronaut Academy: Re-Entry is a
family-friendly adventure, filled with laugh-out-loud humor for readers of all ages. "'What is
going on here? Looks romantic! You guys know the rules. No falling in love on school property.
We're gonna have to send you to detention! Your hearts will be safer in there than out here.' 'A
space hero sentenced to detention? How can this be?!'"
The Audiobook Shelf
Laughter Therapy
Hosted by Peter Sagal
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781622310388 $22.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com
Peter Sagal hosts Laughter Therapy: A Comedy Collection for the Chronically Serious is an
audio CD anthology of vignettes from some of the funniest comedians ever to appear on National
Public Radio. Featuring Mel Brooks, Drew Carey, Stephen Colbert, Mo Rocca, Phyllis Diller,
Joan Rivers, and more, Laughter Therapy is the perfect doldrums antidote and a wonderful
giftbook! Highly recommended. 2 CDs, 2 hours.
Halo Silentium
Greg Bear
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427229083, $29.99, www.macmillanaudio.com
The universe hangs in the balance if knowledge is not found. "Halo Silentium: The Forerunner
Saga" is the third book in Greg Bear's series based on the popular science fiction first person
shooter series. The librarian and the Ur-Didact, two souls amongst cosmic forces that care not but
for the destruction of the Flood. For fans of the lore behind the series, "Halo Silentium" is
presented here as an audiobook branching over six CDSs, unabridged with a run time of 7.5
hours, well worth considering for science fiction audiobook fans.
Total Control
David Baldacci
Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
9781619696235, $29.98, www.HachetteAudio.com
Power always tempts, grabbing from all sides. "Total Control" is the audiobook version of the
breakneck political thriller from David Baldacci as he tells the story of Sidney Archer dealing
with the sudden disappearance of her husband in a plane crash and the betrayal that seems to be
lurking for her at every single corner. Read by Jonathan Marosz, "Total Control" is acclaimed
and very much recommended reading. 17 hours across 14 CDs.
Fly Away
Kristin Hannah, author
Susan Ericksen, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427212665 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com
Fly Away (13 CDs, 16 hours) is a haunting, unabridged audiobook about the bonds between
women - as best friends, and as mother and daughter. When Tully Hart's closest, lifelong friend
Kate Ryan dies, she tries to keep her deathbed promise to Kate, by looking after Kate's
sixteen-year-old daughter Marah Ryan. But Marah Ryan is severely grief-stricken, and turns to a
young man who is entangled with a dangerous crowd. Tully's own mother, Dorothy, harbors a
terrible secret from her past, yet only by confessing can she become the mother that Tully needs -
and perhaps teach Tully to be the surrogate mother that Marah needs. Deep, complex characters
populate this emotional novel, ideal for public library audiobook collections, and enhanced with
a reading group guide read by the author. Also highly recommended is the unabridged audiobook
"Secrets from the Past" (9 CDs, 11.5 hours) by Barbara Taylor Bradford, about photojournalist
famous for covering Middle East wars who discovers that her late father's archives hold stunning
secrets of jealousy, betrayal, passion, and glimpses into both the brightest and darkest sides of
humanity.
Rush
Maya Banks, author
Adam Paul, narrator
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781469280233 $19.99 www.brillianceaudio.com
Intended strictly for mature audiences, Rush: Book One of the Breathless Trilogy is the
unabridged audiobook adaptation of tense and sensual novel. Gabe is one of the wealthiest and
most powerful men there is, yet his desires are kindled when he sees Mia, the beautiful woman
that his best friend's little sister has grown up to be. His attraction is heavily reciprocated, and
what begins as a torrid sexual affair gradually evolves into something stronger. But their new
relationship hangs by a thread, vulnerable to rumors and betrayal! Rush is afire with passion, and
a choice pick for connoisseurs of steamy love stories. 10 CDs, 11 hours 18 min.
Sleight of Hand
Phillip Margolin, author
Jonathan Davis, narrator
Harper Audio
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
9780062265043 $34.99 www.harpercollins.com
Superbly performed by Jonathan Davis, Sleight of Hand is the unabridged audiobook adaptation
of a suspenseful mystery by former criminal defense attorney and Distinguished Northwest
Writer Award winner Phillip Margolin. The plot involved a labyrinthine setup, to frame a
millionaire for the murder of his young wife - a woman who signed a prenuptial agreement that
guaranteed her twenty million dollars for ten years of fidelity, and disappeared shortly before the
couple's tenth anniversary. Private investigator Dana Cutler is locked in a battle of wills with
ruthless defense attorney, professional hit man, and sexual predator Charles Benedict in this
electrifying case. Justice hangs in the balance in this riveting novel, also available as a
downloadable audiobook, or in print and ebook formats. 7 CDs, 8 hours.
The Old Turk's Load
Gregory Gibson, author
R.C. Bray, narrator
The Mysterious Press
c/o Grove/Atlantic, Inc.
841 Broadway, 4th floor
New York, NY 10003
9781622310104 $29.95 www.groveatlantic.com
The debut crime novel of author and "Bookman's Log" book trade blogger Gregory Gibson, The
Old Turk's Load is quick-paced saga set during the Newark riots of 1967. A stash of high-octane
heroine has seemingly disappeared; cops, criminals, and everyone in between is frantically
searching for five million dollars' worth of drugs, in an escalating and deadly chase. Richard
Mundi, a disaffected Manhattan real estate developer, is at the center of the crisis - he hopes to
use the ill-gotten capital to revive his business empire, but his rebellious lesbian daughter, a
Hell's Kitchen private eye barfly, an all-but-suicidal postal clerk with throat cancer, two closeted
gay hoodlums, and more off-the-wall wild characters have other ideas! A thrilling period piece,
The Old Turk's Load is a welcome addition to both private and public library audiobook
collections with an emphasis on high action. 5 CDs, 6 hours.
Tantor Media, Inc.
2 Business Park Road, Unit 2
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
www.tantor.com
Tantor Media continues its grand tradition of offering superbly performed, unabridged audiobook
adaptations of popular titles. BBC foreign correspondent Kim Ghattas' "The Secretary: A Journey
with Hillary Clinton from Beirut to the Heart of American Power" (9781452612188, $49.99, 12
CDs, 15 hours) is a biographical examination of Hillary Clinton during her years as Secretary of
State for the administration of President Barack Obama. Yet "The Secretary" reaches beyond the
static events and crises that have beset Clinton, examining broader issues about America's place
in the world, and the true extent of its power. A bonus, exclusive interview with Kim Ghattas is
included! Beth Kery's "Because You Are Mine" (9781452611594, $39.99, 9 CDs, 11.5 hours) is
a sensual romance with mature themes, about a forbidden yet undeniable love. Spicy and
surprising, "Because You Are Mine" lulls the reader into a realm of passion that will not be
denied. Erika Robuck's "Hemingway's Girl: A Novel" (9781452612065, $39.99, 8 CDs) is a
historical novel set in Key West during the Great Depression. While struggling to support her
family, the impoverished Mariella Bennet finds herself inextricably drawn to two men - the
notoriously excessive, tempestuous, and famous writer Hemingway, and World War I veteran
Gavin Murray, who works to build the Overseas Highway. Tense and dramatic, "Hemingway's
Girl" thrives with vivid characterization and real-life dilemmas. Carrie Vaughn's "Kitty Rocks
the House" (9781452608495, $39.99, 6 CDs, 7.5 hours) is part of the popular Kitty Norville
fantasy-thriller series. A rival werewolf in Denver challenges Kitty's authority. Kitty's pack might
schism at the worst possible time, as the machinations of the manipulative vampire Roman and
his Long Game begin to close in. Wild and exciting, "Kitty Rocks the House" is a choice pick for
fans of the modern monster genre! Ruth Downie's "Semper Fidelis: A Novel of the Roman
Empire" (9781452611808, $39.99, 8 CDs, 9.5 hours) is a blend of historical novel and
intrigue-laden mystery. Ruso and his barbarian wife Tilla are the only one brave enough to
investigate the rash of injuries and deaths occurring in Britannia's imperial army. Could the
decorated centurion Geminus be the one responsible for the grisly fates of his own soldiers? Ruso
and Tilla must uncover the truth quickly, for Hadrian is soon coming to visit! All five
audiobooks are superb picks for leisure listening or library collections.
The Music CD Shelf
Roots, Shoots & Leaves
More Like Trees
BBE Records
c/o Press Junkie PR
9901 Brodie Lane, Suite 160, PMB 221
Austin, TX 78748
$15.49 CD / $8.99 MP3 www.amazon.com
Roots, Shoots & Leaves is the debut album of London-based acoustic band More Like Trees,
known for their inventive music style that they dub "Strum & Bass". The tracks of Roots, Shoots
& Leaves approximately trace the group's development and evolution together. A lively mix of
flamenco, drum and bass, classical, hip hop, folk, and more, Roots, Shoots & Leaves bounds
with the energy and emotion of vivacious adventure. The tracks are "Trees", "Chilly Water",
"The Night", "Wickless Frickness", "Lady Lay", "For Sure", "Modern Urban Day Hippie",
"Pieces", "Rubin", "Cake", "All Red", "Down to the River" and "Once".
Rabbits' Motel
Woody Pines
Privately Published
c/o Hearth Music PR
www.hearthmusic.com
$TBA CD / $7.00 Digital www.woodypines.com
Despite the cartoon rabbits on its cover, Rabbits' Motel isn't expressly a children's album, but
rather a set of original songs drawn from America's roots and cultural heritage. From the spark
uniting a hobo and his beloved bride, to dreams of a better future, to the shattering pain of
heartbreak, Rabbits' Motel infuses the flavor of the countryside into its evocative music. The
tracks are "Like I Do" (2:09), "Railroad Vine" (2:34), "Train That Carried My Gal From Town"
(2:45), "Who Told You" (2:31), "Heart Breaker" (3:37), "Love the Way My Baby" (4:10), "Hobo
and his Bride" (4:57), "Keep Your Hands Off Her" (2:46), "Addicted to Blood" (1:56), and
"Close Your Eyes and Dream" (2:13).
Funkincense
CSC Funk Band
Electric Cowbell Records
www.electric-cowbell.com
$TBA CD / $7.92 MP3 www.amazon.com
Funkincense lives up to its title as a brief but lively album of heady funk music. The soulful
strains quickly induce the listener to follow the groove of the beat, in this riotous, rapturous jam.
A must-have for true-blue funkadelic fans! The tracks are "Catcher's Mitt" (4:14), "Funkincense"
(4:05), "Make Your Mind Up" (3:13), "Choom Gang" (5:53), "You Say" (4:44), "Ticket to Cabo"
(3:38), "Klip Winger" (6:17), and "Versace Nachos" (4:46). Also highly recommended is the
emotionally moving Electric Cowbell album "Prudence" ($18.93 CD / $5.94 MP3, 38 min.)
consisting of six toe-tapping Afropop songs by the vivacious Cheick Hamala Diabate.
The DVD Shelf
Holistic Orcharding with Michael Phillips
Chelsea Green Publishing Company
85 North Main Street, Suite 120
White River Junction, VT 05001
9781603583961 $49.95 www.chelseagreen.com
Orchard expert Michael Phillips presents Holistic Orcharding, a guide on DVD for amateur and
professional orchardists alike. The focus is upon using holistic orcharding techniques that
promote healthy trees and delicious fruit while avoiding harmful and expensive pesticides.
Phillips covers how to enhance natural diversity and defenses, including beneficial insects,
appropriate companion plants, birds, wildlife, and even microscopic fungi that work together to
form an ecosystem within the orchard. Essentially, Holistic Orcharding is about harnessing the
power of nature rather than fight tooth and claw against it. Holistic Orcharding also takes the
viewer on a year-long journey through Phillips' orchard, with easy-to-follow demonstrations of
horticultural grafting and pruning. A "must-see" for fruit tree or orchard owners all skill and
experience levels! 5 hours.
Choral Vocal Technique
Sabine Horstmann
GIA Publications
7404 South Mason Avenue
Chicago, IL 60638
78514709015, $24.95, www.giamusic.com
Good vocal performance takes much practice to attain a proper level of mastery. "Choral Vocal
Technique: Evoking Sound: The Choral Warm Up" discusses the techniques of Frauke
Haaseman and her teachings for vocal technique, carried on by Sabine Horstmann as her primary
student. Discussing how to develop these techniques for choirs, vocal ranges, and much more.
An invaluable reference and resource for vocal teachers or those who are trying to hone their own
personal technique, "Choral Vocal Technique" is a must for musical and educational DVD
collections.
A Fine Romance
Judi Dench & Michael Williams
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598289282, $59.99, www.acornonline.com
Romance rarely makes sense. "A Fine Romance" is a compilation of this British comedy set
around true life couple Judi Dench and Michael Williams as they explore this unusual romance
that lingers on between them in classic and quirky British comedy, winning many awards. For
fans of the genre, the entire series is compiled over 4 discs and with subtitles for the hearing
impaired. "A Fine Romance" is strongly recommended for DVD collections with an international
flavor.
Captivated
Media Talk 101
PO Box 540, Worcester, PA 19490
727985014968, $19.95, www.visionvideo.com
There's far more media in today's world than any one person can consume. "Captivated: Finding
Freedom in a Media Captive Culture" discusses the overabundance of distractions and medias in
today's culture. Television, movies, video games, internet, they all surround us in what may be a
virtual prison. The documentary hopes to explore the concept without condemning modern
technology and encouraging viewers to come to understand how submerged we are. "Captivated"
is a strong addition to social issues DVD collections, not to be missed. Color, 107 minutes. Also
from Vision Media in DVDs is "Weaving Life: The Life and Death of Peacemaker"
(727985015071, $19.95) discussing the works of ten humanitarian workers who worked towards
a better Afghanistan before tragic assassinations took them. Color, 58 minutes. "African
Christianity Rising" (72798515095, $29.99) tells of the surge of presence that Christianity is
finding on the African continent and what this means for the society as a whole, containing two
parts, Ghana and Zimbabwe. Color, 150 minutes. "Briars in the Cottonpatch: The Story of
Koinonia Farm" (727985014913, $19.95) tells the tale of an integrated community in Southwest
Georgia that flourished despite the threats that surrounded them before the rise of the Civil
Rights Era. Color, 57 minutes.
The Gardening Shelf
Garden Railway Basics
Kevin Strong
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle
Waukesha, WI 53186
9780890248355, $19.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com
A railway in the garden can be a very strong appeal to those who want a new appeal in their
gardens beyond gnomes. "Garden Railway Basics: From Concept to Construction to Upkeep"
discusses how to better build and maintain a garden railway system. From making a good
blueprint and plan for one's ambitions, getting everything working, and letting it endure the
elements for years to come, "Garden Railway Basics" contains plenty of full color photography
and advice, a vital addition to any gardening or railroading hobbyist collection.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
1100 Words You Need to Know, sixth edition
Murray Bromberg and Melvin Gordon
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard
Hauppauge, NY 11788
9781438001661 $13.99 www.barronseduc.com
Now in its sixth edition with the addition of "The lighter touch 100" (silly one-line jokes using
these words that every English speaker should know), 1100 Words You Need to Know remains
as invaluable today as it was when first published 45 years ago. Organized in a day-by-day,
week-by-week format, 1100 Words You Need to Know is a consumable book offering simple
exercises to practice and enhance one's enriched vocabulary. A choice pick for high school
students preparing for the SAT or ACT, college students looking to broaden their command of
English, writers of all backgrounds, or those who are honing their command of English as a
second language, 1100 Words You Need to Know is enthusiastically recommended!
The Genealogy Shelf
Easy Family History, second edition
David Annal
Bloomsbury Press
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781408175705, $15.95, www.bloomsbury.com
Our family history doesn't have to be a needle in a haystack search. Now in its second edition,
"Easy Family History" is a guide for those who want to get started plotting out their genealogy
and family tree. Focusing on doing so through the ample archives of the UK with plenty of public
records to dig through and piece together one's history and tips from the professionals, "Easy
Family History" is a strong addition to any genealogy reference collection, highly
recommended.
Interior Design Shelf
Mike Holmes Kitchens & Bathrooms
Mike Holmes
Time Home Entertainment
c/o Goodman Media International
750 Seventh Avenue, 28th floor, NY, NY 10019
9781603209670, $21.95, www.amazon.com
Because of his widely popular television program in which he and his crew would come in a fix
other building contractors egregious mistakes, Mike Holmes is perhaps the most trusted building
contractor in the United States and Canada. Now he has produced a superbly illustrated, 256 page
compendium showcasing extraordinary ideas and concepts for building and/or remodeling
kitchens and bathrooms. More than just a collection of wonderfully visualized ideas, "Mike
Holmes Kitchens & Bathrooms" has created a genuine instruction manual beginning with a
chapter on 'Getting Started', followed invaluable chapters on hiring and working with building
contractors, having environmentally friendly results, and a great deal more. Enhanced with the
inclusion of a useful glossary and index, "Mike Holmes Kitchens & Bathrooms" is ideal for the
novice homeowner and should be considered a high value addition to personal, professional, and
community library Interior Design & Construction reference collections and supplemental
reading lists.
The American History Shelf
1863 Lincoln's Pivotal Year
Harold Holzer & Sara Vaughn Gabbard, editors
Southern Illinois University Press
1915 University Press Drive
SIUC Mail Code 6806
Carbondale, IL 62901
9780809332465, $32.95, www.siupress.com
With the conflict of the Civil War in full blast, 1863 was an important turning point. "1863:
Lincoln's Pivotal Year" explores this year in the presidency of Abraham Lincoln, the year that he
released the Emancipation Proclamation, among other events through the year, with major events
in the Civil War, the famous Gettysburg Address among other events. Ten scholars come
together and offer an educated breakdown of this year for Lincoln in many avenues. "1863" is an
important addition to history collections focusing on the American Civil War.
The World History Shelf
A History of Ireland in 100 Objects
Fintan O'Toole
Royal Irish Academy
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213
www.100objects.ie
9781908996152 $50.00 www.isbs.com
Punctuated with a striking full-color, full-page photograph of each entry, A History of Ireland in
100 Objects is not a standard history book, but rather a museum-like portrayal of items carefully
selected for their gravitas in representing a crucial snapshot of Irish history. The exhibits range
from a bell believed to have once belonged to Saint Patrick, to coins from the 1280s and 1460, to
a decommissioned AK-47 rife from 2005 (one of many deadly weapons put "beyond use", paving
the way for historic power-sharing between Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party, and a
possible pathway out of the seemingly endless bloodshed that has been "The Troubles" of
Northern Ireland). Thoughtfully written and thoroughly accessible to readers of all backgrounds,
A History of Ireland in 100 Objects is both a fascinating browse and a repository of historical
highlights made tangible, highly recommended.
One Day in December
Nancy Stout
Monthly Review Press
146 West 29th Street, Suite 6W
New York, NY 10001
9781583673171, $28.95, www.monthlyreview.org
It wasn't all guns and glory that brought Cuba its revolution. "One Day in December: Celia
Sanchez and the Cuban Revolution" tells the story of one of the minds behind the period, who is
often ignored by history. Telling her life story and taking records from Official Cuban archives,
Nancy Stout provides a comprehensive biography of Sanchez and her work during and after the
Cuban revolution. "One Day in December" is a strong addition to women's studies and
international history collections.
The Environmental Studies Shelf
Conservation Planning
F. Lance Craighead and Charles L. Convis Jr.
ESRI Press
380 New York Street
Redlands, CA 92378-8100
9781589482630 $119.95 www.esri.com/esripress
Conservation Planning: Shaping the Future is an anthology of writings from a broad variety of
ecology scientists about using the latest research and technology to develop effective and
sustainable conservation plans for land management. Chapters include "Scale and conservation
planning", "Selecting species as targets for conservation planning", "Identification and mapping
of habitat cores", "Conservation planning to ensure viability of populations and
metapopulations", and much more. A handful of color charts and graphs illustrate this scholarly
and modestly technical repository of cutting-edge ideas, enthusiastically recommended especially
for college and professional reference shelves with a focus on environmental conservation. "Most
biological processes are complex and difficult to fully understand... Eath biological process is
unique, and so is each spatial modeling tool... Generally, it is a good practice to apply a series of
different models when exploring a biological process. With each model application, a deeper
understanding of the biological process is gained, and more informed decisions can be
made.
To Conserve Unimpaired
Robert B. Keiter
Island Press
2000 M St NW Suite 650
Washington, DC 20036
9781597266604, $35.00, www.islandpress.org
National parks are all too often taken for granted. "To Conserve Unimpaired: The Evolution of
the National Park Idea" discusses the history and future of the national park and how parks have
turned from nature preserves to tourist attractions, and the struggle to balance these ideas and
where their future lies. Touching on heritage, new strategies for conservation being developed
and much more, "To Conserve Unimpaired" is a strong addition any environmental studies and
law collection, enthusiastically recommended.
The Biography Shelf
Judy Garland
Anne Edwards
Taylor Trade Publishing
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
9781589797871, $17.95, www.rowman.com
People are complex creatures, and often so very difficult to understand. "Judy Garland" is a
biography of the famed Hollywood starlet, as Anne Edwards seeks to show a more complete
picture of a woman who struggled to serve her family, sought other artistic endeavors such as
poetry, in spite of her own demons which Edwards holds get all too much attention when
discussing Garland. "Judy Garland" is an enticing addition to biography collections focusing on
the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Between Torture and Resistance
Oscar Lopez Rivera
PM Press
PO Box 23912
Oakland, CA 94623
9781604866858, $15.95, www.pmpress.org
Political prisoners are still taken by the United States, and for what? "Between Torture and
Resistance" is the story of Oscar Lopez Rivera, a Puerto Rican leader and activist who has been
held behind bars since 1981 and is scheduled for release in 2027. Telling how he got into
activism and the difference he made, and how this led to his incarceration, "Between Torture and
Resistance" is a strong addition to biography and American issues collections, highly
recommended.
The Wisconsin Shelf
Travel Wild Wisconsin
Candice Gaukel Andrews
University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, 3rd Floor, Madison, WI 53711
9780299291648 $24.95 www.uwpress.wisc.edu
"Travel Wild Wisconsin: A Seasonal Guide to Wildlife Encounters in Natural Places" has been
aptly described as "a year-long scavenger hunt through the seasons in search of Wisconsin's most
interesting creatures!" Beginning with a wildlife treasure map of Wisconsin showing where to
seek and sight loons, sandhill cranes, gray wolves, monarch butterflies, tundra swans, sturgeon,
greater prairie chickens, saw-whet owls, whooping cranes, American bison, Canada geese, and
bald eagles, "Travel Wild Wisconsin" offers multiple desirable observation destinations
organized by season and by months of the year into fifteen chapters. Black and white photo
illustrations and maps and diagrams add to the guidebook narrative. This creative travel nature
guide could be subtitled "Where the Wild Things Are (in Wisconsin)," or maybe "True Life
Encounters," hearkening back to the 50's Disney true lie adventures. Here are some great nature
sightings and observation projects and proposals for interested Wisconsin wildlife explorers and
nature lovers. An added feature is the Appendix: How to Help Wildlife in Wisconsin. This very
important, respectful treatise on linking with our natural habitat and fellow creatures is sure to
appeal to green Wisconsin lovers everywhere.
Ox Herding in Wisconsin
Richard Quinney
Borderland Books
University of Wisconsin Press
1930 Monroe Street, Third Floor
Madison, WI 53711-2059
9780983517429, $20.00, www.uwpress.wisc.edu
Who knew you could learn so much by moving cattle? "Ox Herding in Wisconsin" is a blend of
daybook, parable, and memoir from Richard Quinney who touches on the Buddhist nature of his
life and finding his way to a more spiritual divination of life through the act. Connecting the
seemingly unrelated ideas with a good deal of humor about life and living, "Ox Herding in
Wisconsin" is a choice read of wit and wisdom, highly recommended.
The Best Specimen of a Tyrant
Thomas Doherty
University of Iowa Press
100 Kuhl House
119 West Park Road
Iowa City, IA 52242-1000
9781609381462, $20.00, www.uiowapress.org
Mental health has come so far in the past hundred years. "The Best Specimen of a Tyrant: The
Ambitious Dr. Abraham Van Norstrand and the Wisconsin Insane Hospital" discusses the
foundation of Wisconsin's first mental hospital, headed by Norstrand after he returned home to
the state after earning a sour reputation during the Civil War. Telling the story of the man as well
as the first few mental hospitals, "The Best Specimen of a Tyrant" is a strong addition to general
and mental health history collections, highly recommended.
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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