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Internet Bookwatch

Volume 32, Number 4 April 2022 Home | IBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Writing/Publishing Shelf Social Issues Shelf
American History Shelf World History Shelf Education Shelf
Science Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf Computer Shelf Art Shelf
Native American Studies Shelf Philosophy Shelf Money/Finance Shelf
Business Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf
Metaphysical Studies Shelf General Fiction Shelf Historical Fiction Shelf
Literary Fiction Shelf Romantic Fiction Shelf Western Fiction Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Poetry Shelf
Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf Audiobook Shelf Library CD Shelf
Library DVD Shelf Political Science Shelf Biography Shelf
Psychology Shelf Architecture Shelf Interior Design Shelf
Photography Shelf Martial Arts Shelf Sports Shelf
Woodworking Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Gardening Shelf
Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Nautical Shelf Self-Help Shelf
Criminology Shelf Holocaust Studies Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

Mind Over Media: Propaganda Education for a Digital Age
Renee Hobbs
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.wwnorton.com
9780393713503, $32.95, PB, 368pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Over-Media-Propaganda-Education/dp/0393713504

Synopsis: Propaganda and disinformation is inescapable. It has become ubiquitous and everywhere in this modern era of social media and the internet.

Media literacy educators have always insisted that we are both creators and receivers of media messages. The truth of this is even more apparent in today's digital environment, with children and adults alike participating in a ubiquitous, nonstop stream of social media. Clearly, students and their parents need the tools to interpret news and information critically -- not just for school but for life in a "post-truth" world, where the lines blur between entertainment, information, and persuasion.

With the publication of "Mind Over Media: Propaganda Education for a Digital Age" media expert and academician Renee Hobbs demonstrates how a global perspective on contemporary propaganda enables educators to stimulate both the intellectual curiosity and the cultural sensitivities of students. Replete with classroom and online learning activities and samples of student work, "Mind Over Media" also provides a state-of-the-art look at the theory and practice of propaganda in contemporary society, and shows how to build learners' critical thinking and communication skills on topics including computational propaganda, content marketing, fake news, and disinformation.

Critique: The constant and daily avalanche of misinformation, propaganda, fake news, and outright lies that simply inundates social media forums and certain cable television channels. It has gotten so bad that it has become a major threat to the continuance of our traditional American democracy, and in the present pandemic, our very lives and the lives of our loved ones. That is why "Mind Over Media: Propaganda Education for a Digital Age" by Professor Renee Hobbs is not only timely but essential. While especially and unreservedly recommended for highschool, community, college, and university library Propaganda/Misinformation collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for students, academia, political activists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Mind Over Media: Propaganda Education for a Digital Age" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.75) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Tantor Audio, 9798200780860, $39.99, Digital Download).

Editorial Note: Renee Hobbs is an internationally-recognized authority on digital and media literacy education. She founded the Harrington School of Communication and Media at the University of Rhode Island and is Director of its Media Education Lab. Hobbs also co-founded the NAMLE (National Association for Media Literacy Education), and is the creator of the first national teacher education program in media literacy at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She won the Media Literacy Education Meritorious Service Award from NAMLE in 2015, is the author of 10 books, and over 150 scholarly articles on digital and media literacy. Her book, Mind Over Media: Propaganda Education in a Digital Age, won the 2021 PROSE Awards of Excellence from the American Association of Publishers (AAP) in Social Sciences and Education Practice & Theory.

A Factotum in the Book Trade: A Memoir
Marius Kociejowski
Biblioasis
www.biblioasis.com
9781771964562, $18.95, PB 360pp

https://www.amazon.com/Factotum-Book-Trade-Marius-Kociejowski/dp/1771964561

Synopsis: A memoir of a life in the antiquarian book trade, "A Factotum in the Book Trade" by antiquarian bookseller Marius KocieJowski is a readily recognized journey for all dedicated bibliophiles between the shelves, behind the counter, into the overstuffed basement, and up the spine-stacked attic stairs of their own neighborhood bookshop.

From his childhood in rural Ontario (where at the village jumble sale Marius bought poetry volumes for their pebbled-leather covers alone), to his all-but-accidental entrance into the trade in London, and then on to a career when it turned into a poet and travel writer, Marius recounts his life among the buyers, sellers, customers, and literary nobility (the characters, fictional and not) who populate these bookshop places all bibliophiles love to browse through.

Cataloging their passions and pleasures, oddities and obsessions, "A Factotum in the Book Trade" is a memorable journey through their lives, and a story of the serendipities and collisions of fate, the mundane happenings and indelible encounters, the friendships, feuds, losses, and elations that characterize the business of books -- and, inevitably, make up an unforgettable life story.

Critique: An absolute 'must' for the personal reading lists of all authors, publishers, booksellers and dedicated bibliophiles, "A Factotum in the Book Trade" is an absorbing, entertaining, informational, and inherently fascinating combination of memoir and book trader insights and commentaries. One of those life stories that will linger on in the mind and memory of the reader long after the book itself has been finished and set back upon the shelf, this paperback edition of Marius Kociejowski's "A Factotum in the Book Trade" should be on the Biography/Memoir shelf of every community, college, and university library.

Editorial Note: Marius Kociejowski, born 1949, is a poet, essayist and travel writer. Among the books he has written are The Street Philosopher and the Holy Fool - A Syrian Journey, and a sequel, The Pigeon Wars of Damascus published by Biblioasis in 2010. His first collection of poetry, Coast (Greville Press, 1990) was awarded the Cheltenham Prize. His most recent books are God's Zoo: Artists, Exiles, Londoners (Carcanet, 2014), The Pebble Chance: prose & feuilletons (Biblioasis, 2014), Zoroaster's Children and other travels (Biblioasis, 2015) and Collected Poems (Carcanet, 2019). He has recently completed another travel book, The Serpent Coiled in Naples.

The Healing Power of Storytelling
Annie Brewster, MD, author
Rachel Zimmerman, author
https://www.rachelzimmerman.net
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
www.northatlanticbooks.com
9781623176693, $17.95, PB, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Power-Storytelling-Personal-Narrative/dp/1623176697

Synopsis: When Harvard-trained physician Dr. Annie Brewster was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, she realized firsthand that the medical system to which she'd devoted her entire career was failing patients. The experience was dehumanizing. Her doctors weren't listening. And the confusion, fear, and shame she felt around her diagnosis was preventing her from truly healing, claiming her story, and living her fullest, richest life.

The fact is, doctors can give you a life-changing diagnosis, but they're not equipped to help you deal with the inner fallout: the confusion, anxiety, trauma, and dread that comes after "I have some bad news." Here, Dr. Brewster shows how writing your own unique healing story can help you process what comes next -- to come to terms, create new ways to thrive, and even reclaim your personal power amid fear, change, and uncertainty.

With the publication of "The Healing Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Narrative to Navigate Illness, Trauma, and Loss" Dr. Brewster and veteran journalist Rachel Zimmerman each share their own personal stories, acting as expert guides as you move forward on your healing journey.

With exercises, reflections, writing prompts, and stories from other real patients, Dr. Brewster and Zimmerman show how you can: Process the difficult emotions that come with life-changing diagnosis; Move beyond being the hero of your own story to become the author of your own story; Craft your narrative and share it in whatever medium speaks to you: music, audio, art, or writing; Integrate a traumatic health event into a new and evolving identity; Use applied storytelling techniques to strengthen connections between you and your loved ones (and even your care providers); Cultivate resilience to move forward amid uncertainty and fear.

Critique: An extraordinary, informative, insightful, compassionate, and ultimately inspiring combination of personal memoirs and 'insider' instruction with respect to the medical community, "The Healing Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Narrative to Navigate Illness, Trauma, and Loss" is particularly germane and timely reading for anyone having to deal with a serious illness -- especially in the era of global pandemic and over crowded hospitals. Unreservedly useful, practical, and encouraging, "The Healing Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Narrative to Navigate Illness, Trauma, and Loss" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and medical school library Health/Medicine collections in general, and Self-Help/Healing Trauma curriculum studies lists in particular. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of medical personnel and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Healing Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Narrative to Navigate Illness, Trauma, and Loss" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Editorial Note #1: Dr. Annie Brewster is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Harvard Medical School and a practicing physician at Massachusetts General Hospital. She was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2001. She started recording patient narratives in 2010 and founded Health Story Collaborative (HSC) in 2013. She maintains an informative website at www.healthstorycollaborative.org and can be followed on @HealthStoryCo

Editorial Note #2: Rachel Zimmerman has been a journalist, writer, and editor for more than two decades, including as a staff writer for The Wall Street Journal, a health reporter for WBUR, and co-founder of the blog CommonHealth. She has been published in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Slate, and more. A Brooklyn native, Zimmerman lives in Cambridge, MA, with her family. She has a website at https://www.rachelzimmerman.net and can be followed on @zimmerman082

The Original Bambi
Felix Salten, author
Translated & introduced by Jack Zipes
Illustrated by Alenka Sottler
Princeton University Press
www.press.princeton.edu
9780691197746 $24.95 hc / $9.48 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Original-Bambi-Story-Life-Forest/dp/0691197741

Synopsis: A new, beautifully illustrated translation of Felix Salten's celebrated novel Bambi - the original source of the beloved story.

Most of us think we know the story of Bambi - but do we? The Original Bambi is an all-new, illustrated translation of a literary classic that presents the story as it was meant to be told. For decades, readers' images of Bambi have been shaped by the 1942 Walt Disney film - an idealized look at a fawn who represents nature's innocence - which was based on a 1928 English translation of a novel by the Austrian Jewish writer Felix Salten. This masterful new translation gives contemporary readers a fresh perspective on this moving allegorical tale and provides important details about its creator.

Originally published in 1923, Salten's story is more somber than the adaptations that followed it. Life in the forest is dangerous and precarious, and Bambi learns important lessons about survival as he grows to become a strong, heroic stag. Jack Zipes's introduction traces the history of the book's reception and explores the tensions that Salten experienced in his own life - as a hunter who also loved animals, and as an Austrian Jew who sought acceptance in Viennese society even as he faced persecution.

With captivating drawings by award-winning artist Alenka Sottler, The Original Bambi captures the emotional impact and rich meanings of a celebrated story.

Critique: Now in a brand new English translation by Jack Zipes with black-and-white illustrations by Alenka Sottler, The Original Bambi presents Felix Salten's classic story for all ages about a young deer who must learn to survive the dangers of forest life. A serious-minded allegory about natural life cycles, the importance of learning to stand on one's own, and accepting that no living being is all-powerful, The Original Bambi is as impactful and relevant today as it was when first published in 1923. Highly recommended, especially for school and public library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that The Original Bambi is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.48).


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

From Book to Bestseller
Penny C. Sansevieri
Privately Published
9798485487201, $12.99, PB, 216pp

https://www.amazon.com/Book-Bestseller-Promotion-Branding-Longterm/dp/B09PHJV86W

Synopsis: It's easy to get caught up in writing, and the other daily demands of life. But the result is often a rushed, ineffective, and amateur approach to book marketing.

With the publication of "From Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author's Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success", book marketing expert Penny Sansevieri draws upon her years of experience and expertise to provide self-published and traditionally published authors and instructive guide and 'how to' manual specifically is designed to help them to: Get laser focused on what matters; Tighten up and finesse an author brand; Generate more traction with an author platform; Reach out to more bloggers and get more reviews.

"From Book to Bestseller" also shows: How to pitch a book to its intended readership; Easy ways to build your social media; Build a more consistent reader review funnel; Easy ways to build your street team; Develop a return buyer network; Consistently sell more books!

In fact, the goal of "From Book to Bestseller" is to help authors that feel they've been at this for a while and have done "all the book marketing things" without really seeing much progress.

Critique: A complete and comprehensive course in book marketing in a single volume, "From Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author's Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success" is an ideal DIY combination of instructional guide and 'how to' manual. Impressively 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "From Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author's Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success" is essential for the novice author discovering that they are the primary person responsible for bringing their book to the attention of their intended readership.

It also has immense value for even the more experienced author as a compendium of 'real world practical' tips, tricks and techniques for successfully marketing books regardless of their subject matter or genre. It should also be a part of every college and university Creative Writing Class & Workshop curriculum so that aspiring writers can learn what to do with what they have written and published.

While a critically important addition to personal, professional, community, and university library Writing/Publishing collections, "From Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author's Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success" is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Editorial Note #1: Penny Sansevieri is the CEO and founder of Author Marketing Experts, Inc. (AME) and an Adjunct Professor at NYU. She is also a best-selling author in her own right and an internationally recognized book marketing and media relations expert. Her company is one of the leaders in the publishing industry and has developed some of the most cutting-edge book marketing campaigns. She maintains an informative website at: www.amarketingexpert.com

Editorial Note #2: It should be noted that as the editor-in-chief of the Midwest Book Review I have had a long, friendly, and successful cyberspace pen-pal and professional relationship with Penny over the years. She is one of the most competent, knowledgeable and reliable book publicists and marketing directors I've ever had the privilege of working with. I fully endorse everything she has incorporated into her newest publication "From Book to Bestseller: The Savvy Author's Guide to Book Promotion, Smart Branding, and Longterm Success".

A Sense of Dread
Neal Marshall Stevens
Michael Wiese Productions
12400 Ventura Blvd., #1111, Studio City, CA 91604
www.mwp.com
9781615933334, $26.95, PB, 194pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sense-Dread-Getting-Horror-Screenwriting/dp/1615933336

Synopsis: "A Sense of Dread: Getting Under the Skin of Horror Screenwriting" by veteran horror film writer and editor Neal Marshall Stevens features three main sections.

"A Sense of Dread" provides a detailed examination of the biological, psychological, and cultural bases of fear. What fears do we share with animals? What fears are uniquely human? What fears have we learned from our culture? From our families? From our experiences growing up? And what, exactly, is the difference between fear and dread?

"A Sense of Dread" then combines these ideas to explore the roots of human fear and apply them to storytelling for the screen. "The Toolbox of Dread" outlines the techniques for creating terror on the page. A wide array of horror subgenres are also explored, including why they exist, and what challenges each presents to the horror screenwriter.

"A Sense of Dread" also puts Theory into Practice, using examples from his own work to demonstrate how to apply his "toolbox" and the principles of "Dread" to put real scares into the pages of a screenplay.

Critique: A veritable 'how to' manual and textbook for aspiring and practicing screenwriters in the horror film genre, "A Sense of Dread: Getting Under the Skin of Horror Screenwriting" is an authoritative guide by one of the most experienced and successful screen writers in the genre. Comprehensive and thoroughly 'user friendly' in content, organization and presentation, "A Sense of Dread: Getting Under the Skin of Horror Screenwriting" is an essential and core addition to professional, community, film school, college, and university library Theatre/Cinema/TV instructional reference collections.

Editorial Note: Neal Marshall Stevens has been a working professional in the entertainment industry for over thirty years. He began his career at Laurel Entertainment, where he wrote multiple episodes of the anthology series Monsters. Neal worked as senior story editor for Laurel's productions of several miniseries (Stephen King's The Stand, Stephen King's The Langoliers, and Stephen King's The Golden Years), and made-for-TV movies (Precious Victims, The Vernon Johns Story, and several others). He then worked for Charles Band's Full Moon Entertainment, specializing in direct-to-video productions. Over the course of his association with Full Moon, he worked on over 50 produced motion pictures, including six entries in the popular Puppetmaster series. He also wrote and directed the feature Stitches, and has worked with Charles Band to produce several recent web series, including Trophy Heads and Ravenwolf Towers. Among other projects, Neal sold his original screenplay Deader to Dimension Pictures, which was subsequently produced as Hellraiser: Deader, and wrote the screenplay for Dark Castle's feature remake of Thirteen Ghosts.


The Social Issues Shelf

Reclaiming Your Community
Majora Carter
Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc.
1333 Broadway, Suite 1000, Oakland CA, 94612
www.bkconnection.com
9781523000296, $22.95, PB, 216pp

https://www.amazon.com/Reclaiming-Your-Community-Neighborhood-Better/dp/1523000295

Synopsis: How can we solve the problem of persistent poverty in low-status communities? With the publication of "Reclaiming Your Community: You Don't Have to Move out of Your Neighborhood to Live in a Better One", Majora Carter argues that these areas need a talent-retention strategy, just like the ones companies have. Retaining homegrown talent is a critical part of creating a strong local economy that can resist gentrification. But too many people born in low-status communities measure their success by how far away from them they can get.

Carter, who could have been one of them, returned to the South Bronx and devised a development strategy rooted in the conviction that these communities have the resources within themselves to succeed. She advocates measures such as: Building mixed-income instead of exclusively low-income housing to create a diverse and robust economic ecosystem; Showing homeowners how to maximize the long-term value of their property so they won't succumb to quick-cash offers from speculators; Keeping people and dollars in the community by developing vibrant "third spaces" -- restaurants, bookstores, and places like Carter's own Boogie Down Grind Cafe.

"Reclaiming Your Community: You Don't Have to Move out of Your Neighborhood to Live in a Better One" is a profoundly personal book in which Carter writes about her brother's murder, how turning a local dumping ground into an award-winning park opened her eyes to the hidden potential in her community, her struggles as a woman of color confronting the "male and pale" real estate and nonprofit establishments, and so much more. It is a powerful rethinking of poverty, economic development, and the meaning of success.

Editorial: An extraordinary story of struggle and success that can be a blue print template for the urban revitalization and neighborhood salvage efforts in other major cities, "Reclaiming Your Community: You Don't Have to Move out of Your Neighborhood to Live in a Better One" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library City Planning & Urban Development collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be note for students, academia, professionals, political activists, governmental policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "City Planning & Urban Development" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Majora Carter is senior program director at Groundswell, a nonprofit that builds community power through equitable clean energy initiatives, as well as an urban revitalization strategy consultant, real estate developer, MacArthur Fellow, and Peabody Award - winning broadcaster. Carter founded and led the nonprofit environmental justice solutions corporation Sustainable South Bronx from 2001 onward before entering the private sector in 2008 with the Majora Carter Group. In 2017, she launched the Boogie Down Grind Cafe, the first commercial third space in the Hunts Point section of the South Bronx since the mid-1980s.


The American History Shelf

The Defoliation of America
Amy M. Hay
The University of Alabama Press
PO Box 870380, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0380
www.uapress.ua.edu
9780817321086, $49.95, HC, 328pp

https://www.amazon.com/Defoliation-America-Chemicals-Citizens-Protests/dp/081732108X

Synopsis: With the publication of "The Defoliation of America: Agent Orange Chemicals, Citizens, and Protests", Professor Amy M. Hay profiles the attitudes, understandings, and motivations of grassroots activists who rose to fight the use of phenoxy herbicides, or Agent Orange chemicals as they are commonly known, in various aspects of American life during the post-WWII era.

Professor Hay focuses her analysis on citizen responses to illuminate how regulatory policies were understood, challenged, and negotiated, contributing to a growing body of research on chemical regulatory policies, risk society, and hazardous chemicals. This informative study uncovers new understandings about the authority of the state and its obligation to society, the role of scientific authority and expertise, and the protests made by various groups of citizens.

First introduced in 1946, phenoxy herbicides mimic hormones in broadleaf plants, causing them to "grow to death" while grass, grains, and other monocots remain unaffected. By the 1950s, millions of pounds of these chemicals were produced annually for use in brush control, weed eradication, forest management, and other agricultural applications. Pockets of skepticism and resistance began to appear by the late 1950s, and the trend intensified after 1962 when Rachel Carson's Silent Spring directed mainstream attention to the harm modern chemicals were causing in the natural world.

It wasn't until the Vietnam War, however, when nearly 19 million gallons of Agent Orange and related herbicides were sprayed to clear the canopy and destroy crops in Southeast Asia, that the long-term damage associated with this group of chemicals began to attract widespread attention and alarm.

Using a wide array of sources and an interdisciplinary approach, Professor Hay significantly contributes to the robust fields of chemical toxicity, regulation, environmental management, and public health. This study of the scientists, health and environmental activists, and veterans who fought US chemical regulatory policies and practices reveals the mechanisms, obligations, and constraints of state and scientific authority in mid-twentieth-century America. Hay also shows how these disparate and mostly forgotten citizen groups challenged the political consensus and contested government and industry narratives of chemical safety.

Critique: Enhanced for academia with the inclusion of a one page listing of Figures, forty-four pages of Notes, a twenty-four page Bibliography, and a twelve page Index, "The Defoliation of America: Agent Orange Chemicals, Citizens, and Protests" is an exceptionally well researched, organized and presented study that must be considered an essential and core addition to college and university library Agricultural Science and Biological/Chemical Warfare collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted the personal reading lists of students, academia, environmental activists, governmental policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Defoliation of America: Agent Orange Chemicals, Citizens, and Protests" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $$47.45).

Editorial Note: Amy M. Hay is associate professor in the Department of History at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is also a contributor to Hazardous Chemicals: Agents of Risk and Change, 1800 - 2000 and Environmental Change and Agricultural Sustainability in the Mekong Delta.


The World History Shelf

A Historical Guide to Roman York
Paul Chrystal
Pen & Sword Books
c/o Casemate (US distribution)
www.casematepublishers.com
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781526781284, $42.95, HC, 328pp

https://www.amazon.com/Historical-Guide-Roman-York/dp/152678128X

Synopsis: Considering that York was always an important Roman city there are few books available that are devoted specifically to the Roman occupation, even though it lasted for over 300 years and played a significant role in the politics and military activity of Roman Britain and the Roman Empire throughout that period. The few books that there are tend to describe the Roman era and its events in date by date order with little attention paid either to why things happened as they did or to the consequences of these actions and developments.

"A Historical Guide to Roman York" by historian and author Paul Chrystal is different from the others in that it provides an informative context to what happened here in the light of developments in Roman Britain generally and in the wider Roman Empire. "A Historical Guide to Roman York" digs below the surface and gets behind the scenes to shed light on the political, social, and military history of Roman York (Eboracum), explaining, for example, why Julius Caesar invaded, what indeed was really behind the Claudian invasion, why was York developed as a military fortress, why as one of Roman Britain's capitals? Why did the emperors Hadrian and Severus visit the fortress?

Readers will also discover how and why Constantine accepted and projected Christianity from here, York's role in the endless coups and revolts besetting the province, the headless gladiators and wonderful mosaics discovered here, and why the Romans finally left York and Roman Britain to its own defense. These intriguing historical events are brought to life by reference to the latest local archaeological and epigraphical evidence, to current research and to evolving theories relating to the city's Roman treasures, of which can be seen in the Yorkshire Museum in York, or in situ.

Critique: Exceptionally well written and impressively informative, "A Historical Guide to Roman York" is still another truly extraordinary history from Paul Chrystal, and one that is enhanced with the inclusion of Maps; fourteen Appendices; a fourteen page section of captioned black-and-photographs; a twenty-three page Further Reading bibliography; a ten page General Index; and a two page Index of Places in York and Nearby. Fully and enthusiastically recommended masterpiece of original scholarship that is an essential and unique contribution to community, college, and university library Roman History and British History collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non- specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "A Historical Guide to Roman York" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Editorial Note: Paul Chrystal is the author of some seventy books published over the last decade, including recent publications such as Wars and Battles of the Roman Republic, Roman Military Disasters and Women and War in Ancient Greece and Rome. He is a regular contributor to history magazines, local and national newspapers and has appeared on BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service and on BBC local radio throughout Yorkshire and in Teesside and Manchester. He writes extensively for several Pen & Sword military history series including 'Cold War 1945 - 1991', 'A History of Terror' and 'Military Legacy' (of British cities).

Bar Kokhba
Lindsay Powell
Pen & Sword Books
c/o Casemate (US distribution)
www.casematepublishers.com
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781783831852, $34.95, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bar-Kokhba-Defied-Hadrian-Challenged/dp/1783831855

Synopsis: In AD 132 began the bloody struggle between two strong-willed leaders over who would rule a nation.

One was Hadrian, the cosmopolitan ruler of the vast Roman Empire, then at its zenith, who some regarded as divine; the other was Shim'on, a Jewish military leader in a district of a minor province, who some believed to be the 'King Messiah'. Their's is also the tale of the clash of two ancient cultures. One was the conqueror, seeking to maintain control of its hard-won dominion; the other was the conquered, seeking to break free and establish a new nation: Israel.

During the ensuing conflict known in history as the 'Second Jewish War', the highly motivated Jewish militia sorely tested the highly trained professional Roman army. The rebels withstood the Roman onslaught for three-and-a-half years (AD 132 - 136). They established an independent nation with its own administration, headed by Shim'on as its president. The outcome of that David and Goliath contest was of great consequence, both for the people of Judaea and for Judaism itself.

So, who was this insurgent Shim'on that is known today as 'Bar Kokhba'? How did Hadrian, the Roman emperor who built the famous Wall in northern Britain, respond to the challenger? And how, in later ages, did this rebel with a cause become a hero for the Jews in the Diaspora longing for the foundation of a new Israel in modern times? "Bar Kokhba: The Jew Who Defied Hadrian and Challenged the Might of Rome" describes the author Lindsay Powell's personal journey across three continents to establish the facts.

Critique: "Bar Kokhba: The Jew Who Defied Hadrian and Challenged the Might of Rome" deftly draws upon on archaeology, art, coins, inscriptions, militaria, as well as secular and religious documents as historian Lindsay Powell impressively and knowledgeably presents a truly fascinating and exceptionally informative account of the people and events at a crucial time in Roman and Jewish history. Of special note is a Foreword specially written by Eric H. Cline. Enhanced for academia and non-specialist general readers with the inclusion of Illustrations, Plates, Maps, a Chronology, a listing of Roman and Jewish Names, a five page listing of Places to Visit, a seven page Glossary, a three page listing of Place Names, thirty-seven pages of Notes, a two page Bibliography, and a fourteen page Index, "Bar Kokhba: The Jew Who Defied Hadrian and Challenged the Might of Rome", which is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) will prove to be a welcome and enduringly appreciated addition to personal, community, college, and university library Roman History and Jewish History collections.

Editorial Note: Historian and writer Lindsay Powell tells the stories of the important but under-reported personalities and events of history to complete our knowledge and understanding of the past. Lindsay has a particular passion for the military history of the Roman Empire. He scours ancient documents, inscriptions, coins and museums for stories, as well as archaeological, engineering, medical and scientific reports to reveal deeper truths.

He regularly contributes to Ancient Warfare and Ancient History magazines. His articles have also appeared in Military Heritage, Desperta Ferro and Strategy & Tactics, as well as on UNRV.com. His books have been published by Pen and Sword and Osprey Publishing. He is a member of the Classical Association and the Historical Writers' Association, as well as a Friend of The Vindolanda Trust. Lindsay's appearances include BBC Radio, British Forces Broadcasting Service, HistoryHit.TV and History Channel.

The Battle of Sekigahara
Chris Glenn
Frontline Books
c/o Pen & Sword Books
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781399014137, $42.95, HC, 216pp

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Sekigahara-Greatest-Bloodiest-Decisive/dp/1399014137

Synopsis: Sekigahara was the greatest samurai battle in Japanese military history. Japan had long been at civil war until brought under the rule of Oda Nobunaga, and then, following his death at the hands of a traitorous general, that of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It was Hideyoshi who completed the unification of Japan and ushered in a period of peace.

After Hideyoshi's death in 1598, a new power struggle emerged between those loyal to the Toyotomi, and those who supported the second most powerful warlord, Tokugawa Ieyasu. With Hideyoshi gone, Ieyasu made moves that brought the ire of a number of his contemporaries, and soon the entire country was divided into two great armies, East and West. Leading the loyalist cause was Ishida Mitsunari, who gathered a force of around 130,000 samurai, while the Tokugawa commanded just 80,000.

Both sides hurried to seize strategically vital highways and castles. These attacks and sieges culminated in the decisive Battle of Sekigahara. Fought on 21 October 1600, the battle lasted just six hours, but saw the deaths of an estimated 30,000 samurai, the destruction of a number of noble families and the creation of the Tokugawa Shogunate that was to rule Japan for 260 years of relative peace. The loyalist forces, despite their superior numbers and excellent battle formations, were defeated.

In his exploration of the battle and with the publication of "The Battle of Sekigahara: The Greatest, Bloodiest, Most Decisive Samurai Battle Ever", author and historian Chris Glenn reveals the developments that led up to the outbreak of war, the characters involved, how the battle itself unfolded, and the aftermath. The weapons and armor of the time are also fully explained, along with little known customs of the samurai and their warfare.

Critique: Informationally enriched for the reader with the inclusion of Illustrations, Maps, a thirteen page Sekigahara Timeline, a sixteen page Sekigahara: Who's Who, a six page Glossary, a one page Select Bibliography, and a five page Index, "The Battle of Sekigahara: The Greatest, Bloodiest, Most Decisive Samurai Battle Ever" is as inherently fascinating read as it is a superb work of definitive and comprehensive work of original scholarship. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99), "The Battle of Sekigahara: The Greatest, Bloodiest, Most Decisive Samurai Battle Ever" is an extraordinary, unique, and highly recommended addition to the personal reading list of students and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject of the Samurai in the context of Japanese history, as well as community, college, and university library Japanese Military History collections and supplemental studies curriculums.

Editorial Note: Chris Glenn is an Australian born Japan based bilingual radio DJ, TV presenter, narrator, MC, copywriter, author, columnist, lecturer, helicopter pilot and Japanese historian, specialising in samurai castles, battles, armor and weapons. His books include the English language "The Battle of Sekigahara" (Booklocker), Samurai Castle Bilingual Guide (Shogakukan), Ninja Bilingual Guide (Shogakukan), Naganuma Ryu Troop Movement Training Manual (Kindle) amongst others. Chris is dedicated to promoting and preserving Japans' long history, deep culture, traditions, arts and crafts.

Scanderbeg
A. K. Brackob
Histria Books
www.histriabooks.com
9781592110032, $39.99, HC, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Scanderbeg-Castriota-Resistance-Expansion-Fifteenth/dp/1592110037

Synopsis: Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistanceto Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe" by A. K. Brackob is a history of the struggle of the Albanian people led by George Castriota Scanderbeg to defend Europe against the assault of the Ottoman Turks. For a quarter of a century, from 1443 until his death in 1468, he used his military prowess to thwart the efforts of the most powerful Empire in the world at the time to subdue his tiny country.

One of the true heroes of the Middle Ages in Europe, the remarkable story of Scanderbeg remains little known outside of Albania. George Castriota defended Europe for a quarter of a century and, it can rightly be said, helped to save Western civilization from being overrun by Islam and suffering the same fate as the once mighty Byzantine Empire. "Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistanceto Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe" examines the genius and remarkable achievements of Scanderbeg who helped shape the identity of the Albanian people and reveals the important contribution this small but proud nation has made to European civilization.

Although the challenges have changed over the centuries, the clash of civilizations, which the history of the Albanian struggle to fend off the Islamic onslaught illustrates, continues today. As a result, it is all the more worth noting the contribution that this tiny land, led by Scanderbeg, made in the fight to preserve Western culture and civilization. Equally important is the example set by the Albanian people in ultimately harmonizing these two great civilizations.

Critique: With the publication of "Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistanceto Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe", A. K. Brackob rescues a significant figure of 15th Century European history from an undeserved obscurity. A masterpiece of original scholarship, "Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistanceto Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe" is enhanced with an informative Prologue and Epilogue, and a twenty-two page bibliography of Suggested Reading.

Exceptionally well organized, presented, and inherently fascinating study, "Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistance to Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe" is a unique and highly recommended addition to community, college, and university library Medieval European & Albanian History collections.

It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, historians, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Scanderbeg: A History of George Castriota and the Albanian Resistance to Islamic Expansion in Fifteenth Century Europe" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: A.K. Brackob has a Ph.D. in history from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is a specialist on the history of southeastern Europe during the Middle Ages and author of 'Mircea the Old: Father of Wallachia, Grandfather of Dracula'.

Target Rommel
Stephen Wynn
Pen & Sword Books
c/o Casemate (US distribution)
www.casematepublishers.com
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
9781399007122, $34.95, HC, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Target-Rommel-Attempts-Assassinate-Hitlers/dp/1399007122

Synopsis: Written from a German perspective, "Target Rommel: The Allied Attempts to Assassinate Hitler's General" is the story of the highly decorated and well respected General Erwin Rommel who was one of their biggest and brightest military assets. Rommel was a military strategist who thought 'outside of the box', a tactic which more than once either brought him an unexpected victory, or saved him from almost certain defeat. His reputation had been gained early in the Second World War, while commander of the 7th Panzer Division during the invasion of France, and as the commander of German forces during the North African campaign between 1941 and 1943.

Such was his influence not only as a military strategist but on the morale of the men who served under him, as well as that of the German public, that the British government decided it needed to make concerted efforts to try to capture or eliminate him, making Rommel the only German officer of the Second World War that the allied authorities were prepared to put such time, manpower and commitment into eliminating.

Two operations were put in to place to try to achieve this: Operation Flipper in November 1941, and Operation Gaff in July 1944. Both operations failed for different reasons, but just three months after the latter of the two operations, Rommel was dead, forced to commit suicide by Adolf Hitler for his part in the attempt to assassinate him on 20 July 1944. Such was the level of Rommel's popularity and importance that the Nazi authorities reported the cause of his death to be injuries sustained in an attack on his staff car by enemy aircraft. Indeed, it was only after the war that the truth behind his death was revealed.

Critique: A compelling and revelatory account of one of the lesser known events of World War II, and one with a particularly ironic conclusion when Adolph Hitler accomplished what the Allied Forces failed to achieve in two well planed attempts, "Target Rommel: The Allied Attempts to Assassinate Hitler's General" is an inherently fascinating read. Enhanced with the inclusion of historical photographs, and available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99), "Target Rommel: The Allied Attempts to Assassinate Hitler's General" is recommended as a core addition to community, college, and university library World War II Military Histories & Biographies collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Stephen Wynn is a retired police officer having served with Essex Police as a constable for thirty years between 1983 and 2013. His sons served five tours of Afghanistan between 2008 and 2013 and both were injured. This led to the publication of his first book, "Two Sons in a Warzone - Afghanistan: The True Story of a Father's Conflict", published in October 2010. Both of Stephen's grandfathers served in and survived the First World War, one with the Royal Irish Rifles, the other in the Mercantile Marine, whilst his father was a member of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps during the Second World War.


The Education Shelf

The Classroom Behavior Manual
Scott Ervin
ASCD
1703 North Beauregard Street. Alexandria, VA 22311-1714
www.ascd.org
9781416630784, $33.95, PB, 276pp

https://www.amazon.com/Classroom-Behavior-Manual-Relationships-Behaviors/dp/1416630783

Synopsis: While positive student behaviors are desired outcomes, "The Classroom Behavior Manual: How to Build Relationships with Students, Share Control, and Teach Positive Behaviors" is an instructive manual that concentrates on inputs.

How do you respond to difficult behavior in the moment when you know that punitive, compliance-based behavior management is so often ineffectual? What's the best way to prevent students from acting out in the first place? The path to success requires behavioral leadership, in which teachers strategically model and affirm the behaviors they want to see in students.

With the publication of "The Classroom Behavior Manual: How to Build Relationships with Students, Share Control, and Teach Positive Behaviors", behavior expert Scott Ervin calls on his two decades of experience and expertise to share the most effective procedures and strategies to foster positive, prosocial student behavior that supports learning, including ways to: Organize your physical classroom to support positive classroom management; Build positive teacher-student relationships; Share control with students in a way that best fosters their autonomy.

"The Classroom Behavior Manual: How to Build Relationships with Students, Share Control, and Teach Positive Behaviors" is a resource classroom teachers can return to again and again. Packed with more than 100 strategies and dozens of procedures and tools, teachers will learn how to respond to negative behaviors in non-punitive ways so that they can ensure all their students' school days are as calm, engaging, and educational as they possibly can be.

Critique: A compendium of informative insights, practical instructions, effective tips and techniques, "The Classroom Behavior Manual: How to Build Relationships with Students, Share Control, and Teach Positive Behaviors" is impressively well written, organized and presented. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $24.99), "The Classroom Behavior Manual: How to Build Relationships with Students, Share Control, and Teach Positive Behaviors" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, school district, college, and university library Contemporary Education instructional reference collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Scott Ervin has worked with extremely difficult, at-risk, abused, and neglected kids for more than two decades. He has served as a principal, superintendent, and discipline specialist. As a consultant and founder of Ervin Educational Coaching, he has traveled the country teaching parents and educators alike how to be calm and assertive with children. Ervin has also taught classroom management as an adjunct professor at Antioch University Midwest and as a visiting lecturer at Ohio University, University of Dayton, and Wright State University. He also writes the syndicated newspaper column, "Ask the Kid Whisperer." He maintains an informative website at: www.ervineducationalconsulting.com

Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities
Keith Storey, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Charles C. Thomas, Publisher
2600 South First Street, Springfield, IL 62704
http://www.ccthomas.com
9780398093808, $43.95, PB, 292pp

https://www.amazon.com/Systematic-Instruction-Functional-Students-Disabilities/dp/0398093806

Synopsis: With the publication of a newly updated and expanded third edition of "Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities", Keith Storey provides an overview of systematic instructional strategies and for the reader's benefit writes in a format so that teachers and other service providers can immediately put the information to use.

"Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities" specifically focuses upon systematic instruction for individuals with disabilities (school age and adults) and is generic across age groups as well as disability labels. It also focuses on improving instructional practices for students and adults with disabilities.

Practitioners may understand the importance of placing individuals in different settings (e.g., inclusive classrooms, supported employment sites) but not understand how to improve their skills once they are in that setting. "Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities" is intended to give teachers and other service providers the instructional skills for improving the skills of the individuals that they are serving.

The most unique feature of the text is that it is written specifically for practitioners in the field (teachers and adult service providers) as well as those in training rather than being written for other academics. An advantage of this new edition of "Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities" is that those preparing teachers and others can easily use it in methods courses as it covers instructional methodology that is seldom covered in detail in most texts.

College instructors will find the book a good choice for their classes based upon: the consistent format throughout the book; the "readability" of the book for students; the comprehensive coverage of systematic instruction; and the direct applicability to applied settings. Others providing instruction, supervision, and training to direct service providers will find "Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities" useful, such as those working in schools as well as those in transition and adult service settings.

Critique: Enhanced for academia with the inclusion of a fourteen page Appendix of Resources, a fourteen page Author Index, and a three page Subject Index, "Systematic Instruction of Functional Skills for Students and Adults with Disabilities" is an ideal textbook and especially recommended for professional, school district, college, and university library Special Education instructional reference collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Keith Storey was a Clinical Director at Juvo Autism and Behavioral Health Services in Oakland, California. He is also a Professor Emeritus at Touro University in Vallejo, California. He co-edited "Walking Isn't Everything: An Account of the Life of Jean Denecke" and has published over 100 articles in professional journals. His articles can be accessed at Researchgate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Keith_Storey). His academia page is at: https://tu-ca.academia.edu/KeithStorey, His Researchgate page is at: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Keith_Storey. He can be followed on Instagram at keith.storey.books


The Science Shelf

The Carriers
Anne Skomorowsky
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street, New York, NY 10023-7015
http://cup.columbia.edu
9780231197663, $28.00, HC, 280pp

https://www.amazon.com/Carriers-Fragile-Heredity-Scientific-Discovery/dp/0231197667

Synopsis: A tiny mutation on the X chromosome can shape a family's history. Passed down from a "carrier" parent to a child, fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and autism. Beyond that (and a rarity among genetic disorders) some fragile X carriers not only transmit the mutation but also experience related conditions themselves. In such cases, carriers can have tremors, infertility, and psychiatric disorders that complicate raising children with fragile X syndrome -- and all too often, they suffer in silence.

"The Carriers: What the Fragile X Gene Reveals About Family, Heredity, and Scientific Discovery" investigates this common but still little-known genetic condition and its life-altering consequences.

Psychiatrist and academician Anne Skomorowsky reveals how this disorder afflicts families across generations, telling the stories of the mothers and grandparents of fragile X patients and considering how genes interact with family dynamics. She interweaves the personal narratives and family histories of the people affected by fragile X disorders with clear and accessible explanations of the science behind them. Skomorowsky unpacks the latest research on the fragile X mutation and explores the history of its discovery. She highlights the roles of women as carriers, caregivers, and researchers who have made astonishing scientific breakthroughs over the last three decades.

Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, and enhanced with an espically informative Foreword by pediatric professor and Fragile X researcher Randy J. Hagerman, "The Carriers: What the Fragile X Gene Reveals About Family, Heredity, and Scientific Discovery" is essential reading for fragile X families, including those just learning they are carriers, and for all professional and non-specialist general readers with an interested in the complexities of heredity, the ethical dilemmas of genetic medicine, and the relationship between genes and personality.

While an essential and unreservedly recommended addition to community, college, university library Genetics collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for medical students, academia, medical professionals, and the general public that "The Carriers: What the Fragile X Gene Reveals About Family, Heredity, and Scientific Discovery" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.39).

Editorial Note #1: Anne Skomorowsky is a clinical instructor in psychiatry at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine and attending psychiatrist at NYU Langone Hospital. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, and Slate.

Editorial Note #2: Randi J. Hagerman is a distinguished professor of pediatrics at the University of California Davis Medical Center and director of the Fragile X Research and Treatment Center at the MIND Institute, where she holds an endowed chair in fragile X research.

NASA Missions to Mars
Piers Bizony
Motorbooks
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780760373149, $50.00, HC, 196pp

https://www.amazon.com/NASA-Missions-Mars-History-Explore/dp/0760373140

Synopsis: Space exploration has always been about pushing boundaries, but perhaps the achievement which has most piqued a sense of possibility has been the exploration of Mars. Beginning with Soviet and American flybys in the early 1960s that were part and parcel of the Space Race, with the publication of "NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet", space historian Piers Bizony continues with complete coverage of the Viking 1 and 2 missions of 1975 - 1976. Bizony also traces NASA's acclaimed rover program, describing the development, technologies, mission histories, and achievements of the rovers Sojourner, Opportunity, Spirit, and Curiosity -- all on the 25th anniversary of their first landing.

Comprised of simply awe-inspiring photographic images, "NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet" book includes: An engaging and complete history of Mars exploration; A treasure trove of imagery from the NASA archives, including photos and cartography beamed home, artworks and concept drawings created during development phases, as well as photography created to document testing phases; A glimpse of future plans for Mars exploration and habitation; Coverage of orbiters sent to the red planet by not only NASA but by space agencies from Russia, India, Japan, Europe, China, and the UAE; and a two-sided 24-inch gatefold.

Humankind's fascination with Mars can be traced back to prewar science fiction. While the billions of dollars and ingenious innovations have allowed us incredible views from more than 51 million miles away, no less incredible are the insights these missions, hardware, and scientists have provided into our universe - and our own planet. "NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet" is a complete illustrated history of those efforts.

Critique: A coffee-table style book (12.13 x 1 x 12.13 inches), "NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet" is a unique, informative, and beautifully presented volume that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Space Flight/Solar Exploration, and Astronautical Science collections in general, and Astronomy/Mars supplemental curriculum studies lists in particular. Librarians should also note that "NASA Missions to Mars: A Visual History of Our Quest to Explore the Red Planet" would make an excellent Memorial Fund acquisition selection.

Editorial Note: Piers Bizony is an experienced multimedia professional who has written about science and the history of technology for a wide variety of publishers worldwide, and has undertaken major projects for the media departments at NASA and ESA. He has also gained substantial experience within the film and television industries. The author of Quarto's Moonshots, The Art of NASA, NASA Space Shuttle: 40th Anniversary, and other titles, Bizony also worked closely with the family of Stanley Kubrick, in conjunction with Warner Bros. and fine art publishers Taschen on a large-format book about the making of 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The Skies Above
Dennis Mersereau
Mountaineers Books
1001 SW Klickitat Way, Suite 201, Seattle, WA 98134-1161
www.mountaineersbooks.org
9781680515558, $19.95, PB, 232pp

https://www.amazon.com/Skies-Above-Clouds-Everyday-Phenomena/dp/1680515551

Synopsis: Written by self-professed weather geek and trained meteorologist Dennis Mersereau, "The Skies Above: Storm Clouds, Blood Moons, and Other Everyday Phenomena" is designed to inspire equal parts amazement and curiosity. Accessible science, illuminating illustrations, and stunning photography bring the meteorological world to life. From basics such as weather fronts and types of precipitation to more unusual occurrences like polar vortexes, meteor showers, solar eclipses, and the spectacular mammatus clouds that signify a supercell thunderstorm, Mersereau tracks key phenomena across the seasons and demystifies celestial events visible to the naked eye but still enigmatic to most. He also delves into how climate change affects weather, forecasts, and other events, such as devastating wildfires and historic hurricanes churning across the Atlantic Ocean.

Critique: Comprehensive and informative, exceptionally well written and organized, "The Skies Above: Storm Clouds, Blood Moons, and Other Everyday Phenomena" provides readers with insights and understandings of the processes and events that are in the atomosphere,. Events and processes which not only reduces anxiety produced by raucous storms by understanding what is happening and why, but instills a stronger and more meaningful appreciation of the beauty of days both stormy and calm weather. While especially recommended for highschool and community library Weather Science collections, it should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Skies Above: Storm Clouds, Blood Moons, and Other Everyday Phenomena" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: After studying meteorology in college, Dennis Mersereau went off to write for the Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang and Gawker's weather vertical, The Vane, as well as for Popular Science, Mental Floss, Forbes, and The Weather Network. He also teamed up with survival experts to write The Extreme Weather Survival Manual (Outdoor Life, 2015). He maintains an informative website at www.damweather.com and can be followed on Twitter @wxdam

Selman's The Fundamentals of Imaging Physics and Radiobiology, tenth edition
Victor White, Ph.D., RT (R)
Charles C. Thomas, Publisher
2600 South First Street, Springfield, IL 62704
http://www.ccthomas.com
9780398093181, $69.95, HC, 608pp
9780398093198, $69.95, ebook

https://www.amazon.com/Selmans-Fundamentals-Imaging-Physics-Radiobiology/dp/0398093180

Synopsis: Now in its tenth edition, "Selman's The Fundamentals of Imaging Physics and Radiobiology" by Victor White is the continuation of a seminal work in radiation physics and radiation biology first published by Joseph Selman, MD, in 1954 by Charles C Thomas, Publisher, Ltd., Springfield, IL.

Many significant changes have been made in this tenth edition. Color photographs and new illustrations have been provided for several existing chapters and for the new chapters in this edition. Revisions and updates have been completed for Chapters 1 through 28, whereas Chapters 29 to 33 are all new. The overall style of Doctor Selman is still present, but, with any revision, the style of the present author is also present. In essence, the author's raison d'etre in revising this book was to better reflect current radiology practice and to honor the work of Doctor Selman.

Topics discussed in this textbook deal with the physics of x-radiation, the biological interaction of radiation with matter, and all aspects of imaging equipment and technology commonly found in the modern radiology department. The chapter on computed tomography (CT) has been heavily revised and updated. Protective measures regarding radiation safety and radiation hazards for workers and patients are thoroughly discussed and new chapters on dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound (US), fusion and molecular imaging have been added.

This new tenth edition of "Selman's The Fundamentals of Imaging Physics and Radiobiology" will be especially helpful to students about to take the ARRT (R) registry examination, but it is not a registry review book per se, and will also serves as a good overview of radiologic imaging physics for radiographers and other medical professionals.

Critique: In addition to an informative Preface and Introduction, this new tenth edition of "Selman's The Fundamentals of Imaging Physics and Radiobiology" is enhanced for academia, students and practitioners with the inclusion of a ten page Appendix (Answers to Problems), a ten page Bibliography, and a thirty page Index. While also available in a digital book format from the publisher (ebook, 9780398093198, $69.95), "Selman's The Fundamentals of Imaging Physics and Radiobiology" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, college, and university library Radiology & Ultrasound collections and supplemental curriculum textbook lists.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Unlock Your Macro Type
Christine Hronec
Mariner Books
www.marinerbooks.com
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
195 Broadway, New York, NY, 10007
www.harpercollins.com
www.harperaudio.com
9780358576624, $28.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Unlock-Your-Macro-Type-Understand/dp/0358576628

Synopsis: When it comes to weight control, one-size-fits-all diets simply don't work, and neither does counting calories alone. Biochemical Engineer and fitness expert Christine Hronec has discovered that the key to fat loss and feeling your best is eating the optimum ratio of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fat) for your unique body.

Through years of coaching and research, Hronec has pinpointed five macro types, a bio-individual nutritional blueprint based on your body type and carb tolerance. Rooted in science and backed by real-world results, "Unlock Your Macro Type" reveals: The secret code of fat, and why you need to eat fat to burn fat; Why drastic carb-cutting can backfire for many macro types; The essential macronutrient most people don't get enough of each day; The single biggest factor that dictates how to eat for your macro type.

Featuring quizzes and tailor-made menus, recipes, and workouts, Hronec's personalized plan for maximum health and weight control is designed to get you the best results based on your body, your metabolism, and your goals.

Critique: "Unlock Your Macro Type: Identify Your True Body Type, Understand Your Carb Tolerance, Accelerate Fat Loss" by Christine Hronec is thoroughly 'real world practical' and thoroughly 'user friendly' in commentary style, organization and presentation. Enhanced for the reader with an informative Epilogue (Macross for Life), a five page listing of References, a nine page General Index, and a six page Recipe Index, "Unlock Your Macro Type" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Health & Medicine collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Unlock Your Macro Type" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Harper Audio, 9780358669814, $28.99, CD.)

Editorial Note: Christine Hronec is an award-winning chemist and three-time champion fitness competitor, nutrition, and exercise expert, Christine uses her background in serious science to develop her popular body type programs. Since founding her company in 2013, Christine has helped approximately 35,000 women transform their bodies and switch to a body-positive self-image. With over 21 million views on her YouTube channel, Christine has been a leader in the area of women's health since 2012. She's been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, Muscle and Fitness HERS, Muscle and Strength, Flex magazine, and has appeared on Extra TV, Fox News, and CBS.


The Cookbook Shelf

Betty Crocker Simply Delicious Diabetes Cookbook
Sara Kwak, editor
Tony Kubat, photography
Mariner Books
c/o Harper Collins Publishers
195 Broadway, New York, NY 10002
www.BettyCrocker.com
9780358659075, $24,99 PB, $12.99 Kindle, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Crocker-Simply-Delicious-Diabetes-Cookbook/dp/0358659078

Synopsis: The "Simply Delicious Diabetes Cookbook: 160+ Nutritious Recipes For Foods You Love"from Betty Crocker is a jam-packed collection of healthy new recipes that are diabetic friendly. It is divided into 6 chapters including basics, breakfasts, light meals & snacks, salads and veggies, dinners, and sweet treats & refreshing drinks.

Recipes are presented with ingredients first with standard measurements, and carb choices highlighted at the top right, plus simple numbered sequenced steps for preparation. Nutritional information per serving is also listed at the end, to make conscientious dieting easier. Excellent, tempting color photos of nearly all recipes are provided, adding to flavor appeal.

Some tasty recipes include Sheet Pan-Roasted Summer Vegetables, Loaded BLT Avocado lettuce Wraps, Beef-Veggie Burgers with Honey-Horseradish Sauce, Gingersnap Apple Crisp Yogurt Bowl, Thai Peanut -Coconut Sauce, Coconut Curry Chicken, and Peach ice Cream. An emphasis on fresh fruits and veggies permeates recipes, plus different international flavors. A particularly delicious dessert recipe is the Banana-Cardamom Snack Cake, which has no added sugar. Unusual veggie treatments include the Parmesan Carrot Fries, and Roasted Asparagus with Mushrooms and Walnuts.

For international cooks, there is a handy Metric Conversion Guide on page 346.

Critique: Home chefs and families adapting their menus to the needs of diabetic consumers will greet this illustrated and kitchen cook friendly edition of "Simply Delicious Diabetes Cookbook" with unmitigated delight. Easy-to-use, and featuring a vast array of mouth-watering creations, "Simply Delicious Diabetes Cookbook" is a "must-have" for any household with a diabetic or pre-diabetic resident. Happy menu exploration and healthy cooking to all readers and fans!

Simply Plant Based
Vanita Rahman, MD
The Book Publishing Company
PO Box 99, Summertown, TN 38483
www.BookPubCo.com
9781570674044, $21.95, PB, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Plant-Based-Fabulous-Healthy/dp/1570674043

Synopsis: The simplest and most health-promoting diet is built on whole, plant-based foods that are low in fat, sugar, and sodium and high in fiber and nutrients. This is the ideal diet for fighting inflammation and avoiding chronic disease. But more than a diet, this is a lifestyle. And to be sustainable, the food must be delicious, interesting, and fun to eat.

"Simply Plant Based: Fabulous Food for a Healthy Life" by Dr. Vanita Rahman offers a smorgasbord of family friendly, satisfying options. When planning menus, family cooks can choose from Savory Kale Scones or Chocolate Chip Crepes for breakfast, Asian Noodle Soup or Chipotle Black Bean burgers for lunch, or Fettuccine Alfredo with Mushrooms or Veggie Lasagna for dinner. Or select from a diversity of innovative fare that includes Potato Panini, Cauliflower Wings, and Edamame Hummus, as well as international favorites, such as Baba Ghanoush and Aloo Gobi.

Eating healthy and dining well has never been easier. As a certified nutritionist, Dr Rahman also addresses nutritional concerns about plant\-based diets, including protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and soy estrogens. And as a practicing physician, cites health benefits such as weight loss; lowered blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol; reduced joint pain; and increased energy. Under her guidance, you'll experience an exciting kitchen adventure and a new lease on life.

Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated with full page color photographs of finished dishes, "Simply Plant Based: Fabulous Food for a Healthy Life" is a mouth watering treat to simply browse through one delicious page after another, in addition to 'cook friendly' listing of ingredients and preparation steps, each recipe also includes succinct advice for serving and storing that particular dish. Perfect for planning memorable, palate-pleasing, appetite satisfying, and healthy menus, "Simply Plant Based: Fabulous Food for a Healthy Life" will prove to be an immediately popular and prized addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cook book collections.

Editorial Note: Vanita Rahman, MD, is a board-certified physician in internal medicine. A member of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Dr. Rahman is the clinic director at the Barnard Medical Center in Washington DC where she conducts nutrition education programs, and provides patient care with an emphasis on plant-based nutrition.

Vegetariana: A Rich Harvest of Wit, Lore, & Recipes
Nava Atlas
Amberwood Press
www.TheVeganAtlas.com
9781737133407, $28.00, HC, 216pp

https://www.amazon.com/Vegetariana-Rich-Harvest-Lore-Recipes/dp/1737133407

Synopsis: First published in 1984, "Vegetariana" was one of the quirkiest entries in the field of hand-illustrated cookbooks. Now in its fourth edition (and for the first time entirely vegan) "Vegetariana: A Rich Harvest of Wit, Lore, & Recipes" by Nava Atlas is once again available for new readers to enjoy and original fans to rediscover.

While more than 170 easy recipes are at the heart of its pages, this newly updated and expanded edition of "Vegetariana" is much more than just another vegetarian cookbook -- it is an informative and entertaining sampler of literary quotations, folk wisdom, botanical lore, and historical anecdotes. So even if you don't like to cook, this is one cookbook that can be read in bed!

Taking her cues from her subjects, Nava Atlas animates the pages with whimsical pencil illustrations to create an unforgettable visual experience that will delight food lovers of all culinary persuasions. The quirky art and design of "Vegetariana" taps into a nostalgia both for beautifully illustrated books and simple, hearty food. This culinary compendium has a kind of soul and wit that "Vegetariana" became famous for.

Critique: A simple pleasure to simply browse through again and again, "Vegetariana: A Rich Harvest of Wit, Lore, & Recipes" by Nava Atlas is an ideal resource to plan palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, and truly memorable meals with. Simply stated, "Vegetariana: A Rich Harvest of Wit, Lore, & Recipes" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, family, and community library Vegetarian Cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: Nava Atlas has written (and often illustrated) many vegetarian and vegan cookbooks, including American Harvest, 5-Ingredient Vegan, Wild About Greens, Vegan Holiday Kitchen, and Vegan Soups and Hearty Stews for All Seasons. Nava also creates trade and limited edition visual books on women's issues, notably, The Literary Ladies' Guide to the Writing Life and Secret Recipes for the Modern Wife. She maintains two web sites: The Vegan Atlas (www.theveganatlas.com) and Literary Ladies Guide (www.literaryladiesguide.com).

Saveur: The New Classics Cookbook, expanded edition
Weldon Owen, Inc.
c/o Insight Editions
PO Box 3088, San Rafael, CA 94912
www.insighteditions.com
9781681887579, $40.00, HC, 656pp

https://www.amazon.com/Saveur-Classics-Cookbook-Expanded-Recipes/dp/1681887576

Synopsis: This new and expanded edition of "Saveur: The New Classics Cookbook" features more than 50 brand new recipes ranging from dishes that emphasize vegetables and plant-based diets to delicious burritos, calzones, and more -- all with the global flavors and international cuisines that are a hallmark of Saveur.

This masterful selection celebrates the brand's authority, heritage, and depth of worldwide culinary knowledge in what will become an indispensable and treasured guide for everyone who relishes authentic cooking performed at Saveur's standard of excellence.

Offering authentic, mouthwatering recipes for virtually every type of dish (from tapas and cocktails to salads, dumplings, one pot meals, and more), essential techniques, and practical advice, this thorough collection of recipes from the pages of Saveur represents a comprehensive foundation for any home cook looking for a go-to guide from a trusted source.

This culinary compendium also includes suggested menus for holidays and special occasions, illustrative sidebars that showcase groups of ingredients (such as the Mexican pantry, different varieties of tomatoes, what makes a good tagine) or provide easy-to-follow instructions for techniques (like how to crimp a dumpling or fold an empanada); and scores of gorgeous full-color photographs that bring the cuisine to life.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated with full color photos of finished dishes, and comprised of some 1,100+ recipes, as well as expert culinary advice, tips, and tales, this newly expanded edition of "Saveur: The New Classics Cookbook" is a savory delight to browse through and an inspirational pleasure to plan menus with. Simply stated, "Saveur: The New Classics Cookbook" is an elegant, substantional, and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: Weldon Owen is an imprint of Insight Editions, a publisher of illustrated books on food & drink, photography, music, and popular culture. Elegant and informative, their books showcase the best of art, photography, and design in exquisite presentations of the bookmaker's craft.

Berber&Q: On Vegetables
Josh Katz
Kyle Books
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
http://www.kylebooks.com
9780857839879, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Berber-Vegetables-grilling-roasting-slow-cooking/dp/085783987X

Synopsis: Eating vegetables doesn't need to be boring. In fact, it can be the most joyful and satisfying way to eat. Fresh vegetables (paired with bold flavors and cooked with care) can be made the hero of every dish. In "Berber&Q: On Vegetables" by Chef Josh Katz, there are countless options to cook every type of vegetable ranging from a quick scorch in the pan and a flash of heat from the grill, to a low and slow roast, as well as methods for how to season and flavor using simple marinades, dustings of spice and deliciously sweet and sour dressings.

Taking inspiration from his travels, from London to North Africa and to the Middle East, Josh's flavor combinations are unusual and create memorable dishes that everyone will enjoy. And with conventional cooking methods included for every dish, there is no reason not to try something new. "Berber&Q: On Vegetables" features over 100 recipes, providing endless possibilities for how to transform everyday vegetables into delicious, easy to prepare dishes that don't compromise on flavor.

Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout with the full page color photography of finished dishes, "Berber&Q: On Vegetables" is a pleasure and inspiration to browse through one palate-pleasing, appetite-satisfying recipe at a time. An ideal culinary resource for planning truly memorable menus with for any and all dining occasions, "Berber&Q: On Vegetables" is a welcome and recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library cookbook collections. It should be noted that "Berber&Q: On Vegetables" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99).

Editorial Note: Josh Katz has trained in some of the best kitchens in London including Galvin Bistrot de Luxe and Ottolenghi, before being appointed head chef (2010) at Made In Camden. Berber & Q, his first restaurant, opened in 2015 to universal plaudits. Berber & Q Shawarma Bar, Josh's second restaurant, opened on Exmouth Market in 2016. Widely recognized as an expert in live fire cookery and barbecuing technique, his food is influenced by the cuisines of North Africa across the Mediterranean basin and on to the Middle East.

The Gluten-Free Cookbook
Cristian Broglia, author
Ellie Smith, editor
Phaidon Press
65 Bleecker Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10012
www.phaidon.com
9781838663131, $49.95, HC, 432pp

https://www.amazon.com/Gluten-Free-Cookbook-Cristian-Broglia/dp/1838663134

Synopsis: Featuring 350 delicious and naturally gluten-free recipes drawn from the cuisine of more than 80 countries, "The Gluten-Free Cookbook" is a simply gorgeous and comprehensive compendium of recipes that spotlights everyday dishes illustrating the diversity of recipes that are deliciously gluten-free by design, rather than being reliant upon the use of special ingredients or substitutions.

Ranging from iconic dishes to much-loved regional foods, the global recipes in this culinary compendium include Summer Rolls (Vietnam), Shrimp & Grits (USA), Steak with Chimichurri Sauce (Argentina) , Stewed Fava Beans (Egypt), Pavlova (Australia), Vegetable Pakoras (India), and Vanilla Flan (Mexico), all of which are naturally without gluten. "The Gluten- Free Cookbook" highlights vegan, vegetarian, nut-free, and dairy-free options, along with easy-to-make 30-minute meals for those in a hurry.

Critique: Especially recommended for those who are on a gluten-free diet or who are simply looking to experiment with gluten-free cooking, "The Gluten-Free Cookbook" is an ideal resource and a distinct pleasure to plan memorable menus with. A nicely illustrated and thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' compendium of step-by-step recipes for palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, and wheat-free dishes for every breakfast, lunch, and dinner dining occasion, "The Gluten-free Cookbook" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collection.

Editorial Note: Cristian Broglia started his culinary career in his hometown of Parma, Italy, before his desire to discover new cultures, recipes, and ingredients led him to cook throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, and North America. He was the long-time executive chef of Alma (the International School of Italian Cuisine) and in 2017, he opened the research and development food laboratory CHEFin LAB.

50 Easy Indian Curries
Penny Chawla
Smith Street Books
c/o Rizzoli
300 Park Avenue South, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10010
www.rizzoliusa.com
9781922417589, $19.95, HC, 136pp

https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Indian-Curries-Penny-Chawla/dp/1922417580

Synopsis: Indian curries consists of a variety of regional and traditional ingredients that were locally available including spices, herbs, vegetables, and fruits. Historical events such as invasions, trade relations, and colonialism have played a role in introducing certain curries to western nations.

From world-famous classics to lesser-known regional specialties, "50 Easy Indian Curries" is a collection deftly compiled by Penny Chawla (a food writer and chef based in Sydney, Australia) that features some of India's easiest and most delicious curries. With recipes for vegan dals, slow-cooked braises, coastal masalas, and fiery chicken, along with simple breads, rice, and curry pastes, "50 Easy Indian Curries" reveals in an illustrated, step-by-step approach how to create India's most beloved, versatile, and popular food with both ease and speed.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated with full page color photography of each showcased dish, "50 Easy Indian Curries" is a delight to simply browse through one page at a time. Ideal for planning memorable menus for any and all dining occasions, "50 Easy Indian Curries" is thoroughly 'user friendly" for the novice kitchen cook and has a great deal to offer even the experienced devotees of what could be rightfully acknowledged as Indian's internationally famous contribution to world class cuisines.

The Turmeric Cookbook
Aster, author
Aster
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781783254965, $12.99, PB, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Turmeric-Cookbook-Delicious-Recipes-Superfood/dp/1783254963

Synopsis: Turmeric has been harvested for over 5,000 years in its native Indonesia and is a key ingredient in many dishes and medicinal remedies throughout the region. It is now rising quickly in popularity everywhere in the world as wellness seekers of all ages discover the health properties of this incredible food. Scientific studies now show that turmeric contains anti-cancer properties, may be helpful with inflammatory bowel disease, Chrohn's, rheumatoid arthritis, help with improved liver function, heart health, may help to lower cholesterol and be protective against Alzheimer's disease.

Turmeric becomes more active either when cooked or combined with other specific ingredients such as ginger and black pepper. Whether in root or powder form, turmeric can be used in juices, smoothies, infusions, soups, curries, pulses, stews, for roasting vegetables, adding to hummus, yoghurt and marinades for fish, meat or tofu.

With the publication of "The Turmeric Cookbook" showcases how to use turmeric, all its health benefits, and provides a compendium of 50 delicious recipes for turmeric dishes.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated throughout in full color, "The Turmeric Cookbook" is a delight to simply browse through one recipe at a time. Ideal for planning memorable, palate pleasing, appetite satisfying, health inducing menus, "The Turmeric Cookbook" will be an immediately welcome and enduringly appealing addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: Launched with a mission to bring fresh voices to those seeking a more conscious way of life, Aster is the home of books that nourish and inspire. Its growing list of bold and beautiful books for the contemporary wellness audience encompasses narrative and illustrated titles in food, fitness, health, beauty, science, mind body spirit, diet, lifestyle and beyond. A complete list of all Aster titles can be found at https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/aster/2785734/

Fabulous Modern Cookies
Paul Arguin, author
Chris Taylor, author
The Countryman Press
c/o W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.countrymanpress.com
9781682686591, $25.00, PB, 360pp

https://www.amazon.com/Fabulous-Modern-Cookies-Lessons-Next-Generation/dp/1682686590

Synopsis: Chris Taylor and Paul Arguin bring fresh perspective and heaps of creativity to everything they bake. Now reinventing America's most traditional handheld dessert (the cookie) with the publication of "Fabulous Modern Cookies: Lessons in Better Baking for Next-Generation Treats" they team up to offer 100 reliable and exciting recipes that are sure to impress. From Pumpkin Snickercrinkles to Black-Bottom Lemon Squares, and Coffee Bean Crunchers to Bronze Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, these are next-level cookies.

Combining their passion for serious baking with their professional backgrounds as accomplished scientists, Taylor and Arguin apply new methods and modern ingredient pairings to develop novel base recipes with innovative techniques. In these pages, they share what they've learned in lively tips and tricks for every recipe and style of cookie. Complete with mouth-watering photos, options to make ahead, decorate, or infinitely adapt, these outside-the-box recipes are the very definition of fabulous.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated throughout with 100 color photographs, "Fabulous Modern Cookies: Lessons in Better Baking for Next-Generation Treats" is an impressively 'kitchen cook friendly' compendium easy and delicious cookies suitable for all occasions. Featuring bar cookies; drop cookies; rolled cookies; slice-and-bake cookies; filed, stuffed, and sandwiched cookies; piped, shaped, molded, and no-bake cookies; savory cookies, there is a final section for fillings and other additional recipes. Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $1299) and enhanced for the novice baker with the inclusion of a ten page Flavor Index, a five page listing of Sources, and a four page Index, "Fabulous Modern Cookies: Lessons in Better Baking for Next-Generation Treats" will prove an enduringly popular addition to personal, family, professional, and community library cookbook collections.

The Homestead Sourdough Cookbook
Georgia Vardozza
Harvest House Publishers
PO Box 41210, Eugene, OR 97404-0322
www.harvesthousepublishers.com
9780736984409, $17.99, PB, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Homestead-Sourdough-Cookbook-Techniques-Successful/dp/0736984402

Synopsis: There are few things more satisfying than a thick, warm slice of homemade bread served fresh out of the oven -- especially when its sourdough bread! With the publication of "The Homestead Sourdough Cookbook", novice and experienced bread makers alike with fully enjoy joining baking and homestyle cooking veteran Georgia Varozza as she teaches everything needed to be known about making memorably delicious sourdough creations from scratch, including how to make or source a quality sourdough starter, what tools and supplies to collect and where to locate them, and of course, how to make a basic sourdough loaf.

A compendium of over 100 delicious recipes, expert advice, and kitchen cook friendly instructions, "The Homestead Sourdough Cookbook" provides an ideal place to start a DIY sourdough baking adventure.

Critique: Illustrated throughout with line drawings, "The Homestead Sourdough Cookbook" is thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.49), "The Homestead Sourdough Cookbook" is certain to be an enduringly valued, highly prized, and thoroughly appreciated addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: A writer and editor, Georgia Varozza, is also the author of the Homestead Canning Cookbook and the Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook. She enjoys teaching people how to prepare and preserve healthy foods, live simply, and get the most from what they have. She maintains a website at: www.georgiaplainandsimple.blogspot.com


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Cats & Books
Jennifer Thompson and Nikki Maldonado, editors
Michaela Creedon et al, photographers
Universe Publishing
c/o Rizzoli International Publications, Inc.
300 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010
www.rizzoliusa.com
9780789341181, $19.95, HC, 112 pages

https://www.amazon.com/Cats-Books-Universe/dp/0789341182

"Cats & Books" is a stunning and charmingly adorable collection of 80 color photographs of 42 distinctive cats, living in feline tolerant habitats in various corners of the world . Each cat's portrait is accompanied by a brief bio sketch preceded by feline name/title.

Thus we find Charlie from Seattle, Washington, Catniss from Grand Rapids Michigan, Remus from Minnesota, USA, Felix (also known as Felix Felicis) from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Olly, from Greater Manchester, UK, Darwin and Olympe from Chalons-en-Champagne, Marne, France, George form Dusseldorf, Germany, Tan, from Africa, Odin, from Walmer Estate, Cape Town, South Africa, and even one sleeping cat listed as "Unknown," from Fethiye, Turkey, and so many more!

Each individual portrait shows distinctive personality traits and adorable posing habits of beloved felines in proximity to equally well-beloved books. A must for cat fanciers and bibliophiles everywhere, here is a dream testament to the graceful, enduring charm of felines of all descriptions. My personal favorite is Orson the Bookstore Cat, from Stephentown, New York, USA. Orson loves wet cat food and human food that comes from a bag. He is a smooth grey Russian blue -looking cat who was born in Fort Lauderdale, FLA and moved to upstate New York with his human mum, and subsequently thrived despite breaking out of his cat carrier during the long car ride from FLA to NY.

Many surprising mixes and breeds of cats are featured, but all have one thing in common, star quality. If begging for their owners' attention and affection is a common trait, so is soaking up a spotlight and taking maximum advantage of one's environment. Here are cats who live to be loved. How wonderful the world that loves them back enough to feature their portraits so prominently!

"Cats & Books" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal and community library Pets/Wildlife collections - - and is a 'must' for all dedicated cat fanciers and anyone else who has ever enjoyed the company of a feline companion.


The Computer Shelf

Clean Craftsmanship
Robert C. Martin
Addison-Wesley Professional
c/o Pearson Technology Group
https://www.pearson.com/us
9780136915713, $44.99, PB, 416pp

https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Craftsmanship-Disciplines-Standards-Ethics/dp/013691571X

Synopsis: In "Clean Craftsmanship: Disciplines, Standards, and Ethics", the legendary Robert C. Martin ("Uncle Bob") has written the principles that define the profession (and the craft) of software development. Uncle Bob brings together the disciplines, standards, and ethics you need to deliver robust, effective code and to be proud of all the software you write.

"Clean Craftsmanship" provides a pragmatic, technical, and prescriptive guide to the foundational disciplines of software craftsmanship, along with discussions about standards, showing how the world's expectations of developers often differ from their own and helping you bring the two in sync. "Clean Craftsmanship" then concludes with the ethics of the programming profession, describing the fundamental promises all developers should make to their colleagues, their users, and, above all, themselves.

"Clean Craftsmanship" is comprised of: Practical, specific guidance for applying five core disciplines: test-driven development, refactoring, simple design, collaborative programming, and acceptance tests; How developers and teams can promote productivity, quality, and courage; The true meaning of integrity and teamwork among programmers, and ten specific commitments every software professional should make.

Critique: Comprehensive, informative, exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Clean Craftsmanship: Disciplines, Standards, and Ethics" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to professional, community, college, and university library Software Testing, Design & Engineering collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted that "Clean Craftsmanship: Disciplines, Standards, and Ethics" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $26.99).

Editorial Note: Robert C. Martin wrote his first line of code at the age of 12 in 1964 and has been employed as a programmer since 1970. He is a co-founder of the website www.cleancoders.com, offering online video training for software developers, and is also the founder of Uncle Bob Consulting LLC, offering software consulting, training, and skill development services to major corporations worldwide. He served as the Master Craftsman at 8th Light, Inc., a Chicago-based software consulting firm and has published dozens of articles in various trade journals, authored many books, and is a regular speaker at international conferences and trade shows.


The Art Shelf

Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife
J. C. Amberlyn
The Monacelli Press
6 West 18th Street, #2C, New York, NY 10011
www.monacellipress.com
9781580935630, $25.00, PB, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Guide-Drawing-World-Wildlife/dp/158093563X

Synopsis: There's a huge and amazing variety of wildlife in the world and "Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife: Essential Step-by-Step Lessons for Beginners" by J. C. Amberlyn will help aspiring artist to get to know and draw it.

First, there's a section on basic techniques and concepts any artist should know when drawing animals, such as information on anatomy, body types, how to draw fur and feathers, and other useful tips. "Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife: Essential Step-by-Step Lessons for Beginners" then explores many of the best-known or notable species of wildlife around the world, looking at carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores.

Most well-known mammals can be found here, plus some lesser-known ones. There's also a look at some birds and reptiles. Each section comprising "Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife: Essential Step-by-Step Lessons for Beginners" focuses on a type of animal, compares similar species, and contains step-by-step drawings and other instruction to heighten the reader's skills in drawing wild animals.

Critique: Thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife: Essential Step-by-Step Lessons for Beginners" is a complete and comprehensive DIY instructional guide and 'how-to' manual that is unreservedly recommended -- especially for the novice artist. "Artist's Guide to Drawing World Wildlife: Essential Step-by-Step Lessons for Beginners" is particularly recommended as a school art class curriculum textbook, as well as personal, professional, community, college, and university library Art Instruction collections.

Editorial Note: J.C. Amberlyn is an award-winning artist, animator, graphic novelist, photographer, naturalist, and animal lover. The author of the Monacelli Studio's How to Draw Manga Characters, How to Draw Manga Animals, How to Draw Dogs and Puppies, How to Draw Cats and Kittens, and How to Draw Magical Mythological Creatures, Amberlyn is also the author of Watson-Guptill's bestselling Drawing Wildlife, Drawing Manga Animals, and The Artist's Guide to Drawing Animals.

Theatres of Melancholy
Patrick Mauries
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500094075, $65.00, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Theatres-Melancholy-Neo-Romantics-Paris-Beyond/dp/0500094071

Synopsis: In 1926, the Galerie Druet in Paris made waves presenting a group of young painters, consisting of an international group of artists: Christian Berard and Therese Debains, both French; Russians Pavel Tchelitchew and the brothers Eugene and Leonid Berman; and the Dutchman Kristians Tonny. These artists had spurned modernist abstraction and returned to a form of figurative painting. For most of them, this was the first time they had exhibited, but their impact was considerable.

Art critic Waldemar- George baptized them the "Neo-Romantics" or the "Neo-Humanists." They were influenced by Picasso, in particular his Blue and Rose periods, but went beyond him to forge new ways of painting. These artists liked to play with forgotten references and obsolete visual devices such as trompe l'oeil. They also produced work for secondary art forms, including the theater, set design, and ballet.

In some ways, they were the first postmodernists in the history of art, yet only recently has their influence on the artists and thinkers of their time become clear. Though friends, these painters never formed a formal group or movement, and World War II sent them on different paths, with the Berman brothers and Tchelitchew moving to the United States. Before their departure, however, their activities attracted the attention and admiration of a cosmopolitan group of characters, including Gertrude Stein, Alfred Barr, Lincoln Kirstein, George Balanchine, and many others, such as leading fashion figures of the day Christian Dior and Elsa Schiaparelli.

Their brooding, often nostalgic work, reproduced here in full color along with an informative commentary, has found a new and appreciative audience in today's art scene.
240 color illustrations

Critique: Enhanced with the inclusion of 240 full color artworks, "Theatres of Melancholy: The Neo-Romantics in Paris and Beyond" by Patrick Mauries is an in-depth and detailed study of the French Neo-Romantics, a cosmopolitan group working in 1920s Paris who turned against modernist abstraction in favor of a new form of figurative painting. This coffee-table style volume (9.4 x 1.1 x 11.4 inches) is exceptional in its organization and presentation, making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library 20th Century Art History collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Patrick Mauriees is a Paris-based writer of many notable titles on fashion and design. Among his previous books are Maison Goossens: Haute Couture Jewelry, Jewelry by Chanel, The World According to Karl, and Androgyne.


The Native American Studies Shelf

Grave Matters
Tony Platt
Heyday Books
PO Box 9145, Berkeley, CA 94709
www.heydaybooks.com
9781597145596, $22.00, PB, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Grave-Matters-Controversy-Excavating-Californias/dp/1597145599

Synopsis: How do we reconcile the sanctity of Indigenous burial grounds with the desire to study them? Whether by curious Boy Scouts and "backyard archaeologists" or competitive artifact collectors, or knowledge-hungry anthropologists, the excavation of Native remains is a practice fraught with injustice and simmering resentments.

"Grave Matters: The Controversy over Excavating California's Buried Indigenous Past" is the history of the treatment of Native remains in California and the story of the complicated relationship between researcher and researched.

Professor Emeritus Tony Platt begins his journey with his son's funeral at Big Lagoon, a seaside village in pastoral Humboldt County in Northern California, once O-py£weg, a bustling center for the Yurok and the site of a plundered native cemetery. Platt travels the globe in search of the answer to the question: How do we reconcile a place of extraordinary beauty with its horrific past?

"Grave Matters" centers the Yurok people and the eventual movement to repatriate remains and reclaim ancient rights, but it is also a universal story of coming to terms with the painful legacy of a sorrowful past.

Critique: Originally published in 2011, this new edition of "Grave Matters: The Controversy over Excavating California's Buried Indigenous Past" now features an updated preface by the Professor Emeritus Tony Platt. A unique, engaging, and informative addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Native American Studies and Contemporary Archaeology Studies collections and supplemental curriculum lists, it should be noted for students, academia, archaeologists, Native American rights activists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Grave Matters: The Controversy over Excavating California's Buried Indigenous Past" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Editorial Note: Tony Platt is the author of more than ten books and 150 essays and articles on race, inequality, and social justice in American history, among them Beyond These Walls: Rethinking Crime and Punishment in the United States, Bloodlines: Recovering Hitler's Nuremberg Laws, From Patton's Trophy to Public Memorial, and The Child Savers: The Invention of Delinquency. Platt, now a professor emeritus, taught at the University of Chicago, the University of California, Berkeley, and California State University, Sacramento, where he received awards for teaching and scholarship. Platt has written for the Los Angeles Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, Truthdig, History News Network, Z Magazine, Monthly Review, and the Guardian, and his commentaries have aired on NPR.


The Philosophy Shelf

Jordan Peterson: Critical Responses
Sandra Woien, Editor
Carus Books
www.carusbooks.com
9781637700129, $22.95

https://www.amazon.com/Jordan-Peterson-Critical-Responses/dp/1637700121

Jordan Peterson: Critical Responses belongs in college-level philosophy and political science collections as a collection of essays that examine the foundations and works of Jordan Peterson, who became a global celebrity when an argument televised in Britain about feminism went viral. As his writings, philosophy, and controversy evolved from then on, the psychologist and professor, thrust into the role of a leader and prophet, continued to evolve tenants which earned him both condemnation and acclaim.

Jordan Peterson: Critical Responses is recommended even for newcomers who may hold little prior familiarity with the man or his works. It gathers history and discussions of the rogue professor's ideas and presents them in a way that lends to not just appreciation and understanding, but food for thought and discussion for debates and political sciences groups alike.

Jordan Peterson: Critical Responses is another fine addition to this publisher's intention of linking philosophy to everyday affairs!


The Money/Finance Shelf

Investing QuickStart Guide
Ted D. Snow, CFP, MBA
ClydeBank Media LLC
www.clydebankmedia.com
9781636100289, $24.99, PB, 311pp

https://www.amazon.com/Investing-QuickStart-Guide-Simplified-Successfully/dp/1636100287

Synopsis: Now a second edition that includes more than 100 pages of new material, the "Investing QuickStart Guide is fully updated and deftly revised for an entirely new investing environment and includes: A deeper dive into the asset classes that make up a robust portfolio including a thorough and expanded examination of investable real estate; An increased focus on managing (and reducing) your tax liabilities related to investment activities in light of new tax law developments; A tour of the pros and cons of new and emerging finance technologies (aka fintech) and an increased focus on ESG investing -- the practice of Environmental, Social, and corporate Governance sustainable investing.

Readers will discover the Secrets of Successfully Investing In: Stocks (Including Dividend Paying Stocks!); Mutual Funds; ETFS; Bonds; Index Funds; REITS and Real Estate; as well as Commodities.

Investing QuickStart Guide is ideal for: Beginners with Zero Prior Investing Experience; Reading alongside other popular financial books such as The Intelligent Investor, A Random Walk Down Wall Street, and The Little Book of Common-Sense Investing; Experienced Investors who Want to Go to the Next Level; Teaching anyone how to invest in the stock market -- even kids and teens!

The new edition of the "Investing QuickStart Guide" also covers: Everything You Need to Know Before You Make Your First Trade ; How To Take Advantage of Opportunities in the Market Without Relying on Guesswork; How to Evaluate and Compare Stocks and Other Securities ; How Disciplined Approaches to Investing Can Lead to Early Retirement and Financial Freedom ; How National and Global Economic and Geopolitical Factors Can Influence Investment Prospects!

Critique: Simply stated, the "Investing QuckStart Guide" is an ideal instruction guide and 'how to' manual to understanding the stock market and other financial tools to securing financial growth, financial success, and financial security. While unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Money & Finacial Management collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that the "Investing QuickStart Guide" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99) and in a spiral bound edition (9781636100517, $29.99).


The Business Shelf

The Success Factor
Ruth Gotian
Kogan Page
www.koganpage.com
9781398602311, $210.00, ($80.00 Amazon), HC, 248pp

https://www.amazon.com/Success-Factor-Developing-Skillset-Performance/dp/1398602310

Synopsis: All high achievers share the same four attributes (intrinsic motivation, perseverance, strong foundation, constantly learning through informal means). The key to their success is that they do all four of these things in tandem. Based on research and in-person interviews with astronauts, Nobel laureates, and Olympic champions "The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skillset for Peak Business Performance" by Ruth Dotian outlines the methodological approach that individuals aspiring to improve their performance can adopt to achieve success.

Using these four shared attributes as a guide, "The Success Factor" shows how to reach your peak performance by applying the lessons of high achievers in your own life: identify your passion using a Passion Audit; learn how and where to find a mentor and how to build a mentoring team; develop your own community of practice; pursue your interests through informal learning; and manage your time and energy.

"The Success Factor" also comes with online resources that feature a downloadable Passion Audit worksheet, mentoring team worksheet, scripts for approaching potential mentors and a list of uncommon places to find a mentor, such as webinars, book clubs and social media.

Critique: Offering a complete course of DIY instructional course on skill set development, "The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skillset for Peak Business Performance" is an exceptional and highly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, corporate, college, and university library Business Motivation, Leadership, and Self/Help/Self- Improvement collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of MBA students, academia, corporate executives, business managers, entrepreneurs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skillset for Peak Business Performance" is also available in a paperback edition, (9781398602298, $25.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $22.32).

Editorial Note: Ruth Gotian is a leadership coach, keynote speaker, educator, and social scientist who researches the most successful people in order to learn about their mindsets and practices. She also serves as the Chief Learning Officer and is an Assistant Professor of Education in Anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, New York. She is the 2021 recipient of the Thinkers50 RADAR Award, making her the world's #1 emerging management thinker. Her work regularly appears in Forbes, Psychology Today, Nature, Scientific American, Academic Medicine, and Harvard Business Review.

Bridge the Gap
Jennifer Edwards, author
Katie McCleary, author
McGraw Hill Professional
1221 Avenue of the Americas, 45th Floor, New York, NY 10020
www.mhprofessional.com
9781264269112, $26.00, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bridge-Gap-Meaningful-Relationships-Communication/dp/1264269110

Synopsis: Human beings are born to connect -- but in today's increasingly polarized world, we're losing sight of the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships. And that's bad for business.

With the publication of "Bridge the Gap: Breakthrough Communication Tools to Transform Work Relationships From Challenging to Collaborative" by the team of Jennifer Edwards and Katie McCleary, readers will learn how to tap into the psychology of human connections to drive meaningful workplace communications.

Jennifer and Katie are two prominent Fortune 500 coaches who in "Bridge the Gap" explore how your biology and biography define and refine your behavior in relationships where you struggle to connect. Focusing on personal responsibility and awareness, meta-cognition, and curiosity, they provide a reliable and replicable framework to enhance open communication. And they illuminate the inner workings of the human brain and mind, and how they impact the way you connect, communicate, and collaborate.

"Bridge the Gap" reveals eye-opening techniques to help you: Master your biological reactions when pressure, stress, and anxiety hijack your efforts to connect; Understand how you and others can better learn from and listen to each other; Lead with curiosity in all your communication strategies and learn how to give authentic feedback; Feel more comfortable working on diverse team and embrace all cultural backgrounds.

What makes "Bridge the Gap" different from others is that it focuses on the how rather than just the why of fostering better communication. And, whether you're entry level staff or a C-Suite executive, these techniques can be applied at all levels and all capacities.

Filled with practical exercises, colorful stories, and illustrative case studies, "Bridge the Gap: is impressively comprised of instructions to harnessing the real and raw power of your mind to build solid workplace relationships in any situation.

Critique: Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of six pages of Notes and an eleven page Index, "Bridge the Gap: Breakthrough Communication Tools to Transform Work Relationships From Challenging to Collaborative" is thoroughly 'user friendly' in commentary style, organization and presentation. While a remarkably useful and highly recommended addition to community, corporate, college, and university library Business Management/Communication Skills collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of MBA students, academia, corporate executives, business managers, entrepreneurs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Bridge the Gap: Breakthrough Communication Tools to Transform Work Relationships From Challenging to Collaborative" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).

Editorial Note #1: Jennifer Edwards is a business advisor and leadership advisor working with Fortune 500 companies and boards, equipping them to perform and collaborate optimally when pressure and stress hit. Her clients include top leaders at global companies, including Microsoft and WeWork. She is a partner at Winning Streak Ventures, an early-stage capital fund which invests in disruptive technology companies.

Editorial Note #2: Katie McCleary is an entrepreneur and storyteller who trains leaders, creatives, and humanitarians to launch big ideas by leveraging their social and cultural capital. She is the founder of 916 Ink, a nonprofit that has transformed over 4,000 vulnerable youth into confident authors. She is also the host of The Drive podcast on NPR's CapRadio with the American Leadership Forum.

Anti-Racist Leadership
James D. White, author
Krista White, author
Harvard Business Review Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
http://hbr.org/books
9781647821975, $30.00, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Anti-Racist-Leadership-Transform-Corporate-Race-Conscious/dp/1647821975

Synopsis: Simply stated, racism is bad for business. Business leaders and corporate executives have the unique ability to reach thousands of employees and millions of consumers and with them build a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment and, by extension, a more prosperous business and a more just society.

"Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World" by James D. White (who as a black man at the highest levels of corporate America for over thirty years and with the assistance of his daughter Krista White) provides a comprehensive plan for leaders who are ready to get serious about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and to create a successful anti-racist company culture.

Practical lessons and real-world examples of techniques used by seasoned experts will empower company leaders who are asking themselves what so many have asked James White: What can I do? White's reply is that they can best start by reading "Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World".

Critique: Given the racial conditions of our country today, "Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World" is an extraordinarily time and critically important contribution to working toward a non-racist society, culture, and corporate environment. Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion eight pages of Notes, a two page listing of Acknowledgments, and a ten page Index, "Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World" is unreservedly recommended for community, corporate, college, and university library Human Resources/Personnel Business Management and Ethnic Studies collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of MBA students, academia, political activists, corporate leaders, business managers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: James D. White is a transformational leader with more than thirty years' experience as a CEO, operating executive, and board member in the consumer products, retail, and restaurant industries. As Chair, President, and CEO of Jamba Juice (2008 - 2016), he transformed the company's DEI practices, resulting in a 500 percent increase in the company's market cap. He has held senior executive positions at Safeway, Gillette, and Nestle Purina and served on more than fifteen public and private boards. White currently chairs the board of the Honest Company, which recently held its IPO, and is Executive Chair of the startup Air Protein. In 2020 he launched Culture Design Lab to coach, train, and lead CEOs, boards, Chief People Officers, and Chief Diversity Officers on putting his DEI playbook into practice.


The Christian Studies Shelf

To Be Made Well
Amy Julia Becker
Herald Press
P.O. Box 866, Harrisonburg, VA 22803
www.heraldpress.com
9781513809724, $29.99, HC, 180pp

https://www.amazon.com/Be-Made-Well-Invitation-Wholeness/dp/1513809717

Synopsis: One of the enduring questions that we all will have to face in the course of our daily lives is: How can we be made well?

From hurting bodies and souls to hurting relationships and communities, it's clear that things are not as they should be. Some of us live with varying degrees of physical pain, and others of us harbor the emotional pain of loneliness, shame, and guilt. Looking at our culture more broadly, we see the harm of our social divisions and the unyielding reality and impact of injustice and inequity. The gospels brim with stories of Jesus healing people, but what does that mean for us today?

In "To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope ", Amy Julia Becker weaves together her own story with reflections on biblical accounts of Jesus' healing work, providing fresh insight into both the nature of healing and the pathway to healing, then and now. "To Be Made Well" is a powerful invitation to personal, spiritual, and social healing as we reconnect to our bodies and souls, to God, and to our communities.

For anyone struggling with pain or loss, for anyone concerned about the things that divide us, "To Be Made Well" goes beyond wellness and beyond miraculous physical transformations to explore how we, personally and collectively, can be made well.

Critique: Inherently inspiring, "To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope" is especially and unreservedly recommended reading for all members of the Christian community regardless of denominational affiliations. Exceptionally well written, and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of clergy, seminary students, church congregation members, that "To Be Made Well: An Invitation to Wholeness, Healing, and Hope" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781513809717, 17.99) digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Editorial Note: Amy Julia Becker is an award-winning writer and speaker on faith, family, disability, and culture. She is the author of four books, including most recently White Picket Fences: Turning Towards Love in a World Divided by Privilege. She hosts the Love is Stronger than Fear podcast. Becker has a bi-vocational license with the Evangelical Covenant Church. She and her family are members of Salem Covenant Church.

A Hit of Hope: (for when it gets really bad)
Betsy Johnson
The Liturgical Press
2950 Saint John's Road, PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
www.litpress.org
9780814667712, $14.95, PB, 136pp

https://www.amazon.com/Hit-Hope-when-gets-really/dp/0814667716

Synopsis: In 2018, Betsy Johnson's life went sideways. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, had to undergo chemo and radiation, and was asked for a divorce she didn't want. Betsy knew there were all kinds of things she could do to numb the pain, but she wanted to get better, not worse. She decided to walk through this crucible with hope and grit, and thus began the meditations that now comprise "A Hit of Hope: (for when it gets really bad)".

To heal, we have to get real and name the mess, the fear, the pain. And we have to see a way forward. A way out. Or at least a way to sit while the storm crashes - because no storm in the history of the world has ever been able to hold the sky forever. Whatever you or someone you love are facing, these meditations can bring a hit of hope and help you not only to survive but to live light.

Critique: Inspired and inspiring, thoughtful and consoling, "A Hit of Hope: (for when it gets really bad)" by Betsy Johnson is a timely and timeless source of comfort and consolation for anyone having to deal with adverse conditions and circumstances of any kind in their personal lives. While highly recommended for personal, church, seminary, community, college, and university library collections, it should be noted that "A Hit of Hope: (for when it gets really bad)" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: A writer, professor, and yoga teacher, Betsy Johnson hails from a small town in southwestern Minnesota, and her meditations have been downloaded over 100,000 times on the Insight Timer app.

The Church and the Age of Reformations (1350 - 1650)
Joseph Stuart, author
Barbara A. Stuart, author
Mike Aquilina, series editor
Ave Maria Press
PO Box 428, Notre Dame, IN 46556
www.avemariapress.com
9781646800339, $17.95, PB, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Church-Age-Reformations-1350-1650-Renaissance/dp/1646800338

Synopsis: In 1517, Augustinian monk Martin Luther wrote the infamous Ninety-Five Theses that eventually led to a split from the Catholic Church. The movement became popularly identified as the Protestant Reformation, but Church reform actually began well before the schism.

With the publication of "The Church and the Age of Reformations (1350 - 1650): Martin Luther, the Renaissance, and the Council of Trent", historian Joseph T. Stuart and theologian Barbara A. Stuart highlight the watershed events of a confusing period in history, providing a broader (and deeper) historical context of the era, including the Council of Trent, the rise of humanism, and the impact of the printing press.

The Stuarts also profile important figures of these tumultuous centuries, including Thomas More, Teresa of vila, Ignatius of Loyola, and Francis de Sales, and show that the saints demonstrated the virtues of true reform -- charity, unity, patience, and tradition.

"The Church and the Age of Reformations (1350 - 1650)" reveals that: Reform efforts in the Catholic Church were underway before Luther's Ninety-Five Theses; The Church did not sell the forgiveness of sins with indulgences; Millions of people did not die in the Spanish Inquisition; there were less than 5,000 deaths during a 350-year period; Inquisitions led to legal advances such as grand juries, the need for multiple witnesses, and defendant protections that are still in place today; The Catholic Reformation was conducted in four stages and exhibited respect for Church authority, human free will, and the saints, and focused on the new universal reach of the Church around the globe due to missionary work.

Critique: Enhanced with the inclusion of a Map and a Chronology, eight pages of Notes, a six page Bibliography and a four page Index, "The Church and the Age of Reformations (1350-1650): Martin Luther, the Renaissance, and the Council of Trent" is an exceptionally well written and meticulously presented historical study that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, church, seminary, community, college, and university library Christian History collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for seminary students, academia, clergy, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Church and the Age of Reformations (1350 - 1650): Martin Luther, the Renaissance, and the Council of Trent" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.49).

Editorial Note: Books in the Reclaiming Catholic History series, edited by Mike Aquilina and written by leading authors and historians, bring Church history to life, debunking the myths one era at a time.

St. Ephrem the Syrian: Hymns On Paradise
St. Ephrem, author
Sebastrian Brock, translator
SVS Press
575 Scarsdale Road, Yonkers, NY 10707
www.svspress.com
9780881410761, $19.00, PB, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/St-Ephrem-Syrian-Hymns-Paradise/dp/0881410764

Synopsis: Ephrem the Syrian (c. 306 - 373), also known as Saint Ephrem, Ephrem of Edessa, or Aprem of Nisibis, was a prominent Christian theologian and writer of the 4th Century A.D., and is revered as one of the most notable hymnographers of Eastern Christianity. He was born in Nisibis, served as a deacon, and later lived in Edessa.[1][2]

Saint Ephrem's cycle of 15 Hymns on Paradise offers a fine example of Christian poetry, in which the he deftly weaves a profound theological synthesis around a particular Biblical narrative. Centered on Genesis 2 and 3, he expresses his awareness of the sacramental character of the created world, and of the potential of everything in the created world to act as a witness and pointer to the creator. God's two witnesses, says Ephrem, are: 'Nature, through man's use of it, [and] Scripture, through his reading it."

In his writing, Saint Ephrem posits an inherent link between the material and spiritual worlds. Saint Ephrem's mode of theological discussion is essentially Biblical and Semitic in character. He uses types and symbols to express connections or relationships to 'reveal' something that is otherwise 'hidden,' particularly expressing meanings between the Old Testament and the New, between this world and the heavenly, between the New Testament and the sacraments, and between the sacraments and the eschaton (meaning end times, end of time, end of days, or last days).

Because his theology is not tied to a particular cultural or philosophical background, but operates by means of imagery and symbolism basic to all human experience, his theological vision expressed in his hymns has a freshness and immediacy today that few other theological works from the early 4th Century Christian period can hope to achieve.

Critique: Ably translated into English for an American readership by Sebastian Brock (who is a Fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford, and University Lecturer in Aramaic and Syriac), and the tenth published volume in the simply outstanding SVS Press 'Popular Patristics' series, this concise paperback edition of "St. Ephrem the Syrian: Hymns On Paradise" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, church, seminary, college, and university library Antiquarian Christian History and Christian Hymns/Devotionals collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Because My Soul Longs for You
Edwin Goldberg, editor
Elaine Zecher, editor
Central Conference of American Rabbis
https://www.ccarnet.org
9780881233728, $19.95, PB, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Because-Soul-Longs-You-Integrating/dp/0881233722

Synopsis: Collaboratively compiled and co-edited by Edwin Goldberg and Elaine Zecher, "Because My Soul Longs for You: Integrating Theology into Our Lives" seeks to answer one of the most enduring human questions: Where can we find God in our lives?

While Jewish theologians have long pondered the "God question" from ethical and philosophical perspectives, the last century has made space for a more experiential theology: God is present in our lived experiences. Radical amazement, to use Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel's phrase, can be found in everyday life.

The contributors to "Because My Soul Longs for You" share how they welcome God's presence into their lives, as well as the theological language they use to think and speak about this presence. Individual chapters explore how we experience God through prayer, text study, poetry, food, music, service, movement, meditation, interpersonal connection, and much more.

Critique: Erudite and thought-provoking, exceptionally well organized and presented, "Because My Soul Longs for You: Integrating Theology into Our Lives" is a welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, synagogue, college, and university library Judaic Studies collections and supplemental curriculum lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Because My Soul Longs for You: Integrating Theology into Our Lives" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism
David Arnow
Jewish Publication Society
2100 Arch Street, 2nd floor, Philadelphia PA 19103-1399
https://jps.org
9780827615205, $30.00, PB, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Choosing-Hope-Heritage-Judaism-Essential/dp/0827615205

Synopsis: According to psychologist and author David Arnow, throughout their recorded history Jews have traditionally responded to their many and seemingly unending trials with hope because they have had ready access to Judaism's abundant reservoir of hope.

Published by The Jewish Publication Society, "Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism" is the first book to plumb the depths of this reservoir as with an historical study that ranges from biblical times to the present day.

"Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism" focuses upon nine fundamental sources of hope in Judaism including: Teshuvah (the method to fulfill our hope to become better human beings); Tikkun Olam (the hope that we can repair the world by working together); Abraham and Sarah (models of persisting in hope amid trials); Exodus (the archetype of redemptive hope); Covenant (the hope for a durable relationship with the One of Being); Job (the "hard-fought hope" that brings a grief-stricken man back to life); World to Come (the sustaining hope that death is not the end); Israel (high hope activists work to build a just and inclusive society for all Israelis); Jewish Humor ("hope's last weapon" in the darkest days).

Grounded in a contemporary theology that situates the responsibility for creating a better world in human hands, with God acting through us, "Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism" can help to both affirm hope in times of trial and transmit those deepest hopes to the next generation.

Critique: An absorbing, insightful, thoughtful and thought-provoking study that is impressively well organized and presented, "Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism" is an ideal, timely, and unreservedly recommended addition to synagogue, community, college, and university library Judaic Studies collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of academia and the non-specialist general reader with an interest in Jewish History & Faith that "Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: A scholar of the festival of Passover, David Arnow is also the author of "Creating Lively Passover Seders" and co-editor of "My People's Passover Haggadah".

The Anatomy of Jewish Law
Rabbi Edward Reichman, MD
Maggid
c/o Koren Publishers Jerusalem Ltd.
PO Box 8531, New Milford, CT 06776-8531
www.korenpub.com
9781592645794, $34.95, 596pp

https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Jewish-Law-Edward-Reichman/dp/1592645798

Synopsis: An innovative and comprehensive work by rabbi, physician, and medical historian Edward Reichman, "The Anatomy of Jewish Law" deftly traces the medical understanding of anatomy, physiology, and therapeutics across time and genres of rabbinic literature.

The accumulated literature of centuries of Jewish legal discourse on medical topics serves as the foundation for contemporary Jewish bioethics. As these writings span the chronological gamut of scientific and medical discovery, it is essential to view each source in its proper historical context.

Drawing from a vast array of sources from multiple disciplines, "The Anatomy of Jewish Law" demonstrates the importance of the historical dimension not only for medical halakhic research, but to better understand the unique relationship of Judaism and medicine throughout the centuries.

Critique: Thematically organized into five major sections (Fertility and Reproduction; Anatomy and Physiology; Diseases and Theraputics; Death and Resuscitation; Medicine and Rabbinic Literature), "The Anatomy of Jewish Law" is enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of a ten page Glossary and an eleven page Index. Replete with footnotes, "The Anatomy of Jewish Law" is an impressively written, organized, presented, and detailed study that will prove a welcome and recommended addition Rabbinic Literature collections in general, and Judaic/Medical History Studies in particular. While an especially appropriate addition for synagogue, community, college, and university library collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of rabbinical students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Anatomy of Jewish Law" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Editorial Note: Edward Reichman is a Professor of Emergency Medicine as well as a Professor in the Division of Education and Bioethics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary of Yeshiva University and writes and lectures internationally in the field of Jewish medical ethics. He has been a mentor of the Medical Ethics Society of Yeshiva University since its inception. His research is devoted to the interface of medical history and Jewish law. A graduate of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Rabbi Dr. Reichman and is also an Attending Physician in Montefiore Medical Center's Emergency Medicine Department.

Studies in Halakhah and Rabbinic History
Rabbi Eitam Henkin
Koren Publishers Jerusalem Ltd.
c/o Toby Press, PO Box 8531
New Milford, CT 06776-8531
www.korenpub.com
9781592645817, $39.95, HC, 456pp

https://www.amazon.com/Studies-Halakhah-Rabbinic-History-Henkin/dp/159264581X

Synopsis: By the time of his death at age 31, Rabbi Eitam Henkin Hy"d had authored over fifty articles and four books. The scion of an illustrious rabbinic dynasty, he was acclaimed for both his halakhic writings and his mastery of the byways of the rabbinic world of the 19th and 20th centuries. Those who grasped his gifts forecast for him a future as a rabbinic luminary.

But Rabbi Eitam Henkin and his wife, Naama Hy"d, were murdered by terrorists who attacked their car on Hol HaMoed Sukkot 5776 (2015). With the publication of "Studies in Halakhah and Rabbinic History" by Koren Publishers Jerusalem, the reader is provided with a sampling of Rabbi Eitam's halakhic and historical works, and reflects his range of interests within both of these genres. Each chapter is a masterpiece in its own field.

The topics range from the kosher status of strawberries ("What You Permitted, We Prohibited") to electronic sensors on Shabbat, from the Bruria episode in the Talmud to "The Haredi/National-Religious Dichotomy in Israel: Case Studies in Historical Revisionism." Each subject is approached with astonishing breadth of knowledge, analytic incisiveness, careful scholarship, and creative insight. This memorial volume allows us to benefit from the lasting impact of Rabbi Eitam Henkin's legacy.

Critique: Halakha is the collective body of Jewish religious laws which is derived from the written and Oral Torah. "Studies in Halakhah and Rabbinic History" offers invaluable insights, observations and commentaries that will be of immense interest to rabbinical students, rabbinical scholars, academicians, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject. While strongly recommended for professional, synagogue, college, and university library Judaic Studies collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Studies in Halakhah and Rabbinic History" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.95).

Editorial Note: Oct 1, 2015 - Rabbi Eitam Henkin, 31, and his wife Na'ama, of Neria, parents of four, were killed in a drive-by shooting attack on the road between Itamar and Elon Moreh in Samaria.

Bridging Traditions
Rabbi Haim Jachter
Maggid Books
www.maggidbooks.com
c/o Koren Publishers Jerusalem Ltd.
PO Box 8531, New Milford, CT 06776-8531
www.korenpub.com
9781592645749, $29.95, HC, 544pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bridging-Traditions-Demystifying-Differences-Ashkenazic/dp/1592645747

Synopsis: As the rabbi of a Sephardic synagogue for over twenty years who is himself of Ashkenazic descent and trained in Ashkenazic yeshivot, Rabbi Haim Jachter has a unique vantage point from which to observe the differences in customs and halachot between Ashkenazim and Sephardim.

With the publication of "Bridging Traditions: Demystifying Differences Between Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews", Rabbi Jachter applies his wide-ranging expertise and experience to explicating an encyclopedic array of divergences between Ashkenazic and Sephardic halachic practice, while also capturing the diversity within different Sephardic communities.

"Bridging Traditions" is essential reading for Jews of all origins who are interested in understanding their own practices and appreciating those of their brethren, and in seeing the kaleidoscope of halachic observance as a multi-faceted expression of an inner divine unity.

Critique: An exceptionally well written, organized and presented work of original and outstanding rabbinical scholarship, "Bridging Traditions: Demystifying Differences Between Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews" is enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of an informative Epilogue and an Appendix (Comments by Rabbi Mordechai Lebhar). Comprehensively informative, "Bridging Traditions: Demystifying Differences Between Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews" is recommended as a core addition to personal, synagogue, community, college, and university library Judaic History & Studies collections and supplemental curriculum lists. It should be noted for students, academia, rabbinical students, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Bridging Traditions: Demystifying Differences Between Sephardic and Ashkenazic Jews" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Rabbi Haim Jachter is the rabbi of the Sephardic Congregation of Teaneck. He serves as a Dayan on the Beth Din of Elizabeth and has acquired an international reputation of excellence in the area of Get administration. He is also teacher at Torah Academy of Bergen County, a member of the Rabbinical Council of America's Halacha Committee, and Chairman of its Igun Resolution Committee. Rabbi Jachter is frequently sought out to assist communities in establishing and managing their Eruvin, and is the Rav HaMachshir of our eruv. Rabbi Jachter's ordination is from Yeshiva University where he also earned his Master's degree in Jewish Philosophy.

Elijah: The Lonely Zealot
Rabbi Elchanan Samet, author
Kaeren Fish, translator
Maggid Books
www.maggidbooks.com
c/o Koren Publishers Jerusalem Ltd.
PO Box 8531, New Milford, CT 06776-8531
www.korenpub.com
9781592645336, $29.95, HC, 632pp

https://www.amazon.com/Elijah-Lonely-Zealot-Elchanan-Samet/dp/159264533X

Synopsis: The prophet Elijah's powerful character looms over some of the most tumultuous chapters in the Bible. Elijah's policy of confronting power and corruption aroused opposition and protest - indeed, it endangered his life. Many questions arise: Why does Elijah appear at this specific time? Why does he perform so many miracles seemingly at his own initiative, without any divine command? To what extent is the prophet's aggressive policy approved of by God? And, looking beyond the biblical text, what can we learn about our own confrontations with entrenched injustice?

"Elijah: The Lonely Zealot" is the first work by the renowned Bible scholar Rabbi Elchanan Samet to appear in English. This systematic and creative literary commentary on the Elijah narrative which had influenced a generation of readers and teachers since its first appearance in Hebrew (entitled 'Pirkei Eliyahu'), now thanks to the able translation by Kaeren Fish, English readers too can benefit from Rabbi Samet's penetrating analyses and insights in this masterwork.

Critique: An erudite, informative, insightful, thoughtful and thought-provoking study, "Elijah: The Lonely Zealot" by Rabbi Elchanan Samet is the latest addition to the simply outstanding 'Maggid Tanakh Companions' series. A work of outstanding rabbinical scholarship, "Elijah: The Lonely Zealot" is an especially recommended addition to personal, professional, synagogue, community, college, and university library Biblical Studies and Judaic Studies collections and supplemental curriculum lists.

Editorial Note: Rabbi Elchanan Samet is a lecturer at the Michlelet Herzog- Lifschitz College in Gush Etzion. He served for over 25 years as a teacher and Ram at Yeshivat Birkat Moshe in Maaleh Adumim. Rabbi Samet is also the author of a number of popular volumes containing his shiurim on Parashat Hashavuah, on the Elijah and Elisha cycle of narrative sin the Book of Kings and selected Psalms.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Dictionary of Dreams
Gustavus Hindman Miller, author
Sigmund Freud, author
Henri Bergson, author
Wellfleet Press
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9781577152842, $15.99, HC, 528pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dictionary-Dreams-Symbols-Meanings-Pocket/dp/1577152840

Synopsis: Dreams can be fun and adventurous, but also frightening and distorted, and still again, they can be an endless combination of both. From spitting teeth out (a sign of aging), to creepy, crawly spiders (a sign that one feels like an outsider), dreams can mean much more to us once we learn how to decipher their hidden meanings. Whether positive or negative, and covering more than 1,000 dream symbols, signs, and meanings, the Dictionary of Dreams provides all the tools, symbols, and their true meanings to translate cryptic nightly images.

Starting with selections from classic texts like Interpretation of Dreams by Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, Henri-Louis Bergson's dream analysis approach laid out in "The World of Dreams", and "10,000 Dreams Interpreted" by Gustavus Hindman Miller, one of the first authors to complete a thorough study of all the symbols that appear in our dreamscape, this updated edition features revisions (such as the addition of cell phones, computers, televisions, and more) of Miller's original interpretations to bring the book up to speed with our modern life.

Critique: Arranged into three major sections (Understanding Dreams; Keeping A Dream Journal; Dream Symbol Dictionary), this pocked edition of "The Dictionary of Dreams" is further enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of an informative Foreword by Linda Shields, a two page listing of Contributor Biographies, and a six page Glossary. Exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "The Dictionary of Dreams" is recommended as a core addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Metaphysical Studies collections in general, and Dream Interpretation studies lists in particular.

Editorial Note #1: Gustavus Hindman Miller (1857 - 1929) was a prominent manufacturer from Chattanooga, TN, as well as the author of the influential book 10,000 Dreams Interpreted.

Editorial Note #2: Sigmund Freud (1856 - 1939) was an Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis, a clinical method for treating psychopathology through dialogue between a patient and a psychoanalyst. His work contributed heavily to the fields of psychotherapy and psychoanalysis.

Editorial Note #3: Henri Bergson (1859 - 1941) was a French philosopher, influential especially in the first half of the 20th century and after WWII in continental philosophy. Bergson is known for his influential arguments that processes of immediate experience and intuition are more significant than abstract rationalism and science for understanding reality.

Editorial Note #4: Linda Shields, also known as The Jersey Shore Medium , is a wife and mom who has had a full, working life. She is a celebrity clairvoyant and regularly entertains and works with large audiences, as well as one-on-one sessions. She uses her psychic senses of hearing (clairaudience), tasting/ smelling (clairsensient), physical feeling, and being an Empath during readings. A published author, her works include Angel Inspirations for Serenity and Love and Crystal Power.

The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick
Lindsay Squaire, author
Viki Lester, illustrator
White Lion Publishers
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711271722, $20.00, HC, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Witch-Forests-Guide-Earth-Magick/dp/0711271720

Synopsis: Lindsay Squire is a practitioner of eclectic Witchcraft and is the Witch behind the popular Instagram account, The Witch of the Forest. She has been walking her own spiritual path for over a decade, and is passionate about helping and empowering Witches at the beginning of their Witchcraft journeys.

Earth magick is all about understanding the elements which govern the world around us, connecting with the Earth and using its powers to thrive. From using the four elements (fire, air, water and earth) in spells, to learning about the powers of crystals and mastering the art of divination.

With the publication of "The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick: Ground Yourself with Magick. Connect with the Seasons in Your Life & in Nature" Lindsay will teach you everything you know about this ancient form of magick. Aspiring and practicing Wiccan will discover how to use simple witchcraft to boost their wellbeing, keep themselves grounded in the 21st century, and connect to their own natural 'seasons' in thir lives as well as in their craft.

"The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick" is ideal for budding beginners new to the spellbinding world of witchcraft and need to learn about: Casting a circle and ritual basics; Crystals and their magickal properties and uses; Divination techniques such as using runes and divination dice: Connecting with the energies of the four seasons, the four elements, and harnessing their power; Connecting to one's own natural 'seasons' in your life through the craft; Reconnecting with the craft after a break; Caring for magickal energy if an empath, or are feeling drained; Embracing darker energies, and using shadow work for personal growth and transformation; Wellbeing techniques for witches to help manage personal energy -- and more!

Suitable for every type of witch and witchling -- including those practicing in the broom closet - "The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick" also includes a runes board on the back of the jacket that can removed to help answer all questions.

Critique: An ideal and comprehensive introduction to Earth Magick that is particularly well written by Lindsay Squire, nicely illustrated throughout by artist Viki Lester, "The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick" a veritable compendium of magick lore and practices that should be a part of any serious metaphysical studies instructional reference collections and reading lists readers with an interest in the subject. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Witch of the Forest's Guide to Earth Magick" is especially recommended as a core addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Runic Divination, Crystal Divination, Wiccan, and Metaphysical Studies collections.

Editorial Note: The Witch of the Forest's Guide to... series by White Lion Publishers is a collection of guides to different areas of witchcraft, focusing on the relationship between magic, the natural world and the self. Each book discusses completely different elements of the natural world, and Earth Magick is full of techniques not mentioned in Natural Magick.

Hoodoo Your Love
Starr Casas
Weiser Books
c/o Red Wheel/Weiser/Conari
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
www.redwheelweiser.com
9781578637553, 232pp

https://www.amazon.com/Hoodoo-Your-Love-Conjure-Want/dp/1578637554

Synopsis: Although love magic is among Starr Casas's specialties, she has never written about it extensively before. But with the publication of "Hoodoo Your Love: Conjure the Love You Want (and Keep It) ", now Starr shares her professional knowledge and also reveals her never before published family secrets to help readers obtain the love they seek.

"Hoodoo Your Love" explores all facets of love magic. Within these pages, you will learn to draw new love toward you, bring errant lovers back, and improve and control your current situation. Starr also explains how to build a love altar, heal a broken heart, stimulate and maintain family peace and happiness, and maybe most crucially, learn to really love yourself.

Her tools include herbs, roots, candles, and assorted simple household items, so anyone can put Mama Starr's knowledge into practice.

Critique: Of special appeal to metaphysical students and practitioners for matters of the heart, "Hoodoo Your Love: Conjure the Love You Want (and Keep It)" is an exceptional and thoroughly 'user friendly' instructional guide. Impressively organized and presented, and also readily available in a digital book format (Kinde, $9.99), "Hoodoo Your Love: Conjure the Love You Want (and Keep It)" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Metaphysical Studies and Ethnic/Tribal Religious Practices collections in general, and Sacred Sexuality/Folklore/Mythology supplemental curriculum studies lists in particular.

Editorial Note: Starr Casas is a traditional Conjure woman and veteran rootworker of over 40 years holding onto the values of her ancestors. Mama Starr is a prolific author and a hands-on teacher who presents workshops throughout the US. She also owns the store Mama Starr's Style LLC in Houston. She maintains an informative website at www.oldstyleconjure.com and is on Instagram @starrcasas

Recentering Seth
John Friedlander
Bear & Company
c/o Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
www.innertraditions.com
9781591434375, $20.00, PB, 448pp

https://www.amazon.com/Recentering-Seth-Multidimensional-Gracefully-Skillfully/dp/1591434378

Synopsis: The Seth books were channeled by the late Jane Roberts in the 1970s and galvanized a whole generation of spiritual explorers. The entity known as Seth turned familiar mystical concepts into a radically new framework and introduced a unique understanding of how we create our own reality with our conscious beliefs.

After nearly five decades exploring Seth's ideas, and with the publication of "Recentering Seth: Teachings from a Multidimensional Entity on Living Gracefully and Skillfully in a World You Create But Do Not Control", John Friedlander has re-framed the groundbreaking Seth teachings, recentering them in the awareness that all consciousness expands in all directions. He synthesizes Sethian teachings with an eclectic variety of concepts and influences, from aura reading, healing, and interpersonal engagement to Buddhism and reincarnation to conscious dying and nondual awareness. He also reveals how you do create your own reality, but that no one controls reality, which is spontaneous and surprisingly creative.

Critique: An essential resource for metaphysical students studying the Seth books, "Recentering Seth: Teachings from a Multidimensional Entity on Living Gracefully and Skillfully in a World You Create But Do Not Control" is essential reading. Thoughtful, thought-provoking, iconoclastic, insightful, impressively organized and exceptionally 'reader friendly' in presentation, and also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99), "Recentering Seth: Teachings from a Multidimensional Entity on Living Gracefully and Skillfully in a World You Create But Do Not Control" is especially recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Metaphysical Studies collections.

Editorial Note: John Friedlander began a formal meditation practice in 1970 and was introduced to Seth's books in 1972. A member of Jane Roberts's original Seth classes in Elmira in 1974, he also studied psychic meditation and aura reading with Lewis Bostwick beginning in 1973. He is also the co-author of: The Practical Psychic, Basic Psychic Development, and Psychic Psychology.


The General Fiction Shelf

A Mother's Secret
Caroline Finnerty
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781801625364, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 478pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781801625296

Synopsis: In one split second, Aidan Whelan's perfect world is changed forever when his wife Rowan and three-year old daughter Milly are involved in a tragic accident.

Helena O'Herlihy and her husband James have been struggling in their marriage but a knock on the door telling her that James has been involved in a car crash, has Helena rushing to his side.

When Aidan and Helena bump into each other at Dublin City Hospital, they soon begin to wonder if it's more than just coincidence that brought them there. Why were Rowan and James in the car together on that fateful morning? Through their pain and tears, they form a bond as they try to piece together what really did happen on the morning of the crash.

As the lies begin to unravel and secrets are uncovered, can Aidan save what's left of his family and Helena her marriage?

Critique: A carefully crafted and complex novel by a master of the narrative driven storytelling style, "A Mother's Secret" by Caroline Finnerty is an inherently fascinating and fully engaging read from first page to last -- making this large print paperback edition from Boldwood Books a truly welcome addition to personal reading lists and community library Contemporary General Fictions.

Editorial Note: Fans of novelist Caroline Finnerty can visit her informative website at www.carolinefinnerty.ie or contact her on Facebook (carolinefinnertywriter) or on Twitter @cfinnertywriter

A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife
Jo Bartlett
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781800489707, $TBA, PB, Large Print, 506pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781800489707

Synopsis: Midwife Jess knows she'll never have a baby of her own, but she's determined to still be a mum. So Jess decides to foster, providing love and support for children who desperately need it -- something Jess never had as a child when she was in foster care.

Jess loves caring for the precious babies who come into her life, but letting them go again breaks her heart every time. Can she really be a mum after all?

But then Jess finds a surprise on her doorstep in the form of a newborn baby! As the search for the missing mum begins, Jess cares for the precious babe day and night. She desperately wants to reunite mum and baby, but knows that when the day comes, her own heart will shatter.

Critique: An impressively engaging and entertaining read from cover to cover, "A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife" wonderfully showcases author Jo Bartlett's imaginative talents as a novelist and will have a very special attraction for those who appreciate and outstanding and truly memorable work of contemporary women's fiction. This large print paperback edition of "A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife" is especially recommended for personal reading lists and community library general fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Jo Bartlett has made up stories for as long as she can remember, but never really took it any further until writing her debut novel in 2015. Since then she has another 19 novels to her credit. A list of her novels can is at https://www.fictiondb.com/author/jo-bartlett~502522.htm

The Orphan in the Peacock Shawl
Annemarie Brear
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781801627535, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 478pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781801627535

Synopsis: Yorkshire Dales, England, 1850. As a terrible storm rages, Annabelle Wallis is shocked to find a distressed young woman at her cottage door, heavy with child. Moments later a baby girl is born. But by dawn, the mother has vanished, leaving behind the helpless child wrapped only in a silk peacock shawl.

When news spreads that Lady Eliza Hartley, sister to wealthy estate owner, John Hartley, has been found dead, Annabelle realizes the terrible secret she has stumbled on. Terrified she'll be blamed for Eliza's death, Annabelle flees to the filthy slums of York, where she plans to raise the precious orphan as her own.

But the cobbled streets of York's slums are no place for a young woman like Annabelle or a Hartley babe and John Hartley is determined to bring them both home. But Annabelle proves impossible to find. Annabelle can't hide forever from the wealthy Hartley family, but can she ever give up the baby she loves?

Critique: A deftly crafted and inherently engaging historical novel featuring skillfully drawn characters and unexpected plot developments that keep the reader fully entertained from beginning to end, this large print paperback edition of "The Orphan in the Peacock Shawl" from Boldwood Books is highly recommended, both for the ever growing number of AnneMarie Brear fans and community library general fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Australian born AnneMarie Brear writes historical novels and modern romances and sometimes the odd short story, too. She especially enjoys researching historical eras and looking for inspiration for her next book. She has a website at http://www.annemariebrear.com. She can be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/annemariebrear and on Twitter @annemariebrear

With Love from London
Sarah Jio
Ballantine Books
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
www.randomhouse.com
9781101885086, $17.00, PB, 400pp

https://www.amazon.com/Love-London-Novel-Sarah-Jio/dp/1101885084

Synopsis: When Valentina Baker was only eleven years old, her mother, Eloise, unexpectedly fled to her native London, leaving Val and her father on their own in California. Now a librarian in her thirties, fresh out of a failed marriage and still at odds with her mother's abandonment, Val feels disenchanted with her life.

In a bittersweet twist of fate, she receives word that Eloise has died, leaving Val the deed to her mother's Primrose Hill apartment and the Book Garden, the storied bookshop she opened almost two decades prior. Though the news is devastating, Val jumps at the chance for a new beginning and jets across the Atlantic, hoping to learn who her mother truly was while mourning the relationship they never had.

As Val begins to piece together Eloise's life in the U.K., she finds herself falling in love with the pastel-colored third-floor flat and the cozy, treasure-filled bookshop, soon realizing that her mother's life was much more complicated than she ever imagined. When Val stumbles across a series of intriguing notes left in a beloved old novel, she sets out to locate the book's mysterious former owner, though her efforts are challenged from the start, as is the prospects of Book Garden's future.

In order to save the store from financial ruin and preserve her mother's legacy, she must rally its eccentric staff and journey deep into her mother's secrets!

Critique: "With Love from London" by novelist Sarah Jio, is an impressively well written and inherently compelling story about healing and loss, revealing the emotional, relatable truths about love, family, and forgiveness. An original and fully entertaining read from first page to last, "With Love from London" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to community library Contemporary General Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of women's friendship and family saga stories that "With Love from London" is also readily available in a digital book format as well (Kindle, $11.99). Librarians should note that "With Love from London" there is also a large print library binding edition available (Central Point Publishing, 9781638082309, $39.95).

The Bright Side Running Club
Josie Lloyd
Alcover Press
c/o Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643859491, $16.99, PB, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bright-Side-Running-Club-friends/dp/1643859498

Synopsis: When Keira first receives her breast cancer diagnosis, she never expects to end up joining a running group with three women she's only just met. Totally blind-sided, all she can think about is how she doesn't want to tell her family or step back from work. Nor does she want to be part of a group of fellow cancer patients. Cancer is not her club.

And yet it's the running, the hot, sweaty, lycra-clad running in the company of brilliant, funny women all going through treatment, that unexpectedly gives Keira the hope she so urgently needs. Because Keira will not be defined by the C-word. And now, with the Cancer Ladies' Running Club cheering her on, she is going to reclaim everything: her family, her identity, and her life. -- One step at a time.

Critique: Although a work of deftly crafted fiction, "The Bright Side Running Club" deals with the real-life dilemmas of a cancer diagnoses that impact tens of thousands of women every year. An inherently fascinating and entertaining novel about love, family and the power of finding your tribe, "The Bright Side Running Club" is guaranteed to be an immediately welcome and enduringly popular addition to community library Contemporary General Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of non-specialist general readers with an interest in medical fiction, friendship fiction, and novels that linger in the mind and memory of the reader after the story is finished and the book set back upon the shelf that "The Bright Side Running Club" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781666534009, $22.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Josie Lloyd's first novel, It Could Be You, was published in 1997 and since then she has written 15 bestselling novels (under various pen names), including the number one hit Come Together, which she co-authored with her husband, Emlyn Rees, and which was number one for 10 weeks, published in 27 languages and made into a Working Title film. Josie has also written several best-selling parodies with Emlyn, including We're Going On A Bar Hunt, The Very Hungover Caterpillar and The Teenager Who Came To Tea.

The Marriage of Rose Camilleri
Robert Hough
Douglas & McIntyre
c/o Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
www.douglas-mcintyre.com
9781771623049, $22.95, PB, 288pp

https://www.amazon.com/Marriage-Rose-Camilleri-Robert-Hough/dp/1771623047

Synopsis: When Rose Camilleri and Scotty Larkin meet, neither expects to spend a lifetime together, navigating a sometimes turbulent marriage and scraping through the process of raising a family.

When Scotty first enters the bakery where Rose works, she is a new arrival from the tiny island nation of Malta, fond of rabbit stew and Hollywood cinema. He is a thoughtful printer's assistant recently released from juvenile detention after stealing and swiftly totaling a stranger's car. Even after years of marriage and two children together, Rose struggles to shake the idea that perhaps she should have held out for someone more exciting, less withdrawn. But together they will face poverty, infidelity, troubled teenagers, latent criminality, illness and cold Canadian winters and find their own kind of happiness along the way.

Critique: With the publication of "The Marriage of Rose Camilleri", novelist Robert Hough eloquently creates his memorably larger-than-life characters with genuine warmth, insight and humor, and displaying the masterful approach to storytelling that gained his previous novels acclaim and several prestigious award nominations. As an experienced and narrative driven storyteller, Robert Hough is able to transport his readers into the epicentre of an unconventional love story, where he draws out captivating details from the fabric of an ordinary shared lifetime to create a story that lives in the moment and takes seriously the small but vital details of everyday life. An engaging, entertain, and memorable novel, "The Marriage Of Rose Camilleri" is unhesitatingly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as community and academic library contemporary literary fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Currently residing in Toronto, Canada, Robert Hough is also the author of The Final Confession of Mabel Stark (Vintage Canada, 2002), short listed for both the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for best first book and the Trillium Book Award; The Stowaway (Vintage Canada, 2004), one of the Boston Globe's top ten fiction titles of 2004; The Culprits (Vintage Canada, 2008); Dr. Brinkley's Tower (House of Anansi, 2012), short listed for the Governor General's Award for fiction and long listed for the Giller Prize; The Man Who Saved Henry Morgan (House of Anansi, 2015), a finalist for the Trillium Book Award; and Diego's Crossing (Annick Press, 2015), and was short listed for the Arthur Ellis Award.

The Tobacco Wives
Adele Myers
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
www.BlackstoneAudio.com
9780063082939, $27.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Tobacco-Wives-Novel-Adele-Myers/dp/0063082934

Synopsis: Maddie Sykes is a burgeoning seamstress who's just arrived in Bright Leaf, North Carolina (the tobacco capital of the South) where her aunt has a thriving sewing business. After years of war rations and shortages, Bright Leaf is a prosperous wonderland in full technicolor bloom, and Maddie is dazzled by the bustle of the crisply uniformed female factory workers, the palatial homes, and, most of all, her aunt's glossiest clientele: the wives of the powerful tobacco executives.

But she soon learns that Bright Leaf isn't quite the carefree paradise that it seems. A trail of misfortune follows many of the women, including substantial health problems, and although Maddie is quick to believe that this is a coincidence, she inadvertently uncovers evidence that suggests otherwise.

Maddie wants to report what she knows, but in a town where everyone depends on Big Tobacco to survive, she doesn't know who she can trust -- and fears that exposing the truth may destroy the lives of the proud, strong women with whom she has forged strong bonds.

Critique: Although a work of fiction, "The Tobacco Wives" by Adele Myers accurately reveals the hidden history of women's activism in exposing the dangers of tobacco use during the post-war period. A deeply human, emotionally satisfying, and dramatic novel about the power of female connection and the importance of seeking truth, "The Tobacco Wives" will prove an enduringly welcome addition to community library fiction collections. For personal reading lists, "The Tobacco Wives" is available in a digital book format (Kindle, $$14.99. Librarians should note that "The Tobacco Wives" is also readily available in a large print paperback edition (9780063211353, $29.99, 480pp) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798200854257, $46.99, CD).


The Historical Fiction Shelf

Beyond The Distant Hills
Annemarie
Aurora Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781787828469, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 306pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781787828469

Synopsis: Australia, 1853. Settled in the colony, Ellen is determined to make a happy new life for her family, and forget the horrors of famine-struck Ireland. Married for security, she works hard developing their estate in order to give her children the privileged life they could have only imagined back home.

However, danger lurks when a man from her past threatens her beloved sons; and when her marriage begins to crumble, all that she thought was safe is suddenly in jeopardy.

Rafe Hamilton loves Ellen, but she is married to another; yet when he is faced with helping her once more, he doesn't hesitate to act. Only he makes a mistake which could cost him everything he always wanted.

Critique: An extraordinary, engaging, entertaining read replete with unexpected plot twists and turns, and populated with memorable characters, this large print paperback edition from Aurora Large Print of author Annemarie Brear's novel "Beyond the Distant Hills" is especially and unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists for fans of the family saga genre, and community library General Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Award winning author and Amazon UK bestseller novelist AnneMarie Brear has been a life-long reader and started her writing career in 1997. She has a love of history, of grand old English houses and a fascination of what might have happened beyond their walls. She is noted for her several historical family saga novels.

Stray Angel
Kay Brellend
http://www.kaybrellend.com
Magna Large Print
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9780750549356, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 396pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9780750549356

Synopsis: East London, 1915. While the man she loves is away fighting, Lily Larkin wakes up at dawn to carry crates of apples to the market stall. Left in charge of Greg's warehouse, she has blossomed from a street urchin into a shrewd trades woman. But the market is very much a man's world and she attracts some unwanted visitors, including Greg's old rival Scully.

Luckily, Lily recruits her old friends, Margie and Fanny, as helping hands. But Lily has one trouble she must keep secret: before dying, her mother gave birth to a child who was spirited away. Searching every corner of the city to find her long-lost sister, Lily soon discovers there is a world of wickedness within London's poorest alleys.

Critique: An impressively original and inherently riveting read from first page to last, "Stray Angel" by author Kay Brellend is a true saga of a novel and this large print paperback edition from the British publisher Magna Large Print will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community library General Fiction collections and the personal reading lists of fans with a particular interest in family saga novels.

Editorial Note: Kay Brellend is the author of a series of five books set in Campbell Road, Islington AKA The Bunk, due to the proliferation of doss houses there. Her fans can visit her website at http://www.kaybrellend.com for news, upcoming titles and more.


The Literary Fiction Shelf

Avenue of Champions
Conor Kerr
Nightwood Editions
c/o Harbour Publishing
www.harbourpublishing.com
9780889714182, $21.95, PB, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Avenue-Champions-Conor-Kerr/dp/0889714185

Synopsis: Daniel is a young Metis man searching for a way to exist in a world of lateral violence, intergenerational trauma and systemic racism. Facing obstacles of his own at every turn, he observes and learns from the lived realities of his family members, friends, teachers and lovers. He finds hope in the inherent connection of Indigenous Peoples to their land, and the permanence of culture, language and ceremony in the face of displacement.

Set in Edmonton, "Avenue of Champions" considers Indigenous youth in relation to the urban constructs and colonial spaces in which they survive -- from violence, whitewashing, trauma and racism to language revitalization, relationships with Elders, restaking land claims and ultimately, triumph. Although a work of fiction, "Avenue of Champions" is based on Papaschase and Metis oral histories and lived experience.

Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "Avenue of Champions" is short story author and poet Conor Kerr's debut as a novelist, this is an absorbing, entertaining, and thought-provoking story that showcases his genuine flair as a wordsmith and his talents for the kind of narrative driven storytelling that compels the reader's total attention from first page to last. Simply stated, "Avenue of Champions" is an inherently interesting novel that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as community, college, and university library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Conor Kerr is a Metis/Ukrainian educator, writer and harvester. He is a member of the Metis Nation of Alberta, part of the Edmonton Indigenous community and is descended from the Lac Ste. Anne and Fort Des Prairies Metis communities and the Papaschase Cree Nation. His Ukrainian family settled in Treaty 4 territory in Saskatchewan. Conor works as the manager of Indigenous relations and supports at NorQuest College. In 2019, Conor received The Fiddlehead's Ralph Gustafson Poetry Prize. His writing has been anthologized in Best Canadian Stories 2020, Best Canadian Poetry 2020 and has appeared in literary magazines across Canada.

148 Charles Street
Tracy Daugherty
University of Nebraska Press
233 North 8th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68588-0255
www.nebraskapress.unl.edu
9781496229748, $19.95, PB, 158pp

https://www.amazon.com/148-Charles-Street-Tracy-Daugherty/dp/1496229746

Synopsis: Professor Tracy Daugherty's historical novel "148 Charles Street" explores the fascinating story of Willa Cather's friendship with Elizabeth Shepley Sergeant. The women shared a passion for writing, for New York, and for the desert Southwest, but their sensibilities could not have been more different: Cather, the novelist of lyrical landscapes and aesthetic refinement, and Sergeant, the muckraking journalist and literary activist.

Their friendship is sorely tested when Cather fictionalizes a war that Sergeant covered as a reporter, calling into question, for both women, the uses of art and journalism, the power of imagination and witness. "148 Charles Street" is a testament to the bonds that endure despite disagreements and misunderstandings, and in the relentlessness of a vanishing past.

"148 Charles Street" explores, as only fiction can, the two writers' interior lives, and contrasts Sergeant's literary activism with Cather's more purely aesthetic approach to writing.

Critique: Deftly crafted writing, a genuine flair for portraying memorable characters, attention to historical detail, "148 Charles Street" is an eloquent, entertaining, and thought-provoking read from first page to last. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.95), "148 Charles Street" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Literary Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Tracy Daugherty is distinguished emeritus professor of English and Creative Writing at Oregon State University. In addition to biographies of Joan Didion and Joseph Heller, he has published several novels, including High Skies, Axeman's Jazz, The Boy Orator, Desire Provoked, and What Falls Away.

Captain Underwit
Anna Faktorovich
Anaphora Literary Press
https://anaphoraliterary.com
9798750121014, $25.00, HC, 150pp

https://www.amazon.com/Captain-Underwit-Renaissance-Re-Attribution-Modernization/dp/B09K21NSSZ

Synopsis: Captain Underwit has succeeded in becoming a "paper" Captain by bribing the Lieutenant with favors and a below-value land-purchase. Underwit then sends his servant Thomas to purchase books to prepare him to actually carry out military duties, but Thomas instead purchases the "Shakespeare" Folio, and other impractical or irrelevant books in a manner that echoes Don Quixote's belief he could imitate the actions of knights in romance novels.

Meanwhile, Underwit withdraws from London into his father-in-law Sir Richard's country estate. Underwit hires Captain Sackburie to build his military acumen, but Sackburie only has him perform a few military dances before they escape to drink at a tavern.

The plot then digresses from these heavy subjects to romantic entanglements as Sir Richard's wife (Lady) attempts to have an affair with Sir Francis, and Sister flirts with Mr. Courtwell, and Lady's maid, mistress Dorothy, devises a fraudulent scheme to make suitors falsely believe she comes from an aristocratic family to secure a husband.

There are gems under this visage of simplicity, as Engine is attempting to bribe his way into a monopoly on periwigs, and Device the poet recites elegant songs to Sister that he is not sure if he has plagiarized.

The introductory materials explain that the plagiarism of the "Catch" dice-game-song that repeats in the "James Shirley"-bylined Poems &c. (1646) re-affirms Percy's ghostwriting of most "Shirley"-bylined plays as well as Captain, instead of proving "Shirley's" authorship of this group of texts, as critics have previously claimed.

Critique: A classic English country comedy from the British Renaissance era and now ably translated by Anna Faktorovich into modern English for an appreciative readership with an interest in the literature and stage dramas of the time, "Captain Underwit" is an eloquent, unique, and highly recommended contribution to academic library collections. The 14th volume in the British Renaissance Re-Attribution and Modernization Series from the Anaphora Literary Press, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Captain Underwit" is also available in a paperback edition (9798750120437, $20.00) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Black Writers Matter
Whitney French, editor
University of Regina Press
www.uofrpress.ca
9780889776166, $21.95, PB, 216pp

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Writers-Matter/dp/0889776164

Synopsis: An anthology of African-Canadian writing compiled and edited by Whitney French, "Black Writers Matter" offers a cross-section of established writers and newcomers to the literary world who tackle contemporary and pressing issues with beautiful, sometimes raw, prose. As editor Whitney French says in her introduction to "Black Writers Matter" each contributor "injects new meaning into the word diversity [and] harbours a sacredness and an everydayness that offers Black people dignity." The provide an "invitation to read, share, and tell stories of Black narratives that are close to the bone," in a literary collection that feels particular to the Black Canadian experience.

Critique: A unique compendium of Canadian authors of color, "Black Writers Matter" is an inherently fascinating, thoughtful, informative, eloquent, and memorable collection that is especially and unreservedly recommended addition to community, college, and university library Contemporary Canadian Literary Studies in general, and Black Literary Studies supplemental curriculum lists in particular. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Black Writers Matter" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: The founder and co-editor of From the Root Zine, Whitney French has been published in Descant Magazine, anthologized in The Great Black North: Contemporary African Canadian Poetry, and is the host and facilitator of the Writing While Black creative writing studio in Toronto, Canada.


The Romantic Fiction Shelf

Nowhere Like Home
Teresa Ashby
Linford Romance Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444848281, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 248pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781444848281

Synopsis: Beth Clarke and her younger sister Lexi have moved to the seaside town of Furze Point, where Beth is set to take over the running of The Beach Hut shop from Tom and Carol Bennett. The town welcomes them, but Lexi is unhappy, and Beth worries that she's made a mistake. Then she meets the enigmatic Noah Walsh, who has returned to Furze Point after a twenty-year absence. But not everyone is pleased to see him!

Critique: With the publication of "Nowhere Like Home" in a new large print paperback edition from the Linford Romance Library, once again author Teresa Ashby demonstrates her impressive abilities as a novelist and her mastery of the romance genre. Engaging, entertaining and memorable, "Nowhere Like Home" is an extraordinary and recommended addition to the personal reading lists of dedicated romance fans and community library Contemporary Romance Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Teresa Ashby is best known for her short stories and serials which have featured regularly in magazines in the UK and abroad since the 1980s.

The Attractiveness of Wisdom
Judy Kelly
Black Rose Writing
PO Box 1540, Castroville, TX 78009
www.blackrosewriting.com
9781684338504, $21.95, PB, 301pp

https://www.amazon.com/Attractiveness-Wisdom-Judy-Kelly/dp/1684338506

Synopsis: After a tumultuous marriage and struggling trying to keep it together, Hamilton, a university dean, sets out on a perilous emotional journey to change his life and seek the kind of love he's always wanted. He's tired of controlling his life and the lives of others.

Hamilton meets Franny, a troubled dance teacher, and accepts her job offer of organizer in her studio. When Franny injures her foot, Hamilton must step out of his secure place to help. His trepidation increases when he meets a research journalist who falls in love with him. But her life isn't what it seems. He fears controlling her, and after her convent life she needs his love.

Will Hamilton wise up and learn how a man truly loves a woman, the value of friendship and the need for prayer?

Critique: "The Attractiveness of Wisdom" by Judy Kelly is a deftly crafted, reader engaging, and exceptionally entertaining, heart-warming, enthralling novel with truly memorable characters. Showcasing the author's genuine flair as a novelist for originality and with a gifted approach to narrative driven storytelling, "The Attractiveness of Wisdom" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary Romance Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of those who enjoy literary novels with a Christian perspective that "The Attractiveness of Wisdom" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).

Editorial Note: An adjunct professor at Montgomery College teaching fiction writing, speech, college reading and English, Judy Kelly is also an award-winning author whose second novel, "Blessings and Curses", is a Finalist in the Readers Favorite Award for 2020, in the Top Ten Most Popular Novels at the Frankfort, Sharjah, and Guadalajara International Book Fairs, 2018. Her first novel, "That Ever Died So Young", was a finalist in the Somerset Literary and Contemporary Fiction Award for 2014. She presents at conferences, libraries, and meetings.

Summer Nights with a Cowboy
Caitlin Crews
St. Martin's Press
120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271
https://us.macmillan.com/smp
9781250750020, $8.99, PB, 320pp

https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Nights-Cowboy-Kittredge-Ranch/dp/1250750024

Synopsis: Traveling nurse Janie Atwood has come to Cold River to uncover old family secrets and maybe, if she's lucky, find a new home. That the gorgeous, glowering sheriff next door thinks her caring for his elderly neighbor is a nefarious scheme is a bonus. Having never been anything but a good girl, Janie finds Zack Kittredge's simmering suspicion an excellent reason to try being a little dangerous instead.

Sheriff Zack Kittredge is okay with being intense. He takes his loner status as seriously as he takes his responsibilities to protect Cold River. And he thinks cheerful Janie might be a threat to the town. But the more he gets to know her, the more he faces the truth -- she's brighter than sunshine and he's like a moth to her flame. When Janie suggests he could use a few charm school lessons, he surprises them both by accepting. He doesn't need help. But it's clear he might need her. Because the only thing hotter than the summer sun in the Rockies is the forbidden passion that burns between them!

Critique: A particularly skilled and impressively entertaining story by an novelist who is a past master of the Western & Contemporary Romance genre, this mass market paperback edition of Caitlin Crews' "Summer Nights with a Cowboy" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of the legions of Caitlin Crews fans that "Summer Nights with a Cowboy" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).

Editorial Note: Caitlin Crews has written more than seventy-five books, including Frenemies, Princess from the Past, A Royal Without Rules, and Undone by the Sultan's Touch. She has won fans with her romance, Harlequin Presents, women's fiction, chick lit, and work-for-hire young adult novels, many of which she writes as Megan Crane (including the dystopian Viking romance Edge series). These days her focus is on contemporary romance in all its forms, from small town heat to international glamour, cowboys to bikers to military men and beyond. Caitlin has also taught creative writing classes in places like UCLA Extension's prestigious Writers' Program, gives assorted writing workshops on occasion, and attempts to make use of the MA and PhD in English Literature she received from the University of York in York, England.

Fool Me Once
Ashley Winstead
Graydon House
195 Broadway, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10007
http://graydonhousebooks.com
9781525899744, $16.99, PB, 368pp

https://www.amazon.com/Fool-Me-Once-Ashley-Winstead/dp/1525899740

Synopsis: Lee Stone is a twenty-first-century woman: she kicks butt at her job as a communications director at a women-run electric car company (that's better than Tesla, thank you), and after work she is "Stoner," drinking guys under the table and never letting any of them get too comfortable in her bed.

That's because Lee's learned one big lesson: never trust love. Four major heartbreaks set her straight, from her father cheating on her mom all the way to Ben Laderman in grad school -- who wasn't actually cheating, but she could have sworn he was, so she reciprocated in kind.

Then Ben shows up five years later, working as a policy expert for the most liberal governor in Texas history, just as Lee is trying to get a clean energy bill rolling. Things get complicated (and competitive) as Lee and Ben are forced to work together. Tension builds just as old sparks reignite, fanning the flames for a romantic dustup the size of Texas.

Critique: "Fool Me Once" is a rom-com movie in book form. Replete with wit and rapid fire banter, "Fool Me Once" is a deftly crafted novel that will have a very special appeal to fans of novels that combine elements of political, women's, and friendship fiction. A solidly entertaining, memorable, and compelling read from first page to last, "Fool Me Once" is an especially recommended addition to community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Fool Me Once" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (9798200863846, $41.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Ashley Winstead is an academic turned novelist with a PhD in contemporary American literature. She maintains a website at www.ashleywinstead.com.


The Western Fiction Shelf

High Iron
E. E. Halleran
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781785419614, $TBA, PB, Large Print, 344pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781785419614

Synopsis: Old Hannibal Putnam was an old prospector who, having hit a bonanza just didn't know when he was licked. Not only had he set out to build a railroad on borrowed money, it had to be high up in the hills. And now there's a spy in the camp. Someone who certainly doesn't want a railroad built. Someone who would kill (and has) to stop it. That's when Hannibal decides to send for his former shooting partner, Lefty Malone. Only Lefty hasn't carried a gun in years -- but when he did he was the fasted two gun law man the west had ever seen and constantly challenged by gunman seeking to create a similar legend for themselves.

Critique: Another deftly crafted western action/adventure novel that is a riveting and compulsive page turner of a read from beginning to end, "High Iron" by veteran western novelist E. E. Halleran is populated by memorable characters, laced with unexpected plot twists, and basically one terrific read that will, in this large print paperback edition from the Linford Western Library, be a particularly popular addition to personal reading lists and community library Western Fiction collections.

The Vengeful Deputy
I. J. Parnham
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781444848830, $TBA, PB, Large Print, 200pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781444848830

Synopsis: Lone Ridge was a lawless hellhole -- until the ruthless Nyle King eliminated all the gunslingers and bad men in competition with himself. Now he controls the town, and everyone who opposes him ends up dead. That's when U. S. Marshal Caine tasks his reluctant deputy Gabriel Flynn with bringing Nyle King to justice. Commandeered by Cain once again, Flynn is searching for the outlaw who killed his brother, and comes to believe King may be the key to finding him. But then King claims the recent deaths in town aren't his work, and that someone is trying to frame him -- all bets are off.

Critique: A deftly blended combination of whodunnit mystery trying to solve a series of assassinations, and blazing gunfire combat leading to an ultimate showdown with an unexpected twist, this large print paperback edition of "The Vengeful Deputy" from the Linford Western Library is one terrific gun read for dedicated western action/adventure fans and highly recommended for both personal reading lists and community library western fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Ian J. Parnahm has written 48 western novels. 32 of these books are available on Kindle. More informative details about Ian's life and work his fans can find them on his website at: http://ijparnham.blogspot.com

Lady of the Law
Melody Groves
Five Star Books
c/o Gale Cengage Learning, Inc.
20 Channel Center Street, Boston, MA 02210
https://www.gale.com/five-star
www.cengageptr.com
9781432882624, $25.95, HC, 379pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lady-Law-Maud-Overstreet-2/dp/1432882627

Synopsis: A peaceful Sunday morning shatters when Dry Creek, California's schoolhouse burns to the ground, the first of many fires. Citizens rally around Sheriff Maud Overstreet, a recently elected 30-something spinster, to help extinguish the flames.

Women in the 1870s have little control over their lives and the women of Dry Creek look to Maud as an example of women's progress. Maud soon appoints a woman as fire chief. Then several women choose to run their own businesses, much to the consternation of the male town councilors.

While searching for the arsonist, witnessing a shooting which left a man dead, questioning the new concept of insurance and assuming the salesman was the arsonist, Maud also takes on the role of campaign manager for two of her friends, both running for Mayor.

Toss in a wild romance, a rowdy town dance, establishing a school for Chinese girls and mysterious threatening notes left on her door and desk, Maud Overstreet faces each challenge with determination. She is, after all, a Lady of the Law!

Critique: A fun and inherently engaging read, "Lady of the Law" clearly showcases author Melody Groves sense of humor, skill at deftly crafting memorable characters, and her expertise at creating reader engaging plot twists and turns. "Lady of the Law" is highly recommended as a truly memorable addition to personal reading lists and community library Western Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Melody Groves is a full-time freelance writer published in Wild West, True West, New Mexico and other magazines. After spending ten years with the New Mexico Gunfighters Association, she learned what it feels like going toe to toe with a revolver-wielding sheriff. Being both "good guy" and "bad guy" gives her a firsthand feel for what her western characters experience. Melody is also a contributing editor for Round Up magazine for Western Writers of America, as well as a contributing writer for "American Westward Expansion," a collegiate history encyclopedia. She also maintains a website at https://melodygroves.net/


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Demons, the Great White North and the Blind Detective
Shawn Adair Johnston
Atmosphere Press
www.atmospherepress.com
9781639881451, $17.99

https://www.amazon.com/Demons-Great-White-North-Detective/dp/163988145X

Although Demons, the Great White North and the Blind Detective is set in the future, it's especially recommended for thriller and mystery readers because its suspense element is particularly well done, enhancing its futuristic backdrop in a manner that will attract a much larger audience than either sci-fi or traditional mystery readers alone.

Author Shawn Adair Johnston deftly weaves the culture of the Canadian Inuit people into the threat of a rogue A.I. and a demon that could introduce the downfall of mankind...if famous blind detective Peter Straw can't follow the clues to confront these dual dangers. The sci-fi futuristic atmosphere is strengthened by Straw's intellectually augmented seeing eye dog Watson and a cast of characters that include human and inhuman forces; but it's his investigative blind eye's ability to connect the dots he can't see which drives the story through the sci-fi setting and reaches out to detective story readers with a very different premise.

From Playboy, who considers the existential question of whether he, as an AI, is truly alive in a "real rather than virtual way" to the involvement of American and Canadian military forces, Demons, the Great White North and the Blind Detective represents a satisfying marriage between sci-fi and thriller which makes it a unique contribution to either genre. It's especially strong in its contrast of the survival-oriented focus of AI and human alike, weaving a variety of dilemmas into a story replete with intrigue and sci-fi elements as AI issues evolve to become just as important as the concerns of mankind.

As Watson, Playboy, and others interact, the dreams and realities of human emotions and AI objectives create a satisfying play on irony and existential angst, with a dash of humor spicing the mix. Although sci-fi readers will consider the story sci-fi and detective genre readers will be attracted to its investigative side, both audiences will relish the appealing differences in Demons, the Great White North and the Blind Detective, which creates all kinds of controversies up to and including love dilemmas. Its multifaceted approach to a futuristic conundrum makes for an unpredictable, involving, and highly recommended adventure.

Takeover
Edie Baylis
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
9781802801545, $TBA, Large Print, PB, 574pp

https://www.ulverscroft.com/title.php?sqlCmd=isbn%3D9781802801545

Synopsis: Daddy's girl Samantha Reynold lives a pampered and spoiled life. But when her beloved father is murdered, Sam's perfect life is shattered. Now, only she can step into her father's shoes and take over the family casino business, whether she likes it or not.

Sam knows nothing about the rules of this deadly new world. But she won't let her family down, especially when it looks like they could lose everything to their biggest rivals - the Stoker family, run by gorgeous, but ruthless, eldest son, Sebastian. Sebastian hasn't got time to pander to pretty girl Samantha as she plays at being boss.

Rumors are swirling around the streets of Birmingham that have the power to rip the Stoker family apart and destroy everything they've built. And Seb will stop at nothing to ensure that in this takeover, only one will succeed.

Critique: As an experienced and successful novelist, Edie Baylis writes gritty gangland fiction, using a combination of thrillers, suspense and romance. Her latest crime novel for her growing legion of fans,"Takeover", is, as usual, a compulsively compelling and fully entertaining read from cover to cover. This large print paperback addition from Boldwood Books is particular recommended for personal reading lists and community library Suspense/Thriller collections.

Jane and the Year Without a Summer
Stephanie Barron
Soho Press
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
www.sohopress.com
9781641292474, $27.95, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Without-Summer-Being-Austen-Mystery/dp/1641292474

Synopsis: In May of 1816, Jane Austen was feeling unwell, with an uneasy stomach, constant fatigue, rashes, fevers and aches. She attributed her poor condition to the stress of family burdens, which even the drafting of her latest manuscript (about a baronet's daughter nursing a broken heart for a daring naval captain) cannot alleviate. Her apothecary recommends a trial of the curative waters at Cheltenham Spa, in Gloucestershire. Jane decides to use some of the profits earned from her last novel, Emma, and treat herself to a period of rest and reflection at the spa, in the company of her sister, Cassandra.

Cheltenham Spa hardly turns out to be the relaxing sojourn Jane and Cassandra envisaged, however. It is immediately obvious that other boarders at the guest house where the Austen sisters are staying have come to Cheltenham with stresses of their own -- some of them deadly. But perhaps with Jane's interference a terrible crime might be prevented.

Set during the Year without a Summer, when the eruption of Mount Tambora in the South Pacific caused a volcanic winter that shrouded the entire planet for sixteen months, and bringing a forgotten moment of Regency history to life"Jane and the Year Without a Summer" is the fourteenth novel in Stephanie Barron's critically acclaimed series, 'Being a Jane Austen Mystery'.

Critique: Another exceptionally fun read for both the legions of Jane Austen fans and all dedicated mystery buffs, "Jane and the Year Without a Summer" once again showcases author and novelist Stephanie Barron's genuinely impressive master of historical mysteries. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99), ""Jane and the Year Without a Summer" is highly recommended and certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community library Historical Mystery/Suspense collections.

Editorial Note: Stephanie Barron attended Princeton and Stanford Universities, where she studied history, before going on to work as an intelligence analyst at the CIA. She wrote her first book in 1992 and left the Agency a year later. Since then, she has written twenty-nine books, including the critically acclaimed Merry Folger series, which she writes under the pseudonym of Francine Mathews.

The Strange Case of the Dutch Painter
Timothy Miller
Seventh Street Books
https://www.seventhstreetbooks.com
c/o Simon & Schuster
https://www.simonandschuster.com
9781645060420, $17.95, PB, 264pp

https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Case-Dutch-Painter/dp/164506042X

Synopsis: Paris, 1890. When Sherlock Holmes finds himself chasing an art dealer through the streets of Paris, he's certain he's smoked out one of the principals of a cunning forgery ring responsible for the theft of some of the Louvre's greatest masterpieces. But for once, Holmes is dead wrong.

He doesn't know that the dealer, Theo Van Gogh, is rushing to the side of his brother, who lies dying of a gunshot wound in Auvers. He doesn't know that the dealer's brother is a penniless misfit artist named Vincent, known to few and mourned by even fewer.

Officialdom pronounces the death a suicide, but a few minutes at the scene convinces Holmes it was murder. And he's bulldog-determined to discover why a penniless painter who harmed no one had to be killed - and who killed him. Who could profit from Vincent's death? How is the murder entwined with his own forgery investigation?

Holmes must retrace the last months of Vincent's life, testing his mettle against men like the brutal Paul Gauguin and the secretive Toulouse-Lautrec, all the while searching for the girl Olympia, whom Vincent named with his dying breath. She can provide the truth, but can anyone provide the proof? From the madhouse of St. Remy to the rooftops of Paris, Holmes hunts a killer -- while the killer hunts him!

Critique: An absolute 'must' for the legions of Sherlock Holmes fans, this new Sherlockian mystery/adventure by author and novelist Timothy Miller does full and complete justice to the legendary detective originally created by Sir Conan Doyle. A riveting and entertaining read from first page to last, "The Strange Case of the Dutch Painter" is a welcome addition to the growing canon of Sherlock Holmes stories and will prove a welcome addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Strange Case of the Dutch Painter" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Hell and Gone
Sam Wiebe
Harbour Publishing
www.harbourpublishing.com
9781550179637, $18.95, PB, 288pp

https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Gone-Wakeland-Sam-Wiebe/dp/1550179632

Synopsis: In one moment of public violence, everything changes for Dave Wakeland. When masked men and women storm an office building in Chinatown, leaving a trail of carnage, the Vancouver PI and his partner, Jeff Chen, find themselves caught up in a mystery that won't let them go.

The police have a vested interest in finding the shooters, and so does the leader of the Exiles motorcycle gang. Both want Wakeland's help. The deeper he investigates, the more connections he uncovers: a reclusive millionaire with ties to organized crime, an international security company with a sinister reputation, and a high-ranking police officer who seems to have a personal connection to the case. When the shooters themselves start turning up dead, Wakeland realizes the only way to guarantee his own safety, and that of the people he loves, is by finding out who hired the shooters and why.

What Wakeland uncovers are secrets no one wants known -- a botched undercover operation, an ambitious gangster and a double-crossing killer who used the shooting to cover up another crime. With a setup like this, anything can go wrong, and does. Skill and luck are needed for Wakeland and Chen to emerge with the killers, the money and their own lives.

Critique: Another original and riveting crime novel by author Sam Wiebe, "Hell and Gone" is a terrific, pulse pounding read from cover to cover. Memorably crafted characters and unexpect plot twists and turns, "Hell and Gone" is especially recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated PI mystery fans that "Hell and Gone" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Editorial Note: Currently residing in New Westminister, BC, Canada, Sam Wiebe is the award-winning author of the Wakeland novels, one of the most authentic and acclaimed detective series in Canada, including Invisible Dead and Cut You Down (Random House, 2016 and 2018). Wiebe's other books include Never Going Back (Rapid Reads, 2020), Last of the Independents (Dundurn, 2014) and the Vancouver Noir anthology (Akashic Books, 2018), which he edited.

Knit or Dye Trying
Allie Pleiter
Berkley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593201800, $8.99, PB, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Knit-Trying-Riverbank-Knitting-Mystery/dp/0593201809

Synopsis: As spring comes to Collinstown, the village launches a food festival to draw a new group of tourists. Libby, proud owner of Y.A.R.N., has planned a yarn event to provide an alternative option to a foodie weekend. Artisan fiber dyer Julie Wilson (who is known for her work with animal-friendly, plant-based knitting fibers such as bamboo and hemp as well as her brilliant use of color) will hopefully draw a crowd with a special dyeing workshop.

The festival begins, but it draws more than crowds. First a flock of sheep parades down the street, herded by farmers protesting Julie's anti-wool stance. Then Julie's celebrity chef sister appears, and the siblings resume a long-standing rivalry. Despite all this, Julie's workshop has sold out. Libby is thrilled, and they're preparing for a full house. But the night before the event, Julie is found alone in the warehouse event space -- dead. The witty "Watch Julie Wilson Dye" workshop title now has a terrible new meaning and it's up to Libby to catch a crafty killer!

Critique: A beautifully crafted cozy mystery by an author who is a master of the genre, "Knit or Dye Trying" by Allie Pleiter is a fun read from first page to last. While also available for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery fans in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99), "Knit or Dye Trying" is whole heartedly recommended for community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections.

Editorial Note: An avid knitter and compulsive author, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction, working on as many as four books at a time. The author of more than fifty books, Allie has enjoyed a twenty-year career, with over 1.5 million books sold to date. Allie also maintains an active writing productivity coaching practice and speaks regularly on the creative process, publishing, and her very favorite topic -- the Chunky Method of time management for writers. Her website is at: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/453346.Allie_Pleiter

When the Crow's Away
Auralee Wallace
https://auraleewallace.com
Berkley Prime Crime
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593335857, $8.99, PB, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/When-Crows-Evenfall-Witches-Mystery/dp/0593335856

Synopsis: After spending months unable to use her powers, Brynn Warren is once again using her gift and working at her family's bed-and-breakfast. Her heart is full, and although one of her aunts wonders if it might be a little more full with a bit of romance in her life, Brynn is certain that finding love again is not in her future. In fact, she can't imagine anyone being more certain of anything -- except for maybe, the recently deceased Mortimer Sweete. He's certain he's been murdered, and he wants Brynn's help to bring his killer to justice.

Mort is positive he knows who killed him: his business partner's wife, Cookie, who had been trying to get them to sell the candy shop for months. But Brynn doesn't share his conviction. After all, the coroner ruled his death natural causes, and Mort did have health problems in life. But with Cookie putting up a For Sale sign for the shop already, Brynn knows she can't just let it go.

Trying to solve a might-be murder while attempting to stop her aunt from meddling in her personal life seems like a recipe for disaster. If Brynn wants to bring Mort's spirit peace, she'll have to rely on all her skills, both magical and mundane, to uncover the truth.

Critique: An inherently fascinating combination of fantasy and mystery, "When the Crow's Away" by Auralee Wallace is a deftly crafted and impressively entertaining read from cover to cover and will leave the reader looking eagerly toward author Auralee Wallace's next novel -- and if they haven't read it yet, look up her first novel "In the Company of Witches" (9780593335833, $8.99 PB, $1.99 Kindle)in this unique and simply outstanding series. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99), this mass market paperback edition of "When the Crow's Away" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Fantasy/Mystery collections.

Editorial Note: Auralee Wallace is the author of multiple novels, including the Otter Lake mystery series. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master's degree in English literature, and she has worked in the publishing industry for a number of years before teaching at the college level. She maintains a website at: https://auraleewallace.com/

The Art of the Decoy
Trish Esden
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643859644, $26.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Decoy-Scandal-Mountain-Antiques-Mystery/dp/1643859641

Synopsis: After her mother is sent to prison for art forgery, Edie Brown returns to Northern Vermont to rebuild her family's fine art and antiques business. She's certain she can do it now that her mother is gone. After all, butting heads with her mom over bad business practices was what drove Edie away three years ago, including a screwup that landed Edie on probation for selling stolen property.

When Edie scores a job appraising a waterfowl decoy collection at a hoarder's farmhouse, she's determined to take advantage of the situation to rebuild the business's tarnished reputation and dwindling coffers. In lieu of payment, Edie intends to cherry-pick an exceptional decoy carved by the client's renowned Quebecoise folk artist ancestors. Only the tables turn when the collection vanishes.

Accused of the theft, Edie's terrified that the fallout will destroy the business and land her in prison next to her mom. Desperate, she digs into the underbelly of the local antiques and art world. When Edie uncovers a possible link between the decoy theft and a deadly robbery at a Quebec museum, she longs to ask her ex-probation officer, and ex-lover, for help. But she suspects his recent interest in rekindling their romance may hide a darker motive.

With the help of her eccentric uncle Tuck and Kala, their enigmatic new employee, Edie must risk all she holds dear to expose the thieves and recover the decoys before the FBI's Art Crime Team or the ruthless thieves themselves catch up with her.

Critique: It is interesting to note that author Trish Esden's 'day job' as an antiques dealer very nicely infuses her mystery novel "The Art of the Decoy" with details that make the background and context to her original story all the more realistic and absorbing as a 'whodunnit' crime story. The author's impressive ability narrative driven story telling, combined with a genuine flair for originality, has created a very special and recommended addition to community library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated crime novel enthusiasts that "The Art of the Decoy" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape, 9781666536065, $22.99, CD).

Shadow in the Glass
M. E. Hillard
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643858944, $26.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Glass-Greer-Hogan-Mystery/dp/1643858947

Synopsis: Librarian Greer Hogan is on hand to celebrate her old friend Sarah Whitaker's nuptials at the Whitaker summer home on beautiful Mirror Lake, just outside the upstate New York village of Lake Placid. But Greer has an ulterior motive - - to gather information that could reopen the investigation into her husband's murder, a crime for which she believes an innocent man went to prison.

But her plans come to a shuddering halt when a wedding guest goes missing and turns up dead in the lake. The guest, Brittany Miles, was an employee of the Whitaker family whom Sarah had long suspected was up to no good at work.

The police have no leads, but Greer (an avid reader of crime fiction who possesses an uncanny knack for deduction) begins her own investigation. She learns that the victim was seen with a mystery man right before she disappeared. Then the autopsy reveals that she didn't drown in the lake after all, but in the reflecting pool in the Whitaker garden.

The suspect list is as long as the guest list itself, with no apparent motive. Now, Greer must rely on the wisdom of her favorite fictional detectives to tease out truth from lies -- and keep herself out of the killer's sights!

Critique: The newest mystery novel by M. E. Hillard (who is a full-time librarian and a life-long lover of mystery fiction) "Shadow in the Glass" is a full on 'whodunnit' mystery laced with suspense, memorable characters, and the kind of unexpect plot twists and turns that makes for a compulsive page turning and fun read from start to (unexpected!) finish. While unabashedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted that "Shadow in the Glass" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781666536027, $22.99, CD).

Reader, I Buried Them & Other Stories
Peter Lovesey
Soho Press
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
www.sohopress.com
9781641293617, $27.95, HC, 384pp

https://www.amazon.com/Reader-Buried-Them-Other-Stories/dp/1641293616

Synopsis: More than fifty years ago, Peter Lovesey published a short story in an anthology. That short story caught the eye of the great Ruth Rendell, whose praise ignited Lovesey's lifelong passion for short form crime fiction.

On the occasion of his hundredth short story, Peter Lovesey has assembled "Reader, I Buried Them and Other Stories", a devilishly clever collection comprised of eighteen short stories replete with mystery, melancholy, and mischief, and inhabiting such deadly settings as a theater, a monastery, and the book publishing industry.

The collection includes that first story which launched Peter's story-writing career as well as including three exclusive new stories. In addition, Lovesey fans will delight in a personal essay by the author about the historical inspirations -- and in an appearance by the irascible Bath detective Peter Diamond, who has, in the author's words, "bulldozed his way" into this anthology.

Critique: Showcasing the undeniable literary talent of short story author and novelist Peter Lovesey, "Reader, I Buried Them & Other Stories" is a dedicated mystery lover's delight from first page to last. An acknowledged and award-winning grand master of the genre, "Reader, I Buried Them & Other Stories" is highly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense and Crime Fiction collections and is readily available for the personal reading lists of the legions of Peter Lovesey fans in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: Peter Lovesey won a competition with his first crime fiction novel, "Wobble to Death", and has never looked back, with his numerous books winning and/or being short listed for nearly all the prizes in the international crime writing world. He was also Chairman of the Crime Writers' Association and has been presented with Lifetime Achievement awards both in the UK and the US.

Girl in Ice
Erica Ferencik
www.EricaFerencik.com
Scout Press
c/o Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl., New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
9781982143022, $27.99, HC, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Ice-Erica-Ferencik/dp/1982143029

Synopsis: Valerie "Val" Chesterfield is a linguist trained in the most esoteric of disciplines: dead Nordic languages. Despite her successful career, she leads a sheltered life and languishes in the shadow of her twin brother, Andy, an accomplished climate scientist stationed on a remote island off Greenland's barren coast. But Andy is gone: a victim of suicide, having willfully ventured unprotected into 50 degree below zero weather. Val is inconsolable and disbelieving. She suspects foul play.

When Wyatt, Andy's fellow researcher in the Arctic, discovers a scientific impossibility (a young girl frozen in the ice who thaws out alive, speaking a language no one understands),Val is his first call. Will she travel to the frozen North to meet this girl, and try to comprehend what she is so passionately trying to communicate? Under the auspices of helping Wyatt interpret the girl's speech, Val musters every ounce of her courage and journeys to the Arctic to solve the mystery of her brother's death.

The moment she steps off the plane, her fear threatens to overwhelm her. The landscape is fierce, and Wyatt, brilliant but difficult, is an enigma. But the girl is special, and Val's connection with her is profound. Only something is terribly wrong; the child is sick, maybe dying, and the key to saving her lies in discovering the truth about Wyatt's research. Can his data be trusted? And does it have anything to do with how and why Val's brother died? With time running out, Val embarks on an incredible frozen odyssey (one led by the unlikeliest of guides) to rescue the new family she has found in the most unexpected of places.

Critique: An inherently fascinating and deftly crafted novel by an author with a remarkable flair for imaginative, compelling, and narrative driven storytelling, "Girl In Ice" by Erica Ferencik will prove to be an immediately popular and enduringly prized addition to community library contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Girl In Ice" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781982143039, $17.99), in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781797130194, $39.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Erica Ferencik is also the author of "The River at Night" and "Into the Jungle". She maintains a website at www.EricaFerencik.com and can be followed on Twitter @EricaFerencik

Kingdom of Bones
James Rollins
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780062892980, $28.99, HC, 464pp

https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Bones-Thriller-Sigma-Novels/dp/0062892983

Synopsis: A United Nations relief team in a small village in the Congo makes an alarming discovery. An unknown force is leveling the evolutionary playing field. Men, women, and children have been reduced to a dull, catatonic state. The environment surrounding them (plants and animals) has grown more cunning and predatory, evolving at an exponential pace. The insidious phenomenon is spreading from a cursed site in the jungle known to locals as the Kingdom of Bones and is sweeping across Africa, threatening the rest of the world.

What has made the biosphere run amok? Is it a natural event? Or more terrifyingly, did someone engineer it?

Commander Gray Pierce and Sigma Force are prepared for the extraordinary and have kept the world safe, vigilance for which they have paid a tragic personal price. Yet, even these brilliant and seasoned scientific warriors do not understand what is behind this frightening development -- or know how to stop it. As they race to find answers, the members of Sigma quickly realize they have become the prey.

To head off global catastrophe, Sigma Force must risk their lives to uncover the shattering secret at the heart of the African continent in the form of a truth that will illuminate who we are as a species and where we may be headed -- sooner than we know!

Red in tooth and claw, Mother Nature is turning against humankind, propelling the entire world into the Kingdom of Bones.

Critique: A master of the extinction event suspense/thriller genre, author James Rollins's newest novel, "Kingdom of Bones" is another of his riveting read from start to finish. A compulsive page turner if ever there was one, "Kingdom of Bones" is a 'must' for the legions of Rollins fans and an unreservedly recommended addition to community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Kingdom of Bones" is also available in a paperback edition (9780062892997, $9.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99). Librarians should be aware that there is also a large print edition of "Kingdom of Bones" (HarperLuxe Large Print, 9780062892997, $30.99, PB, 704pp").

Editorial Note: James Rollins is the author of international thrillers that have been translated into more than forty languages. His Sigma series has been lauded as one of the "top crowd pleasers" (New York Times) and one of the "hottest summer reads" (People Magazine). In each novel, acclaimed for its originality, Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets -- and he does it all at breakneck speed and with stunning insight.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Reign of the Devourer
David Annandale
Aconyte Books
https://aconytebooks.com
9781839080944, $16.95, PB, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Reign-Devourer-Marvel-Untold-Novel/dp/1839080949

Synopsis: Victor von Doom saw his future for an instant, and now he cannot rest. His obsession with regaining those memories leads him into the arcane science of geomancy. As he delves into the ancient memories that lie beneath his land, Doom discovers a tremendous concentration of power -- a power that should never have been explored. Doom's excavations and necromancy fracture the prison of something awful: the Devourer of Souls. Now free to roam Latveria, the Devourer spreads a plague of soul-hungry vampires. Doom must choose between seizing this power for himself or destroying it, before his realm is no more.

Critique: A deftly crafted and simply riveting read from first page to last, "Reign of the Devourer" by David Annandale is a 'must' for the legions of Marvel Universe fans in general, and Doctor Doom enthusiasts in particular. A part of the simply outstanding Aconyte Books 'Marvel Untold' series, and highly recommended for community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Reign of the Devourer" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.95).

Editorial Note: David Annadale is a lecturer at a Canadian university on subjects ranging from English literature to horror films and video games. He is the author of many novels in the Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 universe, and a co-host of the Hugo Award-nominated podcast Skiffy and Fanty.

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

Four new books from Baen provide readers with works that are solid, good sci-fi adventure stories.

https://www.amazon.com/Wellstone-Wil-McCarthy/dp/1982124776

Wil McCarthy's The Wellstone (9781982125882, $8.99) presents a future in which humanity has conquered space and abolished death. Wellstone is programmable matter that ensures immortality, but for the children of immortal parents, life remains the same. With princes who will never become heirs, what is the meaning of the future? Conrad is one such soul who determines to find new meaning in an immortal life, changing his world in the process.

https://www.amazon.com/Domesticating-Dragons-Dan-Koboldt/dp/198212511X

Dan Koboldt's Domesticating Dragons (9781982125875, $8.99) blends aspects of Jurassic Park with the fun story of a brilliant genetic engineer charged with helping a company build custom-made dragons. There's only one problem: the effort is not as benign as it seems. As it leads to trouble, events emerge which are both whimsical and action-packed, providing readers with a very different kind of dragon story that entertains in a lively, revealing manner.

https://www.amazon.com/Liaden-Universe-Constellation-Sharon-Lee/dp/198212590X

Sharon Lee and Steve Miller's Constellation (9781982125905, $16.00) is especially recommended for prior fans of the Liaden universe, and presents the fifth volume of action-packed adventures. Ten tales provide new dilemmas, more than a touch of romance, and encounters between conflicting forces in the galaxy which expand this universe in satisfying ways.

https://www.amazon.com/Call-Insurrection-Manticore-Ascendant/dp/1982125896

David Weber, Timothy Zahn and Thomas Pope's new Honorverse novel A Call to Insurrection (9781982125899, $27.00) adds to the Manticore Ascendant series with a powerful saga of turmoil and strife in the Star Kingdom of Manticore. Travis and his wife Lisa are tasked with building a navy to protect the kingdom, but further political and military engagements emerge that threatens to draw them into a civil war. The interstellar struggle emerges on different levels, cemented by four individuals whose actions and alliances may change the balance of power as well as their lives.

These four new titles are solid picks for fans of Baen's special brand of sci-fi action stories.


The Poetry Shelf

Messengers of the Gods
Kathryn Gahl
https://www.kathryngahl.com
Cornerstone Press
www.uwsp.edu/cornerstone
9781737739067, $19.95, PB, 162pp

https://www.uwsp.edu/english/cornerstone/Pages/BOOKS.aspx

Synopsis: Moving and mysterious, the poems by Kathryn Gahl that comprise "Messengers of the Gods: New and Selected Poems" have a distinctive beat, cadence, measure, and meter that if rendered in song would be top of the charts successful. Certain to be prized by all who enjoy deftly crafted freeform verse.

Critique: An inherently absorbing, entertaining, thoughtful and thought-provoking read one poem at a time, Here's a taste of what "Messengers of the Gods" has to offer titled Jazz Poem You Didn't Write: Acting like our spines are in prayer position because / if you're down on your knees / its either breakdancing / or something broke. Simply stated, "Messengers of the Gods" is unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community/college/university library Contemporary American Poetry collections.

Editorial Note: It should be noted that Kathryn Ghal maintains a comprehensive website listing all of her published works at https://www.kathryngahl.com/works


The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

One Thousand Years of Manga
Brigitte Koyama-Richard
Thames & Hudson
https://thamesandhudson.com
9780500296837 $39.95

https://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Years-Manga-Brigitte-Koyama-Richard/dp/0500296839

Synopsis: This definitive illustrated history of manga is an unparalleled account of the development of a form which is an integral part of Japanese art and culture and now hugely popular throughout the world.

As contemporary as this graphic art form may appear to readers outside of Japan, manga has deep roots in Japanese culture, drawing on centuries- old artistic traditions. Traces can be found in seventh-century temple paintings, folding screens decorated with comic characters, and painted medieval emakimono scrolls. The more familiar manga comics of today echo similar themes, both light-hearted and serious, and draw on narrative forms present in both sagas and skits from Japan's rich cultural heritage.

This volume spans the history of manga in all its splendor and diversity. Among the many highlights included are Hokusai's seminal Hokusai Manga of 1814, the advent of the gekiga style in the 1950s, the landmark Astro Boy by Tezuka Osamu, Lady Oscar, Riyoko Ikeda's shojo manga aimed at young girls, samurai sagas, alternative productions by the review Garo, the demons that populate the works of Mizuki Shigeru, and the latest creations from Jiro Taniguchi. Each period is covered in detail by author Brigitte Koyama-Richard and illustrated with drawings and prints.

One Thousand Years of Manga is both an informative account of the genesis of the form and a visual delight. Featuring more than four hundred illustrations and captivating texts, the book situates manga in its proper context, appreciating it for what it truly is: an integral part of Japanese art and culture that is as rich and revealing as it is popular.

Critique: Featuring a wealth of full-color, often historical art images on virtually every page, One Thousand Years of Manga is an extraordinary history of the evolution of the storytelling medium of Japanese comics. Chapters cover images on early scrolls, the rise of print caricatures, the creation modern of Japanese comic books before World War II and after, the legacy of "the God of modern manga" Tezuka Osamu, a survey of modern-day manga, and more. One Thousand Years of Manga is an extensively researched and expertly presented chronicle, sure to prove a cherished addition to public libraries and the personal shelves of manga enthusiasts alike. Highly recommended!

The Man Who Shot Chris Kyle: An American Legend
Fabien Nury, author
Bruno, artist
Laurence Crotix, colorist
Titan Comics
https://titan-comics.com
9781787737433, $29.99, HC, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Man-Who-Shot-Chris-Kyle/dp/1787737438

Synopsis: Chris Kyle was a Navy SEAL sniper who earned several awards for his service. His dramatic story is told for the first time in graphic novel format by the team of author/storyteller Fabien Nury, artist/illustrator Bruno, and colorist Laurence Crotix.

Kyle had published his autobiography only a year before he was murdered -- and has since been lauded as an American hero. This tragic tale adapts part of his memoir and also continues exploring the consequences and fate of those left behind after he was killed.

Critique: An inherently fascinating, impressively presented and informative read, "The Man Who Shot Chris Kyle: An American Legend" with its truly definitive conclusion is one of those books that will linger in the mind and memory long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kinde/Comixology, $28.49), "The Man Who Shot Chris Kyle: An American Legend" is a unique and highly recommended addition to community, college, and university library American Biography and True Crime collections.

Editorial Note: Christopher Scott Kyle (April 8, 1974 - February 2, 2013) was a United States Navy SEAL sniper. He served four tours in the Iraq War and was awarded several commendations for acts of heroism and meritorious service in combat. He had over 150 kills. He was awarded the Silver Star, four Bronze Star Medals with "V" devices, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and numerous other unit and personal awards.

Kyle was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 2009, and published his bestselling autobiography, "American Sniper", in 2012. An eponymous film adaptation of Kyle's book, directed by Clint Eastwood, and starring Bradley Cooper as Kyle, was released two years later. In 2013, Kyle was murdered by Eddie Ray Routh at the Rough Creek Lodge shooting range near Chalk Mountain, Texas. Routh, a former Marine with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without parole. (Wikipedia)


The Audiobook Shelf

The Quarter Storm
Veronica G. Henry
www.veronicahenry.net
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713623908, $14.99, MP3-CD

https://www.amazon.com/Quarter-Storm-Veronica-G-Henry/dp/1713623900

Synopsis: Haitian-American Vodou priestess Mambo Reina Dumond runs a healing practice from her New Orleans home. Gifted with water magic since she was a child, Reina is devoted to the benevolent traditions of her ancestors.

After a ritual slaying in the French Quarter, police arrest a fellow vodouisant. Detective Roman Frost, Reina's ex-boyfriend (and fierce nonbeliever) is eager to tie the crime, and half a dozen others, to the Vodou practitioners of New Orleans. Reina resolves to find the real killer and defend the Vodou practice and customs, but the motives behind the murder are deeper and darker than she imagines.

As Reina delves into the city's shadows, she untangles more than just the truth behind a devious crime. It's a conspiracy. As a killer wields dangerous magic to thwart Reina's investigation, she must tap into the strength of her own power and faith to solve a mystery that threatens to destroy her entire way of life.

Critique: "The Quarter Storm" is an impressively original and inherently entertain Dark Fantasy novel by Veronica G. Henry that will have a special resonance with fans of the paranormal and urban fantasy genre. With its expertly performed narration by Robin Mile, this complete and unabridged audio book (8 CD, 10 Hours, 14 Minutes) will prove to be a welcome and appreciated addition to personal and community library collections. It is interesting to note that as an author, Veronica G. Henry maintains an informative website at www.veronicahenry.net

The War of Two Queens
Jennifer L. Armentrout, author
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713555919, $29.99, MP3-CD

https://www.amazon.com/War-Two-Queens-Blood-Ash/dp/1713555913

Synopsis: Casteel Da'Neer knows all too well that very few are as cunning or vicious as the Blood Queen, but no one, not even him, could've prepared for the staggering revelations. The magnitude of what the Blood Queen has done is almost unthinkable.

Nothing will stop Poppy from freeing her King and destroying everything the Blood Crown stands for. With the strength of the Primal of Life's guards behind her, and the support of the wolven, Poppy must convince the Atlantian generals to make war her way - because there can be no retreat this time. Not if she has any hope of building a future where both kingdoms can reside in peace.

Together, Poppy and Casteel must embrace traditions old and new to safeguard those they hold dear - to protect those who cannot defend themselves. But war is only the beginning. Ancient primal powers have already stirred, revealing the horror of what began eons ago. To end what the Blood Queen has begun, Poppy might have to become what she has been prophesied to be - what she fears the most.

Critique: Of particular and special appeal to fans of Vampire romances and Gothic fantasies, "The War of Two Queens" is the fourth title in author Jennifer L. Armentrouts 'Blood & Ash' series. Showcasing Jennifer Armentrout's extraordinarily impressive literary talent by bringing "The War of Two Queens" to life in an extended 'theatre of the mind' listening experience by the narrative talents of Stina Nielsen and Tim Campbell, this complete and unabridged audio book edition (21 CDs, 26 Hours, 43 Minutes) is enthusiastically recommended for all dedicated fantasy fans and community library audio book collections.

Damaged Intentions
Mike Omer
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713612230, $14.99, MP3-CD

https://www.amazon.com/Damaged-Intentions-Abby-Mullen-Thrillers/dp/1713612232

Synopsis: As a child, Abby Mullen escaped the insidious Wilcox cult when it literally went down in flames. Years later, she's the NYPD's best hostage negotiator and a mother. She thought the worst part of her life was behind her. Until now. Armed conspiracy theorists called the Watchers have attacked the local high school and taken her daughter hostage!

With the delusional Watchers holding her child at gunpoint, the unflappable Abby might be at her breaking point. But the clock is ticking on her daughter's life, and she has no choice but to negotiate with the paranoid group and discover their leader's secret before it's too late.

As Abby peels back the layers of mystery surrounding the Watchers, there's always another puzzle underneath. And it seems to be leading back to the dark past she's spent her whole life trying to forget.

Critique: An innately fascinating and deftly crafted suspense thriller replete with unexpected plot twists and memorable characters, author Mike Omer's novel, "Damaged Intentions" is brilliantly narrated by the team of Jesse Vilinsky and Fajer Al-Kaisi, making this a true 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. Complete and unabridged, "Damaged Intentions" is highly recommended for personal and community library Suspense/Thriller audio book collections. (30 CDs, 12 Hours, 38 minutes).


The Library CD Shelf

Find My Joy
John Berry
www.johnberry.com
Gaither
www.gaither.com
$13.98 CD / $11.49 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Find-My-Joy-John-Berry/dp/B09M9YVB73

Grammy-winning country music artist John Berry (b. 1959) presents Find My Joy, his latest album showcasing his talent with the acoustic guitar. A survivor of throat cancer, John Berry sings about the benevolence of Jesus' love and God's providence. Find My Joy resonates with reverence for the divine, and is highly recommended as a spiritual experience. The tracks are Great Is Thy Faithfulness, I Surrender All, Find My Joy, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, It Is Well With My Soul, Something Bigger Than Me, How Great Thou Art, Blessings, Blessed Assurance, and Live Like You.

The Water of Life
Kerani
Kerani Music Studio
www.kerani-official.com
$16.99 CD / $9.49 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Water-Life-Kerani/dp/B09WK7SGQL

The Water of Life is a symphonic new age album inspired by water itself, a substance vital to life and renewal. A beautiful, inspired and inspiring soundscape that encourages the listener to contemplate the natural world, The Water of Life is a harmonious wonder to experience, and highly recommended for both personal and public library music collections. The tracks are The Water of Life, Healing Rain, Divine Immersion, The Blue Wonder, Sunset Lake, Cascade, The Fountain of Youth, Ocean Tides, Crystalline, and The Water of Life - epilogue.

Glass Spheres
Chris Mondak
chrismondak.com
Summit Records
www.summitrecords.com
$15.99 CD / $6.93 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Glass-Spheres-Mondak/dp/B09S141V82

Chris Mondak (drums), Hunter Smith (Sax), Gabe Feldman (piano), Lindon McCarty (guitar), and Chris Broomhead (drums) present Glass Spheres, an original combo jazz album that explores musical influences ranging from swing and bebop to avant-garde and pop. Adventurous, inspirational, and thoroughly immersive, Glass Spheres is a "must-have" for jazz connoisseurs, an enrichment to public library music collections, and also highly recommended as an excellent gift. The tracks are Low, Oath Keeper, Brume, In Sleep, Juicy Red, The Only One, and Hats Off.

Parallel Dimensions
Giuseppe Paradiso & Meridian 71
www.giuseppe-paradiso.com
Privately Published
$20.99 CD / $4.99 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Parallel-Dimensions-Giuseppe-Meridian-Paradiso/dp/B09SNV8WDM

Parallel Dimensions is a cross-cultural music album showcasing original compositions by Giuseppe and performances by an ensemble of Boston-based musicians. Musical influences in the creation of Parallel Dimensions include jazz, Mediterranean and West African rhythms, and more. Giuseppe performs drums, percussion, electronics and vocals; Mark Zaleski contributes alto and soprano sax/clarinet; Utar Artun is on piano and keys; Phil Sargent plays electric guitar; James Hazlewood-Dale plays upright, electric, and fretless bass; and Malick Ngom contributes his expertise in West African sabar drums, percussion, and vocals. An exciting, rhythmic, cooperative fusion, Parallel Dimensions enthralls the listener with its extraordinary soundscape, and is a choice pick for connoisseurs in search of new horizons. Highly recommended! The tracks are Kaizen, Memories of the Future, Joriki, It's Only the Beginning, Parallel Dimensions, and Tony.

Hurricane Clarice
Allison de Groot & Tatiana Hargreaves
allisonandtatiana.com
Free Dirt Records
freedirt.net
$14.98 CD / $8.99 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Hurricane-Clarice-Allison-Groot/dp/B09PRNFP3H

Hurricane Clarice is an original album of bluegrass music by expert fiddle-playing duo Allison de Groot and Tatiana Hargreaves. The songs feature themes ranging from seasonal depression to the questionable aspects of touring to cherishing family, whether it's the family one is born into or a family made by close bonds that transcend genetic kinship. Hurricane Clarice is a treasure for bluegrass connoisseurs, highly recommended! The tracks are The Banks of the Miramichi, Wellington, Nancy Blevins, Each Season Changes You, Hurricane Clarice / Brushy Fork of John's Creek, I Would Not Live Always, Dead and Gone (Hen Cackle), Ostrich with Pearls, and The Road That's Walked By Fools.

Till Skogen
Kolonien
Cumbancha
www.cumbancha.com
$13.98 CD / $9.49 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/Till-Skogen-Kolonien/dp/B09R4T45BJ

Till Skogen is a new album by Swedish folk-pop quartet Kolonien, a four-man family-band with a talent for acoustic roots music. Embodying the love of land and the forest by the farm where members of Kolonien grew up, Till Skogen is heartfelt and emotional, performed with a passion that transcends language barriers. Highly recommended. The tracks are Time Will Tell, Drommen, Alla Andra, Luftpalats, Springen, Nattsudd, Farfars Jord, Tiden Gar For Fort, Intro de Bateria, Varandra, Morgondag, Till Skogen, Hjaltesaga, and Unlearning.

A Porta Aperta
Karl Silveira
www.karlsilveira.com
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $8.91 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09SRNMD21

A Porta Aperta is an original, jazz-inspired album by Canadian composer and trombonist Karl Silveira, with aid from David French on tenor saxophone, Allison Au on alto saxophone, Chris Pruden on piano, Dan Fortin on upright bass, and Nico Dann on drums. The instruments intertwine yet stand strong on their own, in this brilliant composition that flows with the smoothness of jazz, yet brims with the excitement of a band performance. Highly recommended! The tracks are Nymark Plaza, Perimeter, Hunch, A Porta Aperta, Trip the Light Fantastic, Far, Shimmy, Rye and Lilacs, and A Serretinha Em Julho.


The Library DVD Shelf

Royalty Free: The Music of Kevin MacLeod
www.royaltyfreedoc.com
First Run Features
firstrunfeatures.com
$24.95 DVD

http://firstrunfeatures.com/royaltyfreevod.html

Royalty Free: The Music of Kevin MacLeod is a DVD documentary about American composer and musician Kevin MacLeod (b. 1972), who has released thousands of his original compositions royalty-free under a Creative Commons copyright license, enabling anyone to use his music for free as long as he receives attribution. This has resulted in his work being used in thousands of films, as well as commercial video games, YouTube videos, and more. Royalty Free also explores the ramifications of the digital audio revolution, which as empowered composers to effectively create an orchestra singlehandedly. The "democratization of music" has two sides - it has enabled great creativity, yet also put the livelihood of some music artists at risk, notably Broadway musicians. Royalty Free: The Music of Kevin MacLeod is as fascinating as it is insightful, and highly recommended for both personal and public library documentary collections. 91 min., English language with both English and Spanish subtitles.


The Political Science Shelf

The Southernization of America
Frye Gaillard, author
Cynthia Tucker, author
NewSouth Books
105 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
www.newsouthbooks.com
9781588384560, $25.95, HC, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Southernization-America-Story-Democracy-Balance/dp/158838456X

Synopsis: In 1974 John Egerton published his seminal work, "The Americanization of Dixie". Now journalist Cynthia Tucker and author Frye Gaillard carry Egerton's thesis forward with the publication of "The Southernization of America: A Story of Democracy in the Balance".

Comprised of a compelling series of linked essays that consider the role of the South in shaping America's current political and cultural landscape, "The Southernization of America" examines the morphing of the Southern strategy of Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan into the Donald Trump controlled Republican Party of today with its racial backlash against President Obama, the brutal policy of family separation on our southern border, its allegiance with the rise of the Christian right, its response to the white supremacist riots in Charlottesville, its attitude toward the death of George Floyd, and its involvement with respect to the January 6, 2021 attack on our nation's capitol.

"The Southernization of America" also find hope in the South too, with its legacy rooted in the civil rights years that might ultimately lead the nation (and perhaps even the Republican Part) on the path to redemption. In the pages of "The Southernization of America", co-authors Tucker and Gaillard bring to bear a multiracial perspective and their combined years of political reporting to bear on a critical moment in American history, a time of racial reckoning, and a democracy under siege.

Critique: A timely and insightful study of American political issues and practices that threaten American democracy has we have known it since the end of the American Civil War, "The Southernization of America: A Story of Democracy in the Balance" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Contemporary Political Science collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for students, academia, political activists, governmental policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in preserving our democracy that "The Southernization of America: A Story of Democracy in the Balance" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.95).

Editorial Note #1: Frye Gaillard is an award-winning journalist with over 30 published works on Southern history and culture, including Watermelon Wine; Cradle of Freedom: Alabama and the Movement that Changed America; The Books That Mattered: A Reader's Memoir; Journey to the Wilderness: War, Memory, and a Southern Family's Civil War Letters; Go South to Freedom; A Hard Rain: America in the 1960s, Our Decade of Hope, Possibility, and Innocence Lost; and The Slave Who Went to Congress. Writer-in-residence at the University of South Alabama, he is also John Egerton Scholar in Residence at the Southern Foodways Alliance at the University of Mississippi. He is the winner of the Clarence Cason Award for Nonfiction Writing, the Lillian Smith Book Award, and the Eugene Current-Garcia Award For Distinction in Literary Scholarship. In 2019, Gaillard was awarded the Alabama Governor's Arts Award for his contributions to literature.

Editorial Note #2: Cynthia Tucker is a Pulitzer Prize-winning syndicated columnist who has spent most of her career in journalism, having previously worked for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as an editorial page editor and as a Washington-based political columnist. She has also been featured as a political commentator on television and radio. Tucker's work as a journalist has been celebrated by the National Association of Black Journalists (who inducted her into its hall of fame), Harvard University, and the Alabama Humanities Foundation. She spent three years as a visiting professor at the University of Georgia's Grady College of Journalism and is currently the journalist-in-residence at the University of South Alabama.

In Contempt: Defending Free Speech, Defeating HUAC
Ed Yellin, author
Jean Fagan Yellin, author
University of Michigan Press
839 Greene Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3209
www.press.umich.edu
9780472038916, $19.95, HC, 140pp

https://www.amazon.com/Contempt-Defending-Free-Speech-Defeating/dp/0472038915

Synopsis: "YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to be and appear before the Committee on Un-American Activities of the House of Representatives of the United States, or a duly appointed subcommittee thereof, on February 10 (Monday), 1958, at ten o'clock a.m. at City Council Chambers, City Hall, Gary, Indiana, then and there to testify touching matters of inquiry committed to said committee, and not to depart without leave of said committee."

So began a decade of hardship for Ed and Jean Yellin and their three young children as the repressive weight of the U.S. government, caught up in the throes of McCarthyism, crashed down upon their careers, their daily household budget, and their relationships to colleagues, neighbors, and their country. In Contempt is a faithful, factual testament to the enduring quality of patriotic dissent in our evolving democracy -- and a loving reconstruction of what it meant to be labeled "unAmerican" for defending the Constitution.

Critique: Timely, relevant, and a reminder of how fragile our American democracy is, "In Contempt: Defending Free Speech, Defeating HUAC" is a welcome and necessary contribution to our on-going national conversation about the value of free speech -- what it is, why it matters, and how close we have been (and still are) to losing it. This paperback edition of Ed and Jean Yellin's "In Contempt: Defending Free Speech, Defeating HUAC" from the University of Michigan Press is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Political Science, 20th Century American History, and Free Speech collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.


The Biography Shelf

American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot
Hector Curriel
South Dakota Historical Society Press
900 Governors Drive, Pierre, SC 57501-2217
https://www.sdhspress.com
9781941813379, $19.95, PB, 130pp

https://www.sdhspress.com/books/american-ace

Synopsis: From the time he was four years old, Joseph Jacob "Joe" Foss (1915 - 2003) found flight fascinating. As an adolescent, he followed the career of flyer Charles Lindbergh and could hardly wait to get into the air himself. In college, he took private flying lessons, and as war broke out across Europe in 1939 and 1940, he joined the South Dakota National Guard, preparing himself for combat by earning more flight time on weekends. After graduation, he joined the United States Marines Corps' flight training program. Finally, in 1942, Joe was ready to be a fighter pilot, just as he had always dreamed of being. But he was now twenty-six years old, and the military deemed him too old for combat. Instead, the Marine Corps assigned Joe to teach men eighteen to twenty-three years old how to fly.

Joe accepted his role but also volunteered for special assignments. He became an aerial reconnaissance photographer, hoping the job might lead him to the battle front. He pestered his superiors until he was allowed to take combat training in the Grumman F4F Wildcat, the carrier-based dogfighter of the Pacific theater. Still, he found himself stateside rather than at the front. He continued to volunteer for dangerous assignments, and his determination eventually won him a spot in a fighting unit just as the war in the Pacific heated up.

Joining the Marine Corps' VMF-121 fighter squadron as executive officer, Capt. Joe Foss and his unit shipped out to Guadalcanal, code-named "Cactus," in the Solomon Islands. They arrived in early October 1942, just weeks after the Allies had taken Henderson Field on Guadalcanal from the Japanese. By mid-October, Joe had shot down five enemy airplanes, which officially made him a flying ace. With his leadership and his pilots' daredevil tactics, the VMF-121 became known as Foss's Flying Circus, the heart of the Cactus Air Force. Shooting down a total of twenty-six enemy planes between October 10, 1942, and January 25, 1943, Foss became America's Number One Ace and earned the Congressional Medal of Honor for his role in Guadalcanal. He was a hero known around the world for his prowess in the skies.

With the publication of "American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot", illustrator, watercolor artist, and cartoonist Hector Curriel, using pen and ink, draws readers into his subject's triumphs and trials as Joe Foss overcomes difficult and dangerous situations. He was shot down twice, contracted malaria, and lost his friends and many comrades in battle. "American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot" places action at the forefront, using the escapades of Foss during World War II to showcase the experience of many fighter pilots, while highlighting the perseverance that made this man unique.

Critique: A true life military biography presented in a graphic novel format, and an inherently fascinating read from cover to cover, "American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot" with its immense appeal to World War II military historians and military aviation fans and is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, community, college, and university library World War II History & Biography collections.

That's Rufus
Rufus L. Edmisten
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476677972, $29.95, PB, 234pp

https://www.amazon.com/Thats-Rufus-Memoir-Politics-Watergate/dp/1476677972

Synopsis: A farm boy from the mountains of North Carolina, Rufus Edmisten could not have been prepared for the halls of power in Washington, D.C. During the Vietnam War era, as young men burned their draft cards and pro-cannabis factions held "smoke-ins" in the capital, as a University of North Carolina Chapel Hill graduate, Rufus earned a law degree at George Washington University and landed a job as counsel to U.S. senator Samuel J. Ervin, Jr.

This in turn led to Edmisten's appointment as Deputy Chief Counsel for the Senate Watergate Committee--he personally served Richard Nixon the first ever subpoena of a sitting president by Congress.

Returning to North Carolina, he served as Attorney General and Secretary of State before retiring from public life to practice law and participate in charitable activities.

Written with humor and candor, his memoir recalls the cultural contrasts of American life in the 1970s and 1980s, and affirms that the business of government is to enable us to live together peacefully.

Critique: Given the current rancor and political polarization, "That's Rufus: A Memoir of Tar Heel Politics, Watergate and Public Life" by Rufus L. Edmisten is a much needed and quite timely reminder of that no matter how bad things seem to get with respect to the stability of our democracy and the misdeeds of a president, the American nation will recover, lessons will be learned, history will be remembered.

An inherently fascinating and impressively informative read, and also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99), "That's Rufus: A Memoir of Tar Heel Politics, Watergate and Public Life" is a welcome and recommended addition to the personal reading lists of political science students, academia, political activists, and non-specialist general readers with an interst in the subject.

Simply stated, "That's Rufus: A Memoir of Tar Heel Politics, Watergate and Public Life is an important and seminal addition to professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary American Biography and 20th Century American History & Politics collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Former North Carolina Attorney General and Secretary of State, Rufus L. Edmisten drew international attention when he served as deputy chief counsel for the Senate Watergate Committee. His work, together with that of others, uncovered the truth about the Watergate scandal in 1973. He has the distinction of being the first person on a congressional committee to serve a subpoena to a sitting president of the United States. A practicing lawyer and lobbyist, he currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Ann Miller: Her Life and Career
Peter Shelley
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476679259, $29.95, PB, 225pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ann-Miller-Her-Life-Career/dp/1476679258

Synopsis: Ann Miller (born Johnnie Lucille Collier; April 12, 1923 - January 22, 2004) was an American actress, dancer, singer and author. Best known as a tap dancer, Miller practiced all forms of dance, and some of her solo routines are considered as good as any recorded in film musical history.

Despite having a reputation as a kook who believed she was psychic, and the potentially flat image of a "glamour girl," Miller's wit, charm and genuine ability to act gave her and her characters depth.

"Ann Miller: Her Life and Career" by Peter Shelley is an impressively informative, detailed, and fascinating biography that presents Ann Miller's career within the context of her extraordinary life. Her career began with child acting and included three Hollywood studio contracts, two retirements for marriage, and appearances in film, stage, variety shows, sitcoms and more. She made a comeback in the stage musical Sugar Babies, earning a Best Leading Actress in a Musical Tony Award nomination. She was even appointed an international spokesperson for MGM in the ailing years of that film studio.

Critique: Enhanced for the reader with occasional black-and-white historical photos, "Ann Miller: Her Life and Career" is an exceptionally well written and impressively presented life story of a truly fascinating film star during Hollywood's Golden Age for studio produced movies -- especially the musicals. Highly recommended for community, college, and university library 20thy Century American Biography and Cinematic History collections, it should be noted for the still remaining legions of Ann Miller fans that "Ann Miller: Her Life and Career" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).

Editorial Note: Currently residing in Gosford, Australia, Peter Shelley is a playwright, screenwriter and author of several film books.

John Severin: Two-Fisted Comic Book Artist
Jon B. Cooke, et al.
TwoMorrows Publishing
10407 Bedfordtown Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614
www.twomorrows.com
9781605491066, $39.95, HC, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/John-Severin-Two-Fisted-Comic-Artist/dp/1605491063

Synopsis: "John Severin: Two-Fisted Comic Book Artist" is the definitive biography of one of the most prolific creators in the history of American comics!

From a start in 1947 at the Simon & Kirby shop, he co-created the legendary Western strip American Eagle with Will Elder, and became an EC Comics mainstay, working with Harvey Kurtzman on Mad and Two-Fisted Tales. In addition to a 40+ year association with Cracked magazine, his pivotal Marvel Comics work included an extended run inking Herb Trimpe on The Hulk, and teaming with sister Marie Severin to create the classic comics version of King Kull.

Throughout his storied career, he freelanced for every major publisher, and remained a workhorse up till his final Dark Horse mini-series at age 90.

Included in this volume from TwoMorrows Publishing is a special "American Eagle" section, an eye-popping art gallery, and extensive personal photos and artifacts (including WWII "Victory Mail" cartoons and handmade greeting cards for his family). Also featured are commentaries drawn from over 25 peers gathered just for "John Severin: Two-Fisted Comic Book Artist", including Neal Adams, Richard Corben, John Byrne, Russ Heath, Walter Simonson, and many others. Written by Greg Biga and multiple Eisner Award-winner Jon B. Cooke, with an introduction by Howard Chaykin, Foreword by Mort Todd, and Afterword by Chuck Dixon, this profusely illustrated book celebrates the centennial of the two-fisted artist's birth!

Critique: There could be no better memorial tribute to John Severin (December 26, 1921 - February 12, 2012) than "John Severin: Two-Fisted Comic Book Artist", a profusely illustrated and impressively informative account and description of his life and work as an artist and illustrator. An inherently fascinating read from cover to cover, "John Severin: Two-Fisted Comic Book Artist" is especially recommended for the personal collections of dedicated comic book history fans, and will prove to be an enduringly valued addition to community, college, and university library Biography and Comic/Graphic Novel history collections.


The Psychology Shelf

The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy
Douglas Flemons
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.wwnorton.com
9780393714395, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Mind-Hypnotherapy-Connection-Inventing/dp/039371439X

Synopsis: In the popular imagination, hypnosis is misconstrued as something done to people, as if the hypnotist hypnotizes them. And hypnotherapy is similarly misconceived as something done to clients' problems, as if the therapist could unilaterally counter or cure them. In a refreshing departure from conception-as-usual, with the publication of "The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy: Inviting Connection, Inventing Change", Professor Douglas Flemons offers another view, articulating relational ideas about how minds and bodies communicate and learn.

In his characteristically casual and concise way, Professor Flemons explains and illustrates how hypnosis, like meditation, is invited, not induced, and how hypnotherapy entails the altering and unraveling of knotted strands of problematic experience, not the controlling and abolishing of labeled afflictions. The therapist gets in sync with clients so they can, together, extemporaneously facilitate changes to undesired thoughts, urges, emotions, sensations, or behaviors. "The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy: Inviting Connection, Inventing Change" takes you to the heart of hypnotherapy, to the respectful, playful practice of utilizing clients' flow experience to collaboratively discover and create opportunities for embodied learning and therapeutic change.

Critique: Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of an informative Foreword, Preface, and Author's Note, "The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy: Inviting Connection, Inventing Change" also features a ten page listing of References and a thirteen page Index. An exceptional and impressively presented work, "The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy" is an extraordinary and especially recommended addition to professional, college, and university library Hypnotherapy, Medical Clinical Psychology, and Medical Counseling collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for medical students, academia, clinicians, aspiring/practicing medical hypnotists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy: Inviting Connection, Inventing Change" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.05).

Editorial Note: Douglas Flemons, PhD, LMFT, is Co-Director of Context Consultants, Professor Emeritus of Family Therapy and Former Co-Director of the Office of Suicide and Violence Prevention at Nova Southeastern University. and a Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). For more than thirty years, he has devoted himself to developing (through his practice, research, teaching, supervision, and writing) a relational approach to hypnotherapy and brief therapy. Currently in private practice in Asheville, North Carolina, he regularly offers hypnotherapy workshops and international training sessions.


The Architecture Shelf

Strange Objects, New Solids and Massive Things
Winka Dubbeldam, author
Julia van den Hout, editor
Actar D
c/o Actar Publishers
440 Park Avenue S, 17th FL, New York, NY 10016
http://actar.com
9781948765701, $54.95, HC, 354pp

https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Objects-Solids-Massive-Forms/dp/1948765705

Synopsis: For close to a century, modernism was the norm, presented to culturally aware citizens as the expression of modern life. It arrived hand in hand with medical advances, mass standardization, and a shared ideal of what the ease and speed of the modern lifestyle could offer. Only in the early years of the 21st century did our widespread allegiance begin to shift away from modernism and towards a new social realm.

The digital revolution introduced online societies, niche cultures, and digital design. Digital manufacturing facilitated opportunities of surface patterning and the fabrication of one-off special building components, removing the constraints of standardization in the construction industry and celebrating the experimental. Testing designs through prototypes allows for a much more informed decision-making process. The focus is on precise, rigorous research and development, rather than representational models.

Now, after nearly two decades of implementing digital tools, we have reached a new platform where digital design and robotic production are the norm, and by extension, digital craft and integral design are as the future. This has been particularly important in the rethinking of advanced digital design processes.

Architectonics designates the study or character of various types of structure. As showcased and examined in "Strange Objects, New Solids and Massive Things: Archi-Tectonics", from the earliest projects and regardless of scale, Archi-Tectonics has valued performance over form, design intelligence over style. Through prototypes and mock-ups, process documentation and testimonials, "Archi-Tectonics" presents 10 current and recent projects that celebrate the particular and singular over the ideal and universal.

Critique: Expertly written, organized and presented, "Strange Objects, New Solids and Massive Things: Archi-Tectonics" is a coffee-table style (9 x 1.5 x 10.75 inches) that is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $32.95) and highly recommended for person, professional, college, and university library Architecture Project Planning & Management collections, as well as a curriculum textbook and supplemental architecture studies lists.

Architizer: The World's Best Architecture
Architizer, author
The Monacelli Press
6 West 18th Street, #2C, New York, NY 10011
www.monacellipress.com
9781580935913, $79.95, HC, 280pp

https://www.amazon.com/Architizer-Worlds-Best-Architecture-MONACELLI/dp/1580935915

Synopsis: The Architizer A+Awards represent 2021's best architecture and products, celebrated by a diverse group of influencers within and outside the architectural community. Entries are judged by more than 400 luminaries from fields as diverse as fashion, publishing, product design, real-estate development, and technology, and voted on by the public, culminating in a collection of the world's finest buildings.

Each year, winners are honored in this fully illustrated compendium, and on Architizer.com, the largest online architecture community on the planet. Featuring select A+Award winners, "Architizer: The World's Best Architecture" is the definitive guide to the year's best buildings and spaces.

Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated with full color photography on each page, this coffee-table style (10.15 x 0.99 x 11.69 inches" volume of "Architizer: The World's Best Architecture" is a very special and essential addition to all personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Architecture collections and supplemental curriculum architectural studies lists.

Editorial Note: Architizer is the premier online destination for design professionals to explore the world's best architecture and interiors, and discover the products and people behind them. Launched in 2009, the site has rapidly become the world's largest platform for architecture and design. Architizer publishes a must-read blog covering industry news, and honors the best architecture, spaces, and products annually with the A+Awards program.

Intentional Beauty
Tim Campbell
Pointed Leaf Press
136 Baxter Street, Suite 1C, New York, NY 10013
www.pointedleafpress.com
9781938461415, $75.00, HC, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Intentional-Beauty-Tim-Campbell/dp/193846141X

Synopsis: Featuring an informative Foreword by renowned American fashion designer Thom Browne, "Intentional Beauty" is the first major book to survey the twenty-five year architectural career of bicoastal designer Tim Campbell, whose sophisticated and cutting-edge work features residential projects in both Los Angeles and New York, as well as the renovation and restoration of several well-known homes in Los Angeles, including Richard Neutra's Singleton House.

Campbell's notable restorations exemplify his ability to preserve and honor the architecture of a historic home while seamlessly updating it with modern additions to accommodate a more contemporary lifestyle. His boutique design firm, Studio Tim Campbell, has offices in both Los Angeles and New York and specializes in both high-end custom residential design renovations, new construction. and specialty commercial projects.

"Intentional Beauty" also illustrates his work as a philanthropist in Africa.

Critique: A simply stunning coffee-table style (11.52 x 1.08 x 12.11 inches) volume, "Intentional Beauty" is a distinct pleasure to simple browse through one beautiful and captioned full color photograph after another. An impressive and documented architectural study, "Intentional Beauty" by Tim Campbell is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Architecture collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: In 2006, Tim Campbell founded Studio Tim Campbell to provide design services for high-end residential and commercial projects, along with historical renovations. In addition to domestic projects, Campbell has worked on numerous international projects in locales as varied as Paris, Mexico City and Dubai. In both Los Angeles and New York City, Studio Tim Campbell's services include Architecture and Interior Design for residential, commercial and hospitality projects.

A Home to the World
Raul Barreneche
ORO Editions
31 Commerical Blvd., Suite F, Novato, CA 94949
www.oroeditions.com
9781951541309, $40.00, HC, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/United-Nations-New-York-City/dp/1951541308

Synopsis: "A Home to the World: The United Nations and New York City" is profusely illustrated with rare archival photographs and architectural drawings, as well as newly commissioned photographs. This unique volume also includes informative contributions from UN-affiliated individuals of note, including current and former UN secretaries-general, ambassadors to the UN, mayors, governors, historians, architecture critics, and other luminaries.

"A Home to the World" begins by chronicling how New York came to be the permanent home of the UN, including the individuals, institutions, and other forces that helped the city secure the headquarters of the UN -- among them the Rockefeller family, William Zeckendorf, and Robert Moses. Then it presents the architectural and urban design journey to create the iconic UN campus by a global team of architectural giants such as Wallace K. Harrison, Le Corbusier, and Oscar Niemeyer, with archival photos and architectural drawings and renderings.

"A Home to the World" also charts how the real estate needs of the UN evolved over time, leading to the creation of the United Nations Development Corporation (UNDC) and its commissioning of three architecturally significant buildings at UN Plaza that have helped keep the UN in New York City. Also included are sections on the $2 billion renovation and restoration of the UN campus and proposals past and present for additional architectural commissions. Additional sections will document visually how New York City and the UN have helped shape each other over the years; and how both continue to change and evolve.

Unique for its architectural and urbanistic focus, "A Home to the World" showcases the importance of the United Nations's many accomplishments (past, present, and future) as a truly global organization.

Critique: It should be noted that this coffee-table style (11 x 1 x 12.5 inches) volume of captioned photographs is will be of immense and special interest to architects, architecture students, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the United Nations. A combination of architectural studies and mission histories focusing on New York City in general, and the now iconic United Nations building in particular, "A Home to the World: The United Nations and New York City" by Raul Barreneche is especially recommended for personal reading lists, as well as professional, community, college, and university library Architecture History & Preservation collections.

Editorial Note: Raul Barreneche, a longtime journalist, is the former executive editor of the magazine 'Architecture' and has written extensively for major publications including Architectural Digest, Departures, ELLE Decor, and the New York Times, and has authored eleven books on design for Rizzoli, Phaidon, and publishers. He remains a contributing editor to Interior Design and holds a professional architecture degree from Carnegie Mellon University.


The Interior Design Shelf

Living in Color
Phaidon Editors, conception/editors
Stella Paul, contributor
India Mahdavi, contributor
Phaidon Press
65 Bleecker Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10012
www.phaidon.com
9781838663087, $39.95, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Living-Color-Contemporary-Interior-Design/dp/1838663088

Synopsis: With the publication of "Living in Color: Color in Contemporary Interior Design", professionals and non- specialist general readers with an interest in the subject can easily tap into the growing trend for injecting color into home decor with its elegant, thoughtful selection of interiors in every shade and hue. Organized by color, ranging from the purest white to the deepest black, from the hottest pinks, oranges, and reds, to the coolest greens and tranquil blues in between, "Living in Color: Color in Contemporary Interior Design" explores and celebrates the current trend for vivid accents and vibrant transformations of our domestic spaces, whatever their size and wherever their location.

Critique: A compendium of stunningly beautiful, full page, color photographs, "Living in Color: Color in Contemporary Interior Design" is a unique coffee-table style volume (10.2 x 1.13 x 11.7 inches), that is an extraordinary and inspirational interior design sampling resource and is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Interior Design collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note #1: Stella Paul was educator-in-charge of exhibitions and communications, and senior manager of the Interpretative Audio Program (Digital Media) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. She established the Smithsonian Institution's Southern California Center for the Archives of American Art, and has worked as a curator at LACMA.

Editorial Note #2: India Mahdavi is a Paris-based interior designer, best known for her use of color in her work for such venues as Sketch in London.

Joseph Urban: Unlocking an Art Deco Bedroom
Amy M. Dehan, author
Christopher Long, contributor
Elizabeth McGoey, contributor
Giles
https://gilesltd.com
9781911282563, $49.95, HC, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Joseph-Urban-Unlocking-Deco-Bedroom/dp/1911282565

Synopsis: Joseph Urban arrived in Boston in 1911. He lived and worked in the United States for the rest of his life. Over the next twenty-two years, he would become one of the nation's most important and celebrated interior designers and was at the forefront of American modernism, doing as much as anyone to shape its distinctive face.

His iconic designs include the Tulip Room, Central Park Casino, New York, 1929; Park Avenue Restaurant, 128 East 58th Street, New York, 1931; and the bedroom for Nedenia Hutton, daughter of E. F. Hutton and Marjorie Merriweather Post , Mar-a-Lago Palm Beach, Florida, 1926. When Urban arrived in the United States, the new architecture and design were just beginning to make their appearance; by the time he died in 1933, they were already starting to assert their dominance

Designed in 1929 and completed in 1930, "Joseph Urban: Unlocking an Art Deco Bedroom" showcases a rare, bespoke bedroom that was specifically created for seventeen-year-old Elaine Wormser. An interior design survey and analysis reveals the skillful blend of Viennese artistic influences, sleek modern finishes, daring color and pattern that marked all of the artist's greatest achievements.

The interior, whose elements are held by the Cincinnati Art Museum, has never been fully researched, published or displayed before now. "Joseph Urban: Unlocking an Art Deco Bedroom" is comprised of five informative essays that are accompanied by nearly 90 full-color illustrations, combining to unlock the narratives and significance of this important historic interior.

Critique: Beautiful, informative, inspirational, inherently fascinating, "Joseph Urban: Unlocking an Art Deco Bedroom" will be of immense interest to students, interior designers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject. Simply stated, "Joseph Urban: Unlocking an Art Deco Bedroom" is an elegant, exceptional, and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Interior Design collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Amy Miller Dehan is the curator of Decorative Arts and Design, Cincinnati Art Museum. Christopher Long is the Martin S. Kermacy Centennial Professor, School of Architecture, University of Texas at Austin. Elizabeth McGoey is the Ann S. and Samuel M. Mencoff Associate Curator, Arts of the Americas, Art Institute of Chicago

The Gift Of Home
Bre Doucette
Ten Peaks Press
c/o Harvest House Publishers
PO Box 41210, Eugene, OR 97404-0322
www.harvesthousepublishers.com
9780736981514, $34.99, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Home-Beauty-Inspiration-Special/dp/0736981519

Synopsis: When you look around your home, what do you see? Imperfections and disappointments around every corner, or a blank canvas just waiting for your creative brushstrokes?

With the publication of "The Gift of Home: Beauty and Inspiration to Make Every Space a Special Place", home decor expert Bre Doucette is here to help you break free from your decorating disillusionment with expert advice on how to view your home from a new perspective, overcome the obstacles that keep you from trying new ideas, and be happy in the here and now as you transform your spaces into places filled with warmth, joy, and love.

Room by room, Bre shares her years of experience, expertise, and encouragement with you, so you can see your home the way it was intended -- as a gift for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated in full color throughout, "The Gift of Home: Beauty and Inspiration to Make Every Space a Special Place" is impressively inspirational and thoroughly 'user friendly' in commentary, organization and presentation. An ideal resource for non-specialist general readers with an interest in home decor and interior design, "The Gift of Home: Beauty and Inspiration to Make Every Space a Special Place" is especially recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Interior Design & Home Decor collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should also be noted that "The Gift of Home: Beauty and Inspiration to Make Every Space a Special Place" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $22.49).

Editorial Note: As the girl who couldn't wait to come home from school and rearrange her bedroom, it's no wonder Bre Doucette grew up loving to decorate homes. Her own home is an 1846 farmhouse in New England, which she shares with her youth group sweetheart, her two kids, one dog, and twelve chickens. Bre welcomes others into her home through her blog - Rooms for Rent, where she spreads her passion for decorating, her belief that creating a home is so much more than the stuff we fill our rooms with, and a little bit of faith along the way. Bre's heart is to serve others through the gifts God has given her.


The Photography Shelf

How to Photograph People
Demetrius Fordham
Ilex Press
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781781578247, $24.99 pbk / $9.99 Kindle 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/How-Photograph-People-incredible-portraits/dp/1781578249

Synopsis: Whatever type of device used to take photographs, whether by a phone or a pro-spec digital camera, the most compelling subject is always other human beings. Portraiture is one of the most popular genres in photography, but it can also be one of the most daunting to undertake, especially when you're just starting out.

"How to Photograph People: Learn to take incredible portraits & more" is a comprehensive guide in which professional portrait photographer Demetrius Fordham shares his real-life experiences and expertise from years of portrait sessions to share the tips, tricks and knowledge that will let even the most novice of photographers to take their own amazing images of people.

"How to Photography People" will entertain amateur and professional photographers to: Learn from real-life portraiture examples as shot by a top pro; Gain the skills needed to create a rapport with your subject; Get all the tips and tricks for perfect posing; Master every type of portraiture from casual-looking group shots to formal studio sessions; Discover techniques that will let you get amazing pictures of people in any situation.

Critique: Profusely and expertly illustrated throughout, "How to Photograph People: Learn to take incredible portraits & more" is an DIY instructional guide and 'how to' manual for photographing people that is comprehensive and thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation. While highly recommended for personal, professional, and community library Contemporary Photography collections, it should be noted that "How to Photography People" by Demetrius Fordham is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Demetrius Fordham is an award-winning portrait photographer based in Los Angeles, California. His portrait series Transparent (2017) and Ageless Beauty (2016) were covered widely in the media and featured in international photo exhibits. In addition to portraiture, he has shot editorials for W Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, The Wall Street Journal and Schon Magazine, and has worked with commercial clients such as Steve Madden, The American Heart Association and The Gerald J. Friedman Foundation. He is also the author of two other books by Ilex Press: What They Didn't Teach You in Photo School (2015) and If You're Bored With Your Camera, Read This Book (2017).

Michael Freeman On... Composition
Michael Freeman
Ilex Press
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781781578360, $24.99, PB, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Michael-Freeman-Composition/dp/1781578362

Synopsis: Composition is arguably the single most powerful tool in a photographer's armory. Unconstrained by any outside influence, it can be a pure expression of individuality, and this is what makes it so important.

With the publication of "Michael Freeman On... Composition" renowned photographer Michael Freeman details both why and how composition works, from perception to visual imagination, including many practical compositional templates that vary from the Walk-in to the Frame Break to the Fibonacci Point, and which are ready to be applied to a range of camera situations.

With its all-new content from the master of photography guides, "Michael Freeman On... Composition" offers a concise and easy-to-follow format clearly explains the vital ingredients of composition, as well as real-life examples of composition in practice ably demonstrate the key elements. Of special note is how unique visuals and illustrations cut through the jargon and make the subject simple.

Critique: An ideal, comprehensive, and thoroughly 'user friendly' introduction to the value and acquisition of composition when creating a photograph, "Michael Freeman On... Composition" is an essential and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Photography instructional reference collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Michael Freeman On... Composition" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Michael Freeman, professional photographer and best-selling author. Born in England in 1945, he took a Masters in Geography at Brasenose College, Oxford University, and then worked in advertising in London for six years. In 1971 he made the life-changing decision to travel up the Amazon with two secondhand cameras, and when Time-Life used many of the pictures he came back with, he embarked on a full-time photographic career.

Since then, working for clients that include all the world's major magazines, most notably the Smithsonian Magazine (for which he has shot more than 40 stories over 30 years), Freeman's reputation as one of the world's leading reportage photographers has been consolidated. Of his many books, more than 60 titles are on the practice of photography. For this photographic educational work he was awarded the Prix Louis Philippe Clerc by the French Ministry of Culture. Freeman's books on photography have been translated into 27 languages.

Shooting Film: Everything You Need to Know About Analogue Photography
Ben Hawkins, author
Lisa Kanaeva-Hunsicker, author
Ilex Press
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781781578346, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Shooting-Film-Everything-Analogue-Photography/dp/1781578346

Synopsis: In a world where we are bombarded with visual imagery. As a photographer in a new digital age, making your photos stand out from the crowd is getting harder by the day, but film will give you that edge -- and let you discover a whole new way of shooting in the process.

"Shooting Film: Everything You Need to Know About Analogue Photography" is an in-depth and inspirational guide in which photography journalist Ben Hawkins and pro photographer Liza Kanaeva-Hunsicker reveal the techniques, tips and secrets for success when shooting film.

With "Shooting Film" as their guide, aspiring photographers will: Learn to shoot on film, from the essential basics to advanced techniques; Make the right choices with an in-depth guide to buying second-hand cameras; Master the language of film with jargon-free guides to all the vital processes; Be inspired by advice from a top pro who shoots on film; Discover the amazing imagery of the new school of analogue photographers.

Critique: Beautifully and effectively illustrated in full color throughout, "Shooting Film: Everything You Need to Know About Analogue Photography" truly lives up to its title. Comprehensive and impressively written, organized and presented, "Shooting Film" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Photography instructional reference collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all aspiring and novice photographers that "Shooting Film" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note #1: Ben Hawkins is an award-winning writer and journalist specializing in photography and creative media. He was the group editor of Practical Photography magazine, 2013-20, and regularly contributes to magazines including Amateur Photographer and Outdoor Photography. As a child, he used to 'assist' his dad in the family darkroom and developed a fascination with film and analogue technology. He has since interviewed some of the world's most revered film photographers, including Albert Watson, David Bailey and Bob Carlos Clarke.

Editorial Note #2: Liza Kanaeva-Hunsicker is a fine art and fashion photographer from Moscow, now based in New York City. She discovered her love for photography while documenting family travels when she was growing up. Liza studied Art at university in California and Paris and subsequently moved to NYC, where she decided to pursue photography professionally. After a few years of assisting, she ventured out on her own. Liza has been internationally exhibited and regularly contributes to Vogue Italia among other publications. While she still occasionally shoots digital, analogue is at the heart of her creative practice.

Edible Plants
Jimmy W. Fike
Red Lightning Books
https://redlightningbooks.com/index
9781684351718, $25.00, HC, 248pp

https://www.amazon.com/Edible-Plants-Photographic-Botanicals-America/dp/1684351715

Synopsis: For over a decade, artist and photographer Jimmy W. Fike traveled across the continental United States in an epic effort to photograph wild edible flora. "Edible Plants: A Photographic Survey of the Wild Edible Botanicals of North America" is the culmination of that journey, featuring over 100 photographs that Fike has selectively colorized to highlight the comestible part of the plant.

While the images initially appear to be scientific illustrations or photograms from the dawn of photography when plants were placed directly on sensitized paper and exposed under the sun, a closer look reveals the kind of organic beauty that instills a memorable wonder.

Fike's contemporary, place-based approach to landscape photography emphasizes our relationship to the natural world, reveals food sources, and encourages environmental stewardship. His clever and beautiful method makes it easy to identify both the specimen and its edible parts and includes detailed descriptions about the plant's wider purposes as food and medicine.

Critique: A simply gorgeous and umptuously illustrated coffee-table style volume (9.25 x 1 x 12 inches) , "Edible Plants: A Photographic Survey of the Wild Edible Botanicals of North America" will prove to be a welcome and prized addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Flora & Botanical Photography collections. Also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $23.75) "Edible Plants" is especially commended to the attention of non-specialist general readers who are curious about unlocking the secrets of native North American plants through the expert commentaries that accompany each truly memorable and full color photograph.

Editorial Note: Jimmy W. Fike earned a BA in Art from Auburn University and an MFA in Photography from the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Fike's photographs have been exhibited extensively across the United States, published in the Washington Post, Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, Mother Jones, and can be found in the permanent collections of the George Eastman Museum, St. Lawrence University, and the University of Alabama Birmingham. He currently works as Residential Art Faculty at the Estrella Mountain Community College.

Look at Me
Firooz Zahedi
Pointed Leaf Press
136 Baxter Street, Suite 1C, New York, NY 10013
www.pointedleafpress.com
9781938461842, $85.00, HC, 272pp

https://www.amazon.com/Look-at-Me-Firooz-Zahedi/dp/1938461843

Synopsis: From acclaimed Hollywood photographer Firooz Zahedi comes "Look at Me", a collection of his most distinguished and intimate celebrity portraits. From editorial commissions from magazines that include Vanity Fair, Glamour, InStyle, GQ, and Entertainment Weekly, to iconic movie posters such as Pulp Fiction, Edward Scissorhands, and The Addams Family - Zahedi has been photographing Hollywood's biggest stars for over 35 years.

Each individual photograph is accompanied by a short text offering personal insight into how each shot came together. Also included are never-before-seen photographs as well as special behind-the-scenes snapshots and notes from Zahedi's appreciative subjects. "Look at Me" is a celebration of this golden age of celebrity as seen through the lens of one of Hollywood's most accomplished photographers.

Critique: The third volume of his photographic work, "Look at Me" by Firooz Zahedi is a coffee-table style (10.29 x 0.99 x 12.96 inches) volume showcasing stunningly beautiful photographs of mostly stunningly beautiful celebrities. With a very special appeal to fans of celebrity photography, as well as those with an interest in portraiture photography, "Look at Me" is readily and especially recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary American Photography collections.

Editorial Note: While still at art school Firooz Zahedi began working as a photographer for Andy Warhol's Interview. Later, Elizabeth Taylor became his mentor and friend and in 1978 he accompanied the actress to Hollywood and worked on a film set as her personal photographer. He remained in Los Angeles and built a successful career that culminated in a contract with Vanity Fair in 1990. His photographs have appeared on the covers of the British GQ, French Vogue, Tatler, Time, Glamour, Town & Country, InStyle, and many other publications. Ranging from the iconic poster for the movie Pulp Fiction to album covers for Barbara Streisand and Diana Ross, Zahedi has produced some of the most prominent advertising and publicity campaigns for film, television, and music companies. He has also exhibited his celebrity portraits as well as his fine art photography at galleries in Los Angeles, New York, London, Dubai, and Basel. His photographs are in the permanent collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art as well as the Norton Museum in West Palm Beach, Florida. My Elizabeth a pictorial book of his 35 years of friendship with Elizabeth Taylor was published by Glitterati Incorporated in 2016. City of Angels, a book on a select group of architectural homes in Los Angeles was published by Vendome Press in 2018.


The Martial Arts Shelf

The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts
Alex W. Tong
Blue Snake Books
c/o North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
www.northatlanticbooks.com
9781623176655, $24.95, PB, 368pp

https://www.amazon.com/Science-Philosophy-Martial-Arts-Connections/dp/1623176654

Synopsis: Through the practice of martial arts, a person can realize their full potential -- not only in body, but in mind and spirit. With the publication of "The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts: Exploring the Connections Between the Cognitive, Physical, and Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts, author, sensei, and biomedical scientist Alex W. Tong shows readers how.

"The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts" delves into the physical, mental, and spiritual components of martial arts and integrates contemporary sports psychology, kinesiology, and neuroscience into a nuanced and illuminating understanding of what martial arts practice can be.

Structured into three sections, Tong discusses: The Mind: The dao of martial arts, mental tranquility, contemporary neuroscience, and warming up the brain; The Body: Posture and stance, breathing in martial arts, and the physics of mastery and effort; The Spirit: Soul, spirit, and moving zen; nature and manifestations of the spirit.

Each section comprising "The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts" includes observations on martial arts origins, physiology, and tangible results on martial arts training. Blending traditional and contemporary approaches, knowledge, and research, "The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts" builds a vision of practice that elevates physical performance, awareness, decisiveness, and strength of spirit.

Critique: Impressively comprehensive, exceptionally well written, organized and presented, featuring occasional black-and- white photos, "The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts: Exploring the Connections Between the Cognitive, Physical, and Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts" by Alex W. Tong is essential reading for every martial arts student and practitioner. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99), "The Science and Philosophy of Martial Arts: Exploring the Connections Between the Cognitive, Physical, and Spiritual Aspects of Martial Arts" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, dojo, community, college, and university library Martial Arts collections and supplemental curriculum studies list.

Editorial Note: Alex W. Tong grew up in Hong Kong, immersed in the then city-state's heritage of Chinese and European cultures. He started formal karate training while an undergraduate at the University of Oregon. A career opportunity brought him to Texas, where he founded the Japan Karate Association of Dallas while leading a highly productive cancer immunology research program at the Baylor Sammons Cancer Center. JKA Dallas celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2022, having graduated 30 black belts and produced many world-class competitors. Tong has practiced Nishiyama Shotokan Karate for 50 years. He holds the rank of hachidan (eighth-degree black belt). Tong is the current President of the American Amateur Karate Federation, the oldest national governing organization for karate competition in the United States.


The Sports Shelf

The New York Mets in Popular Culture: Critical Essays
David Krell, editor
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476680101, $29.95, PB, 254pp

https://www.amazon.com/New-York-Mets-Popular-Culture/dp/1476680108

Synopsis: Bringing fresh perspectives to the team that has brought joy, triumph and even a miracle to New York City, "The New York Mets in Popular Culture: Critical Essays" is collection of seventeen new essays which collectively examines portrayals of the Mets in film, television, advertising and other media.

The erudite and knowledgeable contributors cover little-known aspects of Mets history -- insider aspects that even die-hard fans may not know. The topics covered include the popularity of Rheingold's advertising in the 1950s and 1960s, Bob Murphy's broadcasting career before joining the Mets' announcing team in 1962, Mr. Met's rivalry with the Phillie Phanatic, Dave Kingman's icon status, the pitching staff's unsung performance after the 1969 World Series victory, and Joan Payson's world-renowned art collection and philanthropy.

Critique: Inherently fascinating and informative reading for dedicated baseball fans in general, and an absolute 'must' for all Mets fans everywhere, "The New York Mets in Popular Culture: Critical Essays" is additionally enhanced with the inclusion of a two page Bibliography, a three page listing of the Contributors and their credentials, and an eighteen page Index. While especially recommended as an addition to community, college, and university library American Baseball History collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of all die-hard Mets fans that "The New York Mets in Popular Culture: Critical Essays" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).

Editorial Note: David Krell is a freelance journalist, author and attorney. He has written for Memories and Dreams -- The Official Magazine of the Baseball Hall of Fame; Black Ball: A Negro Leagues Journal and New York State Bar Association's Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law Journal. He is also the chair of SABR's Elysian Fields Chapter (northern New Jersey) and the Spring Training Research Committee.

Lou Ambers
Mark Allen Baker
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476682204, $39.95, PB, 241pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lou-Ambers-Biography-Lightweight-Champion/dp/1476682208

Synopsis: Born Luigi d'Ambrosio, Lou Ambers grew up in Herkimer, New York, during the Great Depression. He and his nine siblings watched their father lose his business. Then they lost their father. Taking to the ring as a "bootleg" boxer to support his family, "The Herkimer Hurricane" soon became an undefeated contender, losing only one of more than fifty fights in his first three years as a professional.

A keen judge of distance with prodigious hand speed, he worked just within punching range, busily slipping and feinting, then slashing in with hooks and uppercuts. In 1936, he faced his idol and mentor, Tony Canzoneri, and defeated him to capture the world lightweight championship. Ambers held the title for twenty-three months, losing it in a historic fight with the formidable Henry Armstrong (1938) but regaining it in a rematch the following year.

As the 1930s ended, so did Amber's impressive career. "Lou Ambers: A Biography of the World Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer" by Mark Allen Baker chronicles the life of one of the great 20th century lightweights, who retired with a Hall of Fame record of 90-8-6 with 30 KOs.

Critique: Illustrated throughout with black-and-white historical photographs, this exceptionally well written boxing history/biography of a genuine champion, "Lou Ambers: A Biography of the World Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer" will have a very special appeal to boxing fans and sports historians alike. While highly recommended, especially for community, college, and university library 20th Century American Sports History & Biography collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Lou Ambers: A Biography of the World Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $23.99).

Editorial Note: Mark Allen Baker is a business executive and the writer of hundreds of articles and more than 20 books. He is also the only person to serve the International Boxing Hall of Fame as an author, historian, chairperson, sponsor, volunteer and biographer, as well as serving on the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.


The Woodworking Shelf

Foundations of Woodworking
Michael Pekovich
The Taunton Press
63 South Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470
www.taunton.com
9781641551625, 288pp

https://www.amazon.com/Foundations-Woodworking-Essential-techniques-strategies/dp/1641551623

Synopsis: Comprised of essential joinery techniques and building strategies, "Foundations of Woodworking" by Michael Pekovich gets to the very core of the craft of woodworking: laying out, cutting, and assembling joinery for furniture and other treasured wood objects.

After an introductory chapter on the basic woodworking strategies that apply to anything you might build, Pekovich dives into a step-by-step, project-by-project description of the essential wood joints, from rabbets and dadoes through mortise and tenons to dovetails and miters. Master these joints (with a combination of hand tools and power tools) and the door is open to create just about any design you can think of.

"Foundations of Woodworking" concludes with a selection of inspiring projects, including a wall cabinet, a chimney cupboard, an arched entry table, a desk divider, a dining chair, and many more.

Critique: With what could be considered as the sequel to woodworking expert Michael Pekovich's first book, "The Why and How of Woodworking" which was published in 2018, "Foundations of Woodworking" is beautifully illustrated and thoroughly 'user friendly' in both organization, presentation, and instruction. Simply stated, this coffee-table style (8.75 x 0.75 x 11.25 inches) edition of "Foundations of Woodworking" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library DIY woodworking instructional guide and 'how to' manual collections.

Editorial Note: Michael Pekovich's approach to designing and building furniture, as well as life in general, is that simple is usually better. A furniture maker, photographer, writer, teacher, and graphic designer, he puts his talents to use as the creative director at Fine Woodworking.

Weekend Woodturning Projects
Mark Baker
The GMC Group
www.gmcbooks.com
9781861089229, $24.99, PB, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Weekend-Woodturning-Projects-Designs-Skills/dp/1861089228

Synopsis: "Weekend Woodturning Projects: 25 Simple Projects for the Home" by Mark Baker is an ideal introduction to woodturning -- especially for beginners and intermediate turners. This DIY 'how to' manual presents clear, step-by-step instructions accompanied by over 600 photographs and finely detailed drawings (with dimensions for further guidance) providing all the hands-on knowledge ever needed to start a woodworking/woodturning project.

Enhanced for beginners with: Helpful sections on safety; How to season wood; Tool and material lists for each project; Special sidebars describing the types of wood used, aspiring woodturners will learn the use 6 basic tools, as well as Spindle roughing gouge; Spindle gouge; Parting tool; Bowl gouge; Skew chisel; Scrapers; plus carving tools and a boring tool.

Showcasing 25 fabulous and functional projects that are quick to make in only a couple of hours to a few days to complete "Weekend Woodturning Projects" is ideally suited to a beginner or intermediate turner.

Critique: Beautifully and effectively illustrated throughout, "Weekend Woodturning Projects: 25 Simple Projects for the Home" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community library woodworking collections, as well as school woodshop curriculum textbook. It should be noted for woodworking students, practitioners, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Weekend Woodturning Projects: 25 Simple Projects for the Home" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).

Editorial Note: Mark Baker has always been fascinated by wood. His father was a carpenter and joiner and, on leaving school, Mark served a five-year apprenticeship working for a local building firm, which included restoration work. Mark has also helped set up an industrial workshop for autistic adults and he has worked for some of the major manufacturers of woodturning tools in the UK. He is now the editor of Woodturning magazine and the group editor of all GMC Publications woodworking magazines. His previous books include Woodturning Projects: A Workshop Guide to Shapes, Wood for Woodturners and Wood Turning: A Craftsman's Guide -- all published by GMC Publications.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Weekend Makes: Crocheted Bags
Emma Osmond
The GMC Group
www.gmcbooks.com
9781784946180, $22.99, PB, 144pp

https://www.amazon.com/Weekend-Makes-Crocheted-Quick-Projects/dp/1784946184

Synopsis: With the publication of "Weekend Makes: Crocheted Bags" instructively showcasing 25 2uick and easy projects, even the most novice of needlecrafters can now successfully crochet their way from clutch to tote, making a variety of beautiful bags in between. Crochet bags are an up-to-date crocheting project, examples of which now fills Instagram and Pinterest (not to mention catwalks and high-end fashion houses) with modern masterpieces.

Grab your crochet hook and yarn and join the trend by creating a carrier for every outing. Whether you're a newcomer to this craft or have been hooked for a while, you'll find a project to kickstart your creativity and learn the skills required to make it. With detailed techniques, tools and materials sections, "Weekend Makes: Crocheted Bags" provides everything you need to know to get started. Each project guides you step by step with easy-to-follow instructions and close-up photos of each stage.

Whether you need to carry keys, groceries or a picnic, or add the finishing touch to an outfit, there are 25 easy projects to make, from essential everyday bags, such as the tote, shopper and backpack, to more exciting, elaborate shapes, such as the Japanese knot, circle raffia and drawstring bag. As well as learning the basic stitches and how to shape these styles, you'll expand your knowledge to create different patterns and textures, including leopard print, geometric and honeycomb designs, and work with different colours and types of yarn.

The individual projects include: a leopard-print clutch, a circle raffia bag, a honeycomb messenger bag, an ombre shopping bag, a Japanese knot bag, a beach bag, an eco shopper bag, a tweed shoulder bag, a textured tote bag, and a crossbody drawstring bag.

Critique: Featuring full color photographs, 'user friendly' step-by-step instructions that include the materials needed, "Weekend Makes: Crocheted Bags" will be an enduringly popular and prized addition to personal, professional, and community library needlecraft instructional reference collections.

Editorial Note: Guild of Master Craftsman (GMC) Publications publishes quality instructional guides and 'how to' manuals which are valued and prized by professional craftsmen and amateur women alike.


The Gardening Shelf

Beyond Wild
Raymond Jungles, author
The Monacelli Press
6 West 18th Street, #2C, New York, NY 10011
www.monacellipress.com
9781580935821, $60.00, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Wild-Gardens-Landscapes-Raymond/dp/1580935826

Synopsis: For almost 40 years, Raymond Jungles has generated design solutions that respond to surrounding natural systems while restoring nature's balance and harmony on a micro-scale. His completed gardens personify timelessness and beauty, with verdant spaces that entice participation and soothe the psyche.

"Beyond Wild: Gardens and Landscapes by Raymond Jungles" is beautifully illustrated monograph (the fourth to focus on his work) that present and showcases 21 completed projects, along with a section of work in progress featuring sketches, renderings, and site plans of 12 current projects of varying typologies including an 18-acre Phipps Ocean Park in the Town of Palm Beach, Florida.

Among the featured works are major landscapes surrounding luxury residential complexes as well as lush private gardens from the mountains in Mexico to volcanic craters in Panama, Caribbean beachfronts, the Florida Keys, and densely populated cities like Manhattan and Miami.

Highlights include the restoration of the famed interior garden by the revered landscape architect Dan Kiley at the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice in New York; a landscape to evoke the work of legendary Brazilian designer Roberto Burle Marx at the New York Botanical Garden, and two new gardens at the the Naples Botanical Garden.

Critique: An extraordinary and inspiring coffee-table style volume (11.08 x 1.1 x 9.78 inches) to simply browse through one gorgeous page at a time, "Beyond Wild: Gardens and Landscapes by Raymond Jungles" will prove to be an immediately welcome, enduringly popular, and highly prized addition to personal, professional, college, and university library Gardening, Horticulture, and Landscaping collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Founded in 1985 by Raymond Jungles, the firm's design priorities are generated by the scale and functionality of a space. Simple, clean, and well-detailed hardscape elements are the quintessential bones of a garden. Planting volumes vary and bold colors and textures are used with intent. The firm is guided by Raymond's personal and design principles: integrity, relevance, and nature's honor. Their informed designs tread lightly on the land, provide habitat, and incorporate elements of surprise.

The Garden Book
Toby Musgrave, author
Ruth Chivers, author
Tim Richardson, editor
Phaidon Press
65 Bleecker Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10012
www.phaidon.com
9781838663209, $59.95, HC, 520pp

https://www.amazon.com/Garden-Book-Revised-updated/dp/1838663207

Synopsis: A beautifully illustrated, revised and refreshed version of Phaidon's classic, this new edition of "The Garden Book" is an A-to-Z who's who of the world's finest garden-makers throughout history, spanning all styles and continents. From the first religious gardens to Dan Pearson's heavenly new Tokachi garden in Japan, each entry illustrates a key work by the designer, describes the garden, and evokes its unique spirit and ethos.

Critique: Showcasing five hundred elegant gardens, "The Garden Book" an unreservedly recommended and essential reference for today's gardeners and landscapers. Beautifully illustrated on each page with a full color photography and an informative commentary, "The Garden Book" offers infinite inspiration for create a signature space -- whatever the landscape might be. An invaluable and thoroughly 'user friendly' reference for gardeners and garden lovers alike, "The Garden Book" is a significant addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Gardening/Landscaping reference collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Tim Richardson, consultant editor, is an acclaimed garden historian and critic of landscape architecture. Toby Musgrave is a widely published garden writer and historian. Bill Noble is a garden designer and former director of preservation for the Garden Conservancy in the US. Clare Foster is garden editor of House & Garden magazine.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Transitions: A Director's Journey and Motivational Handbook
Pete Chatmon
Michael Wiese Productions
12400 Ventura Blvd., #1111, Studio City, CA 91604
www.mwp.com
9781615933310, $29.95, PB, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Transitions-Directors-Journey-Motivational-Handbook/dp/161593331X

Synopsis: Becoming a director is not just about making a film, webseries, commercial, or music video. The opportunity to direct for television is not a given because you've successfully completed a project in another medium. Turning your passion into your profession requires the ability to make transitions at the exact moment a pivot is needed, with creativity and confidence.

Of significantly and 'real world practical' help for directors across all mediums to shape their directorial career, "Transitions: A Director's Journey and Motivational Handbook" by Pete Chatmon features targeted anecdotes, worksheets, and other resources -- all of which fall into three designated categories: How-To, Self-Help, and Inspiration.

Critique: Drawing upon Pet Chatmon's years of experience and expertise, "Transitions: A Director's Journey and Motivational Handbook" is exceptionally well written, impressively comprehensive, thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation. Of immense help for the aspiring or novice directory, it has a wealth of useful tips, tricks and techniques that will interest even the more experience director. Also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $22.79) for personal reading lists, "Transitions: A Director's Journey and Motivational Handbook" is particularly and highly recommended for professional, community, college, and university library Theatre/Cinema/TV instructional reference guide collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: With a deft ability to balance both half-hour single camera comedies and one-hour dramas, Pete Chatmon has directed episodes of HBOMax's The Flight Attendant, Insecure, Silicon Valley, and Love Life, Netflix's You and Atypical, ABC's Grey's Anatomy, Black-ish, A Million Little Things, Station 19, Mixed-ish and Single Parents, CBS's All Rise and The Unicorn, Starz' Blindspotting, FX's It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, FreeForm's Grown-ish, TBS's TheLast OG, OWN's Greenleaf, and the Apple TV+ series Mythic Quest. He is also in development on The Education ofMatt Barnes with Showtime, for which he will direct the pilot and serve as executive producer.

His debut feature as writer/director, Premium, starred Dorian Missick, Zoe Saldana, and Hill Harper, and premieredon Showtime after a limited theatrical run. Chatmon also wrote, produced, and directed 761st, a documentary on the first Black tank battalion in WWII, narrated by Andre Braugher. He received the Tribeca Film Institute "AllAccess" Program's Creative Promise Narrative Award for the heist screenplay, $FREE.99. Through The Director, his Digital Studio, he has directed, shot, and edited content for advertising agencies and Fortune 500 brands. Chatmon's career began in 2001 with the Sundance selection of his NYU thesis film, 3D, starring Kerry Washington. His most recent short film, BlackCard, premiered on HBO, and his narrative podcast, Wednesday Morning, engaged voters around the 2020 election.

He is developing several episodic concepts and feature films while booking episodes for the upcoming cable, broadcast, and streaming seasons. His podcast, Let's Shoot! with Pete Chatmon is available on YouTube, iTunes, and all podcast platforms. He can be followed on Instagram @pete-chatmon and @letsshootwithpetechatmon

Batman's Batman
Michael E. Uslan
Red Lightning Books
https://redlightningbooks.com
9781684351831, $65.00, HC, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Batmans-Batman-Memoir-Hollywood-Money/dp/1684351839

Synopsis: In "Batman's Batman: A Memoir from Hollywood, Land of Bilk and Money", Michael E. Uslan, who was the executive producer of the Batman movie franchise, offers an insider's look at Hollywood and the process of how movies and television shows go from the drawing board to your screens.

Continuing the delightful tale of his adventures begun in "The Boy Who Loved Batman", Uslan draws on both his successful and less successful attempts to bring ideas to the screen, offering a helpful, honest, and breezily told guide to producing films. From passion to promotion, from the initial pitch to selecting the best partners and packaging, Uslan reveals the 13 qualities essential to would-be producers.

A lively memoir and a valuable glimpse inside Hollywood rarely seen by the public, "Batman's Batman" is sure to please fans of Michael Uslan and the Batman franchise, but it will also prove to be an invaluable resource for any aspiring producers, as he guides readers through the Land of Bilk and Money that we know as Hollywood!

Critique: Impressively well written, organized and presented, "Batman's Batman: A Memoir from Hollywood, Land of Bilk and Money" is an extraordinary and inherently fascinating combination of person history and the film making process using one of Hollywood's most successful film franchises. An absolute 'must' for the legions of Batman fans, as well as aspiring film producers, Hollywood memoire enthusiasts, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject, "Batman's Batman: A Memoir from Hollywood, Land of Bilk and Money" recommended for community, college, and university library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Batman's Batman" is also available in a paperback edition (9781684351848, $20.00) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.75).

Editorial Note: Michael E. Uslan was the first instructor to teach an accredited course on comic book folklore at any university.


The Nautical Shelf

Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes
Anna Lardinois
The Globe Pequot Press
246 Goose Lane, Suite 200, Guilford, CT 06437
www.globepequot.com
9781493058556, $19.95, PB, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Shipwrecks-Great-Lakes-Tragedies-Legacies/dp/149305855X

Synopsis: "Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas" by Anna Lardinois covers the sensational wrecks and maritime disasters from each of the five Great Lakes. It is estimated that over 30,000 sailors have lost their lives in Great Lakes wrecks. For many, these icy, inland seas have become their final resting place, but their last moments live on as a part of maritime history.

The tales and stories comprising "Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas", are all true and well-documented, feature some of the most notable tragedies on each of the lakes. Included in many of these tales are legends of ghost ship sighting, ghostly shipwreck victims still struggling to get to shore, and other chilling lore. Sailors are a superstitious group, and the stories are sprinkled with omens and maritime protocols that guide decisions made on the water.

Critique: The newest addition to Globe Pequot's outstanding Shipwrecks series, "Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas" is deftly organized into five major chapters, each one focused on a particular Great Lake (Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Superior). Informationally enhanced with the inclusion of a six page Bibliography, a four page Glossary of Nautical Terms, and a five page Index, "Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas" is impressively well written, organized and presented. An inherently informative and fascinating read throughout, "Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.00) and highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Great Lakes History and American Nautical History collections and supplemental curriculum studies reading lists.

Editorial Note: Anna Lardinois, a maritime disaster enthusiast, owns Gothic Milwaukee, Brew City's most popular haunted, historical walking tour company. The creator of Walking Milwaukee and the 11th Pfister Narrator, Lardinois loves to celebrate the best Milwaukee has to offer. His previous titles include Milwaukee Ghosts and Legends and Storied and Scandalous Wisconsin.


The Self-Help Shelf

Nailing It
Robert L. Dilenschneider
Citadel
c/o Kensington Publishing Corp.
119 West 40th Street, Floor 21, New York, NY 10018-2522
www.kensingtonbooks.com
9780806541754, $16.95, PB, 272pp

https://www.amazon.com/Nailing-Historys-Awesome-Twentysomethings-Together/dp/080654175X

Synopsis: Do you think Albert Einstein had his act together by his mid-20s? Think again. Would you assume style icon and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn's life was always as beautiful as she was? Far from it. At the other end of the spectrum is the revolutionary Steve Jobs, who was at the top of his game by age 25. But Jobs's beginnings were marked by his adoption, displacement, bullying, and then a rocky personal life.

"Nailing It: How History's Awesome Twentysomethings Got It Together" by Robert Dilenschnneider is an absorbing examination of the trajectories of 25 iconic figures (from Toni Morrison to Albert Einstein and Golda Meir to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart) to reveal where they were in their lives in their mid-twenties and the choices that enabled them to make their historic marks.

For those who are coming of age now, and for those who care about them and their futures, these captivating profiles provide inspiration, instruction, and encouragement. The profiles in Path to Greatness will be real-life examples of the fact that the turning points that lead to success and happiness come at different times and as a result of different conditions. Some people create their own turning points, other people build on what happens to them.

Many people who seemed to "have their act together" at age 25, had already weathered difficult beginnings to their lives; their turning points came early. And other people who didn't even have an act at age 25, went on to make profound contributions to the world; their turning points came with maturity. "Nailng It" will remind readers that it is never too late to make an impact.

Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Nailing It: How History's Awesome Twentysomethings Got It Together" is an inherently fascinating, impressively informative, and inspiring read that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Business Motivation, Jobs/Careers, Self-Help/Self Improvement collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Nailing It: How History's Awesome Twentysomethings Got It Together" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Robert L. Dilenschneider has hired more than 3,000 successful professionals and advised thousands more. He is the founder of the Dilenschneider Group, a corporate strategic counseling and public relations firm based in New York City. Formerly president and CEO of Hill & Knowlton, he is also the author of The Critical First Years of Your Professional Life, Power and Influence, A Briefing for Leaders, and On Power.


The Criminology Shelf

When a Killer Calls
John Douglas, author
Mark Olshaker, author
Dey Street Books
c/o William Morrow & Company
www.harpercollins.com
9780063074477, $27.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/When-Killer-Calls-Profiling-Mindhunter/dp/0062979795

Synopsis: On May 31, 1985, two days before her high school graduation, Shari Smith was abducted from the driveway of her family home in South Carolina. Based on the crime scene and the abductor's repeated and taunting calls to the family, law enforcement quickly realized they were dealing with a sophisticated and highly dangerous criminal.

A letter arrived the next day entitled "Last Will & Testament," in which Shari, knowing she was to be murdered, wrote bravely and achingly of her love for her parents, siblings, and boyfriend, saying that while they would miss her, she knew they would persevere through their faith. The abduction rocked her quiet town, triggering a massive manhunt and bringing in the FBI, which enlisted profiler John Douglas. A few days later, a phone call told the family where they could find Shari's body.

Then nine-year-old Debra May Helmick was kidnapped from her yard, confirming the harsh realization that Smith's murder was no random act. A serial killer was evolving, and the only way to stop him would be to use the study of criminal behavior to anticipate his next move before he could kill again. Douglas devised a risky and emotionally fraught strategy to use Shari's lookalike older sister Dawn as bait to draw out the unknown subject. Dawn and her parents courageously agreed.

One of the most haunting investigations of Douglas's storied career, this case details how the eerily accurate profile he created (alongside his carefully crafted and stage-managed manipulation of the killer's psychology) combined with dedicated police work and cutting-edge forensic science to end a reign of criminal terror.

As Shari's family took incredible personal risks to lure her killer from the shadows, Douglas and the FBI pushed criminal profiling to its limits, culminating in one of his most dramatic and effective confrontations with a sadistic and remorseless killer.

Critique: Simply stated, "When a Killer Calls: A Haunting Story of Murder, Criminal Profiling, and Justice in a Small Town" is a compulsively riveting read for first page to last. A detailed, suspenseful, emotionally invested account for the reader, "When a Killer Calls" is a true life crime story that is one of those books that will linger in the mind and memory long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While unreservedly and unhesitatingly recommended for community library True Crime collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "When a Killer Calls" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780062979797, $16.99), in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (HarperCollins, 9798200747740, $41.99, CD).

Editorial Note #1: One of the foremost experts and investigators of criminal minds and motivations, John Douglas, the legendary FBI criminal profiler and a veteran author of true crime books. He has spent over twenty-five years researching and culling the stories of America's most disturbing criminals. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he has directly worked and/or had overall supervision in over 5,000 violent crime cases over the past 48 years. He is currently chairman of the board of the "Cold Case Foundation."

Editorial Note #2: Mark Olshaker is an Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker and author of ten nonfiction books and five novels, including Einstein's Brain and The Edge. His books with former FBI Special Agent and criminal profiling pioneer John Douglas, beginning with Mindhunter and, most recently, Law & Disorder, have been translated into many languages. Mindhunter is now a dramatic series on Netflix, directed by David Fincher.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

Escape from the Ghetto
John Carr
Pegasus Books
148 West 37th Street, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10018
www.pegasusbooks.com
9781643138855, $27.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Ghetto-Story-Survival-Resilience/dp/1643138855

Synopsis: In early 1940 Chaim Herszman was locked in to the Lodz Ghetto in Poland. Hungry, fearless, and determined, Chaim wnt on scavenging missions outside the wire fence -- where one day he is forced to kill a Nazi guard to protect his secret. That moment changes the course of his life and sets him on an unbelievable adventure across enemy lines.

Chaim avoids grenade and rifle fire on the Russian border, shelters with a German family in the Rhineland, falls in love in occupied France, is captured on a mountain pass in Spain, gets interrogated as a potential Nazi spy in Britain, and eventually fights for everything he believes in as part of the British Army. He protects his life by posing as an Aryan boy with a crucifix around his neck, and fights for his life through terrible and astonishing circumstances.

"Escape from the Ghetto" is the extended biography a normal boy who faced extermination by the Nazis in the ghetto and a Nazi deathcamp, and the extraordinary life he led in avoiding that fate. It's ultimately a true life story about epic hope, beauty amidst horror, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Critique: A simply riveting true life biography that reads with the pulse pounding suspense of a deftly crafted action/adventure novel, "Escape from the Ghetto: A Story of Survival and Resilience in World War II" is unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library World War II History & Biography collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Escape from the Ghetto: A Story of Survival and Resilience in World War II" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99).

Editorial Note: As the eldest son of Henry Carr (Chaim Herszman) John Carr, with the publication of "Escape From the Ghetto", has recreated his father's incredible adventure during World War II.


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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