The Samurai Swordsman
Stephen Turnbull
Tuttle Publishing
364 Innovation Drive, North Clarendon, Vermont 05759-9436
9784805309568, $44.95, www.tuttlepublishing.com
The Samurai – in modern society, it's a shallow shell of what it formerly was – exaggeratedly awesome warriors capable of sundering tanks in two with there swords. But who were the real Samurai? "The Samurai Swordsman: Master of War" is an examination of the true Samurai, who dominated Japan during its feudal era, much like Knights once dominated Europe. Going deep into the nature of Samurai as complex individuals and not just swords with legs, it looks at everything – the Samurai statesman, the Samurai artist, and more. Enhanced with full color paintings throughout, "The Samurai Swordsman: Master of War" is highly recommended for community library history and art collections and for anyone who has always had a fascination with this warrior caste.
China's Sacred Sites
Nan Shunxun & Beverly Foit Albert
Himalyan Institute Press
952 Bethany Turnpike, Honesdale, PA 18431-4194
9780893892623, $49.95, www.himalayaninstitute.org
One of the oldest and greatest civilizations of the world – China. "China's Sacred Sites" is a comprehensive and complete listing of sacred areas to Buddhism, Confucianism, and other major Chinese religions, along with the sites' history and breathtaking full-color photography. Composed in a greatly accessible format, "China's Sacred Sites" is a must for fans of Chinese history, armchair travelers, and photography buffs alike, and would do well to find itself in any community library collection.
Harmony in Healing
James J. Garber
Transaction Publishers
Rutgers University, 35 Berrue Circle, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8042
9781412806923, $34.95 www.transactionpub.com 1-888-999-6778
Astronomer James J. Garber presents Harmony in Healing: The Theoretical Basis of Ancient and Medieval Medicine, a unique examination of the link between medicine, astronomy, and cosmology, from the era of the Greeks to the modern day. Harmony in Healing pays particular attention to the theoretical baseline of the ancient principle of universal harmony, and its role in helping humanity's efforts to resist disease. Cosmological principles have played a key role in the theory and practice of medicine throughout history, sometimes obscuring human understanding of more accurate models such as modern disease theory, but often leading the way in the spirit of scientific and medical inquisition. "Galen's theory of anatomy and physiology was easily assimilated into a Christian context because he held that God had created each part of the human body for a specific purpose. His was a teleological system utilizing Aristotle's fourth (final) cause. Galen was a pagan who, at one point, criticized Christians for not thinking rationally. This apparently did not put off Christian writers - Galen's works survived without criticism for 1,500 years." A fascinating look at how mankind's understanding of medicine and healing evolved over millennia.
The Book of IQ Tests
Philip J. Carter & Kenneth A. Russell
Sterling Press
387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9781402757358, $5.95, www.sterlingpublishing.com
Claiming one is smarter than another can only be backed up with an IQ test – and "The Book of IQ Tests: 25 Self-Scoring Quizzes To Sharpen Your Mind" is here to help these frivolous disputes with twenty five self-scoring quizzes for fun and self-evaluation of one's own mental abilities. Covering all aspects of the typical IQ test, "The Book of IQ Tests: 25 Self-Scoring Quizzes to Sharpen Your Mind" is highly recommended to community library collections of fun and games books.
Critter Control
Larry Grupp
Paladin Press
7077 Winchester Circle, Boulder, CO 80301
9781581606515, $34.95, www.paladin-press.com
The world is not inhabited solely by humans – and some humans live closer to the neighbors in the world than others. "Critter Control: A Homeowner's Guide to Getting Rid of Rodents, Deer, Bears, Foxes, Skunks, Birds, Snakes, and Other Pests" is a guide for those who happen to live very close to their inconsiderate animal neighbors who commonly find them invading their own homes. Countless suggestions to manage these pests themselves without seeking professional help – when to simply remove the threat, and when to take a more violent approach. "Critter Control: A Homeowner's Guide to Getting Rid of Rodents, Deer, Bears, Foxes, Skunks, Birds, Snakes, and Other Pests" is essential to any who seem to have to deal with these problems on a everyday basis.
The Public Record Research Tips Book
Michael Sankey
Facts on Demand Press
PO Box 27869, Tempe, AZ 85285
9781889150505, $19.95, www.brbpub.com
Public Records – they are there, and that is the extent of one's convenience with them. "The Public Record Research Tips Book: Insider Information for Effective Public Record Research" is a complete and comprehensive guide to expertly searching the government's public records files – covering all aspects of it. Court Record Databases, Criminal Records, Government lists, websites that aren't entirely obvious to use, and a glossary of terms that commonly occur. "The Public Record Research Tips Book: Insider Information for Effective Public Record Research" is highly recommended to community library business collections and for anyone who has to search these records often.
Women Astronomers
Mabel Armstrong
Stone Pine Press
c/o Beagle Bay Books
14120 Saddlebow Dr., Reno, NV, 89511
9780972892957, $16.95, www.beaglebay.com
Over five thousand years ago, ancient Babylonian priestesses correctly anticipated solar eclipses and arrivals of comets. "Women Astronomers: Reaching for the Stars" is a part of Stone Pine Presses' Discovering Women in Science Series, and outlines how the fairer sex has made significant contributions to the science of astronomy, focusing on the past hundred years with references to such ancient contributions such as the Babylonian priestesses above. Author Mabel Armstrong, a teacher of science for over a quarter of a century, speaks of her own obstacles in the field and gives advice to other aspiring female astronomers. "Women Astronomers: Reaching for the Stars" is highly recommended for women's studies and science shelves everywhere and for any girl astronomer-to-be.
Nureyev
Howard Brown
Phaidon Press
180 Varick Press, 14th Floor, New York, New York 10014
9780714848655, $29.95, www.phaidon.com
From a small town in the then Soviet Union came one of the greatest male dancers the world has ever known, Rudolf Nureyev. "Nureyev" is a massive coffee-table sized biography of this great ballet artist, filled with nearly two hundred black and white but beautifully captured images of his countless performances over the decades, to play out as a unique telling of this brilliant artist's life. Highly recommended as a great gift to any ballet enthusiast and can find a place in any community library collection on dance.
Simpsonology
Tim Delaney
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
9781591025597, $18.95 www.prometheusbooks.com
Sociologist Tim Delaney considers the Simpsons sitcom and the ways it affects and reflects American culture. For over 15 years The Simpsons have covered American culture, from customs and oddities to politics and family dynamics. This draws important links between sociology and Simpsons plots and approaches, making it a perfect choice for any college-level library strong in sociology and American culture.
Every Landlord's Property Protection Guide
Ron Leshnower, Attorney
Nolo Press
950 Parker, Berkeley, CA 94710
1413307000, $29.99 www.nolo.com
If you've invested in rental property then it's an investment you don't want to lose – and won't, with the aid of Every Landlord's Property Protection Guide, a survey of everything from obtaining the right kind of insurance to lowering crime risk, avoiding personal injury lawsuits, and more. Real stories of landlords who learned the hard way make for an important map of the land mines and their potential locations.
Hubert's Freaks
Gregory Gibson
Harcourt Inc.
9780151012336, $24.00 www.harcourtbooks.com
An outstanding novel packed with unusual twists and turns, HUBERT'S FREAKS revolves around obsessive antiques dealer and treasure hunter Bob Langmuir, who uncovers unique prints by the legendary Diane Arbus, in the process discovering a new side of not only artist Arbus but the 'weird America' she captured in film. His survey of antiques, freak show exhibits, and more evolves into a catchy road show of discovery in a novel packed with adventure, and highly recommended as a fine leisure read.
Lawns are deemed an essential element for any home landscaping design. The types of grass that flourish best in Wisconsin's horticultural zone, varied soil conditions, and climate are superbly presented in depth and detail by horticulturist, gardener, and lawn specialist Melinda Myers in "The Wisconsin Lawn Guide", a 159-page compendium of information, advice, commentary, and resources. Featuring the best grass varieties to be employed in a Wisconsin environment, "The Wisconsin Lawn Guide" also features a maintenance schedule for a well kept lawn, detailed and illustrated explanations of methods for planning new lawns, renovating existing lawns, dealing with commonly encountered lawn problems ranging from weeds and diseases to insect pests, the role of fertilizers, watering, and mowing. Enthusiastically recommended for personal, professional, agricultural school, and community library collections in the Badger State, "The Wisconsin Lawn Guide" should be considered a 'must read' for anyone charged with the responsibility of lawn care for a Wisconsin property, be it urban, suburban, or rural.
The Fiction Shelf
Remittance Man
Michael Worsnip
University of Kwazulu-natal Press
Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
Email: books@ukzn.ac.za
International Specialized Book Services (distrubutor)
920 NE 58th Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR, 87213-3786
9781869141158, $24.95, www.ukznpress.co.za
To not be accepted by one's own family – because you are of a darker complexion than they are – a truly terrifying thought for most Americans, but for South Africans, it's a sad truth. "Remittance Man" follows Bertie King, shunned by his family, as he tries to deal with life under a national government which makes American racism look like nothing. It's a story, that although fiction, is sadly remnant of many South Africans' true stories. "Remittance Man" is deftly written and highly recommended to literary fiction shelves everywhere.
The Region of Lost Names
Fred Arroyo
The University of Arizona Press
355 S. Euclid Avenue, Suite 103 Tucson, AZ 85719
9780816526574, $15.95, www.uapress.arizona.edu
A strange occurrence – coming upon a self-epiphany while thousands of miles away from what it's about. It's what strikes Ernest & Magdalene in "The Region of Lost Names". On separate trips, the two discover their true thoughts about their families and begin to think about them- and the past mistakes of their parents. Faced with this thought, they turn to repair the mistakes of the past in this deftly written tale of a family dealing with itself. "The Region of Lost Names" is highly recommended and a top pick for community library fiction collections.
To The Death
Patrick Robinson
Vanguard Press
387 Park Avenue South, Floor 12, New York, New York, 10016
9781593154769, $25.95, www.tothedeath.com
A terrorist's bomb explodes in Logan airport – Admiral Arnold Morgan must hunt down those responsible. "To The Death" is a fast paced political thriller from New York Times Best Selling Author Patrick Robinson, and this is his finale to his much acclaimed Admiral Morgan series. In a plot to foil his own assassination, he must travel all over the world in this deftly written thriller, sure to please his legions of fans. "To The Death" is a must for community library thriller collections.
Silence of Stone
AnnaMarie Beckel
Breakwater Books Limited
PO Box 2188, 100 Water Street, St. John's, NL AIC 6E6
1550812432, $16.95, www.breakwater.nf.net
How much are some people willing to sacrifice in the name of love? "Silence of Stone" follows Marguerite de Roberval as she is abandoned with her lover, a French soldier, and her servant on an isolated island near Newfoundland. The three, dumped their due to Marguerite's love must overcome the elementals to survive, and seek revenge on the man who put her there in the first place. "Silence of Stone" has some historical accounts it is based on, making it highly recommended to community library historical fiction collections with a nod to romance.
Mortal Shield
Thomas A. Taylor
Southeast Missouri State University
MS 2650, One University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
9780979871412, $19.00, www6.semo.edu/universitypress
A cult has goals. Some of them are harmless- some of them are self-destructive, but some of them still have far more sinister plots. "Mortal Shield" is the tale of one of these cults, planning on eliminating the governor – and the governor's protectors know of this. The governor and his family, however, just want a normal life without agents blocking them every step of the way . "Mortal Shield" is a grand conflict of three groups of people with very different goals and how all of their intentions clash in an incredibly interesting tale with no clear outcome - "Mortal Shield" is highly recommended for any thriller fan and any library collection collecting them.
Edith and the Mysterious Stranger
Linda Weaver Clarke
Bedside Books
c/o American Book Publishing
PO Box 65624, Salt Lake City, Utah 84165
9781589824690, $22.00, www.lindaweaverclarke.com
A stressful life on top of a child that is due into one's life soon – it could be a breaking point. "Edith and the Mysterious Stranger" is Edith's story, as she moves across the globe to care for Melinda who is with child – a child who might not make it. But letters start to arrive from the far west – where Edith once called home. The stranger's thoughts intrigue Edith in this deftly written historical fiction novel with a blend of romance. "Edith and The Mysterious Stranger" is well deserving of a place in community library historical fiction collections.
The Winged and Garlanded Nike
S.G. Scott
Regent Press
2747 Regent Street, Berkeley, CA 94705
9781587901430, $22.00, www.regentpress.net
Through the 1840s, the California Gold Rush was in full force. Through the 1950s, the lesser known defense rush went into full force. "The Winged and Garlanded Nike" is a novel linking the two rushes of financial stages of money flowing out and into California. Taking a hard critical look at the era from both its height of 1955 and its aftermath thirty one years later in 1986, with a thought provoking parody on the era. Deftly written, "The Winged and Garlanded Nike" is highly recommended for community library collections dedicated to literary fiction.
The Collar and the Bracelet
Yahya Taher Abdullah
The American University in Cairo Press
420 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20175-0605
9789774161452, $17.95, www.aucpress.com
One can always get a look into the culture of its people by looking to its modern stories. "The Collar and the Bracelet: Modern Arabic Stories" is a compilation of short stories by noted Arabic author Yahya Taher Abdullah. Deftly translated by Samah Selim, it tells the story of the village of Karnark, and the trials and tribulations they face through the format of a series of short stories. "The Collar and the Bracelet: Modern Arabic Stories" is highly recommended to community library collections focusing on world fiction.
West of 16W
Mark Slomiany
Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd. - 515, Parker, Colorado 80134
9781432703110, $12.95, www.outskirtspress.com
The road, a truly intangible place – yet a place many turn to for inspiration. "West of 16W" is Mark's story of traveling the road in search of inspiration to make himself a better writer, to write something truly magnificent and to make himself famous. His personal desires clash with his family, he seeks out love, but somehow he has to get through the gauntlet of life to make it through. A top pick for community library literary fiction collections and for anyone who has a life of uncertainty ahead of them.
This Life, This Death
Michael P. Graham
Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd – 515, Parker CO 80134
9781432719449, $13.95, www.outskirtspress.com
Peace – to have all that one wanted and to have nothing to disturb it. In "This Life, This Death", David Bridgeman thought he had attained it – only to be brought into another hostile conflict where he finds his former friend dead in a mysterious crash and an overly ambitious corrupt government agent plotting against his home country – Bridgeman must train new comrades to face off against this growing threat in this gripping novel of adventure sure to keep readers reading until it's all over. "This Life, This Death" is a must for community library fiction collections.
The Road from La Cueva
Sheila Ortego
Sunstone Press
PO Box 2321, 239 Johnson Street, Santa Fe, NM 87504
Stray Dog Media
905 Don Miguel Place, Santa Fe, NM 87505
9780865345881, $26.95, www.sunstonepress.com
A problem many people face in life – the continuing security of the way things are – or the leap for a much better existence. "The Road From La Cueva" is Ana Howland's problem of facing this – a sheltered life as a housewife under a controlling husband, or her affair with a man who seems to truly love and respect her – but would lead to problems in itself. Ana must overcome these problems and somehow find a resolution – deftly told by Sheila Ortego. "The Road from La Cueva" is highly recommended to romance fans and community library collections catering to the genre.
Come Get Some
Nane Quartay
Strebor Books International
PO Box 6505, Largo, MD 20792
Atria Books News
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
9781593091767, $13.00, www.streborbooks.com
The sad reality of growing up – and everyone faces different, yet similar challenges. "Come Get Some" is a look into the high school lives of urban black youth, filled with conflict – morality stops being black and white, sexual innocence is no more, and faced with the fact that some people hate them for something as frivolous as the color of their skin. Deftly written, "Come Get Some" is a harsh look at the real world that these young men and women face, highly recommended to community library urban fiction collections and for any who want something to relate to in their books.
When The Leaves Stop Falling
Kelly Moran
Lulu
860 Aviation Parkway, Suite 300, Morrisonville, NC, 27560
9781430324751, $17.99, www.lulu.com
Four lives start down their old roads, and seem to be on a collision course to intertwine once more. "When The Leaves Stop Falling" is their story – Serena seems to be on a course to a morbid outcome, Jake is conflicting with the return of his ex, Courtney deals with the horrible abuse she had experienced earlier in life, and Austin deals with the return of his sister – while having the optimistic look up of who she's bringing with her. "When The Leaves Stop Falling" is a deftly written story, sure to be a great addition to community library literary fiction collections.
Snapping the String
Robert Paul Blumenstein
Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd. - 515, Parker, CO 80134
9781432715205, $15.95, www.outskirtspress.com
The thought of one's parents both dying is enough to put some people in the crazy house – but being accused of their murders is just too much. "Snapping the String" is the story of Peyton Costello being committed after his accusation of his parents murder – the string of horrific events leaves his sanity dangling by a thread. He tries to use that thread to pull himself back into reality, lest he mind breaks and stays broken forever. "Snapping the String" is a deftly written psychological thriller leaving readers glued to the page wondering what will happen next – highly recommended for community library collections dedicated to them.
Is the current generation of youngsters set for self-destruction? "Childsong" is the tale of a group of friends hailing in a small college in the Midwestern United States where they face the terrifying truth of adulthood where they must learn to survive and cope with the most terrifying lesson they will learn of all – that the world is not all about them. "Childsong" is a well written coming of age novel with a deft criticism of the current generation, a top pick for any community library fiction collections.
Sassy
Valerie A. Howard
Lulu
860 Aviation Parkway, Suite 300, Morrisville, NC 27560
9781435708679, $19.95, www.lulu.com
There is a certain satisfaction is watching someone get their comeuppance after being an intolerable hussy – but what about the intolerable hussy's feelings? "Sassy" is the story of Cecilia Richards, the intolerable hussy in question, whose life starts to fall apart when she is left by her boyfriend, her girlfriends want nothing to do with her any longer, and her job begins to fall apart. Cecilia tries to set her life straight and reflects on how she has acted so wrongly over the years - "Sassy" is highly recommended to community library collections focusing on Chick Lit and for fans of the genre.
Spooky Action at a Distance
Tom Noyes
Dufour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Spring, PA 19425
9780802313461, $14.95, www.dufoureditions.com
Weighing the weight of life – not something that obviously makes for a good story, but Tom Noyes makes it so in "Spooky Action at a Distance". Stories that follow truly human characters as they deal with the common problems of life, such as the death of a father and the relationship with his son, a boy struggling with illiteracy, the suicide of a loved one – all things that everyday people may deal with, but all written intriguingly to glue readers to the page. "Spooky Action at a Distance" is deftly written and highly recommended.
The Parenting Shelf
The Rules of Parenting
Richard Templar
FT Press
1 Lake Street, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458
9780137132591, $16.99, www.ftpress.com
Parenting – is it a natural instinct or is it learned? "The Rules of Parenting: A Personal Code for Raising Happy, Confident Children" is a guide to help those instincts or naturally gained knowledge along, promoting 100 easy to follow rules for parents to make their kids happy, the most instinctual desire of all parents. It also promotes the fact that rules, at times, are meant to be broken and that parenting is not a science, but an art. "The Rules of Parenting: A Personal Code for Raising Happy, Confident Children" is a top pick for any parent not a hundred percent sure of their abilities and for community library parenting collections.
No More Meltdowns
Jed Baker
Future Horizons
721 W. Abram Street, Arlington, TX 76013
9781932565621, $14.95, www.FHautism.com
All children are prone to fits and temper tantrums – but it may be worse for children with autism. "No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-Of-Control Behavior" is a complete and comprehensive parenting guide for parents of autistic children to manage their offspring's meltdowns, be they in public or in the privacy of one's own home. With tips on managing one's own emotions, calming one's child, why it occurs, and tips to prevent future problems, "No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-Of-Control Behavior" is highly recommended for community library parenting collections.
Oops!
Alan Katz
McElderry Books
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
141690204X, $17.99 www.simonsays.com
Edward Koren provides funny drawings to enhance the zany antics in OOPS!, a hilarious poetic survey sure to interest adults and kids alike. From a Santa who rides in a motorhome going 50 miles an hour to a child's innovative response to 'turn off that TV!', OOPS! Packs in fun observations of a different side of life, and is a fine pick for any advanced elementary to middle school library and many a household where parents revere poetry.
Does Your Baby Have Autism?
Osnat Teitelbaum and Philip Teitelbaum, Ph.D.
SquareOne Publishers
115 Herricks Road, Garden City Park, NY 11040
9780757002403, $17.95 www.squareonepublishers.com
This new system for detecting the earliest signs of autism – in a baby – offers a brand new theory and comes from a husband/wife team who have worked for nearly two decades to develop ways of detecting signs of potential autism in a child. By expanding patterns of sitting, crawling and walking and comparing them with those of children later definitively diagnosed, they present both general information about autism's causes and progression and a survey of tests the parents can easily conduct to help define and identify early autism onset with respect to their children.
Best Things Fathers Do
Will Glennon
Conari Press
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
9781573243551, $14.95, www.redwheelweiser.com
It used to be that it was enough for Dad to provide for his family and that was all – but the modern era fathers are more involved than ever. "Best Things Fathers Do: Ideas and Advice From Real World Dads" is a complete and comprehensive guide for new fathers who want to be the best parent they can be to their children, raising self esteem and giving them a brighter outlook for their future. Countless essays with the experience of other fathers are sure to leave an imprint - "Best Things Fathers Do: Ideas and Advice from Real World Dads" is deftly compiled and highly recommended for community library collections for parenting.
Humanism for Parents
Sean P. Curley
Lulu
860 Aviation Parkway, Suite 300, Morrisonville, NC 27560
9781430314257, $12.95, www.lulu.com
It's wrong to assume that a child brought up without religion is doomed to be immoral and evil, yet many assume it as such. "Humanism for Parents: Parenting without Religion" is a complete and comprehensive guide for parents of agnostic and atheist faiths(or lack of) and want to raise their child without religion. Focusing on the philosophy of humanism as a replacement for religion, it seeks to give parents advice for teaching their children morality and ethics their own way. "Humanism for Parents: Parenting Without Religion" is a highly recommended book for any non-religious parent who wants to stay that way.
The Grieving Garden
Suzanne Redfern & Susan K. Gilbert
Hampton Roads Publishing Company
1125 Stoney Ridge Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
9781571745811, $16.95, www.thegreivinggarden.com
The death of one's child – a crushing event no matter their age. "The Grieving Garden: Living with the Death of a Child" is a compilation of twenty two parents sharing their stories of tragic events, ranging from car accidents to suicide – and the process that they all must go through. Discovering the tragic event, seeking support from others, and finding hope after it all, all are discussed in "The Grieving Garden: Living with the Death of a Child", making it highly recommended for any parent seeking similar support for themselves.
What Angry Kids Need
Jennifer Anne Brown & Pam Provonsha Hopkins
Parenting Press
11065 Fifth Avenue NE, Suite F, Seattle, WA 98125
9781884734847, $14.95, www.parentingpress.com
The temper tantrum in a public place – something all parents have learned to fear and loathe. "What Angry Kids Need: Parenting Your Angry Child Without Going Mad" is a complete and comprehensive guide to assist parents with their kids' temper flareups and how to calm them back down while improving the parent-child bond – and teaching children better anger management skills and pointing out the line where you should seek professional help. "What Angry Kids Need: Parenting Your Angry Child Without Going Mad" is a must for any parent who fears their child's tantrums may be a problem and for community library parenting collections.
Understanding Your Child's Puzzling Behavior
Steven E. Curtis
Lifespan Press
PO Box 11704, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Booth Media Group (publicity)
1386 Nightshade Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011
9780979498206, $14.95, www.lifespanpress.com
At what point do you seek professional help when a child is acting, by his parent's standards, weird? "Understanding Your Child's Puzzling Behavior: A Guide for Parents of Children with Behavioral, Social, and Learning Challenges" is a parent's guide to understanding a child's strange behavior and whether they should intervene or it is simply another kind of normal. Suggesting that parents never go for short term solutions, how to look at why the child acts the way they act, and when is the line to seek psychiatric assistance? "Understanding Your Child's Puzzling Behavior: A Guide for Parents of Child with Behavioral, Social, and Learning Challenges" is essential for any concerned parent who doesn't get their child's behavior and for community library parenting collections.
The Business Shelf
Family Wars
Grant Gordon & Nigel Nicholson
Kogan Page
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia PA 19147
9780749446307, $37.50, www.kogan-page.co.uk
Family businesses should be stress free – if anyone can get along it can be family, right? "Family Wars: Classic Conflicts in Family Business and How to Deal With Them" realizes that even families can have conflicts, and they can do far more damage than a conflict between two unrelated people. Seeking to give advice that will keep families staying together while keeping the business profitable, it's an ideal guide for any family business who doesn't want to let money get in between people and their devotion to family. "Family Wars: Classic Conflicts in Family Business and How to Deal With Them" is highly recommended for community library collections dedicated to business.
2011
Richard Laermer
McGraw-Hill
2 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10121
9780071497275, $25.95, www.mhprofessional.com
What's the difference between a trend and a fad? It's Richard Laermer's job to know in "2011: Trendspotting for the Next Decade". Looking at the commercial industry of thinking of things before uttering the line "I Wish I Thought of That", he gives advice on how to look at the world like a marketer and spot trends before they come up so one can be on the bandwagon before everyone else. A seminal and scholarly look at the ways of marketing, "2011: Trendspotting for the Next Decade" is a top pick for community library business collections.
Effective Publications Management
Cathy Connor Lips
Allworth Press
10 East 23rd Street, New York NY 10010
1581154860, $29.95 www.allworth.com
Both college-level courses on business management and graphic design and any library featuring references on graphic design publications management will appreciate this primer which discusses project stages, key players, provides examples from the industry, and more! From determining publication image and message to creating proposals, assembling a team, managing research and budgets and selecting a printer, this is packed with essential, important tips for publication success.
Brand Rejuvenation
Jean-Marc Lehu
Kogan Page
120 Pentonville Road, London N19JN, United Kingdom
9780749451462, $35.00, www.kogan-page.co.uk
The name of a brand is something that carries a lot of power in society – when someone mentions something such as Sony, many images come to the people due to the association they have developed with that brand. "Brand Rejuvenation: How to Protect, Strengthen, & Add Value to Your Brand to Prevent it From Ageing" is a guide for those in charge of a brand to develop their brands to keep them in the game in the modern world. It gives advice to note when your brand is in need of rejuvenation, how to adjust it effectively, and to prevent the problems before they happen. "Brand Rejuvenation: How to Protect, Strengthen, & Add Value to Your Brand to Prevent it From Ageing" is essential for business collections and for anyone in charge of the future of a brand.
Managing Online Forums
Patrick O'Keefe
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
081440197X, $24.00 www.amacombooks.org
MANAGING ONLINE FORUMS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO CREATE AND RUN SUCCESSFUL COMMUNITY DISCUSSION BOARDS is the first book to cover everything an administrator needs to know to launch and run a community forum. From understanding forum software and the basics of developing a safe environment for people to share their thoughts to either creating a community or taking over an existing one, MANAGING ONLINE FORUMS is a key business tool recommended for business and public libraries alike.
How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Construction Company
Tanya R. Davis
Atlantic Publishing Group
1405 SW 6th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471
9781601380173, $39.95 www.atlantic-pub.com
Starting even the smallest construction company can be most profitable: it's an industry always in demand, and unaffected by changing technology – and still is a rapidly growing field. That said, How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Construction Company shows how to make the most of such a venture, covering all the basics on opening such a business, including sample business forms, discussions of leases and contracts, and more. Any considering starting their own construction firm needs these guidelines to avoid common pitfalls.
Stimulated!
Andrew Pek and Jeannine McGlade
Greenleaf Book Group Press
4425 Mo Pac South, Suite 600, Austin, TX 78735
Booth Media Group (publicity)
1386 Nightshade Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011
9781929774500, $21.95, www.gbgpress.com
Creativity – something that used to be ignored in the business world, but now is a necessity. Stimulated! Habits to Spark Your Creative Genius at Work is a guide to get those now required juices flowing and get everything one needs to make the most of their time. Focusing on the details of how to draw inspiration from the world, making a proper environment to facilitate one's thoughts, committing oneself, learning from one's failures, and most importantly, learning to have fun with one's job, Stimulated! is ideal for anyone in a field calling for creativity. Highly recommended for community library business collections.
Take the Cold Out of Cold Calling
Sam Richter
Adams Business & Professional
c/o Beaver Pond Press
7104 Ohms Lane, Suite 101, Edina, MN 55439
1592982093, $34.95, www.beaverpondpress.com
Going in cold – knowing nothing about your perspective client. As they say, Knowledge is power – and having no knowledge is having no power. "Take the Cold Out of Cold Calling: Web Search Secrets for the Inside Info on Companies, Industries, and People" is a guide for using the internet as a powerful tool to gain knowledge of clients in advance – and see what they want and what they are looking for, to better apply one's company to appeal to the most clients possible. "Take the Cold Out of Cold Calling: Web Search Secrets for the Inside Info on Companies, Industries, and People" is a must for any business looking to attract more clients and for community library business collections.
Business Letters for the Construction Industry
Andrew Atkinson
BNI Building News
990 Park Center Drive, Ste E, Vista, CA 92081
Craftsman Book Company
6058 Corte Del Cedro, Carlsbad, CA 92009
9781557016096, $59.95, www.craftsman-book.com
Saying the right thing to get the right things is an invaluable asset to the construction industry, where the right things are needed to get the job done. "Business Letters for the Construction Industry: A Guide to Construction Communications" is a complete and comprehensive guide to writing letters for the business industry complete with over one hundred examples to use to get the job done. Covering letterheads, designs, record keeping tips, and more, it's enhanced with a glossary, index, and a bonus CD-ROM containing all of the example letters in Microsoft Word document format. "Business Letters for the Construction Industry: A Guide to Construction Communications" is a must for construction administrators and a good addition to community library business collections.
Adrenaline Junkies and Template Zombies
Tom Demarco & Collaborators of Principals of the Atlantic Systems Guild
Dorset House Publishing
353 West 12th Street, New York, NY 10014
9780932633675, $41.95, www.dorsethouse.com
What makes a project successful or doomed – loved or hated? Those are the questions "Adrenaline Junkies and Template Zombies: Understanding Patterns of Project Behavior" hopes to answer, looking critically at the archetypes of people and engineers that people constantly fall into, whether they know they are or not. Not afraid to take a humorous look at it all, it's a comprehensive guide that offers an example of what is a good and bad behavior coming from team members in management of a project. "Adrenaline Junkies and Template Zombies: Understanding Patterns of Project Behavior" is highly recommended to anyone in charge of a group project and for community library business collections.
Groundswell
Charlene Li & Josh Bernoff
Harvard Business Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422125007, $29.95, www.groundswell.forrester.com
No longer Is mass media only an outlet for those with money and corporations – with social sites such as Myspace, Youtube, and Wikipedia, the public has far more say against the corporate media. "Groundswell: Winning in a World Transformed by Social Technologies" is a guide on how companies can view this new surge of media not as a threat to their power, but an opportunity for greater success. Twenty five examples are laid out in this valuable guide, making "Groundswell: Winning in a World Transformed by Social Technologies" highly recommended for all businesses initially fearful of the Internet as a marketing tool.
Leadership
Sue Roberts and Jennifer Rowley
Facet Publishing
7 Ridgemount Street, London, WC1E 7AE
info@facetpublishing.co.uk
Neal-Schuman Publishers Inc.
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781856046091, $115.00, www.facetpublishing.co.uk
Leadership skills are a flat out requirement to anyone who wants to be successful over the challenges in life. "Leadership: The Challenge for the Information Profession" focuses on the information profession and how leadership is very much required in this success to lead the companies peddling this information to success. Tackling everything one needs to know about the business, challenges, one's own leadership skills, innovation, strategy, and being influential among other vital aspects, "Leadership: The Challenge for the Information Profession" is a top pick for anyone who sees themselves in this position and for community library business collections.
The Granularity of Growth
Patrick Viguerie, Sven Smit, & Mehrdad Baghai
Wiley Publishers
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Jane Weisman Public Relations, Inc. (publicity)
322 Eighth Avenue, Suite 1702, New York, NY 10001
9780470270202, $45.00, www.wiley.com
Growth is something every company needs – but how to do it efficiently? "The Granularity of Growth: How to Identify the Sources of Growth and Drive Enduring Company Performance" is an examination of growth, and a handbook for businesses that seek to do it. Analyzing companies' plans to increase their size, power, and potential profit along with tips for improvement, The Granularity of Growth leaves no stone unturned and no aspect to pure chance. An essential acquisition for business leaders and community library collections.
Information Security Management Handbook
Harold F. Tipton, CISSP and Micki Krause, CISSP
Taylor & Francis Group
270 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
0849374952, $159.95 www.garlandscience.com 1-800-634-7064
Now in its sixth updated edition, Information Security Management Handbook is an in-depth reference for business executives and professionals as well as a technical resource for information management experts. Essays written by a diversity of expert authors cover complex issues of information security management: the latest laws and regulations designed to force corporations to strengthen their ethics policies, risk assessments, metrics, disaster recovery, and much more. From the many different types and uses of cryptography, to effective implementation of physical security from guard personnel to closed-circuit television, to security in computer architecture, to telecommunications and network security, Information Security Management Handbook lives up to its title. An extensive glossary and index round out this massive reference, featuring over three thousand pages of expertise distilled in terms accessible to lay readers and professionals alike. "Password cracking would include cryptographic and brute-force attacks against password files, applying massive amounts of computer power to overwhelm the cryptographic protection of the passwords, typically in a remote or offline mode. Password guessing would include users attempting to guess the passwords to specific accounts, based on analysis and conjecture, and would typically be conducted through the password interface in an online mode. Password disclosure would include users sharing password credentials, or writing down passwords such that they are discoverable by an attacker." An absolute "must-have" for information security professionals, and anyone else responsible for ensuring that trade secrets stay secret!
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Fantastic Female Filmmakers
Suzanne Simoni
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Ste 401, Toronto, ON M5V 2M5
9781897187364, $10.95, www.orcabook.com
Stephen Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, George Lucas – the profession of film making seems to be a male dominated one, but there are women out there. "Fantastic Female Filmmakers" is a look at these women, who have been heavily involved in this industry even since the early days of the 1900s. Breaking through the sexist walls holding them back, they have become a major part of the film world and have made some fantastic films. "Fantastic Female Filmmakers" is highly recommended to both collections on film and community library women's studies shelves.
Indiana Jones Off the Beaten Path
George Beahm
Hampton Roads Publishing Company, Inc.
1125 Stoney Ridge Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22902-8719
9781571745583, $15.95, www.hrpub.com
With the upcoming release of the newest movie, Indiana Jones has found himself back in the mainstream once more. "Indiana Jones Off the Beaten Path: An Unofficial Expedition" is a completely unauthorized handbook taking a complete look at the series and the phenomena behind it, with a focus on the reality that inspired the series of movies, visiting the real locations depicted in the movie. Enhanced with black and white photos, illustrations, and more. "Indiana Jones Off the Beaten Path: An Unofficial Expedition" is the perfect gift for any fanatic for the series, and a nice addition to community library collections dedicated to cinema.
Romancing The A-List
Christopher Keane
Michael Wiese Productions
3940 Laurel Canyon Bl. #1111
9781932907407, $18.95, www.mwp.com
A big star can sell a movie much more than any other aspect – someone may be a fan of Hugh Jackman, but few would be fans of David Hayter, the screenwriter responsible for one Jackman's big films in 'X-Men'. "Romancing the A-List: Writing the Script The Big Stars Want to Make" is a complete and comprehensive guide to attracting those big stars to your screenplay, for that star support in getting the script writer's movie made – and to assure it will get the attention it deserves. Deftly composed and a must for wannabe screen writers, "Romancing the A-List: Writing the Script the Big Stars Want to Make" is highly recommended for writing collections, as well as professional, academic, and community library collections dedicated to film making.
The Education Shelf
Get Organized!
Frank Buck
Eye on Education
6 Depot Way West, Larchmont, NY 10538
9781596670723, $29.95, www.eyeoneducation.com
Successful scheduling is a hallmark of a successful and productive classroom. "Get Organized!: Time Management for School Leaders" is a complete and comprehensive guide for education professionals to maximize the value of their time and spend it wisely. Citing the tips as easy to execute and easier to follow, "Get Organized!: Time Management for School Leaders" should be considered by every school leader and for community library education collections.
Creating Welcoming Schools
JoBeth Allen
Teachers College Press
1234 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027
International Reading Association
PO Box 8139, Newark, DE 19714-8139
9780807747896, $23.95, www.tcpress.com www.reading.org
A school should be like a second home to a child. To help make it so, "Creating Welcoming Schools: A Practical Guide to Home-School Partnerships with Diverse Families" is a comprehensive resource that shows how diverse families and the schools that their children attend can form partnerships that enhance student learning. It goes far and above the call of duty giving its readers tips on fun ways for educators and families to explore rich heritages, create honest dialogue at school conferences, assist in working together for a more democratic society and so much more. "Creating Welcoming Schools: A Practical Guide to Home-School Partnerships with Diverse Families" is highly recommended for any library catering to educators and parents of school age children.
QGE = A: Quality Generic Education is the Answer
Win Straube
University Press of America
c/o Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group (dist.)
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
9780761837718, $36.00 www.univpress.com 1-800-462-6420
Education is more than just a seasonal political football for aspiring politicians. It is the foundation for a prosperous, free and democratic nation. A new education system for obtaining the best education at the lowest possible cost - "QGE = A: Quality Generic Education is the Answer" is a proposition for a revolutionary new way to educate our children. Author Win Straube has quite the mind for new solutions as an inventor, scientist, and engineer, to connect everyone to the best educators for any given subject in the world. "QGE = A: Quality Generic Education is the Answer" is something that all educators should read and consider and carries our highest recommendations to community library education shelves.
Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwinpress.com
Richard J. Hazler's HELPING IN THE HALLWAYS: EXPANDING YOUR INFLUENCE POTENTIAL (9781412956086, $27.95) offers a revised edition referencing the ASCA National Model and discussing NCLB as it provides expanded sections on strategies for encounters, experiences from teachers, students and administrators, tips on self-assessment activities, and chapters covering adult motivators as well. From limiting overwhelming feelings and identifying individual needs to evaluating hallway relationships, HELPING IN THE HALLWAYS is an excellent pick for education libraries, especially those catering to administrators. John T. Guthrie edits ENGAGING ADOLESCENTS IN READING (9781412953351, $32.95) is an outstanding survey pairing examples of teaching methods with classroom-tested activities, demonstrations and surveys of how to guide students with meaningful assignments encouraging reading. From tapping into adolescent social natures through group activities to building proficiency in those with reading problems, ENGAGING ADOLESCENTS IN READING is an outstanding set of tips for overcoming reluctance in readers. LITERACY IN THE DIGITAL AGE by R.W. Burniske (9781412957465, $28.95) is an important, key exploration of how teachers can help students become good online communicators. From using language tactfully and evaluating web sites for validity to practicing etiquette on the Net, LITERACY IN THE DIGITAL AGE is packed with tips all educator libraries need. The third updated edition of Renee Rosenblum-Lowden and Felicia Lowden Kimmel's YOU HAVE TO GO TO SCHOOL – YOU'RE THE TEACHER! (9781412951227, $28.95) packs in many important tips on classroom management challenges, from avoiding confrontation and building student confidence to working with parents and getting students to stay on task. All are common concerns: what's new here are new approaches and strategies to make the teacher's job easier. Stella Erbes' WHAT TEACHERS SHOULD KNOW BUT TEXTBOOKS DON'T SHOW (9781412950688, $25.95) blends research with tips on the most challenging moments new teachers face in their classrooms, showing how to create a positive learning environment, handle students and families alike, and how to meet professional objectives. New teachers in particular will find it a clear, concise indicator of common problems and their solutions. Leah M. Melbert's INFORMAL LEARNING AND FIELD TRIPS (9781412949804, $28.95) helps educators by providing learner-centered activities and guidelines for corresponding classroom activities from field trips. The focus allows for an excellent set of interrelated lesson plans using field trips as a foundation for exploring new experiences. The fifth updated edition of Ernest W. Brewer and Charles M. Achilles' FINDING FUNDS: GRANTWRITING FROM START TO FINISH (9781412960007, $39.95) provides over 120 newly researched web sites to help grant seekers locate and narrow the focus on successful government, foundation and private grants. From writing proposals to implementing programs, this in-depth survey is a 'must' not only for administrators and educators, but for any who would locate grants to fund projects. Amy Schwed and Janice Melichar-Utter's BRAIN-FRIENDLY STUDY STRATEGIES GRADES 2-8: HOW TEACHERS CAN HELP STUDENTS LEARN (9781412961059, $55.95) covers everything from reinforcing memory using the latest research about brain development to visualizing thoughts and problem-solving solutions. It's an outstanding set of keys to understanding learning challenges and successes, and is an important key for teachers of grades 2-8 who wish for more effective learning strategies for the classroom. Charles J. Russo and Allan G. Osborne Jr.'s ESSENTIAL CONCEPTS & SCHOOL-BASED CASES IN SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW (9781412927048, $43.95) is a top pick not just for college-level education collections, but for law libraries dealing in special education as well. This case-based desk reference gathers concepts from leading special education cases and provides excerpts from selected legal decisions to help educators understand special challenges in special ed law. The result is an important desk reference any school teaching special education needs. Julie Silva Spitzer and Cheryl D. Roddick's SUCCEEDING AT TEACHING MATHEMATICS K-6 (9781412927659, $27.95) helps new educators handle classroom math challenges through positive examples of how to develop a strategy and effective teaching methods for math. From contrasting and understanding a range of strategy options to assessing strategy effectiveness, SUCCEEDING AT TEACHING MATHEMATICS is an important key to success. Mary K. Tallant-Runnels and Ann C. Candler-Lotven's ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS FOR GIFTED STUDENTS: A RESOURCE BOOK FOR TEACHERS AND PARENTS (9781412959117, $28.95) is a key resource perfect for any who would understand academic competitions for grades K-12. From their impact and potential problems to selecting events to match student strengths, ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS appears in a second, updated edition to make a case for matching academic contests to the needs of special students. John Barell's WHY ARE SCHOOL BUSES ALWAYS YELLOW? TEACHING FOR INQUIRY, PRE K-5 (9781412957335, $33.95) surveys methods for challenging young learners, inviting them to develop inquiry and critical thinking skills in all children. Chapters outline the inquiry process and discuss its importance in classroom management, surveying successes through real classroom examples perfect for teacher applications. Timothy G. Green, Abbie Brown and LeAnne Robinson's MAKING THE MOST OF THE WEB IN YOUR CLASSROOM (9781412915748, $27.95) should be a mainstay of any serious teacher's library: it tells how to translate internet technology into classroom applications, from designing web sites to helping students develop their own internet-based projects, whether it be a blog, locating web activities, or assessing information. Festus E. Obiakor's 100 MULTICULTURAL PROVERBS: INSPIRATIONAL AFFIRMATIONS FOR EDUCATORS (9781412957809, $21.95) gathers sayings from different countries, tribes and religions: proverbs which have had a historical impact on the building of communities and worlds. Teachers and administrators will find it a fine collection useful as a starting point for explorations from other cultures. Paul G. Young's PROMOTING POSITIVE BEHAVIORS: AN ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL'S GUIDE TO STRUCTURING THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT (9781412953047, $25.95) is directed to practicing school principals and administrators, and is an excellent choice for educator libraries teaching administrative duties. It offers examples from the author's experience as a successful elementary school principal and offers tips for overall school and student management, from field trips and assemblies to daily schedules and handling student and teacher expectations. Roger Pierangelo and George Giuliani's CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES FOR STUDENTS WITH ADHD (9781412917889, $25.95) provides special education professionals with an excellent concrete set of guidelines for working with ADHD students. From medical and legal requirements in defining and handling ADHD to specific instructional strategies, this is a winner.
Meeting the Needs of Students and Families from Poverty
Tania N. Thomas-Presswood & Donald Presswood
Paul H Brookes Publishing Co.
PO Box 10624, Baltimore, Maryland 21285-0624
9781557668677, $29.95, www.brookespublishing.com
Poverty affects far more than just a child's home life – it has a profound effect on their schooling as well. "Meeting the Needs of Students and Families from Poverty: A Handbook for School and Mental Health Professionals" is a comprehensive guide to how to deal with children from these unfortunate households – dealing with the problems that inevitably occur that simply would not with the more fortunate children. Telling when an educator should intervene in the child's life and when they should stay off, with a special focus on those families who treat English as a second language, "Meeting the Needs of Students and Families from Poverty: A Handbook for School and Mental Health Professionals" is thoroughly researched, and well-compiled, a must have for educators in areas where this is a problem – and for community library education shelves.
Web Literacy for Educators
Alan November
Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
9781412958431, $24.95, www.corwinpress.com
The internet is a powerful tool in today's world, and for education especially – but some teachers, despite decades of wisdom and experience, are clueless still about this invention of the past twenty years. "Web Literacy for Educators" is a comprehensive guide for those types of educators who are a product of the last generation and have not taken to the internet like fish to water. Authored by Internet Technology Expert Alan November, Web Literacy for Educators addresses everything an educator needs to know in this modern era to make use of the internet for a better curriculum and how to address the problems it brings such as plagiarism. Enhanced with a glossary and index, "Web Literacy for Educators" is a must for any slow adopter of the web who values their status as an educator, and for community library education collections.
Negotiating the Special Education Maze
Winifred Anderson, Stephen Chitwood, Deidre Hayden, & Cherie Takemoto
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Rd. Bethesda, MD 20817
9781890627461, $21.95, www.woodbinehouse.com
Special Education can be a difficult thing to manage for parents – and it isn't because there's no one to help them. "Negotiating the Special Education Maze: A Guide for Parents & Teachers" is a guide to the strange problem of simply having too many options available to them. Covering each of the services available and specifying which kind of kinds are available to each of the types of ailments that would require special education, as well as looks as other alternative outlooks towards special needs children,. "Negotiating the Special Education Maze: A Guide for Parents & Teachers" is a complete and comprehensive guide for parents and teachers of special needs children and for community library education collections.
Mathematics Explorations
David B. Spangler
Good Year Books
PO Box 91858, Tucson, AZ 85752-1858
9781596471382, $24.95, www.goodyearbooks.com
Getting children excited about math is one of the hardest things for an educator to do – but "Mathematics Explorations: Detective Style Activities for the Real World" is here to help. Attempting to make math fun by using real world examples of where it will become useful in their lives using the angle of being a private investigator and detective, kids will learn how to understand math of many levels much better as they work to solve the mysteries put forth into this book. A deftly written and fun way to teach children their commonly most hated subject, "Mathematics Exploration: Detective Style Activities for the Real World" is highly recommended for school and community library education collections everywhere.
Special Needs Advocacy Resource Book
Rich Weinfeld & Michelle Davis
Prufock Press Inc.
5926 Balcones Drive, Suite 220, Austin, Texas 78731
9781593633097, $19.95, www.prufock.com
Most schools are not equipped to deal with the special educational needs of many children – and "Special Needs Advocacy Resource Book: What You Can do Now to Advocate For Your Exceptional Child's Education" is a handbook for both educators and parents to help them do everything they need to ensure that every child receives the proper education they need. With a complete and comprehensive guide to help parents and educators navigate the bureaucracy of the modern education system, and covering all topics that could come up in the process, "Special Needs Advocacy Resource Book: What You Can do Now to Advocate For Your Exceptional Child's Education" is highly recommended for community library education collections, and for anyone concerned about there child's special educational needs.
The Cluster Grouping Handbook
Susan Winebrenner & Dina Brulles
Free Spirit Publishing
217 Fifth Avenue North, Suite 200, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1299
9781575422794, $34.95, www.freespirit.com
Students who are not challenged become bored and uninterested in the subject they're studying – they need to be challenged in some way. "The Cluster Grouping Handbook: How to Challenge Gifted Students and Improve Achievement for All" is a deftly compiled guide to doing just that. Seeking to improve all student's improvements but focusing on those who are especially gifted, and the challenges that come for educators in keeping them interested and nurturing their talents. Enhanced with a bonus CD-ROM, "The Cluster Grouping Handbook: How to Challenge Gifted Students and Improve Achievement for All" should be considered by all educational professionals and community library education collections.
The Photography Shelf
On Feathered Wings
Richard Ettlinger
Abrams
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
9780810995253, $40.00, www.abramsbooks.com
Birds are one of the more beautiful and majestic creatures of the world – and "On Feathered Wings: Birds of Flight" is a beautiful and majestic compilation of full color photographs, shot from breath taking angles, truly amazing the viewer with the adept skills of the photographer. With nearly two hundred of these awesome images, "On Feathered Wings: Birds of Flight" is a top pick for community library collections for photography and a great coffee table book for whoever loves birds.
Sanctum
Robert Stivers, photography
Eugenia Parry, essay
Twin Palms Publishers (distributor)
54 1/2 East San Francisco Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501
1931885575, $65.00 www.twinpalms.com 1-505-988-5717
Sanctum is a collection of visionary photography by artist Robert Stivers, often given a unique twist through differing applications of focus. Featuring forty-one four-color plates and a thoughtful essay by Eugenia Parry, Sanctum explores topics ranging from the human figure to a conglomeration of bees to stark landscape in its search to express the unending themes of human emotion driving the endless cycle of death and rebirth. A marvelous and welcome addition to artistic photography collections.
Photography
Anne Havinga, Karen Haas, and Nancy Keeler
MFA Publications
c/o Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
9780878466764, $22.50 www.mfa-publications.org
The latest volume in the MFA Highlights series, Photography features over one hundred gorgeous color and duotone photographs from the Museum of Fine Arts' collection. An in-depth essay following the aesthetic and technical history of photography as an art form introduces the connoisseur to the wonderfully diverse and beautiful selection. Photographs by a wide range of classic masters, from pioneers Eugene Cuevlier and Charles Marville to modern-day artists such as Hiroshi Sugimoto and Loretta Lux, distinguish this unquestionably captivating sampling. Highly recommended for photography shelves, and a true pleasure to page through - especially for anyone who can't easily reach the Museum of Fine Arts in person.
Zaida Ben-Yusuf: New York Portrait Photographer
Frank H. Goodyear III
Merrell Publishing
740 Broadway, Suite 1202, New York, NY 10003
1858944392, $59.95 www.merrellpublishers.com
In the early 20th century Zaida Ben-Yusuf was one of the most active photographers in New York City, creating many artistic and moving photos of major figures of her time as well as unusual self-portraits. This is the only in-depth study of her photography, pairing a catalog of her works – some 100 images – with a history and biographical survey linking Ben-Yusuf to her times and art. Any serious art library strong in American photography history must have this.
Understanding Shutter Speed
Bryan Peterson
Amphoto Books
c/o Watson Guptill Publications
770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003-9535
9780817463014, $24.95 www.wgpub.com 1-800-451-1741
Professional photographer and instructor Bryan Peterson presents Understanding Shutter Speed: Creative Action and Low-Light Photography Beyond 1/125 Second is a handbook for intermediate to advanced photographers, focusing specifically upon the challenge of photographing subjects in motion or at low light levels. Full-color photographic examples illustrate the tips, tricks, and techniques for capturing top-quality images, while the straightforward text imparts a lifetime of expert wisdom in clear and concise terms. "You will always attain the fastest possible shutter speed at any given ISO when you use the largest possible lens opening, and you will be able to attain the slowest possible shutter speed at any given ISO by using the smallest possible lens opening... That well-known cotton candy effect you can get with [waterfall shots] doesn't start until you use apertures of f/16 or f/22." Enthusiastically recommended for expert or professional photographers seeking to refine their camera work.
Plantations & Historic Homes Of New Orleans
Laura McElroy
Voyageur Press
380 Jackson Street, Suite 200, St. Paul, MN 55101
9780760329740, $25.95 www.mbipublishing.com 1-800-458-0454
In 2005 New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katerina. Fortunately, many of the city's most treasured and historically important homes and mansions were spared from the French Quarter and Garden District to Uptown, Marigny, and Bayou St. John. Professional photographer Laura McElroy has created a superbly beautiful photographic guide to the best of these surviving architectural wonders, complete with their impressive columns, beautiful balconies, spacious verandas, impressive parlors, and even the historic servant quarters. Enhanced with an informed and informative text by Jan Arrigo providing context for the photographs, "Plantations & Historic Homes Of New Orleans" is highly recommended browsing, especially for students of architecture in general and devotees of New Orleans historic buildings in particular.
Luminous Mountains
Tim Palmer
Heyday Books
PO Box 9145, Berkeley, CA 94709
9781597140775, $19.95, www.heydaybooks.com
The beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains – something that doesn't get old to just stare at, even in photographic form. "Luminous Mountains: The Sierra Nevada of California" is a compilation of well over one hundred and thirty five photographs of the beautiful mountain range in various states of day, displaying a different type of beauty through each time of a day. An ideal coffee table book for lovers of beautiful scenery, "Luminous Mountains: The Sierra Nevada of California" is ideal for any community library collection focusing on nature photography.
Cadillac
Robert J. Headrick
Iconografix
PO Box 446, Hudson, WI 54016
9781583882122, $34.95, www.iconografxinc.com
The Tailfin – the relic of the fifties and what was cool during those years. "Cadillac: The Tailfin Years" is a coffee table book of photography for those who don't want to accept that time has passed and still find the tailfins cool. Filled cover to cover with full color photos and countless information on each of the models of Cadillac's during that era, it is the ideal gift for lovers of old vehicles, making "Cadillac: The Tailfin Years" highly recommended to community library photography and automotive history collections.
Time Wearing Out Memory
Steve Gross & Susan Daley
W.W. Norton and Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
9780393066449, $49.95, www.wwnorton.com
Time marches on, but some cling to the past. "Time Wearing Out Memory: Schoharie County" is a look through countless black and white photographs through the history of a small rural county in the state of New York. The poignant photos serve as reminders to the American past and an inspiration for the future of the American dream, making "Time Wearing Out Memory: Schoharie County" a highly recommended addition to community library photography collections and anyone seeking a poignant coffee table book.
The Poetry Shelf
Separating the Seas
Kobus Moolman
University of KwaZulu-Natal Press
Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
E-Mail: Books@ukzn.ac.za
International Specialized Book Services (distributor)
920 NE 58th Ave, Suite 300, Portland OR 97213-3786
9781869141240, $24.95, www.ukznpress.co.za
Accomplished author and Experienced Poet Kobus Moolman returns with his collection "Separating the Seas" that truthfully likens itself to the painting concept of abstract art. Honestly thoughtful and thought provoking poetry filled with beautiful, vivid imagery, "Separating the Seas" is a top pick for collectors of poetry, indeed. Still Life: Winter Evening: Blue window/with bare tree.//Single night/Mounted on gravity.//Weightless wings of stillness/Flood the repetitive floor.
Rising, Falling, Hovering
C.D. Wright
Copper Canyon Press
PO Box 271, Port Townsend, Washington 98368
9781556592737, $22.00 www.coppercanyonpress.org
Rising, Falling, Hovering is a hardcover anthology of free-verse poetry by professor of English and award-winning poet C.D. Wright. Individual poems range from brief to the 53-page title poem. Rising, Falling, Hovering criticizes the undeniable weaknesses of modern American culture, including immersion in materialistic consumerism, isolation through seemingly endless war, racism against immigrants, urban violence, and deteriorating infrastructure. Yet amid the morass and flaws of human life, nature offers solace. A thoughtful and singularly eloquent balance of social consciousness and appreciation for the wonders beyond human engineering. "Like the Hour of Our Perfection": Whereas before things were all immanence, / now were they all valence / in the breathing world where we met. / Who presented initial shyness. / Who disheveled the light at the threshold. / With a look of near-adolescence, so one did not know / if he also slept with the men. / And the ledge of a hip when / seen first from behind, a voice, an outline.
Mister Martini
Richard Carr
University of North Texas Press
PO Box 311336, Denton, TX 76203-1336
9781574412420, $12.95, www.unt.edu/untpress
A good poem can be compared to a good drink – both will leave you with good taste, both will leave with something to reflect on, and both will leave you the slightest bit intoxicated. "Mister Martini" follows this analogy and reflects upon the relationship between father and son, the journey from youth to facing death, all written in a beautiful style by prolific poet Richard Carr. "Mister Martini" is a grand acquisition for any community library poetry collection and for lovers of poetry as a whole – highly recommended. Organ: He wanted his eyes cryogenically preserved/in separate tanks,//his friends among the organ farmers, untrustworthy and powerful.//Martini displayed in a bell jar, the hollow pupiled olive, whitening with age.
Easy Marks
Gail White
David Robert Books
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781934999066, $17.00, www.davidrobertbooks.com
In every generation from the dawn of recorded civilization, poets have drawn upon their contemporary observations and experiences for their inspiration. "Easy Marks" by Gail White is an apt and highly recommended example of a poet using the means of rhyme and meter to examine the foibles, eccentricities, complexities, frustrations, and embedded wisdoms of contemporary life today. Crackpots: i have a friend who wants to restore the Czar./Seriously. As if this burst of love/would turn the empty streets of Petersburg/into a set for Boris Godunov.//He thinks a royalist Russia would delight/In festivals, would never drop the bomb./And you can find him on the Internet/at getaczar.com.//How to protect my friend, who might have been/a national treasure once, almost a saint?/I only wish there were an NEA/with grants for the incorrigibly quaint,//or Shelters for the Harmlessly Obsessed/(unworldly, therefore not completely sane)./Without its nest, the Great or Common Crackpot/may never breed again.
Reflections from the Heart
Larry Gudith
Vantage Press
419 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10016
9780533157709, $18.95, www.vantagepress.com
Love – everyone seeks it in some form or another. "Reflections of the Heart" is the devotional creation of Larry Gudith, and explores the aspects of love and everything it does for people, and what it does to them when it is lost. A heartfelt anthology, "Reflections of the Heart" is highly recommended for community library collections dedicated to poetry. Every Time: Every time your fingers found mine/my heart races ... Every time my hand/ has touched your beautiful face my soul/has soared.//Every time our bodies have unite I know/we're living complete oneness and total/love.//For every time we have touched is imprinted/ deep within my heart and forever etched in/ my soul.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Angels A to Z
Evelyn Dorothy Oliver & James R. Lewis
Visible Ink Press
43311 Joy Road #414, Canton, MI 48187-2075
9781578592128, $24.95, kae_tienstra@ktpublicrelations.com
Angels are of great interest to many a Christian, and "Angels A to Z" is a complete and comprehensive look at all of them throughout history, covering their history, origins, and more – and it's not just limited to the angels of Christianity, touching on Islamic and Nordic angels as well. Also discussing angels' relevance in common pop culture – books, movies, TV, and more – "Angels A to Z" is a top pick for angel lovers and highly recommended for community library religion collections.
Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church
Bishop Geoffrey Robinson
Liturgical Press
PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814618653, $24.95, www.litpress.org
The scandals of pedophile Priests have done untold damage to the Catholic Church, and "Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church: Reclaiming the Spirit of Jesus" seeks to address the issue directly. Criticizing the church's abuse of power and looking to the Bible to offer a new approach to the church's stance on sexual morality, Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church strives to focus on the people and to be forgiving of their flaws. Calling for a gradual reformation of the Catholic church, "Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church: Reclaiming the Spirit of Jesus" is highly recommended for community library collections concerning Catholicism.
Everlasting Dominion
Eugene H. Merrill
B&H Publishing Group
127 Ninth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37234-0143
9780805440263, $39.99 www.bhpublishinggroup.com 1-800-251-3225
Eugene H. Merrill (Professor of Old Testament Interpretation, Souther Baptist Theological Seminary) presents Everlasting Dominion: Theology of the Old Testament, an exhaustively researched theology of the Old Testament grounded in his decades of study and teaching. Viewing Scripture as the authoritative Word of God, Everlasting Dominion strives to clarify the wonders of the text for readers of all backgrounds. Chapters discuss "The Autobiography of God" as it were (including such concepts as the omnipotence, omniscience, and eternality of God), "The Works of God", "The Creation of Mankind", "The Fall of Mankind", "The Redemption of Mankind", God's connection to Israel, the theology of the prophets, the theology of the psalms, and much more. "...how can wisdom be found? It originates in the Lord, of course, and is revealed in Torah, the cultus, and creation; but how is it mediated or applied at a practical, day-to-day level? Proverbs provides a threefold answer: (1) through parental instruction, (2) through divine discipline, and (3) through the monarchy, God's earthly extension of kingdom rule... One of the stated purposes of the book of Proverbs was to facilitate the attainment of 'wisdom and discipline (musar)' and the acquisition of a 'disciplined and prudent life (musar haskel)'." A thoughtful, in-depth study of Scripture from a vantage firmly grounded in unwavering faith, highly recommended for Bible study groups.
A Short World History of Christianity
Robert Bruce Mullin
WJK Books
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396
Presbyterian Publishing Corp
341 Great Circle Rd, Nashville, TN 37228-1703
9780664226862, $29.95, www.wjkbooks.com
There is no force that has had a greater impact on the world than Christianity – and "A Short World History of Christianity" is an examination of the religion's impact as a whole throughout the ages. Starting with the birth of Jesus, it covers the over two millennia that follow, discussing each of the following major topics that the religion has done to change the world. "A Short World History of Christianity" is a must for both world history collections and Christian studies shelves.
The Soul of Prince Caspian
Gene Veith
David C Cook
4050 Lee Vance View Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9780781445283, $12.99, www.davidccook.com
The Chronicles of Narnia has little veiling of its Christian roots- and author Gene Veith claims that the sequel 'Prince Caspian' has parallels to our world as well. "The Soul of Prince Caspian: Exploring Spiritual Truth in the Land of Narnia" is a look at the spiritual and religious elements found in Narnia and how they reflect into the real world, focusing on the forgotten faith that seems to go with so many lapsed American Christians. "The Soul of Prince Caspian: Exploring Spiritual Truth in the Land of Narnia" is a deftly written and through examination of faith, and highly recommended to community library Christianity collections and for fans of the franchise as well.
Reframing Your Ministry
Anthony J. Headley
Evangel Publishing House
2000 Evangel Way, PO Box 189, Nappanee, Indiana 46550
9781928915973, $16.99, www.evangelpublishing.com
Even being a messenger of God can be a job with burnout. "Reframing Your Ministry: Balancing Professional Responsibilities & Personal Needs" is a complete and comprehensive guide for anyone who is in charge of a church and wants to keep their enthusiasm for their job up – and not face the intolerable result known as burnout that dwells over them so quickly. With tips for keeping one's own spirits up as well as the spirits of others, and ideal ministry models suggested throughout, "Reframing Your Ministry: Balancing Professional Responsibilities & Personal Needs" is highly recommended for community library Christian studies collections and for any church leader.
The Arrogance of Nations
Neil Elliott
Fortress Press
c/o Augsburg Fortress Publishers
100 Fifth Street, Suite 600, Minneapolis, MN 55402-1210
9780800638443, $29.00 www.augsburgbooks.com 1-800-328-4648
Written by Neil Elliott (adjunct faculty member in Biblical Studies, Metropolitan State University) The Arrogance of Nations: Reading Romans in the Shadow of Empire is an interpretation of the Biblical text Romans that dares to divest itself from older interpretations of Paul's theology of law and gospel. In addition, The Arrogance of Nations traces surprising parallels between ancient Roman ideology and the contemporary Western world. Refuting modern attempts to frame Paul's letter in terms of noncorporeal spirituality, The Arrogance of Nations places Paul's letter firmly in the context of Roman imperial ideology. Interpreting the letter as a confrontation between Paul and the arrogance of the Roman empire, as well as the temptation implicit in the power that gives rise to such pride, The Arrogance of Nations is a welcome addition to biblical studies shelves.3
Poets on the Psalms
Lynn Domina, editor
Trinity University Press
1 Trinity Place, San Antonio, Texas, 78212-7200
9781595340481, $19.95, www.trinity.edu/tupress
The Bible has inspired more art, literature, and other creative endeavors more than any other single thing in history. "Poets on the Psalms" focuses on the Psalms, with countless poets speaking out on countless Psalms, discussing them with vivid imagery and examining why this ancient wisdom still holds some ground in the modern era. Although some poetry is included, the book is mainly poets speaking in essay form. Deftly compiled, "Poets on the Psalms" is highly recommended to community library poetry collections with a focus on religion.
Holy Sex!
Gregory K. Popcak
Crossroad Publishing Company
16 Penn Plaza, 481 Eight Avenue, Suite 1550, New York, NY 10001
B&B Media Group (publicity)
109 South Main Street, Corsicana, TX 75110
9780824524715, $14.95, www.tbbmedia.com
Missionary – is that truly the start and end to the sexuality of catholic bed rooms? "Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving" claims not, discussing what many Catholics never discuss – the acts in the bedroom. Showing that having fun in the bedroom does not mean that one must be a sinful deviant, its lessons are sure to brighten the lives of any catholic couple, be they newlywed or decades old. "Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving" deserves a place in both human sexuality and Catholic studies collection as it offers something for any follower of either – highly recommended.
Excuse Me, Your God is Waiting
Michelle Epiphany Prosser
Hampton Roads Publishing Company Inc.
1125 Stoney Ridge Road, Charlottesville, VA 22902
9781571745521, $15.95, www.hrpub.com
For many Christians, God has taken a backseat to their lives, but "Excuse Me, Your God is Waiting" is here to help them fix this spiritual problem and to introduce God into each part of life, be it in solving their problems, celebrating, or just getting through the day and looking towards the next. Promoting a better life and spiritual happiness through a more complete oneness with God, "Excuse Me, Your God is Waiting" is a must for Christian studies collections and for anyone who thinks they can improve their life if their bond with God were greater.
The Judicial Studies Shelf
Getting Permission
Richard Stim
Nolo
950 Parker St., Berkeley, CA 94710
9781413305180, $34.99, www.nolo.com
Copyright law has become a matter of serious concern in recent years – so how do you use anything without getting sued? "Getting Permission: How to License & Clear Copyrighted Materials Online and Off" is a guide for anyone in a business situation where they will have to use someone else's creative license for their own. The guide covers the permission process, public domain issues, finding the copyright holder to get permission, fair use, and other issues that often crop up in this field. Enhanced with a CD-ROM which compiles the information in an easy to search format, "Getting Permission: How to License & Clear Copyrighted Materials Online and Off" is highly recommended to any business who often use other company's copyrights, and community library business collections.
Science for Lawyers
Eric York Drogin, editor
American Bar Association
321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60610
9781590319260, $129.95 www.ababooks.org 1-800-285-2221
Published by the American Bar Association, Science for Lawyers is a textbook-style anthology of essays written by experts in the field, each discussing a different discipline of science as it applies to members of the legal profession: ballistics, biology, chemistry, computer forensics, dentistry, engineering, environmental science, genetics, linguistics, medicine, physics, psychology, and statistics. A handful of black-and-white photographs illustrate this straightforward introduction to what every lawyer needs to know. "Currently, lawyers and judges are finding many applications for linguistic concepts and theory. Since language itself is a central component of both legal writing (such as in trademarks and contacts) and criminal prosecutions involving police interrogations, court proceedings, and prison interactions, linguistic analysis is increasingly becoming a useful tool in legal fields." The clear, pragmatic text is ideal for quickly grasping the general basics of each science as well as its applications in the modern judicial system. An enthusiastically recommended reference for lawyers, paralegals, judges, and anyone in the court industry who doesn't already have multiple science degrees.
The Literary Shelf
Bloom's Guides: The Stranger
Harold Bloom, editor
Bloom's Literary Criticism
c/o Infobase Publishing
132 West 31st Street, 17th Floor, New York, NY 10001
www.infobasepublishing.com
9780791098295, $30.00 1-800-322-8755
A worthy contribution to the excellent Bloom's Guides series, Bloom's Guides: The Stranger is a comprehensive reading and study guide for students and lay readers alike of Albert Camus' classic existential novel "The Stranger", about a man who almost involuntarily commits an unprovoked murder, yet is unable to explain why he did it, let alone fake remorse. He is ultimately condemned not for the crime itself, but for his failure to express hypocrisy over it; he is unable to immerse himself in the physical and emotional absurdities of daily existence that demand thousands of little lies and great lies from every member of human society. Bloom's Guide: The Stranger features a strong emphasis on summary and analysis, walking the reader step by step through the nuances of this complex yet insightful work of Western literature. Additional enhancements include "The Story Behind the Story", which describes the conditions under which The Stranger was written, a biographical sketch of the author, a descriptive list of characters, and an annotated bibliography. Enthusiastically recommended especially for anyone studying "The Stranger" as part of a literary course or thesis.
Arguably the most important Palestinian poet of our time, Mahmoud Darwish appears for the first time in English in "Exile's Poet", deftly edited by professors of modern Arabic culture and comparative literatures respectively Hala Khamis Nassar & Najat Rahman it offers a critical appraisal of Darwish's work as well, from his earliest works to his later work, filled with connections between myth, lyric, prose, and history among other things. The Editors bring in editorials on the future of poetry, roles of the modern poet, heritage and more. Highly recommended to poetry fans who want an in depth look from another place in the world.
Notebooks 1951-59
Albert Camus
Ivan R. Dee
1332 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60622-2694
1566637759, $27.50 www.ivanrdee.com
College-level collections strong on Camus will find this a special acquisition presenting the notebooks withheld in France for some 29 years after his death, appearing for the first time in English. The first two volumes of his notebooks began simply but this concluding volume was written over the last nine years that he lived, and reads more intimately, like a diary. From his travels to his observations about life and politics, this concludes a fine expose of Camus' life and thoughts and is a 'must' for any college-level collection strong in Camus, particularly those who have his previous earlier notebooks.
Writes of Passage
Paula Deitz, Editor
Ivan R. Dee
1332 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60622-2694
1566637813, $27.50 www.ivanrdee.com
WRITES OF PASSAGE: COMING OF AGE STORIES AND MEMOIRS culls over twenty top stories from the last twenty-five years of The Hudson Review, juxtaposing emerging new writers with seasoned veterans from Wendell Berry to Tennessee Williams and presenting works which were first selected for their excellence, and only secondarily for their unifying genre. Any interested in coming of age literature will be pleased to find these stories under one cover.
The Newbery and Caldecott Awards 2008 Edition
Association for Library Service to Children
American Library Association
50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
9780838935743, $19.00, www.ala.org
Two of the most prestigious awards that a children's book author can receive – The Newbery and Caldecott awards. "The Newbery and Caldecott Awards 2008 Edition: A Guide to the Medal and Honor Books" is a comprehensive guide to the annual awards for children's book, stretching back nearly a century to 1922 and the conception of the Newbery award – and it covers both the winners and the honorable mentions for each of those years. A must have for anyone who wants to seek out the very best in children's literature through the years, "The Newbery and Caldecott Awards 2008 Edition: A Guide to the Medal and Honor Books" is highly recommended for community library literature collections.
Home Words
Mavis Reimer, editor
Wilfrid Laurier University Press
75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5
9781554580163, $85.00, www.wlupress.wlu.ca
Children's literature – one of its purposes is to have the values of a nation available to children in book form. "Home Words: Discourses of Children's Literature in Canada" is an examination of modern Canadian children's literature and the value of the messages and themes they teach, and how they reflect on Canadians of different racial backgrounds. Complete with history, bibliographies, essays, and biographical criticism, "Home Words: Discourses of Children's Literature in Canada" is a top pick for community library literary criticism collections.
The Poetry Life
Baron Wormser
CavanKerry Press
6 Horizon Road No. 2901, Fort Lee, New Jersey, 07024
9781933880051, $18.00, cavankerry@optonline.net
The life of the poet has vastly changed over the centuries, from the starving artist of a bard of Shakespeare's time to the struggling artist of the modern era – the financial success has failed to change, but the lifestyle has. "The Poetry Life: Ten Stories" is a look at poets and poetry through the ages and how it has shifted in prominence and importance. Witty, insightful, and somewhat depressing at the same time, "The Poetry Life: Ten Stories" is deftly composed and highly recommended to any poet or poetry lover and for community library literature collections.
Thirty years she has been separated from her brother – and now he's dead. "Winter Haven" is Vera's story of uncovering the mysteries of her brother, his death, and why he seemingly had not aged a single day in any of the three decades of separation. Further standing in her way of understanding are the dark mysteries of Winter Haven, a small island off the coast of Maine. Vera digs to find the truth in this intriguing suspense novel, sure to keep readers reading, and a must for community library fiction collections.
The Rhyme Killers
Judy Gooden with Naomi Helterbran
Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd. - 515, Parker, Colorado 80134
9781432708009, $14.95, www.outskirtspress.com
A killer with a bizarre signature style and a bizarre pattern never seen before. "The Rhyme Killers" tells of Philadelphia's top homicide detective in Katie Knight with her partner Avis Rent quest to hunt down this strange murderer with his unforeseeable tactics, she also must deal with a misogynistic old police chief who wants to return the department back to an all-male force like it used to be. With an ending no one will see coming, "The Rhyme Killers" is a deftly written mystery and sure to appeal to mystery fans everywhere.
The Secret Hangman
Peter Lovesey
Soho Press
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
9781569474884, $13.00, www.sohopress.com
Some people dedicate themselves to their job as a part of grieving for their loss – Detective Peter Diamond is one of these. In "The Secret Hangman", Diamond is hot on the trail of a serial killer, who disgustingly hangs his victims in gore-ridden fashion. This is hard enough, but someone seems to be on his trail as well – and their intentions are not as crystal clear as he would like them to be. Deftly written, "The Secret Hangman" is a top pick for mystery fans and community library collections catering to the genre alike.
The World History Shelf
Fairs, Markets & the Itinerant Book Trade
Robin Myers, Michael Harris, and Giles Mandelbrote, editors
Oak Knoll Press
310 Delaware Street, New Castle, DE 19720-5038
9781584562009, $47.50 www.oakknoll.com 1-800-996-2556
Fairs, Markets & the Itinerant Book Trade is an anthology of essays by learned authors discussing the ways in which the open-air book trade, as seen in book fairs, traveling peddlers and itinerant printers, affected the culture of Europe from the sixteenth to nineteenth centuries. Fairs, Markets & the Itinerant Book Trade includes essays such as "The Book Trade in Public Spaces: London Street Booksellers 1690-1850", "Itinerant Booksellers, Printers, and Peddlers in Sixteenth-Century Spain and Portugal", "Watching the Peddler's Movements: Itinerant Distribution in the Urban Netherlands" and much more. A thoughtful and scholarly examination of the transformative power of books and book distribution.
To Be a Roman
Margaret A. Brucia & Gregory N. Daugherty
Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers
1000 Brown St., Unit 101, Wauconda, IL 60084
9780865166332, $25.00, www.bolchazy.com
Rome – the single greatest influence upon western civilization. "To Be a Roman: Topics in Roman Culture" is a complete and comprehensive guide to what's usually glossed over about this great civilization – the day to day life of its citizens. Touching on the family life, the religious rituals, the homes in which they lived, and the cities they called there own, both Rome and its other cities – and so much more. The perfect resource for anyone who wants a more complete understanding of the Roman culture, "To Be a Roman: Topics in Roman Culture" is a must have for them and community library reference collections.
Grand Opportunity
Timothy G. McMahon
Syracuse University Press
1600 Jamesville Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210
www.SyracuseUniversityPress.syr.edu
9780815631842, $22.95 1-800-365-8929
Timothy G. McMahon (Assistant Professor of History, Marquette University) presents Grand Opportunity: The Gaelic Revival and Irish Society, 1893-1910, an in-depth study of the role that the Gaelic cultural revival played in transforming Ireland's national identity during the turn of the past century. Members of the Gaelic League had a reverberating effect upon Irish culture and literature through their determination to preserve Irish as a spoken language and artistic medium. Drawing upon press and police reports as well as census data and local directories, Grand Opportunity assembles the first comprehensive profile of League membership, and excerpts primary testimonies to put forward a convincing case. Recommended for college library shelves and especially for students and scholars of Irish history.
The Fire & the Word
Gloria Munoz Ramirez
City Lights Publishers
261 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
9780872864887, $16.95 www.citylights.com
Black-and-white photographs and sketches on virtually every other page enhance The Fire & the Word: A History of the Zapatista Movement, a chronicle of the modern social movement in Mexico that had its origins in 1983 and became known to the world at large in 1994, in protest of globalization, corporate neoliberalism, the North American Free Trade Agreement and consequent end of Mexican crop subsidies (since Mexican crops were no longer able to financially compete with machine-driven American agribusiness), and other issues. Though the Zapatista Movement had its roots in communities of indigenous and Mayan decent, its precepts of equality (including equality for women), democracy, liberty, justice, independence, housing, health, education, and peace extend to all Mexicans. After the movement's 1994 uprising was put down by the Mexican military, the movement transformed its methodology from armed resistance to making use of the internet to garner support among nongovernmental organizations and solidarity groups. First-person testimonies are intermeshed with the historical narrative, offering a view of this revolutionary movement (not a political party, since its ideology forbids its members from running for elected office per se) that evenly blends scholarly and humanitarian perspectives. Highly recommended for college library shelves, and anyone researching the roots, direction, and future of the Zapatista movement.
Cio's Daughters
Lynette Felber, editor
University of Delaware Press
2010 Eastpark Blvd, Cranbury, NJ 08512
9780874139815, $54.50, www2.lib.udel.edu/udpress
History, for most of its existence, has been written by men – but not from any lack of trying by women. "Cio's Daughters: British Women Making History 1790-1899" tells of how lady novelists, despite being snubbed by the exclusively male historical societies of the time. Through thinly veiled fiction and other clever techniques, these women let their voices be heard, and now are being studied by modern historians, and this book is an examination of these wise women's histories. "Cio's Daughters: British Women Making History 1790-1899" is highly recommended for anyone seeking a perspective of British history from the fairer sex and for community library collections for this type of reference.
The Biography Shelf
Chicago Assassin
Richard J. Shmelter
Cumberland House Publishing
431 Harding Industrial Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37211
9781581826180, $24.95 www.cumberlandhouse.com 1-888-439-2665
American Crime Writers League member Richard J. Shmelter presents Chicago Assassin: The Life and Legend of "Machine Gun" Jack McGurn and the Chicago Beer Wars of the Roaring Twenties, a fascinating biography set amidst the gangland violence that wracked Chicago during the Prohibition era. Chronicling the life of Vincenzo Gibaldi, who took the name "Jack McGurn" along with the sport of boxing, Chicago Assassin tells how McGurn's father and stepfather were murdered by mobsters, and how his revenge attracted the attention of the notorious Al Capone, who invited McGurn to join the organization. McGurn built a terrible reputation as Chicago's most feared gangster assassin, and may even have helped plan the infamous St. Valentine's Day massacre. He killed more than twenty people during Chicago's Beer Wars, yet was eventually spurned by the Organization he worked for, and murdered Capone's orders. A striking true crime saga, meticulously researched and providing a singularly vibrant picture of the seedy underworld that sprang up to seize advantage of the Prohibition era.
Just Call Me Mike
Mike Farrell
RDV Books
c/o Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 1009
9781933354484, $16.95, www.akashicbooks.com
Activists come from all walks of life – even from old television shows. "Just Call Me Mike: A Journey to Actor and Activist" is the life story of one Mike Farrell as he tells his tale of coming up into the profession of acting and landing a role in the hit series M.A.S.H., to becoming a writer and producer, to becoming an anti-Death Penalty activist. A charming story that states life has no foretold direction, "Just Call Me Mike: A Journey to Actor and Activist" is highly recommended to community library collections dedicated to biography.
Rabies Mom
Pat Caroll & Jack McGowan
Arbor Books
19 Spear Road, Suite 301, Ramsey, NJ 07446
9780980110609, $15.99, www.rabiesmom.com
Watching one's children die as they stand by powerless – one of the most horrifying thoughts to any parent. "Rabies Mom" is Pat Caroll's story of watching as his daughter Shannon died from a rabies infection as he mother did nothing – and her neglect ultimately ended up in her death. He tells his tragic story revealing that it is not always the wisest response for the legal system to default to the mother in areas of child custody. "Rabies Mom" is a deftly composed warning to custody battles and those determining it, and community library memoir collections.
Alexander Collie
Gwen Chessell
University of Western Australia Press
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 NE 58th Avenue, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97213
9780980296532, $35.95, www.isbs.com
Too often Australia's development is written off as a bunch of British prisoners sent there for punishment – when in fact there were some notable individuals in its history. "Alexander Collie: Colonial Surgeon, Naturalist, and Explorer" is a look at one of those notable individuals, Alexander Collie, a renown scientist from Scotland who did much to help the colony in its early days and helped establish it for future generations. A complete look at a oft-forgotten individual, "Alexander Collie: Colonial Surgeon, Naturalist, and Explorer" is highly recommended for community library biography collections.
A Missouri Railroad Pioneer
Joel P. Rhodes
University of Missouri Press
2910 LeMone Boulevard, Columbia, MO 65201
9780826217981, $39.95 www.umsystem.edu/upress 1-800-828-1894
Joel P. Rhodes (Associate Professor of History, Southeast Missouri State University) presents A Missouri Railroad Pioneer: The Life of Louis Houck, an extensively researched biography of business entrepreneur and self-taught railroader Louis Houck, who not only built an enterprise, but also brought art, culture, and formal education to all social classes. Though A Missouri Railroad Pioneer is at its heart an engaging glimpse into the life of a turn-of-the-century tycoon, railroad enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the insights into the evolution of America's railroad system. Written in plain terms for lay readers and historians alike, A Missouri Railroad Pioneer is a welcome addition to biography shelves.
The Line from Here to There
Rosanna Taylor Herndon
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037, Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896726307, $24.95 www.ttup.ttu.edu 1-800-832-4042
The Line from Here to There: A Storyteller's Scottish West Texas collects eighteen true stories from generations of Scottish West Texans. Some tales are about the ancestors of author and award-winning storyteller Rosanna Taylor Herndon; others are about extended family and friends of the Herndon family. All are steeped in the unique brand of West Texan regional culture that celebrates determination and the will to meet all challenges. Especially recommended for Western lovers who tire of fiction and are excited by true tales of American character.
Where the Ox Does Not Plow
Manuel Pena
University of New Mexico Press
MSC04 2820, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
9780826344212, $24.95 www.unmpress.com 1-800-249-7737
Where the Ox Does Not Plow: A Mexican American Ballad is an autobiographical ethnography, collecting twenty-six episodes of award-winning author Manuel Pena's life journey from penniless migrant worker to successful academic and anthropologist. Pena reflects on problems and issues connected to the marginalized state of Mexicans and other Latinos in the United States. Vignettes of conflict between ethnicities, the difficulty of integrating into American society, family closeness, love, shock, and survival, Where the Ox Does Not Plow is a resoundingly authentic account of a rich and varied life, illustrated with a dozen black-and-white photographs.
Memoirs of a Runaway
Michael Kennon
Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd – 515, Parker CO 80134
9781432719913, $10.95, www.outskirtspress.com
What makes a child flee home and opt to live on the streets in a state of homelessness? "Memoirs of a Runaway: A Story of Hope" is a combination of two true stories, author Michael Kennon's time as a teenage runaway, and his interview with a thirteen year old girl who has followed down a similar path filled with sex, drugs, and violence. Although downtrodden in theme, the book lives up to its subtitle and offers some hope that there is light at the end of the darkest of tunnels. "Memoirs of a Runaway: A Story of Hope" is a deftly compiled and highly recommended set of stories, a top pick for community library memoir shelves and for any who want to empathize with this tortured souls.
A Biographical Dictionary of People in Engineering
Carl W. Hall
Purdue University Press
30 Amberwood Parkway, PO Box 388, Ashland, OH, 44805
9781557534590, $79.95, www.purdue.edu
The people who have pushed science forward over the years usually go long without fanfare or even mention, and "A Biographical Dictionary of People in Engineering: From Earliest Records to 2000" is a comprehensive reference on engineers throughout the modern era, outlining their lifespan and accomplishments and other facts of note. Hundreds of engineers are covered, and it is enhanced with appendixes and a pack in CD-ROM. "A Biographical Dictionary of People in Engineering: From Earliest Records to 2000" is a must for college library reference collections.
Clark
Vicki Clark
Arbor Books Inc.
244 Madison Avenue, #254, New York, NY 10016
9780979411885, $9.95, www.arborbooks.com
The most tragic of occurrences – the loss of one's youngest child. "Clark" is the memoir of a mother struck with the horrible grief of the death of her son in a car accident at the age of nineteen. With little other consolation, she turns to a journal to pour out the monsoon of emotions that have overcome her. This book is a compilation of her feelings as she has no where else to pour her feelings and how she had to overcome them to deal with her life – which despite the tragedy, she still had to live. "Clark" is a must have for any grieving parent looking for a story to relate to and for community library memoir collections.
The American History Shelf
Long Branch in the Golden Age
Sharon Hazard
History Press
18 Percy St., Charleston, SC 29403
9781596292161, $19.99, ww.historypress.net
The vacation spot of choice for seven US Presidents – Long Branch, New Jersey. "Long Branch in the Golden Age: Tales of Fascinating and Famous People" is a historical look at this region and its past, filled with much of the figures of American history, casinos, hotel ballrooms, and so much more. One could say you can get a good look at the who's who in the history of the United States by examining Long Branch. "Long Branch in the Golden Age: Tales of Fascinating and Famous People" is a top pick for community library American history collections.
The Revolutionary Writings of Alexander Hamilton
Richard B. Vernier, editor
Liberty Fund Inc.
8335 Allison Pointe Trail, Suite 300, Indianapolis, 46250-1684
9780865977068, $12.00, kbeach@libertyfund.org
A look into one of the minds that shaped this very country over two hundred years ago – that is what "The Revolutionary Writings of Alexander Hamilton" brings to the table. An examination of his viewpoints as his work is compiled into this books, one can get the idea of what one of the country's founding fathers wished his country to be. "The Revolutionary Writings of Alexander Hamilton" is a deftly compiled set of work, highly recommended to American history collections.
The Pacificus-Helvidius Debates of 1793-1794
Alexander Hamilton (Pacificus) and James Madison (Helvidius)
Morton J. Frisch, editor
Liberty Fund, Inc.
8335 Allison Pointe Trail, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46250-1684
9780865976887, $17.00 www.libertyfund.org 1-800-955-8335
Edited and with an introduction by Morton J. Frisch (Professor Emeritus of Political Science, Northern Illinois University), The Pacificus-Helvidius Debates of 1793-1794 collects the landmark debates between founding American figures Alexander Hamilton (a.k.a. Pacificus) and James Madison (a.k.a. Helvidius) about the proper roles of America's executive and legislative branches in the area of foreign policy. Hamilton was a proponent of strong executive control over foreign policy, while Madison countered with the charge that Washington's Neutrality Proclamation of 1793 would impede the Senate's ability to make war. The Pacificus-Helvidius Debates of 1793-1794 collects all of the pertinent original documents involved in these landmark debates, including Washington's Neutrality Proclamation, the full text of the Pacificus and Helvidius letters, Jefferson's letter to Madison requesting him to respond to Hamilton, and Hamilton's Americanus letters, written as a final response to Madison's rebuttal. A scholarly presentation of a classic primary source of American history, worthy of the highest recommendation for college and public library reference collections.
A Pocketful of History
Jim Noles
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
Eleven Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780306815782, $25.00 www.perseusbooksgroup.com 1-800-242-7737
Written by attorney Jim Noles, A Pocketful of History: Four Hundred Years of America - One State Quarter at a Time is a treasury for history trivia buffs and coin collectors alike, as it relates how each of the fifty commemorative state quarters celebrates American history. There are fifty chapters; each one begins with a magnified, black-and-white rendition of a different state's unique quarter design, followed by the story behind the design and historical vignettes aplenty. Written in a reader-friendly narrative style, A Pocketful of History is the perfect companion book for state quarter collectors everywhere.
The United Symbolism of America
Robert Hieronimus
New Page Books
c/o The Career Press
3 Tice Road, PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
Warwick Associates (publicity)
17470 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, California 95476
9781601630018, $17.99, www.newpagebooks.com
Symbolism – each and every day everyone is exposed to it and it's inescapable – it's one of the things the United States of America was founded on. "The United Symbolism of America: Deciphering Hidden Meanings in America's Most Familiar Art, Architecture, and Logos" is an examination of the rampant symbolism that is entrenched in all of America's culture, focusing mainly on the monuments of historical significance – and why they are monuments of historical significance. "The United Symbolism of America: Deciphering Hidden Meanings in America's Most Familiar Art, Architecture, and Logos" is highly recommended for community library history collections and for any who want a bit of unconventional insight on our nation's history and design.
A Picturesque Situation: Mackinac Before Photography 1615-1860
Brian Leigh Dunnigan
Wayne State University Press
4809 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201-1309
9780814332146, $75.00 http://wsupress.wayne.edu 1-800-978-7323
A Picturesque Situation: Mackinac Before Photography 1615-1860 is a massive, exhaustively researched history of the Straits of Mackinac, one of the first settled regions of Michigan and the primary route to Lake Michigan and the Mississippi Valley. Splendidly illustrated throughout with colorful maps, vintage artwork renditions of the land and portraits of notable historic figures, architectural plans from the era, and much more, A Picturesque Situation is a richly detailed resource, captivating to simply page through and thoroughly accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Highly recommended for public library collections, history shelves, and anyone interested in the cornucopia of stories behind this crossroads of frontier America.
Twenty First Century Gateways
Audrey Singer, Susan W. Hardwick, & Caroline B. Brettel, editors
Brookings Institution Press
1775 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036
9780815779278, $26.95, www.brookings.edu
Ellis Island – the cause of such a diverse European-descended population in New York City – but the new wave of immigrants aren't entering America from any one place. "Twenty First Century Gateways: Immigrant Incorporation in Suburban America" states that this generation of immigrants are spreading all over the country, and not just in high density urban areas such as major cities like New York and Los Angeles. With the lack of Federal law, many states and local governments are taking immigration into their own hands as immigrants find their way to out of the way cities you wouldn't expect to find them in such as St. Paul, Minnesota. An examination of the issue as a whole, pulling no punches and completely weighing both sides of the debate, "Twenty First Century Gateways: Immigrant Incorporation in Suburban America" is highly recommended for community library collections on social issues.
Pioneer Press
PO Box 216, Carson City, NV 89702-0216
1-775-888-9867
World War II veteran Charles L. Convis presents two volumes in the "True Tales of the Old West" series, a delight for Western connoisseurs due to their meticulous research and engaging narration. "Californios in the Old West" (9781892156259, $11.95) is a collection of short tales about second and third generation Spanish-Americans living in what is now California, prior to the 1830s. Not only do the tales give fascinating glimpses into the lives of individuals dedicated to survival in harsh territory, they reveal how 'Californio' life changed after the state became "Americanized". "Visitors View the Old West" (9781892156266, $11.95) presents short tales out of the lives of individuals who witnessed the Old West with their own eyes, including Rudyard Kipling, George Simpson, and Catherine Weldon (a widow who met Sitting Bull in person), and many more. Both are a treat for anyone with a keen interest in the Old West; the stories are pure fun to read, whether a few at a time or all at once.
Horses That Buck
Margot Kahn
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806139128, $24.95 www.oupress.com 1-800-627-7377
Horses That Buck: The Story of Champion Bronc Rider Bill Smith is a carefully researched and engagingly presented biography of champion saddle bronc rider Bill Smith, who loved the wildness of horses that fought against being ridden. He broke more than a few bones following his passion, earning no less than thirteen trips to the national finals. When he was facing retirement in his thirties, he met schoolteacher and cowgirl Carole O'Rourke on the national rodeo circuit, and together they bought their own land upon which to raise horses. Gathering information from interviews, experience, and historical records, Margot Kahn gives an up close and personal look at the rodeo circuit in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and offers a captivating portrait of a man who truly embodied the spirit of the western frontier long after the west was won.
The Self-Help Shelf
Living Deeply
Institute of Noetic Sciences
Noetic Books
c/o New Harbinger Publications
5674 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
9781572245334, $16.95, www.newharbinger.com
How does one make oneself change for the better? "Living Deeply: The Art & Science of Transformation in Everyday Life" is a complete and comprehensive guide to how to change one's self, drawing from science, and countless philosophies and religions such as Christianity, modern day spirituality, others such as Native American cosmology and so much more. "Living Deeply: The Art & Science of Transformation in Everyday Life" is highly recommended for community library self-help collections.
What I've Learned Since I Knew it All
Paul Meier & Todd Clements
Tyndale House
351 Executive Drive, Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781414312811, $17.99, toddstarowitz@tyndale.com
Happiness in life – the simplest of things, yet so hard to achieve. "What I've Learned Since I Knew It All: 12 Secrets to Living a Satisfied Life" covers a few little truths in life which if one acknowledges their life becomes so much easier – and with that, happiness can come. The truths include the fairness of life, marriage, friends, addictions, and adulthood – among others. "What I've Learned Since I Knew It All: 12 Secrets to Living a Satisfied Life" is a well composed look at life, highly recommended to community library self-help collections.
Mirrors for Men
Justin O'Brien
Yes International Publishers
1317 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105-2602
9780936663302, $12.00, www.yespublishers.com
Men so often put forth a tough front where they shun the assistance of others – a bad move claims "Mirrors for Men: A Journal for Reflection". Seeking to help men discover their self worth, their skills, and who they are as a person and when to seek out the assistance of others, the book serves as a guide to personal growth, a guide to make its readers better men and most importantly, better people. "Mirrors for Men: A Journal for Reflection" is highly recommended for community library self-help collections and for any men who wish to better themselves.
Love Without Hurt
Steven Stosny, Ph.D.
Lifelong Books/DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
Eleven Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
1600940730, $16.95 www.dacapopress.com
Any who are in an abusing, hurtful relationship can end the pain and rebuild a loving environment with Dr. Steven Stosny's explanation of different indicators of relationship abuse, how to take action to change the relationship, and how to use his CompassionPower program for self-healing techniques for both individual recovery and changing a willing partner. Plenty of books have covered the basics of abuse patterns and advocated 'getting out': LOVE WITHOUT HURT: TURN YOUR RESENTFUL, ANGRY OR EMOTIONALLY ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP INTO A COMPASSIONATE, LOVING ONE takes a different approach and is a 'must' for any general-interest library interested in self-help health and mental health books.
I Hate Conflict!
Lee Raffel
McGraw Hill
2 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10121
9780071484893, $16.95, www.mhprofessional.com
Very few people in the world enjoy getting in fierce arguments with their fellow man – and "I Hate Conflict!: Seven Steps to Resolving Differences with Anyone in Your Life" understands this completely. Offering many options to help people resolve their issues and strengthen their relationships with others, it's an ideal guide to anyone who wants a more peaceful resolution to their conflicts. "I Hate Conflict! Seven Steps to Resolving Differences with Anyone in Your Life" is highly recommended to community library self-help collections.
What Should I Say?
Shelly Burke, RN
Xulon Press
2180 West State Road 434, Suite 2140, Longwood, FL 32779
Shelmar Publications
42887 G. G. Road Genoa, NE 68840
9781602666825, $14.95, www.shellyburke.com
It happens all to often. One goes and speaks, and then blurts out something they shouldn't – they are shunned by their audience for their accidental blurb. "What Should I Say?: The Right (and Wrong!) Words and Deeds for Life's Sticky, Tricky, Uncomfortable Situations" is a guide to keeping one's tongue straight and not saying something that would make others think less of them – advice on instilling confidence in oneself so that they may instill confidence in others. Deftly written and researched, "What Should I Say?: The Right (and Wrong!) Words and Deeds for Life's Sticky, Tricky, Uncomfortable Situations" is highly recommended for anyone who has said the wrong thing before.
Sacred Grief
Leslee Tessmann
Loving Healing Press
5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
9781932690538, $17.95, www.sacredgrief.com
The most devastating thing in anyone's life – the death of a close loved one. "Sacred Grief: Exploring a New Dimension to Grief" is an examination of the long term psychological effects of the grieving process and if there's more to it than most people seem to see as they go through the process, an extra element that can help readers recover from their loss much quicker. "Sacred Grief: Exploring a New Dimension to Grief" is highly recommended to anyone looking deep into the effects of grief and for community library self-help collections.
The International Studies Shelf
Kenya's Quest for Democracy
Makau Mutua
Lynne Reinner Publishers
1800 30th St. Suite 314, Boulder, CO 80301-1026
9781588265906, $65.00, www.reinner.com
Democracy is spreading on its own across the globe. "Kenya's Quest for Democracy: Taming Leviathan" is a look at the African nation's own struggle to move into the first world, overcoming its own past political turmoil which proves to make democratization difficult. Looking at what must be done to make Kenyan Democracy a reality, "Kenya's Quest for Democracy: Taming Leviathan" is enhanced with a glossary, bibliography, indexes, and more, making it highly recommended to any community library world politics collection.
Road from Ar Mamadi
Camilo Mejia
Haymarket Books
PO Box 180165, Chicago, IL 60618
9781931859530, $16.00, www.haymarketbooks.org
Conscientious Objector status is suppose to exclude one from military service – but what if you're already in t
