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Library Bookwatch

Volume 2, Number 10 October 2007 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Library Science Shelf Biography Shelf
Fiction Shelf Cookbook Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Business Shelf Theatre/Cinema Shelf Social Issues Shelf
International Studies Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Gardening Shelf
Education Shelf Language Studies Shelf Photography Shelf
American History Shelf Library CD Shelf Judicial Studies Shelf
Mathematics Shelf World History Shelf Humor Shelf
Holocaust Studies Shelf Criminology Shelf Travel Shelf
Jobs/Careers Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf Native American Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Library DVD Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

Terra Antarctica
William L. Fox
Shoemaker & Hoard Publishers
c/o Avalon Publishing Group
245 West 17th Street, 11th floor, New York, NY 10011-5300
9781593761486, $19.95 www.shoemakerhoard.com 1-800-788-3123

Terra Antarctica: Looking Into the Emptiest Continent is the true-life story of award-finalist author William L. Fox's journey to explore the Antarctic, the "largest and most extreme desert on Earth". A medley of artistic, cartographic, and scientific images intertwine in his reflections of the remote and brutally harsh continent. A handful of gorgeous color photographs illustrate this compelling tale tempered with a scientist's respect for and love of nature's glory.


The Library Science Shelf

Using XML
Kwong Bor NG
Neal-Schuman Publishers
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038-4512
9781555705671, $85.00 www.neal-schuman.com 1-866-672-6657

Designed and written specifically to enable librarians to utilize XML to create and organize documents, fine-tune documents with special characters, using Cascading Style Sheets, and displaying information on a library website, "Using XML: a How-To-Do-It Manual and CD-ROM For Librarians by Kwong Bor NG (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Library and Information Studies, Queens College, CUNY) truly lives up to its promise as a 'librarian friendly' instructional manual which deftly combines a clearly written, step-by-step presentation with an accompanying CD-ROM which reproduces every exercise so librarians can compare their work on a chapter-by-chapter basis to insure that the documents they create are displaying properly. Simply stated, "Using XML" is an essential and very strongly recommended instructional reference that is a necessity for adequately training library staff members to make the most out of XML in the areas of technical services, metadata, system libraries, and library website development.


The Biography Shelf

Fanny Kemble
Deirdre David
University of Pennsylvania Press
3905 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4112
9780812240238, $39.95 www.upenn.edu/pennpress 1-800-537-5487

Fanny Kemble: A Performed Life is the amazing biography of the intelligent and cultured Fanny Kemble (1809-93), a Victorian celebrity known on both sides of the Atlantic as an actress, proud member of the Kemble theatrical dynasty, solo performer of Shakespeare, and author of journals about life on her husband's Georgia plantation. Fiercely antislavery despite being married to a wealthy slave owner, she published "Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation", a text that revealed the horrific conditions under which slaves lived, and eventually underwent a divorce. Fanny Kemble: A Performed Life is the first biography in twenty-five years to study her life in its entirely, and highly recommended as an unforgettable portrait of a complex and principled woman.

The Judge
Frank Sikora
NewSouth, Inc.
PO Box 1588, Montgomery, AL 36102
9781588381583, $29.95 www.newsouthbooks.com 1-334-834-3556

The Judge: The Life & Opinions of Alabama's Frank M. Johnson, Jr. is the biography of a federal judge who presided over some of the most tense and emotional hearings and trials of the civil rights era. From the Montgomery Bus Boycott, to the Freedom Rides, school desegregation, the Selma-to-Montgomery march, and the Ku Klux Klan conspiracy case in the night-rider slaying of Viola Liuzzo, The Judge gives an inside look that blends court transcripts, reporting, and exhaustive oral history interviews with Judge Johnson, originally conducted over the course of years from 1976 to 1989. "In Montgomery, the boycott did not bring an end to segregation on the buses. The court order Judge Rives and I entered did. If we hadn't ruled as we did, I'm certain blacks would still be boycotting and walking. The white power structure would never have yielded. The same thing could be said of voting rights; the Selma marches didn't bring them, court orders and the U.S. Congress did. As to my role, I would say the decisions stand and speak for themselves." A no-nonsense look behind the scenes of the courtroom, and a welcome contribution to biography as well as American History shelves.

My Many Selves
Wayne C. Booth
Utah State University Press
78 Old Marin Hill, Logan, UT 84322-7800
9780874216318, $24.95 www.usu.edu/usupress 1-800-239-9974

My Many Selves: The Quest for a Plausible Harmony is the autobiography of author Wayne C. Booth, modern literary critic and English scholar, and author of numerous required reading college classroom texts including "The Rhetoric of Fiction", "Essays and Ironies for a Credulous Age", "Critical Understanding" and many more. My Many Selves lives up to its title in its in-depth examination of Booth's numerous personal aspects; in writing his autobiography, he sought to bring harmony to the distinctive and at times oppositional parts of his own identity, as well as resolve conflicts in his own thoughts and beliefs. His life story begins with his youth in rural Utah, a background he values highly; throughout his life he identified himself as Mormon, even though he renounced many Latter-day Saint doctrines. His lifelong concerns with ethics and rhetoric were shaped from years of observation and study. Chapters narrating phases of his life include "Ambition vs. Teaching for the Love of It", "A Wandering Generalist Longs to Be a True Scholar", "The Man of Peace Tries to Tame the Slugger", and much more. Wayne C. Booth passed away in 2005, only a number of months after completing My Many Selves; his life's wisdom from multiple perspectives is preserved between the covers. Highly recommended.

You'll Be Okay
Edie Kerouac-Parker, author
Timothy Moran and Bill Morgan, editors
City Lights Publishers
261 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
9780872864641, $14.95 www.citylights.com

You'll Be Okay: My Life with Jack Kerouac is the true-life memoir of Edie Kerouac-Parker (1923-1992), the first wife of famous novelist Jack Kerouac. Penned long after Jack Kerouac had passed on, You'll Be Okay is a tale of girlhood love - when both Edie and Jack were only 18, and met at Columbia University. The young lovers moved in together, sharing an apartment with the future wife of William Burroughs, and began lifetime friendships with Allen Ginsberg, William Burroughs, and others. A reminiscence of excitement, hope, passion, and dreams, illustrated with a handful of black-and-white photographs and skillfully edited by Timothy Moran and Bill Morgan.

Stan Musial
Joseph Stanton
Greenwood Publishing Group
88 Post Road West, Westport, CT 06881
9780313336096, $35.00 www.greenwood.com 1-800-225-5800

After playing professional baseball for twenty-two years (disrupted for one year to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II) with the Cardinals, Stan 'The Man' Musial retired holding seventeen Major League records, 29 National League records, and 9 all Star game records. He hit over .300 seventeen times in the course of his career and was second in all-time total bases, fourth in hits, fifth in runs batted in (RBI), and sixth in the number of games played. But every bit as important to his fans as Stan's prowess on the field, was his exemplary character off it. Now the latest titles in the outstanding Greenwood Publishing Group's 'Baseball's all-time Greatest Hitters' series of baseball greats, "Stan Musial: A Biography" by baseball historian and enthusiast Joseph Stanton presents a deftly written, meticulously definitive, and very highly recommended history of Stan's life and accomplishments that will be greatly appreciated by baseball enthusiasts in general, and Stan Musial's legions of fans in particular.

Regina's Closet
Diana M. Raab
Beaufort Books
c/o Caroly Fass Publicity/Public Relations
26 West 17th Street, Suite 802, New York, NY 10011
9780825305757, $23.00 www.beaufortbooks.com

To a whole new generation of young adults in America, World War II is very ancient history and something that they do not perceive as having any relevance to their lives and interests. If for that reason alone, "Regina's Closet" by essayist, memorist and poet Diana M. Raab deserves as large a readership as possible. The source for "Regina's Closet" is a journal kept by Diana's grandmother, plus her own memories and their very special connection as family. It wasn't until the journal fell into Diana's hands that she learned of her grandmother's past, starting with World War I in Poland, to the tragic death of Regina's mother, to her trials and tribulations as an orphan, and her eventual immigration to Vienna and then on to the United States. The entries from Regina's journal are in italic with Diana providing an illuminating commentary. The result is a compelling narrative account of a most remarkable woman who lived through some very harrowing and difficult times. A fascinating read from beginning to end, "Regina's Closet" is a welcome and very highly recommended addition to community library 20th Century Biography collections


The Fiction Shelf

Justice West Of The Pecos
Nick Castanis
American Literary Press
8019 Belair Road, Suite 10, Baltimore, MD 21236
9781561679720, $14.95 www.americanliterarypress.com 1-800-873-2003

Life was hard on America's southwestern frontier where settlers and ranchers fought off hostile Indians and outlaw bandits, endured sweltering summers and brutal winters, struggled with loneliness, and sought to build lives and fortunes for themselves and their families. These were truly lawless times where often justice was administered with a pistol or a rope. "Justice West Of The Pecos" is the riveting story of Civil War veteran Elliot Stewart and his partner, Rafer, who are forced to leave Texas to look for work. The finally found jobs wrangling Arabian thoroughbreds for a Spanish don in New Mexico. A saloon owner hires an outlaw to clear the way so he could take over the ranch, killing both Rafer and the don in the process. Although Elliot is in love with the don's daughter, his sense of justice compels him to follow the outlaw and his gang to extract revenge for his friend and his boss. Enthusiastically recommended reading, "Justice West Of The Pecos" is a superbly written novel of the Old West that is on par with the best of Louis L'Amour or Max Brand.

Revenge & Redemption
Brad E. Hainsworth
Deseret Books
PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0178
9781590387443, $16.95 www.deseretbook.com 1-800-453-3876

Written by Brad E. Hainsworth (emeritus professor of communications, Brigham Young University), Revenge & Redemption is an enthralling historical fiction novel set during the Civil War. When Union Civil War soldier Clay Ashworth returns to his Utah ranch from a bloody battle fought at Glorieta Pass in New Mexico, his bride delivers a stillborn first child. Unable to bear her sorrow, she returns to her home in Mexico; meanwhile, her grief-stricken husband is summoned to meet with President Abraham Lincoln and embark on a dangerous secret assignment. Meanwhile, another survivor of Glorieta Pass, Wolf Striker, struggles to find his way east to join Confederate forces and defend Vicksburg against a Yankee siege. Yet his journey becomes all the more perilous when he crosses paths with the Southern belle wife he deserted twenty years ago - a woman who wants to personally inflict capital punishment upon him for deserting her. An adventurous Civil War saga, written to captivate readers of all backgrounds.

The Republic of Nothing
Lesley Choyce
Goose Lane Editions
500 Beverbrook Court, Suite 330, Fredericton, NB, Canada, E3B 5X4
9780864924933, $19.99 www.gooselane.com 1-800-565-9523

Winner of the Dartmouth Book Award, The Republic of Nothing is a novel set in the 1960's on Whalebone Island, a.k.a. "The Republic of Nothing", a small dot of land off the coast of Nova Scotia that dares to declare its independence to the world. As the island's inhabitants become increasingly drawn into the turbulent politics of the day including the Vietnam War and the peace movement, an unexpected individual steps forward to society's rescue. Originally published in 1994, now in a new "Reader's Guide" edition featuring an afterword by Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, The Republic of Nothing is a quirky yet compelling drama where anything and everything can happen, even as anarchy becomes increasingly prevalent.

The Alice Stories
Jesse Lee Kercheval
University of Nebraska Press
233 North 8th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68588-0255
9780803211353, $24.95 www.nebraskapress.unl.edu 1-800-755-1105

Winner of the Prairie Schooner Book Prize in Fiction, The Alice Stories is an original novel by Jesse Lee Kercheval (Professor of English, University of Wisconsin-Madison) that observes the story of a girl raised in Florida who ends up as a woman living in Wisconsin. She, her husband, and her daughter experience the richness of family; the tolls of pain and loss; and the importance of friends to help one through the roughest parts of life. A thoughtful, community-driven narrative emphasizing the importance of connections and emotional outlook, highly recommended.

Shakespeare's Kitchen
Lore Segal
The New Press
38 Green Street, 4th floor, New York, NY 10013
9781595581518, $22.95 www.thenewpress.com 1-800-233-4830

Shakespeare's Kitchen is an anthology of thirteen interconnected short stories, seven of which have previously appeared in "The New Yorker", about the yearning for friendship and the development - and loss - of closeness. Author and award-winner Lore Segal reveals the world of Ilka Weisz, who has accepted a junior position at a Connecticut think tank at the cost of departing her beloved circle of New York friends. As she comes to know her new acquaintances through a series of memorable dinner parties, afternoon picnics, and Sunday brunches, she experiences the outsider's loneliness among people as well the delight of cultivating familiar companionship, the wonderment of love, and the shock or even bizarre behavior in the wake of losing a fellow human being to death. An emotional saga of interpersonal relationships as a barometer of the human condition.

Converting Kate
Beckie Weinheimer
Viking Books
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
TCI Smith Publicity (publicity)
2 Split Rock Drive, Suite 12, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9780670061525, $16.99 www.penguin.com 1-800-847-5515

Kate Anderson is fifteen years old and raised in the Church of the Holy Divine. But now that she is a high school sophomore, Kate finds that she's just not as certain as she used to be that her church is the only true church -- or that she is anything special for being a member. Kate's church has a strict dress code, restrictions on what can be watched on television, what movies can be seen, bans against reading 'worldly books' or using the internet. Her church has an all-male hierarchy that dictates that she, as a female, can have no occupation other than that of motherhood, and that homosexuals are damned. Despite Kate's being a sixth generation member of her Church, she finds that she must break away from it, leaving behind her family, her heritage, her friends in the church, and a way of life that is simply not compatible with her growing aspirations. Is this simply an ordinary adolescent rebellion, or the result of more complex issues that are as relevant as today's newspaper headlines about the American religious right and their cultural war against a secular society. A welcome and highly recommended addition to highschool and community library fiction collections, "Converting Kate" is deftly written, inherently fascinating, consistently entertaining, thoughtful and thought-provoking reading by anyone of any age.


The Cookbook Shelf

Tantalizing Tamales
Gwyneth Doland
Rio Nuevo Publishers
PO Box 5250, Tucson, AZ 85703
9781933855035, $12.95 www.rionuevo.com

Part of the outstanding "Cook West" series from Rio Nuevo Publishers, "Tantalizing Tamles" by Gwyneth Doland showcases a staple of Mexican cuisine through fifty different and original recipes. These superbly illustrated and deftly presented "kitchen cook friendly" recipes range from Green Corn Tamales with Green Chile; Grilled Trout Tamales with Sage and Bacon; Pork and Red Chile Tamales; and Oaxacan Tamales with Mole Negro; to Goat Cheese, Rosemary, and Fig Tamales; Pumpkin Raisin Tamales with Shredded Beef; Maple Flavored Breakfast Tamales; and Sweet Tamales with Cinnamon and Anise. Also very highly recommended for personal and community library ethnic cookbook collections is Gwyneth Dolands "Seductive Salsa" (9781933855028, $12.95) offering fifty illustrated and easy-to-prepare recipes representing the diversity of this south-of-the-border condiment that has grown so popular with Americans.

Adventures Of An Italian Food Lover
Faith Heller Willinger
Clarkson Potter Publishers
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
9780307346391, $32.50 www.randomhouse.com 1-800-726-0600

"Adventures Of An Italian Food Lover: With Recipes From 254 Of My Very Best Friends" by chef, cooking teacher, and food detective Faith Heller Willinger is a veritable showcase of Italian cuisine shared within the context of Italian culture and sensory experiences. Featuring more than 110 superbly presented and authentic Italian dishes, the 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes range from Leek and Sausage Orzotto; Roast Veal Shank; and Pear Cake with Grappa Sauce; to Spaghetti with Parmigiano-Reggiano and Armando's Extra Virgin; Tuscan Brownies; and Pasta with Mussels and Zucchini Flowers. But what makes "Adventures Of An Italian Food Lover" stand out among other Italian cookbooks are the personal anecdotal stories about the mean and women from whom these simply wonderful recipes were obtained. As much fun to browse through as to cook from, "Adventures Of An Italian Food Lover" is confidently recommended for personal and community library ethnic cookbook collections.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Getting in TTouch with Your Puppy
Linda Tellington-Jones
Trafalgar Square Publishing
PO Box 257, Howe Hill Road, North Pomfret, VT 05053-0257
9781570763724, $14.95 www.trafalgarsquarebooks.com 1-800-423-4525

Trainer, behaviorist, and animal therapist Linda Tellington-Jones presents accumulated wisdom from 40 years of working with animals in Getting in TTouch with Your Puppy: A Gentle Approach to Training and Influencing Behavior. Color photographs on virtually every page illustrate the step-by-step instructions to basic care, feeding, and grooming, as well as house-training, good behavior on a leash, riding in cars, and much more. The "Tellington Touch Method" used to train puppies is a "no-force" means to influence behavior of dogs through gentle physical contact. An excellent and easy-to-use guide, recommended for anyone considering a new puppy for a pet.

Sharks of the Pacific Northwest
Dr. Alessandro De Maddalena, Dr. Antonella Preti, & Tarik Polansky
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219, Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550174182, $19.95 www.harbourpublishing.com 1-604-883-2730

Sharks of the Pacific Northwest Including Oregon, Washington, British Columbia & Alaska presents the combined wisdom of three marine experts in a beautiful guide to shark species featuring a wealth of gorgeous color photographs, as well as a handful of black-and-white diagrams. Accessible to lay readers, amateur naturalists, and professional researchers alike, Sharks of the Pacific Northwest is not only an identification guide to the 18 species of shark in the Pacific Northwest, but also offers general scientific information concerning the biology of sharks, the truth behind shark/human interaction, and more. In-depth profiles of the nuances of the eighteen species round out this handy guide, which is supplemented by a bibliography and an index. Enthusiastically recommended for anyone seeking to learn more about these wondrous and often misunderstood creatures.


The Business Shelf

Power And Influence
Robert L. Dilenschneider
The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071489768, $22.95 www.books.mcgraw-hill.com 1-877-833-5524

An internationally recognized communication authority and leadership counselor, Robert L. Dilenschneider is the founder and CEO of The Dilenschneider Group, and therefor brings a very special expertise to "Power And Influence: The Rules Have Changed". Many of the traditional ways of doing business in a pre-internet world have become obsolete with the coming of globalization and only those businesses that can adapt to these changes will survive and prosper. A master power broker and experienced communications expert, Dilenschneider provides the reader with the intellectual, technical, and ethical tools required to thrive in an increasingly competitive world environment. The advice, insights, instructions, and recommendations comprising "Power And Influence" are distilled into ten universal principles for success in a technology-driven and volatile national and international economies. Of special note are the real-world anecdotes that illustrate how to acquire and amplify power and influence both as an individual and as a corporation. Enhanced with the inclusion of two essays on the 'Power Game' and an appendices, 'The Power Quiz', "Power And Influence" is very strongly recommended as being informed and informative on a critically important reading for anyone engaged in the business community be it local, regional, national, or international in scope.

Competing In A Flat World
Victor K. Fung, William K. Fung, Yoram Jerry Wind
Wharton School Publishing
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96h Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780132332903, $27.99 www.mcp.com 1-800-428-5331

The collaborative effort of Victor K. Fung (Group Chairman of Li & Fung and Vice Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce), William K. Fung (Group Managing Director of Li & Fung and former Chair of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce), and Yoram 'Jerry' Wind (Lauder Professor and Professor of Marketing at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a lecturer on global marketing and business strategy), "Competing In A Flat World: Building Enterprises For A Borderless World" focuses on how an business can be successful access a global market for its goods and services from manufacturing to sales. The template is Li & Fung which has produced more than $8 billion in garments and other goods for nationally and internationally recognized brands -- all without owning a single factory. Reader swill learn how to successfully compete 'network vs network; how to crate a 'big-small' company combing scale and agility; how to forge 'loose-tight' relationships with suppliers; how to balance control with empowerment, stability with renewal; how to deal with such issues as politics and terrorism. A fascinating study founded upon real-world experience and a remarkable attention to detail, "Competing In A Flat World" is to be considered essential reading for anyone contemplating doing business in today's increasingly global economy.

Global Ambitions and Local Identities
Galit Ailon
Berghahn Books
150 Broadway, Suite 812, New York, NY 10038
9781845451943, $60.00 www.berghahnbooks.com 1-800-540-8663

Sociology and Anthropology lecturer Galit Ailon presents Global Ambitions and Local Identities: An Israeli-American High-Tech Merger, an extensive case study of a successful Israeli high-tech company's merger with an American competitor. The example offers an opportunity to dissect at length the social and personal effects of mergers, not to mention an account of what really happens behind the balance sheets. Global Ambitions and Local Identities has a decidedly scholarly bent, and its scrutiny of personal viewpoints and human reactions is especially insightful. Particularly recommended for business college libraries and reference shelves.


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

Why Is That So Funny?
John Wright
Hal Leonard Corporation
777 West Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53213
9780879103439, $19.95 www.halleonard.com 1-800-637-2852

Why Is That So Funny?: A Practical Exploration of Physical Comedy is an amazing look at physical comedy written especially for performers, directors, students, and teachers. Topics covered include complicity, finding and declaring the game, states of tension, rhythm, comic timing, clowning, parody, satire, pastiche, caricature, burlesque, and buffoon. A thoughtful and meticulous deconstruction of the elements of humor, the better to improve one's performance or playwriting.

Filming Politics
Malek Khouri
Michigan State University Press
Suite 25, Manly Miles Building, 1405 South Harrison Road, East Lansing, MI 48823-5202
9781552381991, $34.95 www.msupress.msu.edu

Associate Professor of film Malek Khouri presents Filming Politics: Communism and the Portrayal of the Working Class at the National Film Board of Canada, 1939-46, a scholarly argument that the work of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) during the 1939-46 period connected heavily with a portraying working-class people as agents of social change, and fomented a link between Canadian efforts toward social progress, and the global war against fascism. Analyzing the political elements involved in the NFB's discourse, Filming Politics uncovers films from the early years of the NFB that have been long forgotten today, in the historical context within which they were produced and viewed. A welcome addition to cinema studies shelves.


The Social Issues Shelf

Intellectual Property
Charlotte Waelde & Hector MacQueen, editors
Edward Elgar Publishing
9 Dewey Court, Northampton, MA 01060-3815
9781845428747, $115.00 www.e-elgar.com 1-800-390-3149

Intellectual Property: The Many Faces of the Public Domain is a meticulous and scholarly examination of the concept of intellectual property. A thorough historical analysis combined with balanced discussion of contemporary debate on the issue, especially in the modern world when technology and the very definition of intellectual property is changing faster than ever before. "The critical factor in securing free speech in a vibrant public domain is not so much the extent to which material is subject to property rights, but rather the nature of the right-holder and, specifically, the degree of power wielded generally by that right-holder in intellectual space." Highly recommended for college libraries and anyone seeking an in-depth, exhaustively researched account on the subject.


The International Studies Shelf

The Fight for Jerusalem
Dore Gold
Regnery Publishing, Inc.
One Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20001
9781596980297, $27.95 www.regnery.com 1-800-338-4550

Former Israel ambassador to the U.N. (among his many other credentials) Dore Gold presents The Fight for Jerusalem: Radical Islam, the West, and the future of the Holy City, a serious-minded discussion of the future of Jerusalem, a city holy to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. The Fight for Jerusalem makes a convincing argument that for Jerusalem to be a free city where all faiths can be practiced, it will have to remain under Israeli sovereignty, because the United Nations cannot be relied upon to protect it and the Muslim Palestinians have become increasingly affected by a branch of radical Islam that seeks to eliminate other faiths from Jerusalem, not co-exist with them. Drawing upon meticulous scholarly research, The Fight for Jerusalem addresses how Palestinians are destroying archaeological evidence of ancient Jewish presence in Jerusalem, particularly on the Temple Mount; how Western diplomatic concessions strengthen the apocalyptic speculations of radical Muslims; how the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza brought more power to Palestinian extremists at the expense of Palestinian moderates; why negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority over the status of Jerusalem have little chance of creating an agreement; and much more. It should be noted that The Fight for Jerusalem specifically denounces the religious intolerance radical Islam, and recognizes that the majority of the Muslim world is not radical, though The Fight for Jerusalem decries the increasing power that radical Islamic factions have. A politically charged yet thoughtfully reasoned exhortation on how Jerusalem, a potential focal point of radical Islam's jihad against the West, can best be preserved for future generations.

Basque Nationalism and the Spanish State
Andre Lecours
University of Nevada Press
Mail Stop 166, Reno, NV, 89557-0076
9780874177220, $34.95 1-877-682-6657

Basque Nationalism and the Spanish State is a scholarly study of Basque nationalism specifically in the context of the historical rise and evolution of the Spanish nation-state. Andre Lecours (associate professor of political science, Concordia University) examines how Basque nationalism has been greatly influenced by the different forms of the state, from its confederal, centralist, and authoritarian historical phases to its democratic phases. Of especial interest is the up-to-date scrutiny of the movement in the wake of recent events such as ETA's announcement in 2006 of a permanent cease-fire. "A fourth process of globalization is peculiar to Europe: political integration. The European Union influences nationalist movements in different ways. From a discursive perspective, the EU can be presented as being either antithetical to, or coherent with, substate nationalism." A welcome contribution to Spanish history and political science reference shelves, especially in college libraries.

Egyptian Customs and Festivals
Samia Abdennour
The American University in Cairo Press
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
9789774160608, $14.95 www.aucpress.com 1-800-758-3756

Samia Abdennour, a Palestinian now thoroughly at home in Egypt, presents Egyptian Customs and Festivals, a guide for travelers, visitors, and anyone unfamiliar with Egyptian customs. Chapters teach the reader basic Egyptian etiquette and a crash course on cultural norms concerning meals at home or on the street, general social interaction, comforting a friend after the loss of a loved one, marriage and divorce, and other matters. Egyptian Customs and Festivals offers information concerning what is considered appropriate among both Muslim and Christian Egyptians, with the caveat that religion in general is best avoided as a topic of discussion. "As a sign of respect it is advisable for everyone - foreigners, non-Muslims, and non-fasting people - to abstain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan." A handful of color illustrations enhance this highly practical and useful guide. An absolute "must-read" for anyone visiting Egypt or cultivating ties with Egyptian friends or business associates.


The Christian Studies Shelf

The Art of Saint John's Bible
Susan Sink
The Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500, Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814690628, $14.95 www.litpress.org 1-800-858-5450

Featuring rich color photography, The Art of Saint John's Bible: A Readers Guide to Pentateuch, Psalms, Gospels and Acts is a beautiful tour of illuminated Biblical text in the first three published volumes of "The Saint John's Bible": Pentateuch, Psalms, and Gospels and Acts. The text examines specific illuminations with all the fine attention to detail, history, and context worthy of museum pieces, while the copious color pictures reveal the wondrous detail of visual elements and textual treatments. Highly recommended for church libraries as an aide to more deeply experiencing and understanding illuminated biblical text.

At the Heart of the Gospel
L. Ann Jervis
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
2140 Oak Industrial Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802839930, $14.00 www.eerdmans.com 1-800-253-7521

Anglican priest and professor of New Testament L. Ann Jervis presents At the Heart of the Gospel: Suffering in the Earliest Christian Message, a testament that suffering is a significant part of the human condition, and offering the Biblical words of Paul as proof. A close examination of three of Paul's letters (Thessalonians, Philippians, and Romans) reveals the importance of accepting the suffering of believers, with faith that even though we suffer, God's great plan for all creation does not include suffering and God will ultimately vanquish human misery. "Believers' liberation from sin unfortunately does not completely wipe out the past from our present - we still die because of sin (8:10). We believers may be able to hope for a future life for our bodies (8:11), but now both we and those who do not share our faith share the same fate: our physical bodies die." A compelling and extensively researched essay of conviction and vindication, highly recommended for Christian studies shelves.

The Lost Gospel of Mary
Frederica Mathewes-Green
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
9781557255365, $19.95 www.paracletepress.com

Award-winning author Frederica Mathewes-Green presents The Lost Gospel of Mary: The Mother of Jesus in Three Ancient Texts, an examination of the theological and cultural questions as well as the historical background offered by three sacred texts. The first is "The Gospel of Mary", a story of the Virgin Mary's life from her conception to the birth of Jesus, written circa AD 150; the second is the oldest known prayer to Mary, found on papyrus in Egypt and dated to the third century; the third is "The Annunciation Hymn", written by the Syrian poet Romanos circa AD 520 and widely considered a classic of Eastern Christian poetry, still sung in Eastern Orthodox churches throughout the modern world today. Combined, the texts offer a wondrous spiritual viewpoint into the mother of the Lord. Written from the perspective of a devout believer, The Lost Gospel of Mary is a welcome addition to Christian spirituality shelves.

A Beginner's Guide to Spirituality
Michael Keiser
Conciliar Press
PO Box 76, Ben Lomond, CA 95005-0076
9781888212884, $10.95 www.conciliarpress.com 1-800-967-7377

Written by Orthodox priest Father Michael Keiser, A Beginner's Guide to Spirituality: The Orthodox Path to a Deeper Relationship with God is a simple guide to spirituality, defined as keeping in balance with God, our fellow man, and the material world. Chapters discuss different types of prayer from adoration and thanksgiving to penitence and petition, the purpose of confession, aspects of asceticism, and much more. "If you have sinned in a major, soul-destroying way, don't wait until your next scheduled confession to deal with it. Don't defer confession of major sins, for they build up quickly and darken our soul, helping the passions to take root. Follow this simple rule: when in doubt, spill your guts." An accessible and enlightening guide.


The Gardening Shelf

Compendium of Rose Diseases and Pests
R. Kenneth Horst & Raymond Cloyd
APS Press
3340 Pilot Knob Road, St. Paul, MN 55121-2097
9780890543559, $59.00 www.shopapspress.org 1-800-328-7560

Now in an updated second edition, Compendium of Rose Diseases and Pests is an in-depth resource ideal for intermediate to expert or rose gardeners. Full color photography on virtually every page illustrates this in-depth perusal of virtually every parasite or malady known to affect roses, including lists of symptoms and recommendations for managing or combating each affliction. A glossary and index round out this useful guide, which is detailed to the point of being technical. A "must-have" especially for professionals in the field.


The Education Shelf

From My Classroom to Yours
James Rourke
Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group
4501 Forbes Blvd., Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
National Writers Literary Agency (publicity)
3140 South Peoria Street, #295, Aurora, CA 80014
9781578866045, $22.95 www.rlpgbooks.com 1-800-462-6420

History teacher James Rourke presents From My Classroom to Yours: Reflections on Teaching, a compendium of classroom-tested methodologies for increasing student performance, and countering teacher apathy and burnout. Chapters address critical thinking through feedback, coaching in the classroom, what students most need to know, and much more. "We must detach ourselves from focusing on the students as the problem and recognize our true antagonists. In doing so, we can maintain enthusiasm and dedication, even toward those students who exhibit these antagonistic traits. Once we detach ourselves from the idea that the students are the problems, we can actually attach ourselves to the idea that we are allies in the struggle to overcome common foes, like arrogance or ignorance." A thoroughly accessible guide, highly recommended for grade school through high school teachers of all backgrounds.

Crafting Opinion and Persuasive Papers
Tim Clifford
Maupin House Publishing
PO Box 90148, Gainesville, FL 32607
9780929895611, $19.95 www.maupinhouse.com 1-800-524-0634

Written by middles-school language-arts teacher Tim Clifford, Crafting Opinion and Persuasive Papers: For Teachers of Developing Writers in Grades 4-10 is a straightforward guide to helping students learn how to craft quality papers advocating a point or a cause, and therefore cultivate the ability to make informed judgments about the media messages they encounter over the course of their lives. The sample lessons readily incorporated into any curriculum, or compiled as whole into a complete course. Examples, reproducible pages for classroom use, recommendations for opening the lesson and modeling writing skills, work time suggestions, closing activities, and recommended reading lessons compose the meat of this handy teacher's aide.

Once Upon a Time
Jane Heitman
Linworth Publishing, Inc.
3650 Olentangy River Road, Suite 250, Columbus, OH 43214
9781586832315, $36.95 www.linworth.com

Once Upon a Time: Fairy Tales in the Library and Language Arts Classroom for Grades 3-6 is a resource for librarians and language arts teachers. Drawing upon classic fairy tales to teach core language skills to young students and English as a second language learners alike, Once Upon a Time is divided into two sections. The first section has background information, an annotated bibliography of adaptations appropriate for students in grades three through six. The second section offers ready-to-use lessons for reading, writing, speaking, and listening, as well as assessment suggestions and sample rubrics. Reproducible worksheets and templates enhance this useful educational tool.


The Language Studies Shelf

The Way of Chinese Characters
Jianhsin Wu
Cheng & Tsui Company
25 West Street, Boston, MA 02111-1213
9780887275272, $28.95 www.cheng-tsui.com

The Way of Chinese Characters: The Origins of 400 Essential Words is an excellent mnemonic guide for anyone learning written Chinese. Simple black-and-white sketches enhance the step-by-step deconstruction of common Chinese characters and their radicals, revealing their origins and therefore making them easier for astute students of Chinese to memorize. Each description of a Chinese character is written in both English and Chinese, to further enhance learning. A superb self-study resource or complementary teaching tool.


The Photography Shelf

Train Your Gaze
Roswell Angier
AVA Publishing Ltd.
c/o Watson Guptill Publications
770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003-9535
9782940373376, $49.95 www.wgpub.com 1-800-451-1741

Academic, photographer, and artist Roswell Angier applies his twenty years of experience to Train Your Gaze: A Practical and Theoretical Introduction to Portrait Photography. The result is a beautifully illustrated guide to refining one's technique in capturing the situational element of photography. The activity of one person looking can completely transform the sense of a piece, as revealed again and again in the sample black-and-white and color photographs, each of which has its background described at length. The soulful images make Train Your Gaze a welcome addition to photography connoisseur shelves as well as photographer-in-training reference shelves.


The American History Shelf

Long Branch
Sharon hazard
Arcadia Publishing
420 Wando Park Boulevard, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
9780738549675, $19.99 www.arcadiapublishing.com

A superb compilation of period postcards reproduced in black-and-white, "Long Branch" showcases the buildings, avenues, vehicles, and people of Long Branch, New Jersey in the first few decades of the 20th Century. Included are postcard images of the most impressive Long Branch hotels and homes, well-known actors, politicians and business tycoons of the day who visited the area, as well as other prominent people of the community. Of special note are the post card images of the beach, the boardwalk, and Ocean Avenue. Each postcard image is supported by an informative caption by Sharon Hazard, who has strong family ties to Long Branch. Entertaining and informative, "Long Branch" could well serve as a template for post-card oriented photograph history compilations showcasing other American communities.


The Library CD Shelf

Arc
Falkner Evans, Belden Bullock, and Matt Wilson
Consolodated Artists Productions, Inc.
The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
CD $13.97 www.falknerevans.com www.jazzbeat.com

The Falkner Evans Trio presents Arc, their third music CD, a toe-tapping expression of improvised jazz that allows its beat to flow through minimal structure rather than succumb to over-arrangement. The tracks are Regatta (6:02), Singing Darkness (5:21), Central Park West (3:48), Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum (6:02), Bar Enigma (6:44), Lucia's Happy Heart (6:51), Make Tracks, Child (5:48), Come Rain or Come Shine (7:25), and Lost in the Stars (5:01). A smoothly flowing album easy on the ears and fondly accessible to listeners and jazz fans and of all backgrounds. 53 minutes, 2 seconds.

Dreams & Visions
Mary-Kathryn
Rhythm House Records
c/o The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
CD $18.49 www.rhythmhouse.com

The fourth album of Mary-Kathryn, Dreams & Visions is a music CD album of spiritual music that encourages human beings to have faith in one another and the future. Combining sung lyrics and world music-influenced sound, Dreams & Visions is a transcendental listening experience. Its tracks are Incense of Praise (5:23), You Are There (4:41), Dreamers (4:18), Psalm 91 (4:18), My Father's World (5:53), In Your Time (6:08), Flying Toward the Sun (4:33), Eve of Your Return (4:12), Wailing Wall (6:30), and Glory Forever (3:46). A truly rapturous collection, highly recommended.

Secret Journey
Omar Akram
Real Music
85 Libertyship Way, Suite 207, Sausalito, CA 94965
The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
CD $14.95 www.realmusic.com

Secret Journey is an original music CD created by Omar Akram, whose international travels have exposed him to a wide and eclectic variety of styles that he freely draws upon, from jazz and new age influences to themes hearkening from different corners of the world. The tracks are Run Away With Me (5:08), Secret Journey (6:04), Nomadic Rhapsody (3:17), Passage of the Heart (3:32), Gypsy Spirit (4:28), Stargazers (3:56), Seven Secrets (4:47), Whispers in the Moonlight (4:37), Mirage (4:32), Shimmering Star (4:40), Caravan (4:35), and Angel of Hope (3:31). A masterful collection, highly recommended for listening pleasure. 56 minutes, 35 seconds.

Sounds from a Bygone Age Vol. 4
Toni Iordache
Ashalt Tango Records GmbH
c/o Rock Paper Scissors
216 West Allen Street, Suite 137, Bloomington, IN 47403
$21.98 www.rockpaperscissors.biz

Sounds from a Bygone Age Volume 4 the latest music CD installment of past musical treasures by legendary international artists. Volume 4 features fourteen songs by Toni Iordache, the great Romanian tambal player, who was bestowed the highest honors in his day and sentenced to a year in prison for seeking small pleasures. Arrested for the crime possessing foreign currency (acquired from his international tours), his fame and skill were so beloved that his fellow inmates helped him with his share of hard prison labor. Sounds from a Bygone Age Volume 4 especially features Iordache's cimbalom music; Iordache's exceptional speed, timing, and sensitivity allowed him to create superlative performances. His musical interests extended beyond traditional Gypsy influences, to incorporate elements of other musical styles such as jazz. Sounds from a Bygone Age Volume 4 echoes the era of the Iron Curtain, featuring the original analogue sound of Iordache's music as recorded in the 1960's and 1970's. Enthusiastically recommended for public and private music CD libraries.

MVD Audio
c/o Music Vido Distributors
M-840 North Circle Drive, Oaks, PA 19460
www.mvdb2b.com 1-800-888-0486

A premier producer of both 'time-lost' and contemporary music CDs for personal and library collections, MVD Audio has now made available "The Fall: Live At The Knitting Factory", a recording original made in Hollywood in 2001 and previously only available on the DVD Access All Areas. The band performs a number of Fall classics and documents one of the many different line ups of Mark E. Smith's popular and influential group. A superbly produced recording that takes full advantage of CD technology, "The Fall: Live At The Knitting Factory" is a 'must' for the legion of their enthusiastic fans and a welcome introduction for those who have not yet encountered their music. Also very highly recommended listening are several other new CD releases from MVD Audio including: The British group Attrition's "Esoteria: A Collection of Ambient and Classical Works 1982-2004" (4GodsCD) and "The Attrition of Reason" (5GodsCD); Paradiso' "Tangerine Dream" (EGVP101CD) which is the third installment of the music based on Dante Alighieri's 'La Divina Commedia'; the British Group Gentle Giant's "Live in Santa Monica 1975" (Glass109CD); and Refugee's "Live in Concert: Newcastle City hall 1974" (VP421CD). Music enthusiasts, librarians, and collectors are encouraged to visit the MVD Audio website at www.mvdb2b.com for a complete listing of all of their available albums.


The Judicial Studies Shelf

Winning at Trial
D. Shane Read
National Institute for Trial Advocacy
361 Centennial Parkway, Suite 220, Louisville, Colorado 80027
9781601560018, $75.00 www.nita.org

D. Shane Read, an experienced legal professional and adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, commits his wisdom to paper in Winning at Trial, a text ideal for legal courses and self-study alike. Chapters cover basic trial strategies, Voir Dire, tips tricks and techniques for the phases of the trial (opening statements, direct examination, cross examination, and closing arguments), exhibits and objections, and much more. Numerous examples illustrate Read's practical and experience-tested recommendations. "If your case has many witnesses, take a digital photograph of each witness when she is in the witness room before she testifies. Having the photograph will help you immensely in closing argument. When you summarize an important part of a witness' testimony, you can project the photograph on your screen in the courtroom. This will aid the jury in recalling exactly which witness you are referring to and help you refresh the jurors' memory regarding her testimony." An accompanying DVD rounds out this highly recommended text for legal professionals of all skill and experience levels - even courtroom veterans are sure to discover a useful tidbit.


The Mathematics Shelf

Summa Summarum
Mogens Esrom Larsen
A K Peters, Ltd.
888 Worcester Street, Suite 230, Wellesley, MA 02482
9781568813233, $49.00 www.akpeters.com

Summa Summarum is an advanced mathematics text discussing how to efficiently evaluate finite sums and combinatorial identities. Written especially for graduate and upper-level undergraduate mathematics students, Summa Summarum presupposes a thorough foundation of algebra in its numerous sample mathematical equations and summations. Chapters discuss theories concerning numerous different known sums and identities, polynomial sums and linear difference equations, a guide to classifying unknown sums and changing them to a standard form, and much more. Introducing a wealth of useful tools from the classical concepts of Euler to modern computer algorithms discovered by Gosper as well as Wilf and Zeilberger, Summa Summarum is a superb reference and study text.

The Education of T. C. Mits
Lillian R. Lieber, author
Hugh Gray Lieber, illustrator
Paul Dry Books
117 South 17th Street, Suite 1102, Philadelphia, PE 19103
9781589880337, $11.95 www.pauldrybooks.com

Originally published in 1944, The Education of T. C. Mits: What Modern Mathematics Means to You is a unique, plain-terms introduction to the amazing world of mathematics, written for readers of all backgrounds. In higher mathematics, sometimes the most fundamental of precepts can be challenged: two times two is not always four; the sum of the angles in a triangle does not always equal 180 degrees, and two parallel lines can be drawn through the same point! The free-verse poetry format does not interfere with the straightforward message, sample problems, and mathematical explanations in the least. Simple black-and-white line drawings illustrate this amazing exploration of mathematical mysteries for "T. C. Mits", or "The Common Man in the Street". A joy to read, especially recommended for public library collections to stimulate human interest in math and science. Highly recommended. "There is one very essential difference / between the behavior of T. C. and / that of a scientist. / T. C. is apt to think that / if he is good at hunches sometimes, / he may rely on them always. / But the fact is that / EACH INDIVIDUAL HUNCH MUST BE / CHECKED AND DOUBLE-CHECKED!"


The World History Shelf

The Invention of Ancient Slavery?
Niall McKeown
Duckworth
c/o International Publishers Marketing (IPM)
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
9780715631850, $22.00 www.ducknet.co.uk 1-800-758-3756

Niall McKeown (Lecturer in Ancient History, University of Birmingham) presents The Invention of Ancient Slavery?, a sampler of modern theories concerning ancient slavery as circulated among scholars and students today. In the quest to uncover the "reality" of ancient slave life, The Invention of Ancient Slavery? examines surviving evidence (particularly where Roman slavery is concerned) such as ancient drama, legal regulations, poetry, letters, philosophy, inscriptions, and the work of Greek and Roman historians. How should modern historians reconstruct the past from such materials, and what effect does the nature of the evidence have upon their job? To what extent do modern preconceptions affect our understanding of ancient sources? A scholarly, meticulous discussion especially recommended for college libraries and ancient history courses, written to stoke critical thinking of human history.


The Humor Shelf

Growing Old with B.C.
Johnny Hart
Checker Book Publishing Group
2044 A South Alex Road, West Carrollton, OH 45449
9781933160689, $19.95 www.checkerbpg.com

Growing Old with B.C.: A 50 Year Celebration is a retrospective and tribute to the long-lived, multiple award-winning newspaper comic strip B.C., starring a gaggle of cavemen and two strong-willed cavewomen. B.C.'s creator and artist Johnny Hart himself designed the cover and engaged in the first round of edits before he passed away. Growing Old with B.C. is more than anthology of the best of the best B.C. strips in the past 50 years; photographs and brief interviews with Hart's friends - many of whom were the direct inspiration for the comic strip's core characters - a short biography of Hart, and even a brief introduction by Hart's wife round out this collection. A sidesplitting overview of Hart's laughter-steeped life's work, and an excellent giftbook for anyone who reads the comic strip page first in the newspaper.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

Escape From Hell
Alfred Wetzler, author
Ewald Osers, translator
Berghahn Books
150 Broadway, Suite 812, New York, NY 10038
9781845451837, $34.95 www.berghahnbooks.com 1-800-540-8663

Originally written in 1963 under the pseudonym "Jozef Lanik", Escape From Hell: The True Story of the Auschwitz Protocol is the true story of author Alfred Wetzler's horrifying experience as a one of millions of victims of the Nazi Holocaust, his fortuitous escape, and most poignantly, his efforts to subsequently inform the world about the truth behind Nazi camps of mass murder. Escape from Hell describes in detail the inhuman atrocities perpetrated by the Nazis, the ingenious plan made by the resistance movement in the camp, and how Wetzler successfully escaped with his friend Rudi Vrba. A chilling day-by-day account of life in Auschwitz, by a man whose determination to spread the truth likely saved more Jews from the machinations of the SS than any other single act. A "must-have" for Holocaust Studies shelves and collections.


The Criminology Shelf

Predatory Priests, Silenced Victims
Mary Gail Frawley-O' Dea & Virginia Goldner, editors
The Analytic Press
10 Industrial Avenue, Suite 3, Mahwah, NJ 07430-2284
9780881634242, $34.95 www.analyticpress.com

Predatory Priests, Silenced Victims: The Sexual Abuse Crisis and the Catholic Church is an anthology of essays by experts on the issues pertaining to clerical sexual abuse, including psychoanalysts, biblical scholars, clergy, historians, survivors of sexual abuse, and cultural critics. Predatory Priests, Silenced Victims vigorously debunks myths such as the false belief that homosexual priests are more likely to commit abuse (which statistics have shown to be wrong), that the preponderance of abuse is committed by priests under the influence of alcohol or other drugs (again, statistics show that the majority of predatory priests are "clean and sober"), or that celibacy by itself propagates abuse (of much greater concern is the demonization of both women and human sexuality promoted along with the celibacy). Ultimately, Predatory Priests, Silenced Victims does not pigeonhole itself to a single "root" cause of clerical sexual abuse, but rather scrutinizes the severe problem from all angles in the search for better means to prevent future victimizations. Highly recommended.


The Travel Shelf

Rome With Kids
J.M. Pasquesi
Synergy Books
2100 Kramer Lane, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78758
9781933538471, $16.95 www.amazon.com

Rome With Kids is a guide to making the most of one's visit to Rome, the great seat of Western civilization, written especially for parents with children in tow. Color photographs and maps enhance the step-by-step itineraries, recommendations for kid-friendly activities, advice on viewing the finest museum collections before the kids burn out, tips on where to shop or rent bikes, and much more. Written by mother and former Rome resident J.M. Pasquesi, Rome with Kids is enthusiastically recommended to parents for its attention to detail and ease of use.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

On the Market
Sandra L. Barnes
Lynne Rienner Publishers
1800 30th Street, Suite 314, Boulder, CO 80301
9781588265357, $22.50 www.rienner.com

Associate sociology professor Sandra L. Barnes presents On the Market: Strategies for a Successful Academic Job Search, a no-nonsense guide to putting one's best foot forward when pursuing an academic career. Chapters walk the reader through getting the most out of one's graduate school experience, the application process, the importance of a teaching portfolio for candidates, the interview process, other employment options such as joint appointments, the importance of maintaining one's quality of life despite the rigorous demands of one's new career, and much more. "Beware of 'schools bearing gifts.' While you should expect an employment package reflective of both the current salary and perks in your industry and your unique skills, talent, and experience, by skeptical of offers that greatly exceed your expectations. Make sure there aren't ulterior motives. Does the department seem genuinely interested in you or simply interested in filling the position with [for example] a female candidate?" A "must-have" for anyone aspiring to an academic position.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

The Dry Eye Remedy
Robert Latkany, M.D.
Hatherleigh Press
5-22 46th Avenue, Suite 200, Long Island City, NY 11101
9781578262427, $15.95 www.hatherleighpress.com 1-800-528-2550

Board-certified ophthalmologist and founder/director of the Dry Eye Clinic Robert Latkany presents The Dry Eye Remedy: The Complete Guide to Restoring the Health and Beauty of Your Eyes, a guide written especially to help the 77 million Americans (and millions of others worldwide) who suffer from "dry eye", also known as dysfunctional tear syndrome. Often beginning as a minor irritation, dry eye causes lines, wrinkles, bags, and redness, and traditional remedies such as eyelid surgery or eyedrops can potentially make the problem worse. Offering recommendations to improve eye health and appearance without resorting to surgery, The Dry Eye Remedy includes advice for improving one's home environment, proper nutrition, how to set up a "home eye spa", which over-the-counter remedies are harmful, the pros and cons of medical treatments such as hormone therapy or punctal plugs, and a guide to deciding upon the dry eye therapy that works best for the reader. A list of resources and an index round out this solid guide, accessible to readers of all backgrounds, and highly recommended for anyone who cherishes their eyes.


The Native American Shelf

Po'li: Traditional Songs of the Hopi
Clark Tenakhongva
Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85017
CD $14.98 www.canyonrecords.com 1-800-268-1141

Po'li: Traditional Songs of the Hopi is a music CD album by Hopi singer Clark Tenakhongva. Named after the Hopi word for "butterfly", in honor of Tenakhongva's maternal grandfather who belonged to the Butterfly and Badger clan, Po'li features original music crafted in respect of traditional Hopi styles and rhythms, yet reflective of Hopi life in the modern-day world. An insert lists the lyrics of this unforgettable album; the tracks are Butterflies are Free (3:59), Po'li (3:16), Sunflowers (4:23), Intertribal (4:43), Butterfly Clouds (4:04), Supai Maiden (3:28), Zuni Rain (3:47), Comanche (3:00), Hopi Sweetheart (2:24), O'Shi' Heart (2:39), Hopi Two-Step (2:24), The Beauty Way (4:49), Moo'sa (3:15), and Prayers (3:18). A lively and welcome addition to modern Native American music collections. 50 minutes 32 seconds.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Testament Of Gideon Mack
James Robertosn
Clipper Audio
c/o Recorded Books
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
H2110, $98.75 www.recordedbooks.com 1-800-638-1304

Superbly narrated with a range of Scottish accents by Tom Cotcher, "The Testament Of Gideon Mack" is a compelling fantasy novel by James Robertson that is completely original and inherently fascinating from beginning to end. A manuscript of Gideon Mack's experiences growing up a preacher's son, his basic atheism, his becoming a minister of the Scottish church despite his disbelief in God, his encounter with a mysterious Standing Stone where no such stone should be, his near death by drowning, his encounter with the Devil, his attempt to reveal what he has experienced and the catastrophic consequences that result, all this and more are delivered into the hands of a publisher after Gideon's sudden disappearance followed by the discovery of his body. The publisher commissions an investigation into the Gideon's life and the claims of his biographical manuscript. The results leave the listener spellbound and, in the end, confronted with their own decision to make as to whether Gideon's story was real, or the result of madness. Wonderfully entertaining from beginning to end, and very strongly recommended for community library collections, "The Testament Of Gideon Black" is a superbly recorded, 12-cassette audiobook with a total running time of 16.25 hours.

Becoming What You Want To See In The World
Mary Claire O'Neal
River Birch Publishing
PO Box 23198, Lexington, KY 40523-3198
9780977256617, $19.95 www.riverbirchpublishing.com

A superbly recorded, two disc, 1.9 hour audiobook production narrated by Mary Clair O'Neall, "Becoming What You Want To See In The World" examines the 'physics' of happiness and how anyone can invoke and restore passion and joy into the fabric of their lives. Replete with inspiring personal stories, "Becoming What You Want To See In The World" also provides tools and activities illustrating practical approaches to leading a more fulfilled, balanced, and meaningful life regardless of the listener's personal circumstances or economic restrictions. Especially recommended to the attention of those who are leading busy, time stressed lives, and feel they don't have the ability or opportunity to make changes in their schedules or themselves, "Becoming What You Want To See In The World" is ideal for learning how to take the time and invest the energy needed to improve the quality of life on a daily basis.

MacArthur
Richard B. Frank
Blackstone Audiobooks
PO Box 969, Ashland, OR 97520
9781433200465, $55.00 www.BlackstoneAudio.com 1-800-729-2665

MacArthur is an audiobook biography of legendary general Douglas MacArthur, known not only for his brilliance in World War II, but also his peacetime occupation of Japan - the most successful occupation in history. Written by Vietnam veteran Richard B. Frank, MacArthur explores how a man commissioned before the Wright Brothers' first flight became one of the most adaptable and innovative military leaders, quick to adjust to new dimensions in warfare. Enthusiastically recommended especially for public library collections. 6 CDs, 7 hours, tracks every three minutes for easy bookmarking.

All You Need to Know to Celebrate Kwanzaa
C. E. Rodgers
MasterBuy Audiobooks
20 Vesey Street, Suite 401, New York, NY 10007
9780974208879, $19.95 www.amazon.com

All You Need to Know to Celebrate Kwanzaa is an audiobook step-by-step guide to partaking in Kwanzaa, an African-American cultural holiday. Seven key principles and the objects needed to enhance the celebration are discussed at length, and a walkthrough of a typical Kwanzaa celebration is also present. A friendly, easy-to-follow resource sure to answer any and all questions families have. 1 hour 30 minutes.

Dark Possession
Christine Feehan, author
Phil Gigante and Jane Brown, narrators
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781423340140, $36.95 www.brillianceaudio.com 1-800-854-7859

Dark Possession is an unabridged audiobook about the sensual bond between Carpathian near-vampire Manolito De La Cruz and his human destined lifemate, MaryAnn Delaney. When MaryAnn, a counselor for battered women, dares to venture into South America to offer guidance to a brutalized young woman, she walks unawares into a remorseless trap - Manolito waits to ensnare her with seductive, predatory power. Scenes of explicit adult content are present in this atmospheric and sexually charged dark fantasy. 12 CDs, approximately 13 hours.


The Library DVD Shelf

Air Gear Volume 1: East Side Showdown
ADV Films
10114 W. Sam Houston Pkwy #200, Houston, TX 77099
9781413914641, $29.98 www.advfilms.com

Air Gear: East Side Showdown is the first volume of a new Japanese anime DVD series that takes extreme sports above and beyond human expectations. Set in a world where "Storm Riders", where motor-powered inline skates called "Air Trecks" allow the most hardcore competitors to ride the skies and risk life and limb in a competition for fame and power. Ikki Minami, the toughest fighter of the east side of town, rules his local skill and challenges violent gangs single-handedly. He lives with the Noyamanos, four voluptuous sisters sharing a hidden secret. After the sisters are defeated by a fearsome gang of Storm Riders, they introduce Ikki to a world where strength, speed, and raw ambition can lead the dedicated player to new risk all upon new heights. Four episodes kick off this thrilling adventure featuring the options of English dubbing or original Japanese language with English subtitles. 100 minutes, color. Also highly recommended are Volume 2: Growing Wings, Volume 3: A New Legacy, Volume 4: Wings Reborn!, and Volume 5: Battle of Kings.

Murder In Suburbia: Series 1 & 2
Acorn Media Group
801 Roeder Road, Suite 700, Silver Spring, MD 20910
DVD, $39.99 each www.acornmedia.com

The two-DVD boxed sets comprising the first and second seasons of the weekly one hour British television "Murder In Suburbia" series starring Caroline Catz as Detective Inspector Kate "Ash" Ashurst and Lisa Faulkner as Detective Sergeant Emma "Scribbs" Scribbins, two young female homicide detectives who conduct murder investigations in less-than-merry-old-England. A very odd pair indeed, Ash is a graduate of a posh girls' academy, a member in good standing of Britain's upper middle class, and the possessor of a pragmatic and sharply analytical mind. Scribbs on the other hand is a blue-color gal with more of an instinctual approach to detective work. Together they form a formidable pair of sleuths who work their torturous and often frustrating way through a series of homicide cases. Both are unmarried and serving under the supervision of their bemused boss (played perfectly by Jeremy Sheffield). The individual mystery plots are intelligent, play fair with the viewer, are superbly produced in accordance with the high production standards associated with the BBC. "Murder In Suburbia: Series 1 & 2" is unstintingly recommended as popular and entertaining acquisitions for both personal and community library DVD collections. Librarians in particular are encouraged to visit the Acorn Media Group website at www.acornmedia.com for a complete listing of all their various DVD British mystery series.

LivingRoom Yoga
Razor Fitness
947 Hamilton Avenue, Menlo Park, CA 94025
1595523774, $14.99 www.razorfitness.com

Hosted by fitness expert Eva Barash, LivingRoom Yoga is a DVD emphasizing systematic bodily exercises as well as special movement and breathing techniques. Designed to be carried out with a minimum of apparatus - living room furniture works just fine - LivingRoom Yoga includes the traditional sun salutation, held standing poses, core strengthening exercises, yoga calisthenics, and relaxation cool-down. An interview with Eva, "Making the most out of your living room" featurette, and a library of proper yoga poses round out this excellent introduction to the benefits of yoga for ordinary people. 48 minutes, color.

John James Audubon: Drawn from Nature
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
DVD $250.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com 1-800-543-3764

John James Audubon: Drawn from Nature is an absorbing biographical documentary for all ages about John James Audubon, artist, naturalist and self-made man whose passion for drawing and studying birds made his name virtually synonymous with respect for our feathered friends. His classic natural history work "The Birds of America" featured 435 life-size prints and was the largest book printed in the nineteenth century. A spectacular DVD film, John James Audubon: Drawn from Nature is also packed with DVD extras including a description of the printing process, a Donald Heald Gallery comparison between the work of Alexander Wilson and Audubon, and a demonstration of how Audubon once painted birds. Highly recommended, especially for public school and library collections. 54 minutes, color.

Granny D. Goes to Washington
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
DVD $195.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com 1-800-543-3764

Granny D. Goes to Washington is the true story of an extraordinary march across the United States by political activist Doris Haddock. She hiked 3,200 miles from California to Washington, D.C. to emphasize the need to restore representative government in America and downsize the enormous influence of special interest money in politics. Granny D. Goes to Washington records her travels and her passionate commitment to campaign finance reform. An inspirational film for viewers of all ages, especially recommended for public library and classroom collections. 27 minutes, color.

V.I.E.W. Video
34 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010
www.view.com

The Museum City Series introduces armchair travelers to crowning jewels of human civilization, filled with historical lore as well as breathtaking camera work. London: City of Majesty (0803020538, $14.98, 52 minutes) is an award-winning tour of London's greatest museums, monuments, and architecture, featuring digitally mastered audio and video. A modern travel guide immersed in centuries of history, London: City of Majesty is awe-inspiring and packed with bonus features including a museum and gallery guide. Rome: The Eternal City (0803020546, $14.98, 48 minutes) doubles as a visual travel guide for first time visitors and an awe-inspiring documentary to the history and legacy Rome has bequeathed upon the world. From the homes of the Pope, Julius Caesar, and Michelangelo, to the City of Seven Hills, the Tiber River, Saint Peter's Basilica, and the Via Veneto, Rome: The Eternal City savors the art, architecture, and poetry that has made Rome great. Both volumes are ideal for public library collections and highly recommended.

The Camden 28
First Run Features
The Film Center Building, 630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213, NY, NY 10036
DVD $24.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com 1-800-229-8575

The Camden 28 is a DVD presentation of the PBS documentary that aired on September 11th, 2007. Set in the early 70's, The Camden 28 investigates the historical incident of when 28 people, mostly non-violent activists from the Catholic left, plotted to break into a local draft board office and destroy records. But a mole had successfully infiltrated their operation; within hours of beginning their mission they were rounded up and arrested by the FBI, under the personal authority of J. Edgar Hoover. The Camden 28 includes a wealth of archival materials from Camden 28 members, witness for the defense Howard Zinn, and a former FBI agent involved in the case. A gripping true story of political dissent, offering relevance that far transcends the Vietnam era. Highly recommended. 83 minutes, color and black-and-white.

The New Fly Fishing Basics
Bennett-Watt HD Productions, Inc.
13021 244th Avenue SE, Issaquah, WA 98027
DVD $29.95 www.Bennett-Watt.com 1-425-392-3935

Featuring widescreen digital composition and high definition Dolby stereo sound, The New Fly Fishing Basics is a DVD guide to essential fishing techniques, knots, equipment, and fly tying. From a wide variety of different casts (including but not limited to reach cast, slack line cast, jump roll cast, and wind casts), to a grounding in the simple entomology that fly fishers need to know, The New Fly Fishing Basics is especially ideal for relative newcomers to the sport, though veteran fishers will also appreciate the video demonstrations of a wide assortment of techniques. The perfect preparation before embarking upon a fly-fishing voyage with family or friends. 90 minutes, color.

Back in Step
Prevention Plus, Inc.
5775 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 700, Minneapolis, MN 55416
411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
DVD $29.95 www.preventionplusinc.com www.411videoinfo.com

Back in Step: The Road to Recovery From Back Pain is a DVD guide to preventing and managing back pain. Occupational therapist Michael Melnik teaches viewers through the proper ways to engage in sitting or standing, lifting, kitchen activities, child care, yard work, driving, and other daily activities that can strain the back. The DVD format allows for numerous demonstrations and examples that viewers can follow for themselves, in this "must-have" posturepedic guide especially recommended for anyone at risk for back pain. 60 minutes.

Robert Frost: New England in Autumn
Monterey Video
566 St. Charles Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360-3901
1569944164, $19.95 www.montereymedia.com 1-800-424-2593

Robert Frost: New England in Autumn is a DVD presentation of a medley of Robert Frost's classic poems, selected to perfectly suit a brisk autumn day in New England. Filmed in the vibrant farm country of Massachusetts, Robert Frost: New England in Autumn includes readings of "The Pasture", "The Exposed Nest", "Bluebird", "After Apple-Picking", "The Wood-Pile", "The Road Not Taken", and many more, for a total of eighteen poems. Enthusiastically recommended for poetry and nature lovers alike. 29 minutes, color.

Endurance for Movement with Tracie Long
Braun Media
c/o 411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
1599875292, $14.99 www.411videoinfo.com www.bmsdigital.com

Endurance for Movement with Tracie Long is part of a series of vibrantly energetic fitness DVDs. Endurance for Movement offers a workout that needs very little equipment: light-medium weights (3-10 pounds), a stability ball, and a cloth rag or paper plate. The exercises include kick-heavy cardio routines for the hips and thighs, muscle-building routines that work one leg at a time, stretches to improve flexibility, and much more. Hosted by certified fitness instructor Tracie Long, Endurance for Movement is ideal for weight loss, staying improving core strength, limber, and overall fitness. 59 minutes, color.

Ingrid Bergman Remembered
Janson Media
88 Semmens Road, Harrington Park, NJ 07640
9781568392427, $24.95 www.janson.com

Ingrid Bergman Remembered is a biographical DVD tribute to legendary Hollywood actress and devoted mother Ingrid Bergman, known for her stellar performance in such classics as "Casablanca", "Gaslight", and "Anastasia". Rare and never-before-seen photographs and home movies add a highlight to this wondrous retrospective a talented and widely beloved actress. Highly recommended, especially for fans of Bergman's work. 90 minutes, black-and-white and color.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

A Thinker's Guide To Effective Writing
Bill Bailey
Echo Mountain Press
4010 Echo Mountain Drive, Kingwood, TX 77345
9780979362606, $25.00 http://echomountainpress.com

Being learned in a subject is no guarantee of fluency in writing about it. Having an original story does not automatically mean that it will be written down in paper as engagingly and seamlessly as the author intended. Writing takes a set of skills that include more than the ability to spell or a basic grasp of grammar. "A Thinker's Guide To Effective Writing" presents two sets of rules fundamentally necessary to being able to write effectively. One set focuses upon creating a text that is simple, efficient, and so clearly laid out that even grade-school children can understand what is written. The goal is to write as simply as possible without sacrificing content. The twenty-five rules comprising this set are presented, explained and illustrated with total accessibility. The second set of twelve rules promotes effective writing without consciously seeking efficiency, but efficiency often is a welcome by-product. Profuse with examples by writers ranging from Francis Bacon and Winston Churchill, to Albert Einstein and George Orwell, "A Thinker's Guide To Effective Writing" is a complete course of easily assimilated and practical instruction that is particularly recommended to the attention of students, aspiring authors, educators, editors, editorialists, journalists, attorneys, and anyone else who needs to communicate by writing whether it be on paper or on computer.

The Copyright Handbook
Stephen Fishman
Nolo Press
950 Parker Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
9781413305333, $39.99 www.nolo.com 1-800-955-4775

Simply stated, "The Copyright Handbook: What Every Writer Needs To Know" by copyright attorney Stephen Fishman is the definitive reference on the subject of copyright law. This thoroughly 'user friendly' instruction manual shows aspiring authors how to register their work; how to maximize copyright protection for their work; how to use a copyright notice; how to transfer ownership of a copyright; how to avoid copyright infringements and effectively deal with those who infringe on their copyrighted material; the legal definition of the 'fair use' rule; how to obtain permission to use copyrighted work; how to profit from a copyright. All this and a great deal more (such as copyrighting Internet works such as blogs) are covered in this newly updated and expanded ninth edition of "The Copyright Handbook" which is accompanied by a CD-ROM providing more than 30 legal and copyright forms. "The Copyright Handbook" is very strongly recommended as essential reading and an invaluable reference to authors seeking a professional career and publishers wishing to avoid becoming entangled in copyright issues.

How To Sell Your Screenplay
Lydia Wilen & Joan Wilen
Square One Publishers
115 Herricks Road, Garden City Park, NY 11040
0757000029, $17.95 www.squareonepublishers.com 1-877-900-2665

Writing a screenplay for the movies or for television is only the beginning of the process. Once the script is written it must be pitched (sold) to a studio executive or a production company producer. Expertly co-authored by veteran script writers Lydia and Joan Wilen, "How To Sell Your Screenplay: A Realistic Guide To Getting A Television Or Film Deal" provides an informed and informative introduction to how the script writing business works, what the components of a professional-looking screenplay are, and how to format a script to make the best impression. "How To Sell Your Screenplay" then goes on to explain the role and importance of agent and managers, producers, lawyers, directors, and actors. Enhanced with the example of an effective query letter, "How To Sell Your Screenplay" also features the 'Square One System' for submitting scripts with a minimum of time, cost and effort, while achieving a maximum of success. Of special value is the up-to-date listing of resources, the advice for improving pitching skills, and avoiding common mistakes in pitching a script. Simply stated, "How To Sell Your Screenplay" should be considered 'must reading' for all aspiring script writers seeking to establish themselves professionally.


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


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