Aunt Ruby, Do I Look Like God?
Ruby L. Taylor
Maria Rask, illustrator
http://connected2thefather.com
ISBN: 0974512206 $12.95
Alyice Edrich
Reviewer
In a society of many nationalities, it's only a matter of time before a child wonders who God really
looks like. How can God say He made man in His own image when we obviously have many
different features? In Aunt Ruby, Do I Look Like God? children are allowed to wonder this
age-old question, but then in the twinkle of an eye, they're given the reassurance they need in
knowing that "yes, they do look like God and so does everyone else in the world."
Sometimes, it's the simple answers to our questions that leave us with the most profound "aha"
moment and this was the case for Ruby and her niece.
Finally, you won't want to miss the captivating illustrations in this children's book. I can't help but
find myself wondering if and when Ruby will turn that beautiful cover art into a greeting card and
poster line.
Safari The Romance and the Reality
Molly Buchanan with Shan & Dave Varty
National Geographic Society
1145 17th Street N.W., Washington, DC 20036-4688
ISBN 0793327654 $20.00 199 pages
B. A. Brittingham
Reviewer
"Africa is a paradox: a savage land, a sensitive land, a fragile land. The continent is where our
journey began, where humans developed a brain-to-body ratio out of all proportion to that of any
other creature in this living world. Yet it is a place where time stood still for hundreds and
thousands of years."
So begins Molly Buchanan's ode to --- and chastisement of --- a continent. Or, to be more precise,
the wildlife conservation efforts of a continent.
Many of us like to indulge in a sort of collective fantasy, one where Africa reigns as the final
bastion of diverse animal and plant life. To some degree, this was true until the late nineteenth
century. Then, over the next fifty years, a complex combination of land mismanagement, human
encroachment, civil strife, and indiscriminate hunting permanently destroyed many species while
bringing others to the threshold of extinction.
In an effort to halt this negative eco-publicity, countries like Uganda and Kenya outlawed
professional hunting in the 1970s. The results were unexpected and appalling. According to
Richard Bonham, owner of the Ol Donyo Wuas Lodge near spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro,
"When the hunters moved out, the poachers moved in. Nearly 90 percent of Kenya's elephants
were slaughtered in the following decade."
The clash, as always, involves human economics vs. animal need. Fifty-three African nations are,
like much of the world, trying to buy into The Great Dream symbolized by our Western lifestyle
standards. The Masai farmer/cattle rancher wants greater wealth for his children. Accordingly, he
is willing to set out poison for the lions that prey upon his livestock.
One method of bridging the gap between the needs of man and nature is ecotourism. Preservation
of wildlife is necessary to bring in tourist dollars. Where once the wealthy few went on safari
(with the express purpose of killing) today's travelers are from a broad cross-section of middle
and upper class households. Thankfully, the emphasis has shifted to image capture, the deathless
commitment of picture to film or digital memory.
But things are rarely that simple, are they? Even with the assistance of notables such as Nelson
Mandela, Dave Varty, Richard Leakey, Valli Moosa, Ian Player, Colin Bell and many others, the
issue retains its barbed intricacies. There is a section on the excesses of ecotourism. Buchanan
offers an example of how even good intentions can be overwhelmed by the "too muches." As
thousands of people climb Kilimanjaro each year, pathways are being worn into the mountainside.
During frequent rainstorms, the paths become funnels carrying topsoil into the Pangani River
whose source is on Kilimanjaro. "It has recently been discovered that the coral reefs on the stretch
of coastline where the Pangani . . . reaches the sea are dying because they are covered in
silt."
Despite the brevity of this book, Buchanan manages to state succinctly the myriad problems
facing attempts to preserve this continent's uniqueness. Mentioning the superlative photography
seems nearly unnecessary since stunning pictures are synonymous with the words "National
Geographic." Even if all one does is thumb through the photos and read the occasional paragraph
(you will be doing yourself and the book a disservice if you choose this shorter course) it is still
well worth the time.
Reckoning of the Dead
D.L. Naquin
iUniverse
www.iuniverse.com
www.freewebs.com/naquin
ISBN 0595310273 $15.95 1-877-823-9235
David Brown
Reviewer
Nicole Steele didn't know she had it in her heart to kill. She started out to rescue her younger
brother from a gang of cutthroats, the same cutthroats that had murdered her parents. But when
she comes across her parents' murderers, she can't stop herself from bringing about the reckoning
of the dead. However, she's in denial of being on the vengeance trail. For example, Nicole is
riding with Marshal Harley, who is out looking for Slaughter, the murderous outlaw plaguing
Indian Territory, when they get into an argument over the meaning of the word justice and how
Slaughter should be brought to justice. Below is an excerpt:
Nicole stood suddenly, handing him a bowl of beans. "Eat, Marshal. And don't give me any talk
about the law and justice. Justice is a bullet, justice is blood, justice is graveyard dead!" She
poured herself another cup of coffee and sloshed some beans on her plate.
"So you are on the vengeance trail!" He took the bowl of beans and held it in his hands as if afraid
he might find poison in it. She watched him with a slightly amused look on her face. Finally, she
said,
"I don't want to kill them. I just want to get my brother away from them."
Reckoning of the Dead is considered a revenge novel in the sense that Nicole gets revenge for the
murder of her parents, or rather brings justice. It was the law of the old West. But it's also a story
of a sister's love for her younger brother and her determination to get him free. For example,
Nicole had just been in a shootout with one of her parents' killers and had taken a bullet to the
shoulder. Butch, a handsome young man riding with her, encourages her to forget about facing
Slaughter, the female outlaw that is holding Jared captive:
"And when you get there and see Slaughter you're going to try and draw on her," Butch was
saying, "and when you do, she'll kill you." He placed a hand on her uninjured shoulder and spun
her around. "Gotta get this shoulder taken care of before you go anywhere else."
Grabbing her halter rope, Nicole said tartly, "I've got to get Jared out of there. That's all I care
about. I want my brother to be free."
Having read lots of historical and revenge western novels, I find it particularly interesting that
Nicole didn't want to kill them but had trouble controlling herself once she saw them and started
to remember what they had done to her parents. In addition, Jared's slow return of his memory
added to the tension of the story. The scene below illustrates his own frustration at having lost his
memory of his childhood. Here he is fleeing from Slaughter's wrath.
Jared was out of breath when he reached the sanctuary. It was a mile outside of town, among the
high cliffs, his place of escape from The Killer when she was in one of her horrible moods. He
flung himself straight down against the rock, rubbing its smooth surface with one trembling hand.
The bearded man on the floor, the one Rufe Murrill had killed...that was his father, now he knew
it. There were more, others. He could hear voices yelling, mocking, hear fists pounding... He
threw his hands up to his ears in order to block out the sounds. In a few minutes they ceased, and
he sagged back against the rock, his brow crinkled. But what was his father's name? And where
was his mother? Now he was sure his mother was that Cherokee woman. Did he have sisters,
brothers... He gasped and bit back a sharp cry. He couldn't remember! It was as if he had no life
prior to six years ago. He lurched up, his mouth opening wide. What was it Rufe Murrill had said?
That Jared was eight years old then? Jared's brow wrinkled. Eight. Twelve. Who was twelve?
Somebody he loved? Maybe an old dog? No, he wouldn't have had a pet that old. His head was
hurting again, as it had been doing here lately whenever he got to thinking about his past and
trying to place it all.
Another interesting point was the fact that both the protagonist and the antagonist were women
masquerading as men and were both good with a gun. I think it was interesting the way Jared
discovered Nicole was a girl. The setting was realistic and well defined. The author did a
particularly good job with the theme, and stayed focused on it.
As a whole, Reckoning of the Dead is exciting and compelling although shocking in places.
Jared's captivity in an outlaw camp and his problem with his memory was touching. Nicole's
determination to rescue him against all odds is also touching. The fact that her father had been an
outlaw turned preacher was another point of interest, and the fact that Nicole is now a gunslinger
added a strange blend of excitement and anticipation to the novel.
A must read for anyone who likes a tough female lead character.
Zod Wallop
William Brownine Spencer
St. Martin's Press
ISBN 0312136293 $21.95
Jean Carroll
Reviewer
The novel "Zod Wallop" by Spencer begins: "The wedding was held outdoors. An April sky
darkened and gusts of wind like large, unruly hounds, knocked over folding chairs and made off
with hats and handkerchiefs. A bright yellow hat went sailing over the lake, cheered on by two
small children."
The book "Zod Wallop" by Harry Gainsborough begins: "Rock yawned. 'Gotta get moving,' Rock
said. A couple of hundred million years went by. A rock is always slow to take action. A rock
watches an oak grow from a sapling to a towering tree, and it's a flash and a dazzle in the mind of
a rock. What was that? Rock thinks, or maybe, Huh?"
"Zod Wallop" (by Spencer) is about Harry Gainsborough who wrote a book called "Zod Wallop"
(and his beginning is far more enticing than that of Spencer's), and a cast of characters, escapees
from Harwood Psychiatric, who believe they are living out the book Harry Gainsborough.
wrote.
But wait. There was another "Zod Wallop." The original book, a childrens' book, by Harry was
burned by Raymond Storey. Harry had to rewrite it and make it less scary to appease Raymond,
but, as it turns out, the first must have been pretty awful because the second (or is this the third?)
was most frightening, so frightening that the escapees set out on a journey to set things right with
the world.
Raymond, in his presumably delusional state believes "they are coming," and he and his catatonic
wife, Emily, along with Harry, Allan, Rene and the monkey, Arbus, are off on their quest.
In this wild and weird tale, Spencer leaves no character sitting idly by while the plot twists, and
you never know what bizarre turn of events, or even what casual comment though few
comments are casual will set one of the "maniacs" off in another direction.
Is it fantasy? Is it hallucination shared by Harry, Allan, Rene and Emily? Are all, indeed, totally
unhinged? Or, as Raymond's mother believes, ". . . nothing in Raymond's world happens by
accident" If it is hallucination, why are so many people out to stop the group from their
mission?
Captured and returned to Harwood Psychiatric, Raymond tries to explain to the counselor during
group therapy called the Great Tiredness of Group by Harry the urgency of the situation.
"You are working for the Gorelord," Raymond said. "You have no doubt drunk the blood of the
Rawn Worm and inhaled the bone dust of the Hunkering Spinespits. To expect you, a minion of
He Who The Vile Venerate, to be anything more than a pawn would be wrong."
Spencer has a way with description. In this excerpt he describes elderly men and women at a hotel
in Florida where the journey ends. "Protected from the sun by large yellow umbrellas and layers of
clothing, they regarded the ocean with weak but vigilant eyes, like the last of some religious sect,
their faith failing with their memory, awaiting the fulfillment of some ancient prophecy. Half a
dozen of them were already turning away from the dying sun and dragging their long shadows
back to the hotel. . ."
How to classify "Zod Wallop"? A fantasy? Certainly humorous. Most unusual. Definitely a story
with plot twists you don't see coming.
Imprint of the Raj
Chandak Sengoopta
Pan
ISBN 0330491407 A$25.00 234 pages
David Skea
Reviewer
Chandak Sengoopta is a very articulate writer with a delightfully wicked and somewhat sarcastic
sense of humour. Born and educated in India, he then studied in the United States before settling
in England. Consequently he sees the faults and foibles of both the English and his fellow
countrymen with equal ease, and is not backward in showing it. This makes his book an
interesting read. For example, he describes the Indian Mutiny of 1857 as the Sepoy Mutiny;
politically correct historians would call it the Great Rebellion, and the term that I heard used in
India, the First War of Independence, doesn't even get a mention. He says that he wrote this book,
about William James Herschel and the colonial past of fingerprinting, after seeing Satyajit Ray's
film The Golden Fortress.
Fingerprints were only accepted as proof of identity in British Courts after 1902, just over 100
years ago. Until then proof of identification was 'always dependent upon personal recognition by
police or prison officers'. Before the population explosion that occurred during the industrial
revolution this may have been an adequate method for identifying repeat offenders, and then
shipping them off to the penal colonies across the world, out of harms way. However, as the cities
became more crowded and travel easier and quicker, due to the railways, a habitual criminal could
and did operate in many areas where he/she was relatively unknown and with little chance of
being identified as a recidivist. This was a worrying trend for the law abiding citizens of
England.
The government, therefore, was keen to employ a system that would identify such persons. Such
a system would have to be precise and easily searched. In France such a system, the brainchild of
Alphonse Bertillon, was employed and this system was soon in use across Europe.
However, in India, some 50 years previous to this, the perception of wholesale fraud by the local
inhabitants and the perceived difficulty of telling one coloured person apart from another
prompted an expatriate magistrate to look for a system that would positively identify a person and
a very different solution was used. The reasons for doing so had more to do with civil actions
mostly involving implied impersonation with documents dealing with land transfer or loans and
drawing a pension. The system involved the placing of finger marks (prints) on the documents as
'a signature which the writer would obviously hesitate to disown'. A magistrate could then
compare and identify that the person making the claim was the same person as had registered the
document. The magistrate who first used this technique was William James Herschel. Herschel
used fingerprints in his dealings with the public and recommended that the prison system also use
them as 'unambiguous evidence of identity was not un-needed'. Unfortunately few followed his
recommendations and his system was not put into general practice; its use ceased soon after his
departure from India.
The story now shifts to England. A Henry Faulds, working as a medical missionary in Japan,
chanced upon prehistoric 'sun-baked' pottery bearing the finger impressions of the potters left on
the clay whilst still soft and in 1880 Nature published a long letter from him 'on skin furrows of
the hand'. This letter induced Herschel to recount his own experiences in India. Debate, claim and
counter-claim followed as to who was first to conceive the idea that fingerprints afforded
irresistible proof of identity. All to the good as this broadened the knowledge of fingerprinting for
others.
Meanwhile back in the Empire (British India) a new Inspector General of Police, Edward Henry,
made history by introducing a modified Bertillon system that included the left thumb print.
However there was no easy way to categorise the prints and they were only used to confirm an
identity established by other means. This was similar to the system introduced 2 years later in
England the English system including all 10 fingerprints.
The major breakthrough that has allowed fingerprints to be categorised and searched came in
1897. Henry and two very able Indian assistants came up with a remarkable system that allowed
fingerprint cards to be categorised and searched in extremely short times. How this is done is
explained in Sengoopta's book and I'll leave it to the reader to find it out. Edward Henry returned
to England where he continued to champion the use of his fingerprint system and eventually
became Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in London.
Over time there have been many calls for a national database of fingerprints and such. Sengoopta,
however, points out that when it comes to establishing a national identity database, the British are
a race apart; categorically rejecting any suggestion of carrying an identity card or having on
record bodily identification such as fingerprints. Even in the two world wars the British Identity
Card only contained the briefest of details name and address. Times, though, are changing.
Ten Thousand Acres
Preston L. Gorbett
Publish America
Baltimore, MD
www.publishamerica.com
ISBN: 1591298059 $19.95; 211 pp.
Thomas Fortenberry
Reviewer
Ten Thousand Acres is a western historical novel with modern sensitivities. It takes place in the
late 1880s in the open plains region of what will one day be Colorado and features a woman
protagonist, Flora McAndrews, though one could argue that the book actually has dual
protagonists, this woman and a runaway slave. You can see exactly how dynamic the conflicts and
issues of this book are as it explores the trials of a widow attempting to carve a cattle ranch out of
the wilderness of Indian territories with the aid and companionship of a runaway slave. The title
derives from a deed for ten thousand acres the protagonist possesses in unsettled territory after
her husband dies on the move from the East Coast. The historicism is honest, the details vivid and
even educational as this world is realistically and beautifully drawn, while the novel pulls no
punches in showing the prejudices and dangers of the day.
Very real dangers exist on numerous fronts for the main characters, from weather, shelter, and
starvation to loneliness, banditry, Indians, the threat of rape, abuse, and the fear and horrors of the
day that exist in slavery and the "crime" of escaping it. Chester, the runaway, is a traditionally
tragic hero, who has suffered terribly through no fault of his own. He perseveres and struggles to
maintain his dignity in a world that views him as subhuman property. Despite repeated hardships,
repeated escapes from Southern plantations and Indian tribes, and being hunted like an animal,
Chester is able to preserve himself while simultaneously absorbing and learning from each new
culture and situation. In this way he is the "noble savage" of the novel, both educated beast and
moral giant who stands above his peers. That he himself doesn't devolve is testament to his
prodigious strength, physically and spiritually. This deep faith in humanity is further explored as
Flora, the white widow, and Chester, the African slave, fall in love. This love is, in the eyes of
their culture, immoral and illegal. Their love is, naturally, the most true and human thing in their
world. Therein lies much of the novel's tragedy and conflict.
Ten Thousand Acres is an impressive study of human nature that doesn't bog down in
metaphysics or obtuse symbollism. It gets the job done in the blistered, sweating, sunburned flesh
with minimal distraction. It is also good, almost thrilling reading. The prose is simple and direct,
echoing the time period, and hewn from strong, natural resources. It is a fast, easy read that
presents fully the time, place, and people. The story moves at a substantial clip due to non-stop
action, and a lot of ground is covered both literally and figuratively. The author Gorbett seems to
have a knack for touching on the entire history of the times fleetingly, so you gain an awareness
almost subconsciously and never have to halt the tale. It is a nice feat of writing and this lean 200
pager fits the style of the era much better than a bloated 1,000 pager would have done. There is
romance galore, but of the searingly honest, soul-baring kind without a lot of fluff. Readers will
greatly enjoy this study in modern themes, with its psychology, sociology and conflicts, set in a
riveting, historically accurate drama. There is a lot to recognize and ponder within these pages.
But most of all, there is the roaring, almost mythic climax. All of the tragedy and triumph of
human spirit chronicled here ends in an utterly heart-stopping way which leaves us aching inside.
I'll never be able to look at the snow-covered mountains, witness a fleeing deer, watch rising
smoke, or feel the caress of a tender breeze in the silent fall of autumn leaves again without
remembering this book and its characters.
Learn More Now
Marcia L. Conner
John Wiley & Sons, Inc
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Phone (201) 748-6011 Fax (201) 748-6008
ISBN: 0471273902 $14.95 USA / $21.99 CAN / 10.50 GBP 237 pages
Kantha
Reviewer
According to Marcia Conner, we re all born with a vast capacity to explore and learn... and, we
can unleash the power of our intuition to rediscover the joy of learning and expand our personal
and professional productivity. Learn More Now delivers all that Marcia promises and more.
Learn More Now is an inspiring, compelling and totally absorbing read. I started with
apprehension, expecting a struggle, and finished it with delight and very knowledgeable on how I
obtain knowledge and skills, how to focus my energy and realize my full potential.
Learn More Now offers a pragmatic and powerful set of resources for any organization or
individual wishing to learn better, smarter and faster.
This unique and timely publication provides an excellent step-by-step guidance on what matters
most in learning and learning more. The publication covers ways to consumer acceptance and
policy and regulatory issues. I especially appreciated the easy-to-use ten-step basics to help me
better understand how I learn and the best practices for dealing effectively with different learning
styles. Wow! As a principal in a research and consulting firm that specializes in food science and
technology development, the invaluable information within the book has been extremely important
to my 'competitive intelligence' activities. A great book for a great price!
The perspective on understanding learning techniques and ways to maximize the knowledge is
well developed and easily implemented for improvements on a daily basis. Parents and teachers
would be well advised to read this book in order to develop an understanding of effective
education. Conversely, those engaged in business will find much to benefit from learning how
experiences develop the habits of customers and intelligent ways to effect their perception. An
essential read for everyone!
Come To My Party And Other Shape Poems
Heidi B. Roemer
Henry Holt and Company
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
ISBN: 0805066209 $17.95 48 Pages
Kimberly M. Hutmacher
Reviewer
Dancing Leaves
Crimson and coral
And yellow as butter-
We reach up to snatch
Waltzing leaves as they flutter.
Hip hip hooray
For fall's festive confetti!
Let's heap the leaves up and jump!
Are you ready?
Picture those charming words falling like leaves across the page. Come To My Party and Other
Shape Poems is a volume of thirty-eight seasonal concrete poems. There are very few collections
of children's poetry whose focus is specifically the concrete form. Ms. Roemer's poetry dances
across the pages and in the imaginations of her lucky young audience. Her poetry form is
enhanced beautifully by the playful illustrations of Hideko Takahashi. This would make a lovely
edition to any children's library. I hope this talented new poet doesn't make her growing audience
wait too long for her next collection.
What's Killing You and What to Do About It
Donald Monus and David Hamilton
1st Books (AuthorHouse),
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200, Bloomington, IN 47403
http://www.authorhouse.com
ISBN 1414047959, $13.25 265 pages
Paul Lappen
Reviewer
Many health, diet and how-to-live-longer books are currently on the market. This one comes from
the perspective of 20 years of Naturopathic research by Monus, looking at the diseases caused by
our modern way of life.
There are times when taking antibiotics is a very good idea, but they should not be taken every
day, like a multi-vitamin. Not only will the body build up an immunity to antibiotics, so that higher
and higher doses will be needed, but each dose will weaken the body's immune system until it can
barely handle the common cold.
Even if you don't take antibiotics every day, you are still taking antibiotics every day. How?
Cows, pigs, chickens and other meat animals are given large doses of antibiotics and other
chemicals every day to keep them healthy during their short lives. Antibiotics have been found in
the water supply which is sprayed on crops that make it to your dinner table and in the water that
comes out of your faucet. Just wait until next winter's cold and flu season meets all those
weakened immune systems.
Another item that is slowly creating havoc with your immune system is your bedside alarm
clock/radio. Electric devices like that give off harmful RF (radio frequency) energy anywhere up
to two feet in every direction. You may be sleeping in a field of RF energy. If you sit in front of a
computer for long periods of time, you are sitting in a giant bubble of RF energy. The computer,
monitor, surge suppressor, printer and any other nearby components are all giving off energy that
is wiping out your immune system. And then there are cell phones, another source of RF energy,
seemingly glued to the ears of most people.
One of the major causes of disease are parasites and viruses that enter the body through a
surprising number of ways. They won't show up on the average blood test, because no one
actually looks at blood under a microscope any more. Once the patient has flushed their system of
parasites and adopted a much healthier diet (the book tells how), the effects of even major
diseases like multiple sclerosis and cancer have been severely reduced or even totally
reversed.
This book is meant to be used in addition to, not instead of, regular medical treatment. A major
recommendation of the authors is that each person should take responsibility for their health; don't
leave it for the medical profession. I have read this book twice and can only say Wow. It is very
easy to read, quite eye-opening (some might call it radical) and extremely highly
recommended.
Thurber's Light
PublishAmerica
Baltimore, Maryland
ISBN: 1592863515 $19.00 226 pp.
Virginia Ward
Reviewer
From the moment she sees the Saint Rosabelle Lighthouse, Darcy Vornack is hooked. To save the
decaying lankmark and earn a place of her own, Darcy agrees to spend three months camping
beside the crumbling structure. Part suspense, part mystery, part love story, this is a tale of
determination and perserverance.
In her quest to reclaim the land from destructive kudzu vines and to save the lighthouse from
demolition, Darcy and Martin Thurber, the long ago lighthouse keeper, now resident spirit, join
forces to solve an old mystery and preserve the light.
This is Whatley's first novel. It is engaging and fast paced. The parallel stories of Darcy Vornack's
struggles and Martin Thurber's tragedy are lived side by side, finally becoming one to save the
light and reveal the truth of the past. The presentation of the relationship between Darcy and
Thurber is unique, leaving the reader to contemplate the possibility of the partnership of
souls.
Whatley's use of language may not be what some readers have come to expect of contemporary
fiction, yet this volume is clear, lays a path for the reader to explore, and doesn't give up its
secrets until the last possible moment. Thurber's LIght is not easily put aside.
Alisa's Bookshelf
Club Dead
Charlaine Harris
Ace Books
http://www.charlaineharris.com
http://www.penguin.com
ISBN: 0441010512 $6.50 258 pp.
Sookie and the Vampire Bill are once again thrust into trouble in Club Dead. Sookie is very
unhappy with the Vampire Bill. It would seem she is being dumped, but no one knows for sure
where Bill is and what he is doing. What is a girl to do? Just accept some financial settlement or
try and stake the cad who left her without even a goodbye? While Sookie is nursing her broken
heart, it would appear the Vampire Bill has met some foul play. With Eric and Bubba for back-up,
Sookie heads to Shreveport to try and find Bill.
Sookie has one major clue to find Bill, Club Dead. With the help a very sexy werewolf, Alcide,
Sookie gains entrance to the illustrious club that caters to vampires, shifters, and other oddities.
As usual, things do not go as planned.
Club Dead widens Sookie's group of admirers and brings a great deal of conflict with them. How
could a girl choose between the Vampire Bill, Eric the Viking Vampire, and Alcide the very warm
werewolf? The politics of the vampires make Sookie's head spin let alone the addition of
werewolves and shifters.
The first two books in the series, Dead Until Dark and Living Dead in Dallas really just
introduced us to the full cast of characters. In Club Dead, Charlaine Harris shakes up Sookie's
world and gives her more perspective on life. Sookie is finally able to see Bill's weaknesses and
decide for herself if she wants to try and work through them.
Club Dead is a very fun book to read. Charlaine Harris has a wonderful sense of wit with a tongue
in check approach to the story line. How could anyone keep a straight face with the image of
Bubba, Elvis has not left the building, and his cat fancy? The Southern Vampire series is one of
my favorites for its humor and characters. My only complaint is in regarding the ending. It was
very abrupt and left me wanting more.
Charlaine Harris is the other of three more Sookie novels; Dead Until Dark, Living Dead in
Dallas, and Dead to the World, to be published May, 2004. She is also the author of two popular
mystery series; the Aurora Tegarden series and the Lily Bard Shakespeare series.
Living Dead in Dallas
Charlaine Harris
Ace Books
http://www.charlaineharris.com
http://www.penguin.com
ISBN: 0441009239 $6.50 272 pp.
Our favorite cocktail waitress is back again for another adventure. Living Dead in Dallas
introduces us to the various political goings on in the vampire world. Sookie and the Vampire Bill
have been invited to Dallas. The Dallas Vampire's need Sookie's telepathic skills and she is drafted
by Eric, the Viking vampire sheriff of Area 5 to help them. Sookie feels obligated to Eric as he
has recently saved her from a very nasty creature with a venomous bit. Off to Dallas she and Bill
will go.
Of course things are not as they seem. With a very scary group of religious nuts and a suicidal
vampire, Sookie is soon overwhelmed with all that is happening. To complicate life even more,
back in Bon Temps one of Sookie's co-workers meets a grisly end. Life will never be simple for
Sookie and Bill, but Sookie never expected this much action.
Living Dead in Dallas is another fantastic adventure created by Charlaine Harris. From page one
we are thrust into Sookie and Bill's world and the action does not slow down much at all. I loved
the description of Dallas with its vampire airline and hotel. This is the kind of book you read all
day and night because you are unable to put it down.
Charlaine Harris is the other of three more Sookie novels; Dead Until Dark, Club Dead, and Dead
to the World, to be published May, 2004. She is also the author of two popular mystery series; the
Aurora Tegarden series and the Lily Bard Shakespeare series.
Dead Until Dark
Charlaine Harris
Ace Books
http://www.charlaineharris.com
http://www.penguin.com
ISBN: 0441008534 $5.99 260 pp.
Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris is our introduction to Sookie Stackhouse, the Vampire Bill
and the colorful town of Bon Temps, Louisiana.
Sookie, a very blonde, buxom, barmaid is not your average girl in Bon Temps. She has the ability
to read other's minds. This ability is not an asset when working in a bar. Image if you could 'hear'
someone's thoughts, worries, dreams, their most intimate feelings. How is a girl supposed to find
a boyfriend in the backwater of Louisiana when she is acutely aware of all his thoughts? Sookie
has found a solution the Vampire Bill. Vampires where 'outed' some years ago after the
invention of artificial blood. Sookie is unable to read the minds of vampires and finds great
comfort in the arms of Bill.
Sookie begins her adventure with a chance encounter with the Vampire Bill and the 'Rat' couple,
some local trailer park trash. Things quickly escalate as Sookie faces a series of murders that
surprise, surprise appear to have been committed by a vampire.
Dead Until Dark is a hilarious adventure from start to finish. From Sam Merlot, the bartender
with secrets of his own, to Jason, Sookie's brother and all around stud-muffin with a fancy
pick-up truck, all the characters are colorful and entertaining. While Dead Until Dark is not dark,
heavy, horror, it is entertaining and engaging.
Many have compared the Southern Vampire series to Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake series.
While both series focus on human/vampire relationship, the similarities are few. Sookie lacks the
predatory aspects of Anita Blake. Sookie is also very na‹ve, while no one would ever consider this
of Anita Blake. Anita is very angst driven. In contrast, Sookie is just a nice, hard working girl
who happens to have some gifts or disabilities depending on your point of view. Dead Until Dark
does share the mystery elements Laurell K. Hamilton focused on in the early Anita Blake
novels.
Charlaine Harris is the other of three more Sookie novels; Living Dead in Dallas, Club Dead, and
Dead to the World, to be published May, 2004. She is also the author of two popular mystery
series; the Aurora Tegarden series and the Lily Bard Shakespeare series.
Featuring full-color, full-page close-up photographs of artfully done whitework quilts, Whitework
Quilting: Creative Techniques For Designing Wholecloth And Adding Trapunto To Your Quilts is
a solid guide for machine and hand quilters alike. Extensive step-by-step instructions walk the
reader through whitework quilting techniques to create artful, professional-looking creations.
Chapters address wholecloth methods, trapunto, applique and pieced quilts, auditioning stencils
and marketing one's designs, and much more. A lavish and beautiful resource for those who are
serious about creating memorable, original quilts for personal or professional purposes, and so
wonderfully illustrated it is a joy to simply page through.
Florence Nightingale On Public Health Care
Lynn McDonald, editor
Wilfrid Laurier University Press
Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5
0889204462 $95.00 1-519-884-0710 www.wlupress.wlu.ca
Florence Nightingale On Public Health Care is the sixth volume in the Wilfrid Laurier University
Press "Collected Works Of Florence Nightingale" series, which gathers all available and surviving
writing by Florence Nightingale (1820-1910), the famous heroine of the Crimean War and major
founder of the nursing profession. Some of Nightingale's writings see print for the first time in
these robust compendiums. Public Health Care includes Nightingale's "Notes on Nursing for the
Labouring Classes"; papers on mortality in schools and hospitals; considerations on rural health;
and Nightingale's experience bringing nursing into hellish workhouse infirmaries. A superb
primary source of wisdom and insight that transcends centuries, very highly recommended for
medical science history and reference shelves, and a seminal foundational study offering
revelations of practical problems and ethical dilemmas that holds value for all students, scholars,
scientists, and practitioners of modern medicine, Florence Nightingale On Public Health Care is an
impressive addition to any academic or professional History of Medicine reference collection.
The Galaxy Global Eatery Hemp Cookbook
Denis Cicero
Frog, Ltd.
c/o North Atlantic Books (dist.)
PO Box 12327, Berkeley, CA 94712
1583940553 $27.50 www.northatlanticbooks.com
The Galaxy Global Eatery Hemp Cookbook is a unique cookbook concerning the culinary uses of
hemp - well known for its applications in clothing, rope, and plastics but little known for its seeds'
taste (like a cross between hazelnut and a walnut) and the cooking uses of its flour and oils.
Superbly written and presented by Denis Cicero (owner of one of New York's most
up-and-coming restaurants) with the assistance of professional chefs Kris Czartoryski, Suzanne
Gruber, and Michael Lipp, The Galaxy Global Eatery Hemp Cookbook features easy-to-follow
recipes, enhanced with luscious full-color photographs, a simple glossary, and a true appreciation
of the wonderful delicacies that can be enhanced with the flavor of hemp. Dishes offered include
Fruit Hemp Salad, Hemp Cheese Sticks, Hempnut-Crusted Catfish Filets, Lemon Hemparoons,
and a great many more.
The Railway Detective
Edward Marston
Allison & Busby, Ltd.
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
0749006331 $25.95 www.internationalpubmarket.com
Set in London 1851, The Railway Detective is an exciting period piece mystery revolving around
a perfectly planned train robbery. Detective Inspector Robert Colbeck must investigate the crime
and unravel a tangled web of murder, cover-ups, and ruthless ambition. Escalating into a deadly
race against a criminal mastermind, with the life of a beautiful women held hostage in the balance,
The Railway Detective skillfully combines high-stakes action with lasting intrigue.
The Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde
P. Craig Russell
NBM Press
555 8th Avenue, #1202, New York, NY 10018-4364
1561633917 $15.95 www.nbmpublishing.com
P. Craig Russell is one of the top artists working in the genre of the graphic novel today. His
latest visual storytelling triumph in a series of marvelous adaptions of the fables and fairytales of
Oscar Wilde flawlessly published by NMB Press is Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde: The Devoted
Friend and The Nightingale And The Rose. Russell works his detailed and "museum quality"
artistry to his usual high standards in the retelling of Oscar Wilde's original and imaginative
stories. Readers of all ages will enjoy and treasure both the stories and the artistry of this
outstanding graphic novelization. Also very highly recommended are the earlier volumes of this
wonderful series: Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde: Volume 1 - The Selfish Giant and The Star Child;
Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde: Volume 2 - The Young King and The Remarkable Rocket; Fairy
Tales Of Oscar Wilde: Volume 3 - The Birthday of the Infanta.
The Ladies' Room Reader Quiz Book
Leslie Gilbert Elman
Conari Press
c/o Red Wheel/Weiser
368 Congress Street, 4th floor, Boston, MA 02210
1573249173 $14.95 1-800-423-7087 www.redwheelweiser.com
The Ladies' Room Reader Quiz Book is an engaging collection of multiple choice, match-up, and
fill-in-the blank quizzes, all featuring trivia about women in history and fiction alike. The answer
key is detailed and goes at length to present vignettes of information behind each answer. A fun
guide for self-testing one's knowledge of the feminine side of things, or just plain whiling away the
time while learning fascinating tidbits.
Cats In Love
Hans Silvester
Chronicle Books
85 Second Street, 6th floor, San Francisco, CA 94105-3441
0811844064 $29.95 1-800-722-6657 www.chroniclebooks.com
Professional photographer Hans Silvester is passionate abut nature as evidenced in his acclaimed
career as a travel photographer. Now with Cats In Love he turns his artist's eye to the subject of
our feline companions in an impressive array of full color photography wonderfully capturing the
images of cats against the dramatic backdrop of Greece. These are images reflecting the dignity,
grace, beauty, and emotional range, and sexuality of cats, individual and in tandem. Cats In Love
is
enthusiastically recommended for anyone who appreciates their feline companion, and for
students of animal photography wanting to seek how it is done by a true master of the art.
Perils Of Paradise
Rita Beamish
The Bess Press
3565 Harding Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816
1573061689 $11.95 1-800-910-2377 www.besspress.com
Perils Of Paradise collects eight suspenseful and true stories about ordinary people in Hawaii for
work or play - people who enjoyed the bounties of Hawaii's natural beauty, yet who had to
struggle for their lives against the ruthlessness of nature. Tales include the stories of a man
trapped in a sea cave who almost drowned save for his rescue by lifeguards, a kayaker adrift for
days south of the Big Island, and many more. A dramatic collection of cautionary tales against
underestimating the potentially deadly nature of the elements.
Susan Bethany
Reviewer
Brenda's Bookshelf
Return to Me
Shannon McKenna
Brava
Kensington Publishing
850 Third Ave, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 407-1500 FAX: (212) 935-0699
ISBN 0758205600 $14.00 352 pages
Seventeen years later, Simon Riley is back in LaRue. The townsfolk remember his youthful past.
The one where trouble followed him wherever he went. And none are pleased that Simon is there.
Even if it is only for a short time while he cleans his uncle's home.
Meanwhile Ellen Kent grew from a skittish sixteen-year-old girl to a luscious woman who knows
her own mind. She has finally made up her mind that she needs to get on with her life and have the
children she desired. So she accepts Brad's proposal. Of course, Ellen did not like his mother very
much. Nor did she and Brad have easy conversation. But she would have to make it work.
Then Ellen learns the bad boy is back. Her insides quiver. Her eyes are opened. And she knows
she will never be happy in the concrete stale boring slot she would find as Brad's wife. Ellen
knows she needs a man not afraid of being himself. And to Ellen's way of thinking, Simon fits the
bill nicely.
Simon does not think so though. Besides he was never going to commit to any woman. He would
only bring heartache. Yet Simon still could not let go of the past. He had to see Ellen.
The plot and characters are intense. Ellen, the poor little girl, dreams of marriage and all the
trimmings. Yet the selection of men simply do not compare to her first love. On the other hand,
Simon is the boy from the wrong side of town only wanting to be accepted. He has found
acceptance in Ellen's arms. Now can he make the right move?
McKenna has a winner here. Not too sweet and not too racy, RETURN TO ME hits the spot and
proves that love exists for everyone.
The Morning After
Lisa Jackson
Zebra
Kensington Publishing
850 Third Ave, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 407-1500 FAX: (212) 935-0699
ISBN 0821772953 $6.99
Nikki Gillette was tired of chasing after boring news stories. Her passion was crime. She
devoured it. Not because her father happened to be a judge. But because her fickle boss, Tom
Fink, refused to let her in on the top news that garnered hefty bylines.
Then a call came in. There was a body - well, make that two bodies - found in a coffin in
Dahlonega. Knowing a story was in the making, Nikki dashes from Savannah to Dahlonega only
to find out the police refused to talk. Even more interesting is the fact that Pierce Reed, a
detective from Savannah, was called in to investigate. Nikki is not detoured from writing the story
even though no one is willing to talk. So rather than wait, Nikki pays a visit to her source who
spills the beans. In return, her story is splashed on page one. Of course, the Survivor is loving the
attention. And proceeds with his plan.
Meanwhile, Reed receives more cryptic messages and is taken off the case because of his
involvement with the first victim. He cannot stay away from the investigation though. So in an
attempt to keep Nikki from destroying the evidence, he pays a visit to the pesky reporter. And
finds out that she is one of the targets.
This has become a cruel game no one can figure out. On the surface, the killer seems to be
randomly killing and digging graves. Little do they know, The Survivor is exacting revenge for a
crime committed years ago that involved Reed, Nikki, and all of his victims. All seems to be going
as planned. But then he makes a mistake.
Enough to make the heart thrum, Jackson writes tales that can give you the creeps. The main plot
is vividly simple but a breathtaking paradox that escalates with each passing breath of the killer's
plight. That said, Jackson has penned an easy read. However, readers are guaranteed a short
night's rest because THE MORNING AFTER is sure to be a book difficult to lie aside.
Mr. Perfect
Shelagh McEachern
Avalon Books
Thomas Bouregy & Co., Inc.
160 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
http://www.avalonbooks.com
ISBN 0803496443 $21.95
Lionel Parford could not stand disorder. Everything needed to be in its place. Including his family
who badgered him constantly about finding a wife. But he was not interested. The only women he
seemed to come in contact with happened to be ditzy females who looked solely at his
pocketbook. That, however, excluded his next door neighbor. Although there was no doubt in
Lionel's mind she was ditzy to an extreme, he had to admit she cleaned up well considering the
state her apartment was in when the smoke alarm began blaring.
Verrick Grant believed life was for living. Unfortunately, her neighbor did not. She was the tooth
fairy content in her role. She loved children and managed to be totally outrageous in her job
environment and on the stage. Fortunately, scenes of both are portrayed in this comedy. Most of
the time, however, Verrick is the one that is in the jam and Lionel is right there to help. Of course,
his appearance and demeanor are perfect every step of the way. This leads to Verrick calling him
Mr. Perfect because everything he does is just that. But in one specific scene, Verrick finds out
that MR. PERFECT is not all that . . . well, perfect.
This will make you laugh until tears form in your eyes. The plot makes sense and moves swiftly. It
may be difficult for readers to get a handle on the character's inner feelings. However, this is in
part due to their contrasting personalities. At the same time, McEachern makes Verrick and
Lionel charming. Readers simply will enjoy Verrick's quick wit and Lionel's elusive demeanor.
And then wonder how in the world these two managed to fall in love. Then again opposites do
attract.
This being McEachern's debut, readers may notice work is needed on the basics. The main point
of contention will probably be with the point of view hopping from either Verrick or Lionel to a
secondary character in quick succession. It became a spin cycle which continued to the very end.
Gratefully, the head hopping does not detract readers from the overall plot. Rather the events
managed to keep the pages turning through the distracting switches.
MR. PERFECT is truly an enjoyable read. They say laughter is the best medicine. But do not try
to eat or drink with this fun tale. Your clothes and furniture will thank you for it. Suffice it to say
that this book is full of comical gaiety that has not been seen for ages. It could be said
McCachern's debut is a work of art. And to be quite honest, MR. PERFECT fits snugly in
Avalon's choice of lead titles.
Gypsy: A Promised Land Romance
Carolyn Brown
Avalon Books
Thomas Bouregy & Co., Inc.
160 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
http://www.avalonbooks.com
ISBN 080349646X $19.95 192 pages
Tavish O'Leary rode silently toward the wagon train. As he came closer, he noticed a woman
sitting near the tree. Thinking she was dead, Tavish cautiously picked his way to the outskirts of
the wagon train circle. There was no way he wanted to be involved if the entire train had been
killed. Then he heard the sounds. Feminine voices carried through the night. Still he needed to
check and see if this one lived. Deep in his mind, Tavish could not believe she would be part of
the bride train. The thought lingered for a second too long. Before Tavish knew what happened,
he was flat on his back. And the woman began haughtily speaking of his intelligence before
stomping back to camp.
Gypsy Rose Dulan knew she should have killed that man who intoned she was little more than a
squaw. His entire demeanor spoke not of kindness. And it was just her luck that he would be
riding at the back of the train now that Patty was headed home.
For an ordinary tale of boy meets girl, Brown definitely lets the sparks fly in this one. GYPSY is
the third book in The Promised Land Romance series. Although strictly a stand-alone title, the
Dulan sisters are back. And Gypsy is fighting the attraction she has to the short little man who
continually shows up when least expected. Likewise Tavish has no desire to be anywhere near the
woman who promised to gut him the next time she has the opportunity. But crazy things happen
when on the dusty trail.
GYPSY is a light read for those lazy days. While the characters could have been more developed,
the experiences are something to be enjoyed. The trek to the west was not an easy feat. The men
had to provide the protection. Yet the women also had to be of stern stuff just as the women are
portrayed in this series.
It's entertaining. It's satisfying. It's Carolyn Brown at her best.
Suitors and Scoundrels
Karen Woods
Awe-Struck E-Books
ISBN 1587494175 $TBA
George Blake, the Duke of Chisholm, lost his beloved wife in childbirth. His mother immediately
decided he needed to remarry right away to provide a motherly figure for her grandchildren.
Beside himself in grief, George agreed. His intended, however, refused.
Her heart belonged to another. Yet Sarah agreed they had no choice but to wed. However, she
refused to wed George until after the official mourning passed. He agreed to her stipulation. The
time grew to be much longer than a year as death after death assaulted the Blake / Elham /
Roberts family with a vengeance.
George knows that Sarah is now coming out of her mourning. And he decides the time is right to
pursue her as a wife. His arrival is delayed by business when unexpectedly a letter arrives directed
to her Uncle James. Sarah gives news of their wounded associate. And this is where Sarah's
childhood love enters the picture. Although it is true, her father denied the courtship, Marcus
Lewis decides that Sarah is now old enough to choose for herself. And Marcus is determined to
win. But then so is George.
This tale contains a hodge podge of characters that do not seem to know their own mind. For
example, Sarah is brilliant in the world of business and does not let anyone push her into bad
decisions. At the same time, Sarah cannot make up her mind on the subject of marriage. When
Marcus enters the picture, Sarah decides Marcus is the man she wants by her side. Then she turns
and makes a promise to George. To keep the reader really thinking she is a floozy, Sarah then
dangles both men along because she cannot choose just one. Even worse is knowing how both
men feel. This leads the reader to believe (quite incorrectly) that Sarah will finally know her mind
on the issue. And when she does make up her mind, it is simply unbelievable.
Nonetheless, SUITORS AND SCOUNDRELS is a cute story that does not have a clear-cut plot
except to bring Sarah to happily ever after. Getting there, however, is a mass of twists and turns
that do not always make sense.
Brenda Ramsbacher
Reviewer
Buhle's Bookshelf
The Russian Far East
Josh Newell
Daniel & Daniel, Publishers
PO Box 2790, McKinleyville, CA 95519
1880284758 $59.95 1-800-662-8351
Now in its second edition, The Russian Far East: A Reference Guide For Conservation And
Development is a complete update of the classic 1996 reference, offering region-by-region maps
and information concerning geography, climate, flora and fauna, population and resources, as well
as contributions from ninety authors giving expert analysis and insights, black and white
photographs, and tables and charts to form a comprehensive handbook of the Russian Far East
environment. A first-rate referenve for environmental studies shelves, with a great wealth of
information and insights arranged in easy-to-look-up format.
Ex Situ Plant Conservation
Edward O. Guerrant Jr., Kayri Havens, and Mike Maunder
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20009-1148
1559638753 $40.00 1-800-828-1302 www.islandpress.org
Ex Situ Plant Conservation: Supporting Species Survival In The Wild is a grand compendium of
essays by learned authors discussing the practice of promoting conservation of wild plants, as well
as how such efforts can also support and work with in situ conservation. A superb, cutting-edge
resource for those involved in plant conservation theory and practice for botanic gardens, zoos,
conservation organizations, managers of protected public and private lands, students and faculty
of environmental studies, and much more. A technical and college or professional-level anthology
with complex multiple focuses on in-depth aspects of its subject, recommended especially for
environmental awareness and conservation reading lists.
Visions For The Next Millennium
Clyde Butcher
University Press of Florida
University of Florida, 15 Northwest 15th Street, Gainesville, FL 32611-2079
0813027349 $30.00 1-800-226-3822 www.upf.com
Visions For The Next Millennium: Clyde Butcher Wilderness Photography -- Focus On
Preservation is a showcase volume of 37 black-and-white photographs in which acclaimed nature
photographer Clyde Butcher chronicles some of America's most beautiful, complex, and
endangered ecosystems. These superbly crafted photographic images range from the forests of the
Pacific Northwest; to the rocky country of Utah and Colorado; to the woodlands of the
Chesapeake region; to the wetlands of Florida. Butcher utilized a large-format camera which
allowed him to capture in extensive and elaborate detail the textures of these remarkable and
memorable landscape portraits. Visions For The Next Millennium deserves an honored place in
the collections of all dedicated photography enthusiasts -- and will prove of immense visual
interest to environmental activists as well.
Making More Working Wooden Locks
Tim Detweiler
Linden Publishing
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
0941936791 $21.95 1-800-345-4447
Making More Working Wooden Locks: Complete Plans For Five Working Wooden Locks by
woodworking expert Tim Detweiler is the second of two outstanding titles from Linden
Publishing devoted to specialized do-it-yourself projects of making locks and other security
devices out of wood. Making More Working Wooden Locks is profusely illustrated and an ideal
step-by-step instructional guide appropriate for even the most novice carpenter. The four locks
and one wood safe comprising Making More Working Wood Locks will challenge and intrigue
any dedicated woodworker. Also very highly recommended is Tim Detweiler's Making Working
Wooden Locks (0941936600, $21.95).
Woodworker's Guide To Making Traditional Mirrors & Picture Frames
John A. Nelson
Fox Chapel Publishing Company
1970 Broad Street North, East Petersburg, PA 17520
1565232232 $17.95 1-800-457-9112
The Fox Chapel Publishing Company is the premiere publisher of books for dedicated home
woodworking enthusiasts and special project carpenters. Woodworker's Guide To Making
Traditional Mirrors & Picture Frames by John A. Nelson showcases a series of 18 woodworking
projects for making 18th and 19th century mirror and picture frames. From Small Looking Glass
(c. 1790); to Early Looking Glass (c. 1800); to Victorian Wall Mirror (c. 1865); to Chippendale
Wall Mirror (c. 1875), these patterns are detailed and presented with easy-to-follow instructions.
Enhanced with tips on specialized tools (as well as tools commonly found in home woodworking
shops), Woodworker's Guide To Making Traditional Mirrors & Picture Frames will prove to be a
popular and appreciated addition to any home woodworking hobbyist's personal reference
collection.
Whips And Whipmaking
David W. Morgan
Cornell University Press
512 East State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
087033557X $19.95 1-800-666-2211
Now in its second edition, revised with additional information concerning whips made in the
Mongol tradition and the evolution of whip design in general, Whips And Whipmaking is a
straightforward, easy-to-follow guide and to the art of leather braiding to create whips for
performance or sport use. Black-and-white photographs and an extensive discussion of the lore,
history, and quirks of whips through the centuries make Whips And Whipmaking a one-of-a-kind,
information packed resource.
Tying Emergers
Jim Schollmeyer and Ted Leeson
Frank Amato Publications
PO Box 82112, Portland, OR 97282
1571883061 $45.00 1-503-653-8108 www.amatobooks.com
Written by a contributor to "Field & Stream" and "Fly Rod & Reel" magazines, as well as an
expert professional photographer with experience in the sports fishing realm, filled cover to cover
with over 2,200 step-by-step color photographs, Tying Emergers is a hands on, walk-me-through
guide for fishermen of all skill and experience levels. 217 emerger patterns, each with individual
fly plate and recipe, ensure that even the most dedicated and practiced emerger fly fisher will see
something knew in this amazing and comprehensive resource especially recommended for fly
fishing enthusiasts.
The Naked Warrior
Pavel Tsatsouline
Dragon Door Publications
PO Box 1097, West Chester, OH 45071
0938045555 $39.95 1-800-899-5111 www.dragondoor.com
The Naked Warrior: Master The Secrets of The Super-Strong Using Bodyweight Exercises Only
by Russian strength expert and former Spetsnaz instructor Pavel Tsatsouline is a thoroughly "user
friendly" instruction guide to enhancing sheer brute body strength; mastering martial arts secrets
of instant power generation for rapid surges in applied strength; getting a world-class power
lifter's quality workout; developing a harder, firmer, yet resilient body; acquiring the crushing
upper body force needed from one-arm and one-leg pushup routines; building up leg muscles and
performance -- and all of these with no gym, no weights, and yet benefiting from an effective
workout anywhere you happen to be at the time. The Naked Warrior is an enthusiastically
recommended addition to any dedicated or aspiring athlete's bodybuilding reference
collection.
The Illustrated History Of Scotland
Chris Tabraham
Oyster Press/Graphic Arts Center Publishing Co.
KSB Promotions (publicity)
PO Box 10306, Portland, OR 97296-0306
1932573011 $35.00 1-800-452-3032
For the non-specialist general reader, the history of the land of Robert Burns, Scotch whisky, and
Queen Mary has never been so well done as with the Oyster Press edition of The Illustrated
History Of Scotland by Chris Tabraham (Principal Inspector of Ancient Monuments for Historic
Scotland). The informed and informative text is superbly illustrated throughout with the
professional photography of Colin Baxter. Of special interest and value for the novice student of
Scottish history is extensive "Chronology" appendix that begins in 2,800,000,000 BC with the
stones of Scotland's original formation near the South Pole, and then proceeds upward to the
Second Elections to the Scottish Parliament of 2003 AD. No personal, professional, academic, or
community library World History collection can be considered complete without the inclusion of
Chris Tabraham's The Illustrated History Of Scotland!
The Harcourt Street Line
Brian Mac Aongusa
Currach Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
1856079074 $29.95 1-800-869-5677
The Harcourt Street Line was a double-track suburban railway that ran in Ireland from Dublin
through Dundrum and Foxrock to Bray. It was shut down and abandoned in 1958. Some forty
years later in May 1998, the Irish government launched a major investment of capital to create a
new railway (Luas Line B) that would run along the identical trackbed of the old Harcourt Street
Line as far as the Sandyford Industrial Estate (a distance of about eight kilometers). In The
Harcourt Street Line: Back On Track, County Dublin native and railway enthusiast Brian Mac
Aongusa presents the reader with an informed, informative, and colorful history of this local
railway. Highly recommended reading for all railroad fans and a unique contribution to Irish
transport history collections, The Harcourt Street Line is so well done that it could wonderfully
serve as a template for others wanting to capture the history of their own local commuter
lines.
Einstein Simplified
Sidney Harries
Rutgers University Press
100 Joyce Kilmer Avenue, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8099
0813533864 $12.95 1-800-446-9323 http://rutgerspress.rutgers.edu
Now in a newly revised and expanded edition, Einstein Simplified: Cartoons On Science by
Sidney Harris (easily one of America's most acclaimed science cartoonists) brings originality,
insight, and appreciation for the oddities, quirks, eccentricities, and occasional culture shocks that
the contemporary sciences so often inject into our ordinary (and often extraordinary) daily life.
Demonstrably doing for science what Scott Adams' "Dilbert" cartoons have done for business,
Einstein Simplified will delight scientists, academicians, and non-specialist general readers
alike!
The Tale Of The Scale
Solly Angel
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Ave., NY, NY 10016-4314
0195158687 $28.00 1-800-451-7556 www.oup-usa.org
Author Solly Angel envisioned a travel scale weighing a pound back in the mid-1980s and
decided to bring it to market as a reality. His evolution from idea to invention to marketing and
design follows his thought processes in an unusual series of insights into the inventor's mind and
achievements. Angel had no mechanical skills to aid him in realizing his vision, which makes his
story of an inventor's achievement truly a remarkable series of insights. The Tale Of The Scale:
An Odyssey Of Invention is unique and rewarding reading -- especially for anyone who has ever
wondered about taking their own ideas, concepts and inventions into the marketplace.
Willis M. Buhle
Reviewer
Burroughs' Bookshelf
The Essential Neruda Selected Poems
Mark Eisner, editor
City Lights Books
261 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
0872864286 $16.95 www.citylights.com
The Essential Neruda Selected Poems presents fifty poems by Pablo Neruda, one of the greatest
known Spanish poets, both in their original language and in new translations created by a
collaboration of eight poets, translators, and Neruda scholars. A captivating celebration, and a
superb introduction to the pathos of Neruda's work one hundred years after his birth. "Winter
Garden": It shows up, the winter. Splendid dictation / bestowed on me by slow leaves / suited up
in silence and yellow. // I'm a book of snow, / a wide hand, a prairie, / an expectant circumference,
/ I pertain to earth and its winter...
Medicine Buddha Teachings
Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche
Snow Lion Publications
PO Box 6483, Ithaca, NY 14851
1559392169 $16.95 1-800-950-0313 www.SnowLionPub.com
Written by the tutor to H. H. the Seventeenth Karmapa, Medicine Buddha Teachings is an
introduction to basic principles of tantric theory and way of life. A solid resource of wisdom and
understanding, patiently and thoughtfully narrated, Medicine Buddha Teachings includes the
Medicine Buddha Sadhana in Tibetan and in English translation, an extensive discussion
concerning the Medicine Buddha Sadhana teachings and their value in reducing suffering, an
examination of the Medicine Buddha Sutra, and the Twelve Great Aspirations of the Medicine
Buddha. Introduced and annotated for additional clarity by Lama Tashi Namgyal, Medicine
Buddha Teachings is a welcome resource especially for Vajrayana Buddhism reading lists and
reference shelves.
The Knights Templar In The New World
William F. Mann
Destiny Books
One Park Street, Rochester, Vermont 05767
0892811854 $16.95 www.InnerTraditions.com
Written by a great-nephew of a Supreme Grand Master of the Knights Templar of Canada, The
Knights Templar In The New World: How Henry Sinclair Brought The Grail To Arcadia is an
exploration of the mysteries and secrets of Prince Henry Sinclair and his Templar followers, who
allegedly came to Nova Scotia almost one hundred years before Christopher Columbus. A
compilation of obscure but compelling evidence, that presents famous individuals of history in a
manner that reads like a fantastic adventure.
John Burroughs
Reviewer
Christy's Bookshelf
Remember White Meidilands
Shirley Ann Gandy
PublishAmerica
P.O. Box 151, Frederick, Maryland 21705-0151
www.publishamerica.com 1-301-695-1707
ISBN 1413701825 $19.95 183 pages
Shirley Ann Gandy, Ph.D. has had a successful career in music as well as author of three books of
nonfiction. She lives in the Tennessee mountains near her two sons.
Zack Cole is a man used to fixing problems with one problem he can't seem to resolve. A
successful entrepreneur, Zack feels a real loss in his life until he meets Abby. Abby Crowley is a
young woman with a small, four-year-old son. Abby grew up in a Catholic orphanage, with the
message constantly drilled into her that she must obey. In order to escape the orphanage, she
married a man who turned abusive. When Zack learns of the abuse, he helps Abby escape to his
house on top of a mountain near Soda Creek, TN. There, Abby finds paradise, and begins to
enjoy life and its circumstances while falling in love with Zack.
Abby's young son, Sammy, is bitten by a copperhead and rushed to the hospital. Believing he is
dead, Abby wanders away from the hospital in shock. Later that evening, Abby is abducted by
four men who try unsuccessfully to assault her. Taken by ambulance to a hospital in Maryville,
Tennessee, she can give them no information as to who she is or where she is from. Meanwhile,
Zack, desperately trying to find Abby, hires a private investigator to aid in his search. Abby
wanders away from the hospital in Maryville, where Delta, a homeless woman, finds her hiding
under a bridge. Delta takes Abby under her wing, hoping to help her recover from her amnesia.
Deciding to go to a warmer climate, Delta begins to drive to Florida with Abby. She makes one
critical decision in her travel: to go east, through the mountains, instead of south through
Chattanooga.
REMEMBER WHITE MEIDILANDS is an inspirational love story told in an engaging style. Ms.
Gandy displays her vast knowledge of the mountainous regions of East Tennessee through her
vivid descriptions of its horticulture, small communities, and unique lifestyle. Her characters are
realistically portrayed, from personas to dialect. Full of twists and turns, at times the suspense will
leave the reader in an anticipatory state, anxious to read what happens next. This is one book
guaranteed to bring tears and smiles.
Appalachian Paradise
Maggie Bishop
High Country Publishers, Ltd.
197 New Market Center #135, Boone, NC 28607
ww.highcountrypublishers.com 828-964-0590
ISBN 0971304564 $9.95, 172 pgs
Author Maggie Bishop has lived in the mountains of North Carolina since 1993. An Air Force
brat who put herself through East Carolina University, Maggie is a former manufacturing
executive, founder of High Country Writers, and a hiker, swimmer, golfer, and skier.
APPALACHIAN PARADISE is her first novel.
Suzanne Bowers is an upper-management executive used to living a high-pressure life, a woman
who has decided love is only a fabrication. When her therapist orders her to take a vacation, she
decides to go to her uncle's cabin in the Appalachian Mountains, where she plans to begin a
five-day hike through the mountains. Wes Avery is an easygoing man full of Southern charm who
agrees, as a favor to Suzanne's uncle and unbeknownst to Suzanne, to accompany her on her trek
through the mountains. When the two meet, sparks fly. Suzanne is fiercely independent and finds
Wes to be an irritant, but finally decides it would be safer to have another person along for her
venture into the mountains.
During their five-day adventure, Wes realizes he is in love with Suzanne, but Suzanne initially
wants nothing to do with the man. However, she is highly attracted to him, even though she does
not want to be. The two slowly begin to know one another and become friends. They face danger
together and share many visually aesthetic moments. Suzanne slowly begins to unwind and finds
herself opening up to Wes. Before the trip is finished, their campfires aren't the only things
sizzling in the mountains. However, upon their return, Suzanne is confronted with two unknown
truths that Wes had not divulged and she flees to Baltimore, to her old lifestyle. But Wes is
determined not to lose Suzanne and begins his own battle to bring her back to the
Appalachians.
Maggie Bishop brings a vast knowledge of the Appalachian region and its multitudinous array of
horticulture to APPALACHIAN PARADISE. She displays the unique ability to draw the reader
into each setting with vivid description, to the point that the reader feels part of the scene. The
story is well-paced, the characters deftly drawn, the chemistry between Suzanne and Wes searing,
and the romantic story teasing enough to leave the reader anxiously waiting for "the
moment".
Nudist Among Us
Allen Parker
PublishAmerica
P.O. Box 151, Frederick, Maryland 21705-0151
www.publishamerica.com 1-301-695-1707
ISBN 1413701787 $16.95 99 pages
As a nudist, Allen Parker writes about a subject he knows well. Raised in Virginia, his vocational
choices have ranged from being a mechanic to the construction industry. NUDIST AMONG US
is his first work of fiction.
Some may think a Christian nudist is somewhat of an oxymoron, but NUDIST AMONG US
proves otherwise. This is a rambling collection of stories and comments about a Christian nudist
named Chester whose life reads like slapstick comedy.
Chester is an affable fellow who plunges into life and its situations full-steam ahead, sometimes
without thinking of the consequences. Constantly caught in the crossfire is his wife, Karalynn, a
woman of supreme patience who stands by her bungling husband at times when most would wish
they had some sort of weapon in hand and, if so, would use it freely.
Parker shows a propensity for Southern humor and philosophy delivered in a style reminiscent of
Will Rogers. Although NUDIST AMONG US is a quick read, it's a fun book, sure to brings
smiles and chuckles.
Best-selling author Paul Giverney is switching publishers, and most any acquisitions editor in New
York would gnaw a limb off to sign him. While Paul isn't interested in self-mutilation, he does
make an unusual demand of the house whose multi-million-dollar offer he's decided to accept:
Mackenzie-Haack must drop one of its most valued authors--Ned Isaly, a better writer than Paul
who sells far fewer books--as a prerequisite to signing Giverney. Unfortunately for Ned,
"Mack-Haack" is not in a position to rip up his contract. It's far easier for the publisher to hire a
pair of hit men to take Isaly out--thugs who turn out to be more discerning than your average
performers of "wet work."
Foul Matter follows the sometimes comic results of Mackenzie-Haack's determination to sign
Paul Giverney, and it follows Ned Isaly and his writer friends as they struggle variously with their
novels. The book's premise, if implausible, is intriguing. Unfortunately, the book seems to be short
a chapter or two. Grimes does finally answer the question readers have been asking themselves
since the book's first chapter--why is Giverney gunning for Isaly?--although the payoff isn't really
worth it. But the author leaves unanswered a more important question about Ned that develops in
the book's course. Ultimately, then, Foul Matter is an unsatisfying read, though there is some fun
to be had along the way.
Nobody's Fool
Richard Rosso
Vintage
ISBN: 0679753338 $14.95 549 pages
Donald Sullivan--"Sully"--has rarely met a promising opportunity he didn't walk away from.
Arguably the most stubbornly wrongheaded man in the economically depressed village of North
Bath, New York, Sully scrapes a living as a jack of all trades, often fed construction work by the
town's most fortunate scion, Carl Roebuck. Roebuck, a man with the sexual appetite of a satyr,
enjoys an amusing love-hate relationship with Sully, the product of a lifetime of acquaintance in a
small town. Richard Russo's Nobody's Fool abounds in these rich relationships, fully-formed
characters sharing complex, realistic histories with one another. Chief among those characters is
Sully's landlady and one-time 8th-grade teacher, 80-year-old Beryl Peoples, who has been Sully's
staunch ally for more than forty years.
Nobody's Fool is a chronicle of one particularly trying period in Sully's life, during which he is
plagued by a grotesquely swollen knee and by unusually vivid reminiscences of his abusive father,
now dead. ("Sully hated to think of his father at rest, and had there been a way, and if Sully'd had
the money, he'd have left instructions to have Big Jim dug up every decade or so, just to make
sure he didn't get comfortable.") The book is beautifully written, and Russo's evocation of North
Bath is so successful that the town and its strange-looking denizens will come to reside in your
imagination. A good, long, slow read you'll be sorry to part with.
The Quiet Game
Greg Iles
Signet
ISBN: 0451180429 $7.99 559 pages
Some seven months after his wife's death, best-selling author and former prosecuting attorney
Penn Cage returns with his four-year-old daughter to his home town of Natchez, Mississippi. He
manages almost at once to stir up long-moldering racial tensions in the small town with a chance
remark he makes to an ambitious and unusually persuasive journalist, the braless and
insubstantially shirted Caitlin Masters. Penn soon finds himself investigating the thirty-year-old
murder he had mouthed off about, but many people--among them the director of the FBI and
Natchez's most fearsome resident, the corrupt Judge Leo Marston--would prefer that the 1968 car
bombing of black factory worker Del Payton remain unsolved.
The plot of Greg Iles's The Quiet Game is complex, and its principal characters are three
dimensional, but the book did not pack the emotional wallop I expected of it after reading Iles's
24 Hours. It may be that the story is slowed down by unnecessary detail. For example, describing
Penn's arrival at the site of the murder, the parking lot of a battery plant, Iles launches into a
history of the factory: "The dark skeleton of the Triton Battery plant materializes to our right as
Ike turns onto Gate Street, then right again into a parking lot lighted by the pink glow of mercury
vapor. The Triton Battery Company came to Natchez in 1936 to build batteries for Pullman rail
cars. In 1940 they retooled the line to manufacture batteries for diesel submarines. After the war it
was truck batteries, marine batteries, whatever fit the changing market. The last I heard, Triton
was using its ancient equipment to produce motorcycle batteries for European manufacturers."
But while slower than it might be and longer than it perhaps should be, The Quiet Game remains a
decent read. Fans of courtroom dramas in particular will enjoy the book's denouement.
Angels & Demons
Dan Brown
Pocket Books
ISBN: 0671027360 $7.99 572 pages
Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is awakened in the middle of the night and confronted with
evidence of something he hadn't thought possible: the Illuminati, the world's oldest satanic cult,
though long thought a defunct organization, is apparently thriving and responsible for the horrific
mutilation and murder of a brilliant physicist. Arrived at the victim's workplace, a secretive
nuclear research facility in Switzerland, Langdon discovers that the Illuminati have more in store
for the world than the assassination of a single scientist. The group has its hands on the world's
most destructive material, stolen from the dead man's lab, and is intent on destroying the Catholic
Church by violent means.
Angels & Demons is the precursor to Dan Brown's much ballyhooed The DaVinci Code, which
also features Langdon in the Indiana Jones-ish role of studly-smart professor-hero. The book is
similar to The DaVinci Code, too, in its style and content--a romantic flirtation in the midst of
crisis; secret religious history unveiled; complicated information rendered highly digestible by Mr.
Brown's skillful hand; short, explosive chapters that make the book very hard to put down. A
great story, well-written.
Author Lynne Truss is not above vigilantism. Indeed, given her druthers, Truss would arm the
citizenry--that portion of it, at least, that takes its punctuation very seriously--with permanent
markers and Wite-Out and set it loose on a world of greengrocers' signs marred by misplaced
apostrophes. And she mightn't stop there: "No matter that you have a PhD and have read all of
Henry James twice. If you still persist in writing, 'Good food at it's best', you deserve to be struck
by lightning, hacked up on the spot and buried in an unmarked grave." Truss's plea for violent
action in the face of mixed up itses may go unheeded, but her light-hearted, best-selling paean to
punctuation, originally published in Great Britain (and retaining British punctuation practices), has
clearly tapped into a vein of previously voiceless pedants who believe that the lives of punctuation
marks are worth celebrating. Evidently, as Truss writes, "a lot of well-educated sensitive people
really have been weeping friendlessly in caves for the past few years, praying for
someone--anyone--to write a book about punctuation with a panda on the cover."
Published in the U.S. in 2004 with an (unremarkable) introduction by Frank McCourt (author of
Angela's Ashes), Truss's Eats, Shoots & Leaves is a breezy, funny account of the history, abuse,
and proper use of a host of punctuation marks--the apostrophe (with which the author's affections
clearly lie), the comma, the semi-colon (failure to use which was, according to George Bernard
Shaw, "a symptom of mental defectiveness"), the exclamation point (among punctuation marks
"the big attention-deficit brother who gets over-excited and breaks things and laughs too loudly"),
and so on. The book is a quick, amusing read, and it is besides an attractive little volume,
panda-covered, of course: the perfect gift for the sticklers in your life.
Rats: Observations on the History & Habitat of the City's Most Unwanted Inhabitants
Robert Sullivan
Bloomsbury
ISBN: 1582343853 $23.95 242 pages
Author Robert Sullivan spent many nights over the course of a year observing the nocturnal
goings-on--rat-watching, in other words--in an L-shaped alley (actually the intersection of two
alleys, Ryders Alley and Edens Alley) in Manhattan, just blocks away from Wall Street and City
Hall and the site of the World Trade Center. (Sullivan had been trying to trap a rat in his alley in
the early morning of September 11th, 2001.) The alley he selected is bounded by a Chinese
restaurant on one side and an Irish pub on the other, so that its greasy-slick cobblestones are
awash nightly in edible garbage of both ethnic varieties, palatable to aficionados of either type.
The alley is, in short, the perfect place to raise children.
Rats, as it happens, have a lot of children to raise. Among the skin-crawlingly fascinating bits of
information Sullivan provides in his highly readable paean to the Rattus norvegicus, or brown rat,
is that both male and female rats can have sex twenty times a day. "If they are not eating, then rats
are usually having sex. Most likely, if you are in New York while you are reading this sentence or
even in any other major city in America, then you are in proximity to two or more rats having
sex." Nor is their copulation unproductive: "One rat's nest can turn into a rat colony of fifty rats in
six months. One pair of rats has the potential of 15,000 descendants in a year."
Sullivan's observations on rats in general and on the rats in his alley in particular are interspersed
with rat-related asides. He includes in his book, for example, chapters on New York's
rat-motivated rent strikes in the 1960s and the rat fights of the 19th century, in which single
dogs--and more rarely men--were pitted against scores of rats at a time for the amusement of a
human audience. Some of Sullivan's tangents are more interesting than others, and readers will
differ in their preferences. (The anecdotes of rat-hardened exterminators or urine baths as
precaution against the Black Death? There is something here for every taste.) And Sullivan
sometimes gets carried away with his poeticizing of the rat's experience and relationship to man.
(I mean, they're just rats.) The book as a whole, however, is a delightful look at a
rarely-considered world that is, often quite literally, right beneath our feet.
Debra Hamel, Reviewer
http://www.tryingneaira.com
Diana's Bookshelf
Exorcising Angels
Simon Clark & Tim Lebbon
Earthling Publications
12 Pheasant Hill Drive, Shrewsbury MA 01545
www.earthlingpub.com
ISBN#: 0972151885 $35.00 87 pgs
One of the tasks of good fiction is to suspend reality, if only for a moment. A sign of brilliant
fiction is when the line between reality and fiction are blurred. This is the task Simon Clark & Tim
Lebbon set out to accomplish in their collaborative work Exorcising Angels. They accomplished
this with a great deal of talent not only making the unreal come to life, but also challenging the
mind of their readers to keep the two separate.
Exorcising Angels is the story of one man's quest for answers. Lieutenant Delamare Smith needs
to know the truth behind a story penned by Arthur Machen. More to the point, he needs to know
how this piece of fiction fits into the reality of what he saw during the war, whilst stuck in a
trench. As Smith and Machen delve into the reality of fiction, or the fiction of reality, the line I
spoke of blurs. The truth they seek out will forever blur that line. This is a truly chilling tale by
two of the most talented modern horror writers in the field. Their styles are so perfectly meshed,
readers will be hard pressed to determine which of the two penned what part of the tale.
In addition to the collaborative piece, readers are treated to two stories written individually by
each author. Being as these are short stories I won't say much lest I ruin the treat. Let me just say
that in the hands of Simon Clark & Tim Lebbon, the fabric of reality is stretched, pulled, pushed
and reshaped into a place of mystery. Sometimes dark, sometimes not, in the end what we call
reality will be different for each reader.
This is a must have for any collection of fiction to be complete. In their attempt to honor Machen,
Clark & Lebbon are spot on.
Dead Man's Hand
Tim Lebbon
Necessary Evil Press
2722 South Hill Road #31 Gladstone, MI 49837
$12.95 www.necessaryevilpress.com
Do you ever get the feeling you are about to witness a life-changing event? Perhaps when you
meet someone, you just get the sense something is about to come down. Occasionally, the
something you get the feeling about isn't all too pleasant. That is the feeling Doug gets when he
meets Gabriel, a scarred and wounded stranger with only one eye, heading into town one rainy
night.
The scene is set with a solid Western flavor and readers will have no problem relating to Doug,
the main character; an average guy who runs a general store in Deadwood, a small town which
sees a lot of gunplay. He knows immediately when he meets Gabriel the action about to take place
will not be good since he seems bent on finding a man named Temple.
When Doug tells his friend Jack about the arrival of the stranger he acts very odd and becomes
violent. Doug doesn't want to become involved, but when he returns to his shop Gabriel is there.
When he tells Gabriel that Temple is already dead, things take a bizarre shift. Doug finds that he
and Jack are involved in something that is way beyond the natural world as they know it. What
ensues is an ongoing battle between Temple, an assassin with a bit more on his side than one
would expect and Gabriel, who is also a bit more than the battered gunfighter he seems.
Dead Man's Hand is the first in a series of alternative reality novellas from Tim Lebbon. I am not a
fan of westerns in the least, but when Lebbon puts his touch on the genre, the story becomes
supernatural, with a biting, horrorific edge, which left me wanting more. His gift for the written
word continues to amaze me, filling Dead Man's Hand with rich characters, perfect pacing and a
conclusion that completes the story, yet left me tingling in anticipation for the next
installment.
This is the work from a master storyteller at the height of his game. With characters like Temple
and Gabriel, readers will crave to read more. My advice is to pick up this series from the
beginning and follow it along with me, as I am sure it will be unforgettable.
The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud
Ben Sherwood
Bantam Dell
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
ISBN#: 0553802208 $22.95 272 pgs
Whenever reminiscing about childhood there is always one kid you can think of who had
everything going for them, someone good at everything they tried. Charlie St. Cloud was that
type of child.
Raised in a single parent household, Charlie formed a special and very strong bond with his little
brother Sam. When he decided to take him to watch a ballgame, he was in for much more than
just another fun adventure. On the way home an accident puts both boys and their dog teetering
between life and dead, in a dark place where Charlie promises his brother he will never leave him;
but suddenly he is gone, the only one resuscitated.
As an adult, Charlie spends his days as the caretaker for the cemetery where his brother was laid
to rest. Each night when the sun goes down, in keeping with his promise, he meets Sam at the
edge of the woods and they spend the night playing and visiting. His life may not be perfect, but
he is content with having Sam, never expecting what fate has in store for him with a woman by
the name of Tess Carroll. She is a brave free spirited extraordinary woman who is preparing to
sail around the world. When she crosses paths with Charlie neither of their lives will be the
same.
You might think this sounds like a romance and it is, but it is so much more that to pigeonhole it
into that one genre does the work and its author a major disservice. This is a novel for every
reader preference; gripping, compelling, sad and joyous. There is a lovely degree of spirituality
with a supernatural flavor. It has a degree of drama in the story of the two brothers. Action fills
the book as Charlie struggles to find the truth about Tess.
The range of emotions I experienced while reading The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud was
phenomenal. Ben Sherwood has the power and gift to make readers feel his words with a book to
be savored and most certainly in your library. I challenge you to pick up your copy of The Death
and Life of Charlie St. Cloud and take your reading experience to an entirely new level.
You Wouldn't Want to... Series
David Antram, illustrator
Franklin Watts
A Division of Scholastic, Inc.
Box 1795 Danbury, CT 06816
www.scholasticlibrary.com 1-800-621-1115
ISBN# 0531124266 Individually $26.00 Set of four $104.00 32 pgs
Greek Athlete by Michael Ford ISBN# 0531123529
Civil War Soldier by Thomas Ratliff ISBN# 0531123502
Medieval Knight by Fiona Macdonald ISBN# 0531123537
Pyramid Builder by Jacqueline Morley ISBN# 0531123510
There are a lot of glamorous jobs in history that children often daydream about. The jobs in the
You Wouldn't Want to be a ... series might be included in those daydreams. However once
readers learn what the jobs really entailed they may not daydream about them and if they do, they
will certainly have a bit more respect for the position. Titles in this fun series are:
Greek Athlete: This book takes a look at what it was like to be a young man preparing to be an
athlete in the Olympic games. Believe me, it certainly entailed a lot more than one might think.
The book looks at such things as training, military service, practice, sacrifices and the various
events, which were a part of every competition. The image of an athlete leading a life of luxury is
quickly dispelled, but in a way that will be fun for children to read.
Civil War Soldier: Looks at America's bloodiest war from the perspective of what it was like to
serve from both sides. The book explores everything from enlistment to medical treatments for
injuries. This is a delicate subject to approach when writing a book for children and in my opinion
Thomas Ratliff has done a superb job of getting the facts across in a serious yet entertaining way
that is not threatening. I found it to be an enjoyable read filled with little known facts about the
life of a soldier during service.
Medieval Knight: This book was particularly interesting to me, as I always wanted to be a knight.
Okay, since I am a girl, my daydreaming would lean more toward being around knights. There is
more to be considered than riding off to battle and returning to a luxurious castle life. In fact the
life of a knight had few luxuries. It was a lot of hard work and there were oh so many ways to
meet ones demise. This is a truly charming book that presents a lot of information that may be
missed or perhaps fantasized out when thinking of this time period. They style is perfectly suited
for children and great fun for adults.
Pyramid Builder: Now this is a job you can tell right away involves a lot of hard work. Let's face
it, those stones are big and it was hot! But the heat and blocks were just the beginning of the
hardships faced by the pyramid builders. What is really neat about this book is it looks at all of the
work it took to build a pyramid, from heavy laborers to scribes. It also explores the living
conditions and many other factors. This is an utterly engrossing read that is sure to please all
ages.
This series is designed for grades two through five and is perhaps the most enjoyable read I have
had in quite a bit. I must give my highest recommendation to any children's book that can be as
entertaining for the adult as it is for the child. The information is presented in such a way there is
never too much being given at once and very often, even though you are taking in so many things
that are new to you, it doesn't read as such. I know if social studies had been presented to me this
way I certainly would have paid more attention in class. This is a great way to get children
interested in study of history. It is simple and brilliant. Facts made fun. If you have or work with
children or just happen to like history, this set is perfect and comes with my highest
recommendation.
Books About Animals Series
Franklin Watts
A Division of Scholastic, Inc.
Box 1795 Danbury, CT 06816
www.scholasticlibrary.com 1-800-621-1115
ISBN: 0531124258 Individually $24.00 Set of four $96.00 64 pgs
Animals Survivors of the Wetlands by Barbara A. Somervill ISBN# 0531122034
Animals Survivors of the Artic by Barbara A. Somervill ISBN# 0531122042
How Animals Play by Betty Tatham ISBN# 0531121739
How Animals Communicate by Betty Tatham ISBN# 0531121674
Animals fascinate most children and many adults. Their lives and all the surrounding components
hold a great interest for me as well. If you or anyone you love feel a deep fascination, respect for,
or are drawn to animals, you won't want to miss this series. Although it is designed for children
the material is presented in such a way it will hold the attention of readers from all age
groups.
Animal Survivors of the Wetlands is a heartwarming book, which tells about the animals of the
wetlands, that at one point were endangered or even thought extinct. Now they are thriving or
well on their way to thriving. The wetlands themselves hold a special meaning to me, as I am a
Florida resident and often hear about the everglades. The wildlife success stories covered in this
book are: Alligators, Brown Pelicans, Whooping Cranes, Manatees, and the Cranes of Kushiro.
All of the profiles are told in a way that makes readers enjoy the species for all of their wonderful
characteristics, respect them for their struggles and most important think about what we can do to
see to their continued survival. Readers can feel the passion of author Barbara A. Somervill in her
words, and coupled with stunning photographs, it makes for an entertaining and powerful
read.
Animal Survivors of the Artic tells of the struggles faced by the unique animal life in the frozen
North. It too tells of survival stories about species that were pushed to endangerment who are or
have begun to make a recovery. It is truly fascinating to read of a place and its inhabitants, where
due to the extreme low temperatures, are not seen by many. The animals discussed in this book
are: Caribou, Ringed Seals, Artic Peregrines, Polar Bears, Fur Seals, Walrus, and Musk Oxen.
The lives of these special animals are looked at in a way that provides both fun facts and also a
glimpse at the hardships faced by each. Man causes many of the hardships and as readers will
discover, the solutions too need to be caused by man. This book is also penned by the passionate
Barbara A. Somervill and filled with beautiful and moving artwork.
How Animals Play is a book sure to make readers of all ages laugh and smile. The images are
simply glorious, showing various types of animals engaged in many different types of play. The
book explains in a most entertaining way that as with humans, animals play for the sheer fun of it.
In addition to being fun play teaches skills that will be needed for later in life such as, fighting,
hunting and mating behaviors. The words of Betty Tatham show her readers that animals and their
behavior are very similar to humans when it comes to play, as well as very different. It is
important when teaching about nature to get across the message of the beauty these animals bring
to the world. This book does an exceptional job of that. To read and look at pictures of such an
array of animals and their play behavior is a true blessing.
How Animals Communicate lends insight into the numerous ways in which animals communicate
with other animals, be it friend or predator. There are several ways that animals can communicate
and in this book readers are shown how they use colors, touch, smell, sounds and even tricks to
send messages to each other. The messages sent are as various as the ways they are sent, ranging
from 'I love you' to 'flee there is danger'. Betty Tatham gives her readers a glimpse into the
intricate way animals correspond with each other and the outside world. The bit I found
particularly interesting was the last chapter on how animals miscommunicate on purpose. They do
so to trick other animals, such as animals that want to eat them or animals they want to eat. No
matter what your favorite animal is, this book is a truly interesting read on a fascinating topic and
has splendid art.
All the books in the series, Books About Animals, have some wonderfully common traits:
exceptional writing, stunning photographs, glossary, information on further research and a
sources list. To make the most of this learning tool there are words highlighted throughout the
text which are found in the glossary. The books are sturdy with hardbound covers, high quality
pages and easy to read text. No home or school should be without these books. They grant their
readers insight and understanding into the lives of natures many wonderful creatures in a way as
fun as it is educational.
Diana Bennett
Reviewer
Duncan's Bookshelf
Under Pressure
Frank Herbert
Science Fiction Book Club 50th Anniversary
401 Franklin Ave, Garden City, NY 11530
ISBN#: 0739435272; $9.95; 178 pp.
This novel of the 'near' future was written in 1955 when the nuclear power plant for our first
nuclear submarine (USN Nautilus) was built and tested at the super-secret naval engineering
facility outside Pocatello, Idaho. My uncle, Cmdr. William Spencer, USN was one of those
engineers who built Admiral Rickover's 'Nuclear' Navy ship by ship.
In the mid-fifties little was known about our future Navy and their capabilities. Frank Herbert
included these 'visions' in his novel Under Pressure: Nuclear power in a triple hulled vessel; Good.
No diesel backup; Not good. A nuclear pile held to the deck by clamps; Not good. Long voyages
entirely under the surface; probable. Nations fighting over a limited oil supply; probable.
Under Pressure explores the psychological forces at work among a four-member subtug crew that
is sent to retrieve a barge (60 feet across by 1 mile long) of oil from under the noses of the hunter
packs that lay in wait in the North Atlantic. The four men are under enormous pressure to renew
the Navy's faith in its subs by succeeding where 24 previous missions have failed.
Herbert's Under Pressure is an interesting snapshot of Herbert's vision of the future, circa 1955.
He predicts that secretaries of the future will be able to speak and their words will be transcribed
into text on their computer screens. Are we there, yet?
An astute reader should pick up several Life and Look issues from the 1950's and get a feeling for
life as it was in the age of Rickover and Chuck Berry and Fats Domino and the young senator
who married an aristocrat named Jacqueline Bouvier. It was an age of expectation and our view
of the future was limitless.
Red Thunder
John Varley
Ace Books / Penguin
375 Hudson Street; New York, NY 10014
ISBN#: 0441010156; $14.95; 411 pages
Four Chinese astronauts step out of their spacecraft and set up a camera. They are intent on
documenting their 'First Man on Mars' arrival. Their homeland has invested $billions to put them
on Mars first before the Americans. They are lined up facing the camera, broadcasting back to
Earth when four Americans in a huge electric-powered 'monster' truck appear behind the Chinese,
stealing their thunder by being first to land on Mars.
The premise of Red Thunder is eminently plausible. What if four smart Americans and a
'recovering' alcoholic astronaut with the 'right stuff' decide to build a vehicle to fly to Mars? The
astronaut had an extended family with welding and electrical specialists. This team also knows
that an American mission that is racing to beat the Chinese has an 'explosive' engine and a disaster
in deep space is probable.
'Getting there first' is both symbol and metaphor for the re-birth of American technological (and
heroic) skills. Red Thunder gives us the pain of a disaster followed by the warmth of success.
When the home-built vehicle Red Thunder sets down in the Pluto parking lot at DisneyWorld, the
President (she is female, last name Ventura) and the world are present to welcome the returning
heroes.
If this story is made into a movie twenty years from now, Bruce Willis will be exactly the right
age and visual image for Captain Travis Broussard, our ageless hero. If you liked the movie
Armageddon, you will also enjoy Red Thunder.
Marty Duncan, Reviewer
www.omagadh.com
Emanuel's Bookshelf
Girls in Trouble
Caroline Leavitt
St. Martin's Press
ISBN 0312271220 $24.95 368 pp.
It's 1987; and sixteen year old Sara is pregnant. Her boyfriend Danny is a bit of a rebel who her
parents want no part of. Neither do they want a part of Sara and Danny's baby. Their main
concern is that Sara will move on with her life after the birth so that she can follow her dream of
attending college and living a good life. But since Sara wants to be a part of the child's life, she
has opted for an open adoption. So finding Eva and George as adoptive parents was like a dream
come true. The middle-aged couple welcomes Sara into their home with open arms, taking
snapshots with her, teaching her to drive, and even keeping souvenirs of her for the baby's sake.
She is allowed to come and go as she pleases. They even treat her better than her own parents.
But sometimes dreams become nightmares.
Once Sara gives birth, things take a dramatic turn for the worse. The adoptive parents no longer
want to see her every day, telling her they need time to bond with the baby. Truth is: Sara's
maternal instincts and natural bonding with the child prove to be a bit too much for the jealous
parents to handle. Meanwhile, the na‹ve Sara continues to make her unwelcome presence felt by
dropping by Eva and George's home on a daily basis, almost to the point of fanatical stalking. But
she can't help it. She loves her newborn baby, Anne, even though she's not really her baby at all.
When Eva and George express their true feelings about Sara's frequent visits, she takes matters
into her own hands, which forces the couple to make a drastic decision of their own.
"Girls in Trouble" tells the story of a unique and original topic, an open adoption gone terribly
wrong and how the lives of the people involved are affected. The story spans over a sixteen year
period. The author does a splendid job at capturing the perspective of each person involved,
including the birth parents, adoptive parents, birth grandparents, and the young girl who was
adopted. Caroline Leavitt (author of Coming Back to Me) has definitely brought her "A" game to
the table with her crisp and intriguing writing style that will make you smile.
Though the slow-paced beginning of the story contains a few clich‚s about childbirth and
adoption, it gets a full head of steam and continues its pace for the remainder of the tale. By the
story's end, you will surely crave more and more. "Girls in Trouble" is a captivating story that will
surely find its way beneath the arms of a plethora of loving fans of all ages.
Good Grief
Lolly Winston
Time Warner Books
ISBN 0446533041 $18.00 352 pp.
When Good Grief first arrived on my desk, I told myself I would just read the first chapter to test
the waters. A couple of hours later, I had devoured the book like a fat man at a buffet restaurant.
Needless to say, the water was warm and oh did it feel good.
Good Grief is the hilarious new book about surviving death. No, that wasn't a typo. The story is
filled with both poignant and sardonic comments from Sophie Stanton (the main character) and
how she copes with the loss of her husband Ethan to cancer. Her spouse, who made his living as a
software programmer, has gone on to a better place after merely three years of marriage. Sophie,
a PR manager, now finds herself a reluctant widow. At only 36 years old, she is the youngest
person in group counseling for the grief-stricken.
Sophie goes through all of the textbook stages of grief, including denial, anger, depression, and
acceptance. During the first stage, she questions the meaning of life and the senselessness of her
job, trying to promote a patch used to increase male testosterone. " I feel like an imposter in a
cubicle-like the artificial crabmeat of public relations managers. Then there's the fact that I have to
say "scrotum" to people all the time. Is this really the color of my parachute?"
During the depression phase, she finds solace in staying home and watching TV shows like Cops.
" now I see the attraction of the show. It makes your own life seem pretty together." Truer
words have never been written.
Though her deceased hubby's mother tries to help out the best she can, including helping with
sending his belongings to Goodwill and spreading her son's ashes in the ocean. When she shows
up to work in her robe and bunny slippers, her human resources manager gives her a much needed
sabbatical. It is after this moment when Sophie decides to leave the Silicon Valley city she and her
husband had shared and packs up to move to Ashland, Oregon to be with her friend Ruth and her
four-year old daughter to start all over again.
In Oregon, Sophie trades sunny California days for cloud-filled ones. She rents out an unused bed
and breakfast. Then she donates a portion of her time to Big Brother/Big Sisters where she winds
up getting matched with a self-mutilating, foul-mouthed teenager named Crystal instead of a
young, sweetheart to play Candyland with (like she'd hoped for). Afterwards, the road to recovery
begins-a road that includes a new career and a new love interest.
Good Grief is a strikingly original work filled with charm, truth, and a heaping helping of sharp
wit. First time author Lolly Winston, who resides in California, succeeds at the difficult task of
taking a delicate subject and having fun with it without being offensive. The novel reminded me a
lot of Dave Eggers "A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius" in style and content. I highly
recommend this cleverly written book and hope the movie is in the works. Good Grief is an
outstanding piece of work.
Miriam the Medium
Rochelle Jewel Shapiro
Simon & Schuster Inc.
ISBN 0743244788 $23.00 320 pp.
Miriam Kaminsky was born with a gift. She has psychic abilities. But she's no Miss Cleo or any
other phony baloney. She's the real deal who foresees the past, present, and future with pinpoint
accuracy. Whether she's studying tea leaves, listening to dead spirits, or studying the auras of
those around her, her clairvoyance comes through loud and clear. Her gift was cultivated by her
grandmother, a feisty Russian immigrant, who is a talented psychic in her own right.
Unfortunately, not everyone believes Miriam's powers are a blessing. In fact, her own family,
Rory, her pharmacist husband and Cara, her teen daughter prefer she not even use her abilities.
Even her own mother had banned her from using what she calls the voodoo her babushka
grandmother had taught her when she was a child. Welcome to Miriam the Psychic's world.
Miriam's powers are only the beginning of her problems. Her husband's business is on the brink of
financial failure. His one employee, Fred, is a lazy man who would rather make small talk with
customers than do his job. But Rory does not have the heart to fire him. At least Rory and Miriam
still have the hots for each other.
Her daughter Cara throws herself into her schoolwork in order to hide the jealousy she has
towards her mother and her psychic gift. When she meets bad boy Lance, Cara forgets all about
schoolwork and plans for college to be with him, much to her parents' dismay. To top if off, her
nosey neighbors want her to move because they believe her readings attract weirdoes to the
neighborhood.
At work, Miriam listens to all types of on the phone, from a lovesick Sopranos type, an Asian
masseuse with relationship issues, and a woman who wants to leave her family for another man.
When a talent scout offers to make her rich and famous for her gift, Miriam has to think long and
hard about the offer. Although her grandmother advised her to never do such a thing, her family's
money problems make the offer tempting.
First time author Rochelle Jewel Shapiro has created an unforgettable and intriguing character in
Miriam the Psychic. Unfortunately the dull plot, mostly about a housewife with every day family
problems, does not do the character justice. After 150 pages, I was just about ready to give up on
the book altogether. Reading about Miriam's adventures in Great Neck, New York was like
watching Jackie Chan drop kick bad guys on a soap opera. It would have been much more
stimulating to read about how the protagonist was tracking a serial killer, unveiling a political
scandal, or even preventing World War III. There is an interesting and exciting development
about a missing teenager that almost saves the book but it comes much too late to do so. Though
I can't recommend the book, I believe it may still find an audience in a demographic outside of
mine.
Mirror, Mirror
Laurel Handfield
Strebor Books
ISBN # 1593090145 $13.00 240 pp.
Jordan Overton's life was dull. Her daily routine consisted of catching the bus to work, working
as a temp for an acerbic boss, conversing with her gay roommate Terry, and eating her way out of
depression. Meanwhile, she couldn't help but to fantasize about her boss's sexy partner, the
married Trent Prescott. But when Jordan's boss turns up dead, her dull life turns into one of
mystery, ruse, and danger. And so begins the plot of "Mirror, Mirror," the second novel from
author Laurel Handfield (My Diet Starts Tomorrow).
After the mysterious death of her boss, Mr. Hines, Jordan's dreams of Trent soon become a
reality. After a hot and steamy affair, Trent attempts to persuade her that he had nothing to do
with Hines's death. His power of persuasion is also used to convince Jordan that he is in love with
her and wants to leave his wife, the ex-model Jaquie. But when the affair becomes a convenient
alibi for Prescott, Jordan starts to question the authenticity of Prescott's emotions. What's more, a
killer is on the loose; and everyone's a suspect.
Laurel Handfield has crafted a captivating page turner in the murder mystery in "Mirror, Mirror."
The characters and dialogue feel real. The humor comes at just the right moments. Above all, the
plot is well thought out; and the denouement pays off big time. Though there are a few awkward
sentences that can be distracting; and the writing could use a tad more flair, it doesn't take away
from the fact that the book is well worth the price. "Mirror, Mirror," is a wonderful escape filled
with generous helpings of suspense and intrigue.
Mississippi Blues
Cassandra Darden Bell
B E T Books/Sepia
ISBN # 1583144811 $14.00 240 pp.
They say you should never judge a book by its cover. After reading "Mississippi Blues," a new
novel by Cassandra Darden Bell, I wondered if that included the marketing fluff on the back as
well. While the book claims to be about a tense reunion between siblings, it turns out to be about
a hodgepodge of lackluster events that take place in the main character's life.
From the onset, we learn that the protagonist, Beverly Lamark, is a successful author living in
Massachusetts who has written several bestsellers under a pen name. She has all the rewards of
success, including a husband who is an attorney, intelligent children, a luxury vehicle, and a
gorgeous home. But like all too many books of this genre, the main character's material rewards
are not nearly enough to make her happy. As it turns out, her husband is a workaholic who barely
has time for her, which includes time for love making. Her children are growing up a little too
fast. To make matters worse, she's written off her siblings in Mississippi since the death of their
parents.
A phone call from Beverly's sister Mabel causes her to reluctantly plan a road trip with her kids to
the southern state to decide what to do with the land their parents left behind. During the trip the
family is assaulted and robbed, which is only the beginning of their problems. After a bitter
confrontation with her siblings, tragedy strikes, causing everyone to re-think their relationships
with each other.
Though I enjoyed Bell's style of scribing southern dialect and the authentic feel of the sibling
confrontations, it wasn't enough to save this novel. The uneven plot was at times frustrating to
read. What's more, the easily forgettable writing has no pizzazz or style worth mentioning. During
times of tragedy and fear, the author does very little to convince the reader of the main character's
feelings. While most writers work at painting a picture and making the reader feel as if she was
there, this book felt more like an old relative telling a dry story. "Mississippi Blues" had this
reviewer singing the blues.
The New Solution Selling
Keith M. Eades
McGraw Hill
ISBN 0071435395 $29.95 300 pp.
In my business humor book, "A Job Ain't Nothing But Work," I made a joke about everyone
selling solutions these days. "My wife won't give me any. Got a solution for that?" But in the new
book "The New Solution Selling," solutions are all business. It begins with a clear definition of
what a solution selling is: "a system of methods that includes tools, job aids, techniques, and
procedures that help salespeople and sales teams navigate the selling steps that close more sales
faster." After this clear definition is given, author Keith M. Eades, founder and president of Sales
Performance International and Solution Selling Inc, uses his expertise in sales for teaching the
reader the necessary steps of selling, including pre-planning, cold calling, and the very important
closing of the deal.
"The New Solution Selling" is not your run of the mill business book that typically renames and
regurgitates business practices that have been in place for years. Instead, the book not only gives
valuable information on the sales process but it also gives reliable examples. This includes sample
pre-calling letters, thank you letters, and letters that ask for more business. Examples can be put
into place immediately after reading the related chapter. It is perfect for the salesperson looking to
penetrate the Fortune 500 market.
The book addresses major issues in the sales world, including what to do when your top
salespeople are promoted to management, how to respond when you're not the first in line, and
how to identify and respond to the pains your customers are facing.
Having graduated from business school and worked in sales for a number of years, I can tell you
that this book is the real deal. It has found a permanent place on my business book shelf right next
to "Who Moved My Cheese?" and "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." This is the kind of
book that should be on college campuses all across America. It is a very informative and easy to
follow book that every salesperson should own.
Thugs Are For Fun
J. Gail
Jazoli Publishing
ISBN: 0972697820 $14.00 288 pp.
After spending my teen years growing up on the mean streets of Detroit, I was able to gain first
hand exposure to the drug culture. This was a culture that included violence, illegal activity, and
plenty of thugs. So when I came across the new book "Thugs Are For Fun," my curiosity was
peaked.
In the book, the reader is introduced to Jacilyn (Jacy) Thomas, a chocolate soul sister in Philly
who has a pretty good job in corporate America, a college degree, men falling at her feet, and a
passion for thugs. Why (you might ask) would a college graduate who seems to have everything
going for her get involved with a hoodlum? The author writes "The vast majority of people in
Philly were living below the poverty line and in misery. Crime flourished. Therefore her choices of
types of men in the city were slim. Most of the professional brothas in Philly lived far out near the
main line and in Germantown, Mount Airy and Chestnut Hill or on college campuses, but she had
no business to attend to out there or a reason to be in those areas. In addition, from Jacy's
experience those types of guys were usually the ones that pretended as if they were too good to
approach a woman."
When Jacy meets Rich, it's almost like a dream come true. Although he tells her he is in
construction, Jacy knows from experience that he is really a drug dealing thug. As their
relationship progresses, Rich spends lots of money on her. He takes her shopping and to
restaurants. He even pays her rent. But when Rich's jealous tendencies and desires for a
commitment are revealed, Jacy pulls back. After all, she believes thugs are just for fun
anyway.
Meanwhile, Jacy struggles to make it in corporate America while feeling overworked and
under-appreciated. When she decides to start her own business, her ambitions are met with near
failure. She must deal with sexism, bureacracy, and vendors who try to take advantage of her. But
Jacy's determination helps to see her through.
"Thugs Are For Fun" is an intriguing debut from first time novelist J. Gail. The story is a gritty,
urban tale of relationship woes and personal struggles with life in general. The plot is captivating
and will surely cause readers to turn page after page from beginning to end. The characters feel so
authentic, it will make you wonder if this is a true story.
But the book does have its share of flaws, including a chock full of grammar errors. It also lacks
consistency with how the slang is written. With that being said, a forgiving reader should be able
to look over the errors and concentrate on the fascinating plot and convincing characters. "Thugs
Are For Fun" is a good read that will give books like "The Coldest Winter Ever" and "Bad Girlz"
a run for the money.
The Great Divide
William R. Garlington
Legacy Publishing
602 N. Wymore Road, Winter Park, Florida 32789
ISBN 0970839529 $12.95 www.legacypublishing.org
The Bean and Nut families reside in the same community, they are the best of friends as the book
opens, but something breaks them apart. Later they resolve their problems and realize how
important they are to each other. The author has tackled a social issue and done it very well with
a light hearted tale that is very well told and should be used as required reading for school
children. It should also be a book that adults around the world read and learn from. The book is
lighthearted but has very deep social messages.
The Northumberland Nightmare
Paul L. Wegkamp, Jr,
Infinity Publishing.com
519 West Lancaster Avenue, Haverford. PA 19041-1413
www.buybooksontheweb.com
ISBN 0741418479 $18.95 877-BUY-BOOK (877-289-2665)
The horror of this book is that everything in it is true. The author's son Chad, who looks like the
All American kid in college began a descent into a life of hell that affected everyone in the family.
After a series of incidents, after seeking medical attention it was learned he suffered from the
illness of schizophrenia. A short time later Chad robbed a bank, was charged, convicted, and
treated like any other criminal. The family fought the system but lost even though they clearly
showed that several professionals diagnosed Chad. The example of how uncompromising the law
enforcement is shown when Paul's wife is pulled over for an expired inspection sticker on a rental
vehicle she was driving. The officer sees only that the car has an expired sticker regardless of the
fact she does not own the car. This book should make others mad that the court system is so firm
to punish someone who suffers from a real affliction.
The Handbook of Mascot & Nicknames
Peter J. Fournier
Raja and Associates
16807 Harrierridge PL, Lithia, Fl 33547
ISBN 0974113603 $19.95 www.rajabooks.com
Ever wonder how many schools have the same logo or mascot? Author Fournier tells everything
there is to know on the level of community colleges and universities in the United States and
Canada. Broken down into several categories for universities then community colleges in the
United States, then Canada by institution, then mascot makes the book very easy to read.
Hopefully there will be other editions to include elementary, middle, and high schools. This book
can be the source of plenty of trivia questions.
A Flamingo Named Flannigan
Merry Ruthe Wilson
Xlibris Corporation
www.Xlibris.com
ISBN 1401092020 $26.95 1-888-795-4274
This beautiful book that the author also did the artwork as well, is a delightful children's story
about finding your place in the world. Flannigan is a flamingo who is very different from his flock.
He is an all white albino. He leaves because he is treated as if he does not belong. Along the way
he meets an orange flamingo named Flambeau who, like him, has been ostracized from her group
as well. The two go off into the world and meet lots of interesting characters as they both find
their place in the universe. The story is written so that anyone can read and enjoy but has a lot
deeper symbolism. This is a very fine children's book that should please all ages. The artwork adds
a lot to the whole feel of the work. I am pleased that I was able to have the chance to read this
enchanting uplifting book.
The Pool Hustler's Handbook
Chef Anton
Tricks of the Trade Inc
6213 Sacramento Ave, Alta Loma CA 91701
www.ChefAnton.com
$14.95 1-800 679-3859
Want to improve your game of pool? Want to know some new things so you can dazzle your
opponent? Well, this is the book to do it. The author, who is an expert of the game, now reveals
lots of tips for you to play a better game and impress your friends. Anton speaks in terms that are
easy to understand and follow with illustrations that show each shot. This is the number one
resource by a master who once beat Minnesota Fats. I have tried out some of the shots the author
writes about and found even I the worst pool player in the world, can play a better game of pool
by following his advice.
Search for the Fountain
Linda J. Falkner
iUniverse
5220 S.16th ST Suite 200, Lincoln, NE 68512
www.iuniverse.com
ISBN 0595270794 $18.95 877-288-4737
