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Small Press Bookwatch

Volume 10, Number 8 August 2011 Home | SPBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Sports Shelf Fiction Shelf
Christian Studies Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf Memoir Shelf
Metaphysical Studies Shelf Self-Help Shelf Hunting/Fishing Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Social Issues Shelf Business Shelf
Islamic Studies Shelf Poetry Shelf Psychology Shelf
Gaming Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Education Shelf
Architecture Shelf American History Shelf World History Shelf
Homeowner's Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Humor Shelf Money/Finance Shelf Military Shelf
Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf Cookbook Shelf Autism Shelf
Parenting Shelf Science Shelf Economic Studies Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

Charles@afghanistan
Charles McDonald Holt
Vantage Point Books
419 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10016
9781936467020 $13.95 vantagepointbooks.com

Charles@afghanistan: Crazy Encounters from the Not-So Front Lines is a collection of emails written by author Charles McDonald Holt to his family while he served as a truck driver for the U.S. Military in Afghanistan. An up-front and openly honest tone permeates this narrative about everything from the ceremonies for fallen comrades, to the mysterious complexities of primitive plumbing, the utterly gigantic insects, and much more. A wry twist of humor adds a touch of levity to an otherwise honest narrative of survival in a war zone. Highly recommended.

My God, What Have We Done?
Susan V. Weiss
Fomite
58 Peru Street
Burlington, VT 05401
9780983206347, $16.95, www.fomitepress.com

The power of the atomic bomb is unparalleled; its echoes are still heard strongly decades later. "My God, What Have We Done?" follows Pauline and Clifford in Los Alamos, the secret city where the construction of this world-changing device is underway. With a fascination about Oppenheimer and his roots, and the development of the community for a unique purpose, "My God, What Have We Done?" blends humor and philosophy to a very entertaining mix.

Sudden Light
J. A. Greenleaf
Swordpoint Intercontinental
7202 Giles Road, Suite 4212
La Vista, NE 68128
9780615447957, $14.95, www.jagreenleaf.com

Love will not be denied, even by death. "Sudden Light" is a romance from J. A. Greenleaf exploring the reaches through history and the drive for love through many lives. An Irish couple of the 16th century is split by war, and centuries later, they meet once more in future lives. In the modern day as a lawyer and a convict, their love knows centuries, as only she knows, he forgetting through the ages. With metaphysical and spiritual elements blended in, "Sudden Light" tells a unique and powerful story, highly recommended.

Black Like Me
John Howard Griffin
Wings Press
627 E. Guenther, San Antonio, TX 78210
9780916727680, $24.95, www.wingspress.com

Fifty years ago, a white man dyed his skin to see the other side and did not like what he saw. "Black Like Me" is a reprinting of the famed chronicle of John Howard Griffin, who through drugs and treatment stepped into the role of the black man in the early 1960s south. Changing only the color of his skin, the educated journalist from Texas experienced the world where that mattered not when they saw he was brown. "Black Like Me" is a fine reprinting with modern speakers telling how the book is still very much relevant decades later, and how much and little things have changed, a truly important book to be in any library collection.


The Sports Shelf

A Player's Guide to USTA League Tennis
Tony Serksnis
New Chapter Press
c/o NorLightsPress
762 State Road 458, Bedford, IN 47421
9780942257830, $14.99, www.newchaptermedia.com

Many people enjoy tennis, but what do you need to know to move to the next level? "A Player's Guide to USTA League Tennis" is a guide to those who want to embark into the world of tennis and learn the rules and regulations of the United States' governing body on tennis. Stating that what's needed to play at the championship level is a bit of skill and a lot of ambition, Tony Serksnis tells readers all they need to know. "A Player's Guide to USTA League Tennis" is a fine pick for anyone who loves tennis and thinks they have what it takes.

Dive Log
Tim Warnock
The Chauncey Simpson Press
2817 West End Avenue, Suite 126-247
Nashville, TN 37203
9780984317318, $15.95, www.amazon.com

There is another world right on our planet, buried under the waves. "Dive Log: Discovering Life Under the Sea" is a memoir from Tim Warnock as he recollects the challenges he took on in his journey to becoming a certified scuba diver and the countless dives afterwards. Explaining the thrill of the hobby and why it has exceeded just a hobby for him, "Dive Log" is a unique adventure of scuba and the allure that surrounds it, highly recommended.

Ducks on the Pond
R. Scott Murphy
Texas Author Marketing Group
12708 Yearling Cove, Austin, TX 78727-4564
9781257095193, $19.50, www.officialmidnitewriter.com

Baseball has captivated the views of youths for generations since it came into prominence a little over one hundred years ago. "Ducks on the Pond" is a self-described love letter to baseball from R. Scott Murphy as he provides a book filled cover to cover with facts and knowledge about baseball, major players, dedication to those behind the scenes that make the game more enjoyable, and much more. "Ducks on the Pond" is a must for any hardcore baseball fan, highly recommended.


The Fiction Shelf

Touch
Amanda Mininger
Good Place Publishing
c/o Wyatt-Mackenzie Imprint
3439 Mariposa Street
Denver, CO 80211
9781936214341, $14.00, www.wyattmackenzie.com

What is lost can consume you from the inside. "Touch" tells the story of Ava, a woman at life's end. Yearning for her long lost love Theo, who himself is unhappy with the way things turned out. But as time runs short, one last reunion could change their lives, or what is left of them, forever. "Touch" is a moving romance that blends the real and surreal very well.

Evelyn & Company
Chad Muller
Kvasir House
1278 Hoyt Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108
9781450773669, $14.00, www.kvasirhousepress.com

No matter how petty, good old fashioned vengeance can drive people forward. "Evelyn & Company" is a novel of revenge, as Evelyn Portobello driven by spite and a diet plan gone awry, drives her boyfriend and pomeranian on an adventure across the country with a high tech RV. The target is Tiny Lizzel, and Evelyn won't be deterred by the characters she meets along the way. With plenty of humor of upper class escapades, "Evelyn & Company" is not to be overlooked.

The Blackpox Threat
Rene Natan
Old Line Publishing
PO Box 624, Hampstead, MD 21074
9780984570454, $16.95, www.oldlinepublishingllc.com

In order to save millions of lives, a delicate approach is needed. "The Blackpox Threat" tells of the task Tamara Smith as she infiltrates a company and faces the harsh reality of a deadly new virus that may originate from the Ship Me Safely company. Searching for roots for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, she has to dig deep to find the truth and rout the disease before Canada faces a deadly epidemic. "The Blackpox Threat" is a riveting thriller, very much recommended.

My Father's Will
Fraydun Manocherian
Vantage Point
419 Park Ave., South
New York, NY 10016
9781936467082, $14.95

Without money and power, the world is an entirely different place. "My Father's Will" is the story of Ferro Olivetti, a man who came across billions and made it all himself. As his father is about to pass on, he wills him to abandon his billions for one month and grasp what life is like without his fortune. As he brushes with love, he must keep his secret but the secret may very well keep him from true happiness. "My Father's Will" is a unique tale that blends romance and the two sides of the fortunate coin.

Death is a Relative Thing
Holly Patrone
TAG Publishing
2618 S. Lipscomb, Amarillo, TX 79109
9781934606087, $12.95, www.tagpublishers.com

One fateful night gone awry and now no one wants to touch you. "Death is a Relative Thing" is a humorous walk through the life of newly-widowed single mother April who is coping with one night where her husband died during the deed and how the shadows of it all keep her from seeking love once more. With an overbearing mother and difficult co-workers, she may yet find love once more, but maybe not without cost. "Death is a Relative Thing" is a fun and unusual read that will glue readers to the page.

Vintage Connor
Robert Baty
RJ Buckley Publishing
1451 E. Poncho Lane
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
9780981965475, $19.00, www.robertbatybooks.com

Old romance never burns out. "Vintage Connor: The Blonde in the Lotus Elite" is an old-school detective thriller as ex-cop Connor who has turned to hunting vintage cars has old love Evie ask for his help, as he takes on the hat of private detective and finding what happened to his old love's daughter, who at first sight committed suicide. Connor finds something more foul involved, and the truth grows murky. "Vintage Connor" is a fine read and very much recommended.

Saint Maggie
Janet R. Stafford
Squeaking Pips Press
PO Box 5854, Hillsborough, NJ 08844
9780615452043, $12.50, www.amazon.com

Having a good heart means inviting trouble into it. "Saint Maggie" tells of one driven widow who years before the civil war host a stop on the Underground Railroad, as well as welcoming countless unique and troubled borders into her home, shunning no race or faith. When a new Minister comes into her town, her way of life and generosity could change forever. "Saint Maggie" is a fine read of eighteenth century life, highly recommended.

Lost in Lexicon
Pendred Noyce
Scarletta Press
10 S. Fifth Street, #1105
Minneapolis, MN 55402
9780983021926, $12.95, www.scarlettapress.com

Ivan and Daphne never expected a grammar lesson to be quite so...animated. "Lost in Lexicon: An Adventure in Words and Numbers" follows the two cousins as they come to the town of Lexicon, a land where language and mathematics take on a very different life. The cousins much use their own smarts and wisdom to find the answer to the problems and bring the children of Lexicon back home. Blending education and entertainment, "Lost in Lexicon" is a fun read that is very much recommended.

Shaken and Stirred
Joan Opyr
Bywater Books
PO Box 3671
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
9781932859799, $14.95, www.bywaterbooks.com

Death alone is a truly terrifying thing for those who face the beyond. "Shaken and Stirred" is a novel from Joan Opyr, telling of Poppy Koslowski, recovering from her own surgery, chosen to visit the family's disliked black sheep in her grandfather, whose long addiction to alcohol has made him an outcast no one wanted to deal with. But Poppy has brighter memories, and holds that family is something that can ring true above all bad blood. "Shaken and Stirred" is a touching novel of facing life and its cruelty, highly recommended.

Daisy Buchanan's Daughter
Tom Carson
Paycock Press
3819 North 13th Street
Arlington, VA 22201
9780931181344, $24.95, www.daisydaughter.com

Through it all, the twentieth century has plenty to turn a girl sour. "Daisy Buchanan's Daughter" tells the tale of one American Midwest girl who through her parents deaths clawed her way to becoming a journalist, wife of an ambassador, and much more in her life. With a lot of humor and tenacity woven in, "Daisy Buchanan's Daughter" is a fine read and very much recommended for general fiction collections.

Free Love
Thomas Kelleher
East Bay Press
4200 Park Blvd., #142, Oakland, CA 94602
9780984432912, $19.95, www.eastbaypress.com

Shortly after it was created, people began to use the internet to pursue love. "Free Love: True Stories of Love and Lust on the Internet" is a spin of the pursuit of love on the online personals and what has resulted from them, the good, the bad, and the tragic that all have spun out from people using the world wide web for love. Many people present their own stories, and make "Free Love" a fascinating and very much recommended read for anyone who wants to understand the carnal value of the internet.

Where's Unimportant
Daniel Shortell
Daniel Shortell Publishing
475 41st Street Unit 12
Brooklyn, NY 11232
9781461064978, $10.99, www.danielshortell.com

The American Dream is lost when there is no future to hope for. "Where's Unimportant" is a novel of the breakdown of the American Dream following Jack Addington, a man in a dead end job and no hope for his future. As he tries to find his way out of his own personal hell, he finds luck has more dominion over his life than he seeks. With unfortunate humor, "Where's Unimportant" is a novel of the hopelessness and failure of the modern American dream.

Everliving
Christin A. Dudley
Bella Vita
10242 Southeast 8th St., Bellevue, WA 98004
9780983072119, $15.95, www.christinadudley.com

One woman curses the men of a family, and it may be Ben's turn to be cursed. "Everliving" tells the story of Ben Platt as he returns home to a small logging town. The legend of Daphne Lindstrom is strong in the town, and Ben finds that the legend has more reality than myth to it. He may be the only one who can help her move on to the next world, but it won't be easy. "Everliving" is an exciting work of fiction, highly recommended.

Duluthians
Trevor Scott
Salvo Press
14334 Cruiser St. #105, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
9781609770266, $14.95, www.salvopress.com

More than snow and elk, the northern ends of Minnesota have many lessons to teach. "Duluthians" is a collection of short fiction from Trevor Scott as he speaks on his homeland and the many events that happen centered around Duluth, Minnesota. Dreams shattered, the onslaught of age, the barrier of phobia, and much more. With a blend of humor and wisdom, "Duluthians" is an excellent collection of short fiction, a top pick for anyone who want a bit of North and Midwestern branded knowledge in an entertaining format.

American Bastards
Trevor Richardson
Inkwater Press
6750 SW Franklin Street,
Suite A, Portland, OR 97223-2542
9781592995400, $18.95, www.inkwaterpress.com

The inspiration for many is simply one word - why? "American Bastards" is Trevor Richardson painting a picture of Americana where people are trying to get by, find their calling and come to terms with the how and why of everything around us. Dystopian with a glimmer of hope, "American Bastards" is filled with unique characters and plenty to consider, very recommended addition to any general fiction collection.

This is Where We Live
Janelle Brown
Spiegel & Grau
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
9780385524049, $15.00, www.janellebrown.com

With dreams shattered and the pressures of the real world, it's so easy to give up. "This is Where We Live" tells the story of Claudia and Jeremy, a couple embracing the Bohemian life as filmmakers and musicians. But failure comes with such a life, as Claudia's film doesn't take off, and the emergence of an ex girlfriend and the crushing mortgage coming their way, Janelle Brown shows a story of love, life, and trying to deal with it all with certain poignancy and humor. "This is Where We Live" is an excellent addition to any general fiction and literature collection.

Seydou's Christmas Tree
Joel Thurtell
Hardalee Press
11803 Priscilla Lane
Plymouth, MI 48170
9780975996911, $16.00, www.hardaleepress.com

The spirit of togetherness and community can reach beyond faith. "Seydou's Christmas Tree" tells of a story of two American Peace Corps, miles from family. Working in Togo in West Africa, they saw a union of the human spirit and found an event that captured the generosity and humanity that Christmas means to many people. "Seydou's Christmas Tree" is a fine read, very much recommended.

The Lesson Plan
G. J. Prager
Treble Heart Books
1284 Overlook Dr., Sierra Vista
AZ 85635-5512
9781936127320, $12.95, www.trebleheartbooks.com

A change of careers sounds exciting, but sometimes excitement is the last thing you want. "The Lesson Plan" is the story of Robert Klayman, substitute teacher turned private investigator as his career shift finds him plummeted right into a drug ring conspiracy where it's not just drugs on the wrongdoing, it's also murder. Through it all, Klayman may find his true calling, and "The Lesson Plan" proves to be an intriguing and fine read, highly recommended.

Her Dear & Loving Husband
Meredith Allard
Copperfield Press
8828 Elk Grove Way, Ste. 101
Las Vegas, NV 89117
9780615472607, $11.99, www.copperfieldpress.com

Atrocity may yet again revisit Salem, and what stands between them requires two people to settle what stands between them. "Her Dear & Loving Husband" is a story of Salem, Massachusetts. James Wentworth and Sarah Alexander both have secrets they are keeping form the world. But pressures from around them and past regrets put the world on their shoulders to settle themselves, perhaps find romance, and prevent the horrors of the seventeenth century from returning to Salem. "Her Dear & Loving Husband" is a riveting thriller, highly recommended.

Wife
Michelle Monay
Triple Crown Publications
PO Box 247378, Columbus, OH 43224
9780983209539, $15.00, www.triplecrownpublications.com

The high life isn't so high when you realize what fuels it. "Wife" follows India, a hood queen, married to kingpin Chief. But as the realities of her life begin to catch up to her, she realizes that what's best for her and is best for her children requires more than just money and power. In her attempts to leave, she quickly learns no one leaves the hood from her position in anything resembling easy. "Wife" is a riveting work of Urban fiction, very much recommended reading.

The Introduction to the World
G. M. Holder
Blackout
123 SE 55th Ave, Portland, OR 97215
9780982848906, $14.00, www.blackoutpublishing.com

From the worst of us all, we can learn many lessons. "The Introduction to the World: Four Stories" is an assortment of four stories from G. M. Holder as he crafts four tales of the bottom of humanity, of people who have lost their way through life, embraced the dark side of murder, and their struggles to find their own place in a society that wants nothing to do with them. "The Introduction to the World" is entertaining, poignant, terrifying, and comes at readers with the intent of giving them a new look on reality.

When the Lights Go Out
Max Elliott Anderson
Comfort Publishing
PO Box 6265, Concord, NC 28027
9781936695478, $13.99, www.comfortpublishing.com

Following in a father's footsteps can prove daunting when that career is military. "When the Lights Go Out" follows Peyton Aldrich, who embraces the duty of a son after 9/11, who joins the Army Rangers. Set in the hostile post 9/11 world, Peyton and his ranger allies must stop a secret weapon in its tracks before more lives are lost, and deal with the secrecy that Peyton's father always held from him. "When the Lights Go Out" is a fine read and very much recommended for modern thriller readers.

The Other Side of Light
Kevin Klesert
New People Publishing
9667 Reseda Blvd. Northridge CA. 91324
Irwin Zucker (publicity)
6464 Sunset Blvd., #730, L. A. CA 90028
9780983502005, $32.95, www.theothersideoflight.com

When time plays into the hands of the Navy, what will come of it? "The Other Side of Light" tells the tale of the advancement of military technology which throws the power of time travel into the past into the hands a select few, who are forced to make some decisions that could drastically change everything about the world. A story of ethics, politics, and uncertainty of their future and trying to make it through, "The Other Side of Light" executes a unique concept very well and produces a read that will be hard to put down.

Lagan Love
Peter Murphy
Fiction Studio Books
PO Box 4613, Stamford, CT 06907
9781936558124, $16.95, www.fictionstudiobooks.com

The bohemian lives against tradition, and it isn't so easily embraced. "Lagan Love" is a novel following Janice as she travels to Dublin in order to embrace a new lifestyle with a cast of unusual characters and a fading romance that spins her life out of control. As the ghosts of Ireland's past begin to enter his existence, Peter Murphy spins an exciting story of romance and the problems with it, making "Lagan Love" a unique novel with plenty of twists and turns underneath it all.

Lies, Love, & Porn
Humphrey Knipe
Dark Canyon Ranch
25575 Piuma Road
Monte Nido, CA 91302
9781453744703, $10.58, www.malibucanyonranch.net

Pornography is a career to some, a very vilified career. "Lies, Love, & Porn" is a novel set around the porn industry when the public eye is most focused upon it. Damon Luce, gaining his own fame around porn, has lost his drive as one of his actresses is about tapped out. With controversy anywhere, "Lies, Love, & Porn" does well in exploring the seedy industry and what drives people into it all.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Solid Stepping Stones
Robert P. Lightner
Grace Acres Press
PO Box 22, Larkspur, CO 80118
9781602650343, $11.95, www.graceacrespress.com

The walk of the Christian is understanding the faith and understanding God. "Solid Stepping Stones for the Christian Journey" is a guide that discusses the gospel and many pieces of wisdom that are on the path to understanding God and his wishes for believers and God's role in their lives. "Solid Stepping Stones for the Christian Journey" is a strong pick for any Christian who wants to understand their path to God more effectively.

Modern Mormonism
Robert L. Millet
Greg Kofford Books
PO Box 1362 Draper, UT 84020
9781589581272, $14.95, www.koffordbooks.com

The development of the Mormon church has been quite unique and fascinating over the years. "Modern Mormonism: Myths and Realities" is an exploration of what Mormonism is in today's world, as a faith that follows Jesus Christ that is occasionally regarded as non-Christian. Hoping to dispel many myths about the faith and doctrine surrounding the church in order to spread understanding, "Modern Mormonism" is a must pick for anyone who wants a more thoughtful look at the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter-day Saints.

How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home
Derek W. H. Thomas
Reformation Trust
c/o Lionier Ministries
400 Technology Park, Lake Mary, FL 32746
9781567692563, $15.00, www.refromationtrust.com

The book of Romans has a special place in the Christian theology. "How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home" is a discussion of the book of Romans from Dererk W. H. Thomas as he discusses how this gospel brings believers home through it all. Stating that it offers an important means for Christians to know and understand it all, and the intentions Christ has for the children of God. "How the Gospel Brings Us All the Way Home" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to understand the vitality of the book of Romans.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

The Community of the Ark
Mark Shepard
Shepard Publications
9780938497547, $15.00, www.shepardpub.com

A more perfect world is a valued thing to try for. "The Community of the Ark" is a tale from Mark Shepard as he recalls his journey of spending six weeks in 1979 in said community, founded by a Christian disciple of Mahatma Gandhi in Lanza del Vasto. A unique story at one group of attempts at Utopia in France, "The Community of the Ark" makes for a very unique and spiritual read of pursuing a better world to live in.

Walking The Tiger's Path
Paul M. Kendel
Tendril Press
PO Box 441110, Aurora, CO 80044
9780984154357, $19.95, www.tendrilpress.com

When you're shoved near death, you realize what life means very quickly. "Walking the Tiger's path: A Soldier's Spiritual Journey in Iraq" is a memoir from Paul M. Kendel as he recalls what he learns being close to death and seeing other people as well, soldiers, civilians, and children also cope with the pressures of life and the rapid changes of it all. With a strong spiritual message that steps into Buddhist philosophy, "Walking the Tiger's Path" is worth considering for anyone who wants to get a soldier's perspective on life and spirituality, highly recommended.

Who Wrote the Gospels?
Gary Greenberg
Pereset Press
PO Box 25, Church Street Station
New York, NY 10008
9780981496634, $16.95, www.bibleandhistory.com

It wasn't God or Jesus who put words onto paper. "Who Wrote the Gospels?: Why New Testament Scholars Challenge Church Traditions" discusses modern New Testament scholarship and the questions thrown at many of the gospels for being written anonymously two centuries after the death of Christ. In the early years, there is evidence that these works were altered and edited, leaving changes that have been there ever since. Questions asked include trying to understand the sources, the alternations and the motivations of them, and faith where the gospels are not gospel. "Who Wrote the Gospels?" is a fascinating study of early Christianity and the creation of the New Testament.

Sanctuaries of Childhood
Shea Darian
Gilead Press
4151 W. Augusta Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85051
9780967571355, $15.95, www.gileadpress.net

Spirituality starts as soon as you can wonder about the world. "Sanctuaries of Childhood: Nurturing a Child's Spiritual Life" is a discussion of youth spirituality from Shea Darian who walks readers through how to understand a child's spiritual connection to faith and the world. Presenting a book that has no ties to any specific faith, Darian hopes to give a more complete understanding of this misunderstood subject for anyone to help them closer to their gods. "Sanctuaries of Childhood" is a choice pick for any spiritual parent who wants to share and teach their child.

Yen Path
Jenny Gallagher
Price World Publishing
1300 W. Belmont Ave.,
Suite 20G, Chicago, IL 60657
9781932549690, $14.95, www.priceworldpublishing.com

Yoga is more than stretches. "Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life" is a guide to the spiritual approach to life, understanding what one truly wants, dealing with the stress of life, and working towards those goals while still remembering to enjoy life. "Yen Path" has powerful wisdom from a person who knows finance and spirituality well, highly recommended.

A Common Path
Alan D. Bourey
A Common Path
155 Wildwood Lane, Boulder, CO 80304
9780615457529, $19.50, www.acommonpath.com

When spirituality and science join forces, truly great things can be achieved. "A Common Path: The Future of Religion, Science, & Spirituality" is a presentation from Alan Bourey who argues that by merging the goals of philosophy, religion, and science, we can attain the knowledge that they all seek more efficiently. Stating that hypothesis must be proven, facts must not be ignored, and the doctrine of it all must be reconciled, "A Common Path" presents many intriguing ideas in the search for greater knowledge among it all.

Soul to Soul
Deborah Masel
Gefen
600 Broadway, Lynbrook, NY 11563
9789652295590, $14.95, www.gefenpublishing.com

Victory over cancer is not a simply a physical one of purging the cancer from the body. It is a spiritual battle too. "Soul to Soul" is a collection of essays from Deborah Masel, a breast cancer survivor who seeks to share stories of her own struggles with it all. Through her faith and teachings from her Torah teacher, she maintained his focus and devotion and channels the indomitable spirit of the Jews in Nazi Germany. "Soul to Soul" is spiritual and highly recommended reading, not to be missed.


The Memoir Shelf

Rolling in Dough
Glenn G. Sparks
White River Press
PO Box 3561, Amherst, MA 01004
9781935052128, $14.00, www.whiteriverpess.com

There's more to a doughnut that sweet dough and sprinkles. "Rolling in Dough: Lessons I learned in a Doughnut Shop" is a memoir from Glenn Sparks, son of a doughnut maker and left Glenn living for twenty years behind said shop. From the people he met from the perils of running a business along with a bit of insider info on doughnuts, "Rolling in Dough" provides a humorous and very unique read for dealing with life's twists and turns.

For a Dancer
Emma J. Stephens
Saint Columba Press
1008 Centre Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80526
9780983668398, $13.95, www.saintcolumbapress.com

Life has plenty of gambles, and to make it all work, one must be willing to risk anything and everything. "For a Dancer" follows Emma J. Stephens as she embraced such a risk, leaving her tattered family behind, which meant leaving behind some of the family she also held dear. In pursuit of education, she faces motherhood much too early and ends up finding something resembling happiness through it all. "For a Dancer" is a moving memoir with plenty to consider, highly recommended.

Following Josh
Dave Norman
F64 Publishing
197 Pine St. Suite 34, Portland, ME 04102
9780983185819, $15.95, www.f64publishing.com

The rail is a method of faster travel that still lets you keep your ear to the ground of the world. "Following Josh: China to Poland by Rail" is a memoir of traveling over Eurasia and experiencing the many cultures along the way. From Korea to Mongolia to Russia, and much more, Norman presents a riveting story of friendship and the call of adventure. "Following Josh" is a remarkable story of friendship and coming to appreciate it much more.

Marijuana Withdrawal After 40 years
Leo A. Sielsch
Book Publishers Network
PO Box 2256, Bothell, WA 98041
9781935359784, $16.95, www.bookpublishersnetwork.com

Marijuana has been demonized and heralded as good all the same. "Marijuana Withdrawal After 40 Years" is one senior's exploration of ending his marijuana use, after being a life time toker. For two months, he surrendered his constant use of the drug, and recorded what he experienced. Offering his own views on the drug, age, sex, and everything else, "Marijuana Withdrawal After 40 Years" is an intriguing addition to the drug debate, very much recommended reading for those looking for an alternate perspective.

I Never Intended to Be Brave
Heather Andersen
Windy City Publishers
1935 S. Plum Grove Rd., #349
Palatine, IL 60067
9781935766155, $14.99, www.windycitypublishers.com

If you want to see the world, there are few better ways than by bicycle. "I Never Intended to Be Brave" is a memoir of Heather Andersen who after her term in the U.S. Peace Corps chose to explore the Southern portions of Africa by bicycle rather than take the easy flight back home. Through it all, she relays her experiences of a lone woman against the world, and makes for a very interesting and highly entertaining read. "I Never Intended to Be Brave" is a fine read, very much recommended for those looking for a memoir of true adventure.

The Big Sky
Ed Kemmick
Missouri Breaks Press
2915 2nd Ave. South No. 102
Billings, MT 59101
9780982782231, $14.00, www.amazon.com

The outdoors are a huge of part of life in Montana, and the adventures of people in the region are like nowhere else. "The Big Sky, By and By: True Tales, Real People, and Strange Times in the Heart of Montana" is a relaying of the people and lives of the people of Montana as Ed Kemmick catches the spirit of the state in his words. From ordinary people going beyond ordinary to the state's superstars who make their impact known well beyond their death, "The Big Sky, By and By" is a must for anyone who wants to understand the spirit of Montana.

Granite Grumblings
Glenn K. Currie
Snap Screen Press
6 Dwinell Drive
Concord, NH 03301
9780977967537, $24.95, www.snapscreenpress.com

Live free or die may not have the impact it once had. "Granite Grumblings: Life in the Live Free or Die State" is a memoir of life and day to day grind in New Hampshire from Glenn K. Currie as he reflects on the ever changing world from the perspective of the long time resident. With a strong dose of humor and appreciation for the unique nature of it all, "Granite Grumblings" is a must for those who want a rock-flavored taste of Americana and New Hampshire's special brand of it all.

Communications from the Front
Edgar C. Forsberg
Writings
4926 Southwest Corbett Avenue
Portland, OR 97239
9780982571514, $14.95, www.publishedbywritings.com

From nothing to warrior was the story man Americans faced after that bombing in December of 1941. "Communications from the Front" is a military memoir from Edgar C. Forsberg as he tells his story of going from small town country boy to fighter to everything that has spilled from this journey of his life. A choice pick for anyone with a love of military memoirs.

Ada's Daughter
Jacqueline Maduneme
Pointed Arrows
PO Box 61058, Charleston, SC 29419
9780983251002, $18.95, www.pointedarrows.com

The nations of Africa have been slow to embrace modernity, leading to a clash of the modern and traditional. "Ada's Daughter" is a memoir of one girl growing up in Nigeria and facing this clash of worlds. A life filled with pain and suffering, but finding her own uplifting motivation to conquer her tragic past and make her own happiness, her own family, and something to call a life. "Ada's Daughter" is a moving memoir of facing the worst of and the best of what life throws at you.

Sunflower Days
Jeanne Warren Lindsay
Morning Glory Press
6596 San Haroldo Way
Buena Park, CA 90620-3748
9780984428304, $12.95, www.morningglorypress.com

With the tumultuous nature of the Great Depression and World War II, a child sees the world around them change radically fast. "Sunflower Days: Growing Up in Kansas 1929-1959" is a memoir from Jeanne Warren Lindsay as she reflects on her life growing up Kansas during World War II and growing into early adulthood in the Babyboom. Telling the perspective of the Depression and the War from the eyes of a child, "Sunflower Days" will prove intriguing to those curious in the many sides to the greater conflict of a great war.

Drawing the Line
Susan Gardner
Red Mountain Press
PO Box 32205, Santa Fe, NM 87594
9780979986550, $24.95, www.redmountainpress.us

You can travel all over the world and not find what you are looking for. "Drawing the Line: A Passionate Life" is the memoir of Susan Gardner, as she reflects on her travels throughout the world, sharing what she has learned about the world, through a life that is constantly moving and evolving quicker than she can settle down and evaluate it all. Sharing her lessons of life and the search for love and redemption, "Drawing the Line" is a fine memoir with plenty to absorb throughout.

Keeper
Martin Donovan
Departure Publishing
PO Box 160818, Austin, TX 78716
9780983385707, $26.50, www.departurepublishing.com

The water has become more than hobby for Martin Donovan, it has driven his life. "Keeper: A Life Amongst Fishes and Those Who Catch Them" is a memoir from Donovan as he reflects on his love of fly fishing and his travels throughout the world before returning to his home in Southampton, England and reflecting on all he has seen. His stories come the variety of the traditional fishing story, but also with many twists and turns of angling elsewhere and seeing much of it all. "Keeper" is a choice pick for any fan of fishing memoir or general community library memoir collections.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

My Life After Life
Galen Stoller, author
Kenneth Stoller, editor
Dream Treader Press
404 Brunn School Rd. #D
Santa Fe, NM 87505
9780615383071 $19.95 www.my-life-after-life.com

Kenneth Stoller lost his sixteen-year-old son Galen in 2007. Subsequently, he periodically experienced dream state visions of Galen communicating with him beyond the grave. Skeptical at first, Kenneth eventually could not refute the mounting evidence that his beloved son was in contact with him again, and chronicled Galen's words in a journal. That journal was the genesis of My Life After Life: A Posthumous Memoir, which consists entirely of messages Kenneth Stoller received - Kenneth's own comments are relegated to the editor's notes at the end of each chapter. Galen's firsthand testimony of experiences from the undiscovered country is beyond heart-rending; My Life After Life is a profound and overwhelming read, especially recommended for metaphysical studies shelves with a focus on what lies past the end of life.

The Cosmic Internet
Frank DeMarco
Rainbow Ridge Books
140 Rainbow Ridge Road
Faber, VA 22938
9780984495542, $17.95, www.hologrambooks.com

The internet is a connection to a whole world of information, but what if you could connect with the information of your non-physical side of your life? "The Cosmic Internet: Explanations from the Other Side" is a metaphysical guide to the non-physical world and how to explore it and understand it, and understand the spiritual and metaphysical nature of our lives. For spirituality readers who want another take on the nature of the universe, "The Cosmic Internet" is very much recommended reading.

A Seer Out of Season
Edgar Cayce
A. R. E. Press
215 67th St.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
9780876046043, $8.95, www.edgarcayce.org

Edgar Cayce revolutionized the metaphysical and psychic world with his life and acts. "A Seer Out of Season" is a chronicle of the famed father of Holistic and New Age medicine. An icon of metaphysical thought and psychic readings, "A Seer Out of Season" is well worth considering for any who want to understand the man of Edgar Cayce and the legend he left behind.

Spirituality of the Third Millennium
Roger G. Lanphear
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H
Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608448739, $14.95, www.dogearpublishing.net

Spirituality can be many things, and Roger Lanphear offers his own definition of the topic. "Spirituality of the Third Millennium" is his own exploration of enlightenment and life, as he explores the metaphysical and provides his own ideas on how to find happiness and knowledge of life and everything else. Thoughtful and unique reading, "Spirituality of the Third Millennium" is of interest to any new age metaphysical spirituality readers.

The Emancipation of Giles Corey
Michael Sortomme
Singing Lake Press
c/o Epigraph
27 Lamoree Road, Rhinebeck, NY 12572
9780983051756, $16.95, www.epigraphs.com

The cruelty of 1692 had not yet died in Salem. "The Emancipation of Giles Corey" tells the story of the results of those murders of greed and corruption 315 years ago. Sophie St. Cloud, in her own investigation of the era finds that Salem has not moved on entirely from its atrocities, and not just on the tourism front. Giles Corey, the man who defiantly refused his accusation while being crushed to death, may still linger in Salem, unable to move onto the next world, as he may be held back by an active ritual of some of Salem's people. "The Emancipation of Giles Corey" tells an intriguing story of Salem and Witchcraft, blending history with a bit of new age mysticism.


The Self-Help Shelf

Toggle It!
Laurie Heusinger
Health Press
PO Box 37470
Albuquerque, NM 87176
9780929173573, $14.95, www.healthpress.com

Sometimes you need to start over to stop yourself from going mad. "Toggle It!: A Guide to Reboot Your Emotional System" is an inspirational guide from Laurie Heusinger as she advises readers on how to reboot their mind and their emotions for a better push through their life and spirit. With strong spiritual and metaphysical connections, "Toggle It!" may be the inspiration and drive readers need to gain a greater sense of understanding.

Gems of Wisdom
Angela Breidenbach
Journey Press
3641 Hwy 47 N, Charlotte, TN 37036
9781936438044, $14.99, www.sheafhouse.com

The decorations you use may be reminders of faith more than you know. "Gems of Wisdom: For a Treasure-Filled Life" is a collection of faith and wisdom as Angela Breidenbach explains the power of gemstones in wisdom, and the ancient treasures of wisdom with surround ourselves with. Drawing on plenty of stories and trivial from history and the bible, "Gems of Wisdom" is a fine pick for any jewelry loving Christian, highly recommended.

Why You Should Care
Michael Phelan
Wolf Creek Press
89008 Towhee Lane, Bandon
OR 97411-6313
9780983162568, $19.95, www.wolfcreekpress.com

Apathy has more to it than many know. "Why You Should Care: What Happens When You Do" is an inspirational read from Michael Phelan as he seeks to motivate readers into to putting their spirit into life, realizing the value of human potential, increase their own confidence, and realize the role of humans in the universe is greater than one thinks. "Why You Should Care" is a powerful and thoughtful read for those looking for motivation of life.

Alone and Alive
Janet Boyanton
Shafer Publishing
PO Box 134, Lyons, NJ 07939
9780974772028, $19.95, www.shaferpublishing.com

A life alone is perhaps the most terrifying thing for a widow. "Alone and Alive: A Practical Guide for Dealing with the Death of Your Husband" is self-help guide for women coping with the loss of their husband and their new entry into widowhood. With wisdom that is spiritual and practical such as financial concerns, dealing with the children, legal issues, and when to move on, "Alone and Alive" is very much recommended for any woman coping with the cruelties of their husband's death.


The Hunting/Fishing Shelf

The Amazing Mullet
Adam Marianski
Bookmagic LLC
11771 Park Blvd, Seminole, FL 33772
9780982426784, $12.95, www.bookmagic.com

Sometimes it's not just catching or eating the fish, it's the whole process that makes the endeavor worth doing. "The Amazing Mullet: How to Catch, Smoke, and Cook the Fish" is a guide to every step of the mullet fishing process. From successfully catching mullets more effectively, cleaning them, smoking and cooking the fish for those who want a healthier sort of fish. "The Amazing Mullet" is a fine read that is very much worth considering for any fisherman with a taste for this certain fish.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Ride the Jawbone
Jim Moore
Raven Publishing
PO Box 2866, Norris, MT 59745
9780982737736, $14.00, www.ravenpublishing.net

When you are against the grain, people assume you are against them. "Ride the Jawbone" spins out from a murder on the train. A loner who didn't fit in with the crowd is blamed for the murder, and T.C. Bruce is appointed as his public defender. But Bruce isn't sure if he can defend a man who is truly guilty, something he isn't sure of himself. "Ride the Jawbone" is a unique spin of historical mystery set in 1902.

Raven Talks Back
Beth Anderson
Krill Press
PO Box 396, Rogue River, OR 97537
9780982144398, $16.95, www.krillpress.com

When people start dropping dead, it's all on one woman to make sense of it all. "Raven Talks Back" is a mystery following wife and mother Raven Morressey who finds murders are striking her small town in Valdez, Alaska. With many unusual things happening, threatening her grips with reality. As a killer lurks through the town, it's up to her and the chief of police to help sanity return to the town before the body count gets too high. "Raven Talks Back" is a riveting work of fiction, highly recommended.

Kincaid
William F. Nolan
Rocket Ride Books
PO Box 1046, Somerset, PA 15501-1046
9780982332221, $15.95, www.rocketridebooks.com

When it comes to finding the supernatural, it helps to have a little of it on your side. "Kincaid: A Paranormal Casebook" is a collection of mysteries from David Kincaid, an investigator with ties to the paranormal and unusual that normal investigators can't seem to handle. Facing demons and other dark forces, Kincaid has to help the cops make sense of it all in a riveting blend of mystery and horror. "Kincaid" is a top pick for both genres, very highly recommended.

Intrusion
Real Laplaine
Asteroid Publishing
PO Box 3
Richmond Hill, ON Canada, L4C 4X9
9781926720111, $19.95, www.asteroidpublishing.ca

Terrorism knows no borders. "Intrusion" follows head of RCMP Anti-Terrorism in Keeno McCole. As he pursues his lead through the world, he finds that life trying to save lives may not leave him any attempts to live his life for himself. But to stop a truly devastating attack that could change the world, Keeno must be willing to sacrifice it all. "Intrusion" is a riveting and fast paced novel, recommended.

The Spy Book
John Westin
McNeil & Richards
2715 N. Wisconsin Ave., Peoria, IL 61603
9780982560204, $13.95, www.McNeilandRichards.com

Through taboo and international intrigue, happiness just isn't on the menu for Eugene Thurston. "The Spy Book" follows Eugene Thurston, a professor trying to claw his way to a higher position while being distracted by the charms of one of his students. Spun into espionage for the Soviet Union, Eugene and Natalie find themselves wanted by both sides with nowhere to go. With a bit of life and humor, "The Spy Book" is a fine read that is very much worth considering for lovers of espionage fiction with a twist.

Terror on the Border
EE Hunt
Unrivaled Books
3201 SW 15th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
9781613601013, $16.95, www.unrivaledbooks.com

A border war can turn into a personal war quick when your home is on the front line. "Terror on the Border" follows Juanita Delgado & her husband, an Iraq veteran, as they struggle against their tattered pasts and their stand against the Lobos drug cartel over the border of Mexico and the United States. A riveting thriller of a very real problem in today's world, "Terror on the Border" is a very much recommended pick that will prove difficult to put down.

Doc Be Nimble
Allen Parsley
Dailey Swan Publishing
2644 Appian Way #101, Pinole, CA 95464
9780982433140, $14.95, www.daileyswanpublishing.com

When lives are on the line, the urgency becomes all too real. "Doc Be Nimble" is a novel following Doctor Poldar who witnesses the start of a health disaster. Through it all, to find the source and stop the disaster, the doctor must discover what is behind the bio-terrorist plot and still care for the patients that come his way. "Doc Be Nimble" is an exciting thriller that won't be easy to put down.

Danced with the Devil
Ronald Thompson
Eloquent Books
c/o AEG Publishing Group
845 Third Avenue, 6th Floor
6016, New York, NY 10022
9781606935699, $22.50, www.dreamstime.com

When blood is on your hands, it doesn't matter how it got there. "Danced with the Devil" follows futureless drifter William Wilson, who finds himself a murderer of accident. In the scope of the mob, the law, and struggling just to survive and understand what is to become of him, "Danced with the Devil" is an exciting read that will prove very hard to put down, highly recommended.


The Social Issues Shelf

Understanding the Abuse of Adults
Kathryn R. Brynne
Morris Publishing
3212 E. Hwy. 30, Kearney, NE 68847
9780982902103, $14.95, www.openheartlifecoaching.com

Decades of sexual abuse are coming to the attention of Catholicism. "Understanding the Abuse of Adults by Catholic Clergy and Religious" discusses how the abuse has not been levied at young children alone, that many adults find their faith damaged and challenged throughout Catholicism and abuse by Catholic power. Stating that this abuse is ignored in the light of the allegations of child abuse, Kathryn R. Brynne seeks to make it known that the victims of sexual abuse in the church know no age. "Understanding the Abuse of Adults by Catholic Clergy and Religious" is a strong pick for those concerned about the future of the Catholic Church and the corruption that lies within.

Healing the Split
Marc Elihu Hofstadter
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608448227, $15.95, www.dogearpublishing.net

Too often, science forgets humanity, and humanity ignores science. "Healing the Split" is a collection of essays from Marc Elihu Hofstadter, as he discusses the gap between these two subjects, trying to reconcile the subjective and objective of humanity. Discussing faith, science, the mundane, and everything else, "Healing the Split" presents many intriguing ideas to ponder, very much recommended reading.


The Business Shelf

Corporate Culture Tweet
S. Chris Edmonds
ThinkAha
c/o HappyAbout
20660 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 210
Cupertino, CA 95014
9781616990480, $19.95, www.thinkaha.com

The corporation is a whole other beast for dealing with professionalism. "Corporate Culture Tweet" is a collection of 140 pieces of information for creating an environment for your employees that will not be reviled by everyone involved, but instad make for an environment that is loved by all involved, increasing morale, productivity, and creating strong employee loyalty. "Corporate Culture Tweet" is very much worth considering for any business leader who values morale.

Competitive Advantage
Sandford Liebesman
Paton Professional
PO Box 44, Chico, CA 95927-0044
9781932828351, $39.95, www.patonprofessional.com

Success is something that must always be worked towards. "Competitive Advantage: Linked Management Systems" is a management guide that encourages a hands on approach to organization, and to avoid trying to automate day to day processes in business, stating that an active understanding of a business's workings is key to maximize the business's potential. With an emphasis on efficiency from top to bottom for business and how only a hands on process can attain it, "Competitive Advantage" is worth considering for anyone managing the ins and outs of their business's day to day processes.


The Islamic Studies Shelf

The Banquet
Michel Cuypers
Convivium Press
7661 NW 68th Street, Suite 108, Miami, FL 33166
9781934996058, $54.95, www.conviviumpress.com

Understanding the Qur'an is essential to understanding Islam. "The Banquet: A Reading of the Fifth Sura of the Qur'an" is reading and discussion of the Qur'an, as Michel Cuypers presents an engrossing discussion of the actual text and makes comprehensive scholarly study of what this means for Christian and Islamic relations. With his work appreciated by both Christian and Islamic scholars, he provides much to ponder for any scholarly of the Holy Texts of the God of Abraham, and where the paths merge and where the paths diverge. "The Banquet" is a strong addition to any Christian, Islamic, Judaic, and religious community and college library collections.


The Poetry Shelf

Pierced
Carol Ann Wagner
Dog House Press
215 Maeder Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566
Morris Publishing
3212 E. Hwy. 30, Kearney, NE 68847
9780615475134, $14.95, www.morrispublishing.com

The world changed forever after September 11th. "Pierced: September 11, 2001" is a collection of poetry as Carol Ann Wagner looks back at that fateful day that shifted the state of the world. From her own pain and the pain of others, "Pierced" is moving and thoughtful reading. "Slippage": The greedy moon swallows/the sun/Long before day is done,//And death, disguised as night's breath//Dances in the air/as we linger there,//While tangled, naked branches/stretch//Trying hard/to hold us away//From our last farewell/to/day.

The Rush
Georgia Jones
Lady Press
16963 Columbia River Drive
Sonora, CA 95370-9111
1889409634, $14.99, www.ladybugbooks.com

The drive for wealth is the presentation of many things. "The Rush" is a collection of poetry from Georgia Jones. Presenting the factors of such a drive and what comes from it all, analyzes human nature from ti all and what we learn from doing it. "The Rush" is a fine assortment of poetry, very much recommended. "Explosive Efforts": Pick beats a rhythm, feels like progress/Percussion softens frustration/Pan is a tool of patience/Time spent wishing, washing, and waiting/For a moment of forward momentum/But dynamite is fast/Fortune in a golden blast.

Leaving It All Behind
Glenna Luschei
Presa Press
PO Box 792, Rockford, MI 49341
9780983125129, $15.95, www.presapress.com

It never stops, and when one realizes that, they can get on with their lives. "Leaving It All Behind" is a collection of poetry from Glenna Luschei as she reflects on life and its ceaseless nature, and how we are all tempted to try to get away from it all only to realize we can't. With plenty of poignancy and symbolism within the poetic wisdom, "Leaving it All Behind" is a fine volume, highly recommended. "Revolver": Vanity vanishes when you need/a cane you choose the pearl-/handled one. Grandmother/palmed a pearl-handled revolver.

At Dock's End
Louis Daniel Brodsky
Time Being Books
10411 Clayton Road, Suites 201-203
Saint Louis, MO 63131
9781568091402, $15.95, www.timebeing.com

A dock is a passageway to many things, to a boat to feed oneself with fish, for sports, or simply to reflect on the massive nature of the world. "At Dock's End: Poems of Lake Nebagamon, Volume Two" is a collection of poetry from Louis Daniel Brodsky as he continues to wax philosophical and poetic looking out on his favored lake with many thoughtful ideas. "At Dock's End" is an excellent second offering, very much recommended. "Eight Nights and Days": When you live in a busy city,/Spending eight nights and days/In a remote place/Like the village of Lake Nebagamon/Is a contentment of eternities.//For that matter,/Were the eight nights and days/Abridged by a whole week,/Being here would still be/The sweetest lifetime conceivable.

Days Like These
Robert Riche
Plain View Press
PO Box 42255, Austin, TX 78704
9781935514015, $14.95, www.plainviewpress.com

There are things we all share in common, and they very much dominate our lives. "Days Like These" is a collection of poetry from Robert Riche, as he speaks on life, how we live it, how we want it, and where it's all going. With a bit of poignancy and a good dose of humor, "Days Like These" is treasure of a collection, a grade-A pick for any poetry collection. "After the Shower": Skies clear,/ a robin preens,/feathers gleam,/slicked in place,/he twitters pertly/on a limb.//Out from a shower,/I towel down,/brush/my hair, bellow jauntily/"You Do something to Me."/I hear my wife/mounting the stairs.

Rust Fish
Maya Jewell Zeller
Lost Horse Press
105 Lost Horse Lane, Sandpoint, ID 83864
9780984451098, $15.00, www.losthorsepress.org

Through the frosty north, life takes its own path. "Rust Fish" is a collection of poetry from Maya Jewell Zeller as the English teacher presents her award winning brand of poetry that comes with its own thoughtful spirituality and love throughout it all. With plenty to enjoy and ponder, "Rust Fish" is an excellent collection, very much recommended. "Saturday Shopping": While my mother searched the stacks/for plates that matched and my sister/plunged through dolls, I renamed/the colors of clothes that lined/the thrift store racks. Black was outhouse hole/or old tire/The reds ranged from dictionary cover to hot pepper./One divine blouse was dome of afternoon, and I imagined/if I put on this shirt on a blue day/I'd just blend into the sky, match it so perfectly/as I stood hanging sheets on the line/that they'd all have to say,/ Maya -- Maya -- Where did she go?

Altogether Ernest
Marc Talbert
Red Mountain Press
PO Box 32205, Santa Fe, NM 87594
9780979986543, $15.95, www.redmountainpress.us

Honesty is a powerful source for inspiration. "Altogether Ernest" is a collection of poetry from Marc Talbert as he comes at readers with his poetry which presents itself as upfront and bold that pulls no punches on our tumultuous and ever changing journey we take through life. "Altogether Ernest" is an intriguing collection of poetry, very much recommended for those looking for vibrant and up front poetry. "Malled": Each time we drive to the mall/we pass a billboard with/a guy wearing nothing but white/jockey underwear, pouch packed/showing shadow outlines of his half-hard dick angled down/aimed at the highway. At me./Looking up at him, I feel/small, my pouch puckery/my limp dick scrunched/not knowing where to point.

Silent Music
Adam Wyeth
Salmon Poetry
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781907056659, $21.95, www.salmonpoetry.com

Not everything is at it seems on first sight. "Silent Music" is a collection of poetry from Adam Wyeth as he presents poetry that discusses many things, all at once. With countless awards, his work is admirable and highly entertaining. "Silent Music" is a fine collection of work, very much recommended reading. "Waiting for the Miracle at Ballinspittle Grotto": Nothing moves but cars./First one passes, then I see/a second coming.


The Psychology Shelf

Monoculture
F. S. Michaels
Red Clover
PO Box 24060, Northills
Kamloops, BC, V2B 2J0 Canada
9780986853807, $15.95, www.redcloverpress.com

The cause and effect of our world is more surprising than you'd think. "Monoculture: How One Story is Changing Everything" discusses the stories that drive our lives, and how one story, the economic story, is beginning to dominate all of our lives and driving us in ways we may not be even aware that they are, crafting the very way we think. With intriguing notions about the driving ideas of stories in every shape of our life, "Monoculture" is an incredibly fascinating way about how the mind works and today's consumer culture.


The Gaming Shelf

If You're So Smart, Prove It!
Pat Battaglia
International Puzzle Features
4507 Panther Place, Charlotte, NC 28269
9780970825391, $9.95, www.cleverpuzzles.com

Intelligence is a truly strange thing. "If You're So Smart, Prove It!: Amusing Word Games for All Ages" is a book filled with fun spins of trivia and word games that encourage thinking in unusual ways and making unusual associations. With plenty of humor and plenty of puns, "If You're So Smart, Prove It!" is a fun read that younger readers will love.

Winning Women of Poker
Maria Ho & Collaborators
Seaside Publishing
c/o No Limit Publishing, LLC
PO Box 14441, St. Petersburg, FL 33733
9780942084405, $18.95, www.seasidepublishing.com

Poker is a match of wits, a game where any woman can beat any man. "Winning Women of Poker" is a collection of strategies and advice from countless women who have step up to the table and dared to throw down winning hands. Countless champions come together and lend their wisdom on how to use them to win games, regardless of one's own gender. With forwards and afterwards by great poker minds Mike Sexton & Mike Caro, "Winning Women of Poker" grants plenty of knowledge to win a game that's more about playing your opponents than playing your cards.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Acting Lions
Penny Templeton
Penny Templeton Studio
9780615465692, $19.95, www.pennytempletonstudio.com

To make it in show business, you need drive. "Acting Lions: Unleash Your Craft in Today's Lightning Fast World of Film, Television, and Theatre" is a guide to pursing the life of the acting lion, an actor who lives with the fire needed to succeed, works well under pressure, and understands both the business and art of show business. With plenty of inspiration, author Penny Templeton gives wisdom, making "Acting Lions" well worth considering for those with dreams of a career under the limelight.

For One Week Only
Ric Meyers
Emery Books
c/o Eirini Press
510 Long Hill Rd., Guilford, CT 06437
9780979998935, $12.99, www.amazon.com

Sex sells, and through the mid twentieth century, those without the most creative vision realized this more than anything else. "For One Week Only: The World of Exploitation Films" presents a series of reviews of many exploitation films of the era, offering details of their so called plots, their bait and switch, and the many sub-genres such as sexploitation and blacksploitation. Sex and violence were the names of the game, answering what people gutturally wanted, and Ric Meyers brings readers on a fun journey through the 1960s and 1970s. "For One Week Only" is a fine collection of thought, very much recommended.


The Education Shelf

ACT Exam Secrets
Mometrix Media LLC
3827 Phelan #179
Beaumont, TX 77707
9781609710651, $63.99, www.mo-media.com/act

The ACT has become almost as widely used as the SATs for college admissions. "ACT Exam Secrets: Study Guide, Your Key to Exam Success" is a guide for those who are trying to prepare themselves for the ACT entrance exam and what it calls for in order to succeed on the testing. Going over and elaborating on what these tests call for, the subject matter of the exams, avoiding the tricks and traps of logic scattered throughout. Along with practice tests and plenty of answers, "ACT Exam Secrets" is strongly recommended for anyone who wants to increase their chances of success on this difficult assessment.


The Architecture Shelf

Designing & Building
Rockhill & Associates
Tuns Press
1459 Oxford Street, Halifax
Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
9780929112596, $29.50, www.tunspress.dal.ca

What the modern home looks like is constantly evolving and changing. "Designing & Building" is a discussion of architecture with full color photographs spread throughout. His designs present many intriguing spins on the traditional modern design that focuses on bringing out its style in its practicality. A wide array of designs throughout the country are discussed, and "Designing & Building" proves to be a solid and very much recommended read for anyone intrigued by modern home architecture.


The American History Shelf

The Handy President's Answer Book
David L. Hudson
Visible Ink
43311 Joy Road #414
Canton, MI 48187-2075
9781578593170, $21.95, www.visibleinkpress.com

It's a long line of strange and unusual people who have been given leadership of the country. "The Handy President's Answer Book" is a book filled cover to cover with presidential trivia of the people who have taken the mantle of leader and just tidbits about what lead them to that and what has happened since. With biographical information universal, there are also information on vice presidents, first ladies, and cabinet members. For anyone with a fascination with government and those who are drawn to it, "The Handy President's Answer Book" is a strong pick history and trivia collections.


The World History Shelf

Puerto Rico
Barbara Tasch Ezratty
Read Street Publishing
133 West Read Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
9780942929317, $34.95, www.readstreetpublishing.com

Puerto Rico is a curiosity of history, passing through multiple owners and straddling the status of statehood. "Puerto Rico: An Oral History 1898-2008" traces the last hundred and then some years of history of the territory, focusing on how it became a territory and the debate over statehood in the recent years, as well as the importance of the Puerto Rican identity. A fascinating story of a very unique place in the international debate, "Puerto Rico" is a strong pick for any American and World history collection alike.


The Homeowner's Shelf

Residential Remodeling Cost Estimator
Bill O'Donnell
RemodelMax
PO Box 3612
Frederick, MD 21705
9780557712588, $49.50, www.remodelmax.com

Changing up the home can get pricey quick, so it's nice to know just how much it'd cost you. "Residential Remodeling Cost Estimator: 2011 Edition" is a guide to gaining a more and accurate estimate when trying to gain a clear understanding of cost of a major project. With plenty of charts and information, "Residential Remodeling Cost Estimator" is a highly useful and highly recommended resource for any construction contractor or planning one's own renovations.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Hellebore & Rue
Joselle Vanderhooft & Catherine Lundoff, editors
Lethe Press
118 Heritage Avenue
Maple Shade, NJ 08052-3018
9781590213773, $15.00, www.lethepressbooks.com

Women of power have long had their place in fantasy, and these women did not need men to wield it. "Hellebore & Rue" is a collection of short stories focusing on Lesbian fantasy. Touching on the power of female intuition and what deeper thing it hides beneath it all, the stories are set in everything from history to our world to worlds of the fantastic. "Hellebore & Rue " is a top pick for anyone who is fantasy with a strong feminine influence. Also from Lethe Press for gay short fiction readers is "A Study in Lavender: Queering Sherlock Holmes" (9781590210383, $20.00), exploring the deep relationship of Holmes and Watson deeper, as well as the repression of the Victorian era being known. Many writers try their hand at the Holmes, providing for a very unique take on Holmes.

Showdown at Midnight
David B. Riley
Science Fiction Trails
PO Box 8191, Avon, CO 81620
9781463569167, $15.95, www.sciencefictiontrails.com

With the bandits out there, one has enough trying to kill them without the supernatural entering the mix. "Showdown at Midnight" is a collection of short stories about the Wild West gone weird from an assortment of authors putting in their visions of an old west that is haunted and filled with curses from more than the mouths of drunken bar patrons. Exciting and hard to put down for fantasy and western fans, "Showdown at Midnight" is a collection of fiction that is well worth considering.

Quests of Shadowind
L. A. Miller
Millhouse Press
934 Prairie Lily Dr.
Las Curces, NM 88007-6958
9780615439259, $10.95, www.questsofashowind.com

The will to survive must win through the day. "Quests of Shadowind" is a novel following Logan and Mindy who face everything the strange world of Shadowind throws at them. Uniting with other kids trapped in this strange and cruel dimension, they are unsure of what they will have to face next, because the rule of reality doesn't even seem to be the in play. "Quests of Shadowind" is a riveting work of fantasy, very much recommended.

The Black Bridge
Jo Ramsey
Jupiter Storm
PO Box 191, Grimes, IA 50111
9780983419907, $13.95, www.jupiterstorm.com

An old railroad shakes in the balance between good and evil. "The Black Bridge" tells of Topher James ad the Black Bridge, a decrepit old railroad bridge with strong legends of disappearances surrounding it. Drawn into a clash of good and evil, Topher finds the legends are true, and he must act fast to save him and his sister. "The Black Bridge" is a compelling work of modern fantasy, recommended.

Time Slice
Kerry Downing
Camel Press
PO Box 70515, Seattle, WA 98127
9781603818520, $17.95, www.camelpress.com

With the oppression of retirement, Roy Washburn looks to keep himself busy in time. "Time Slice" follows Roy as he discovers how to slip through time. As a Traveler informs him on how to use it to the fullest, he must help the traveler in return through time. But bouncing around history and dimensions isn't without risks, as Roy will quickly learn. "Time Slice" is a fine pick and very highly recommended for contemporary fantasy readers.

Passionate Nomads
Maria Rosa Lojo
Aliform Publishing
117 Warwick Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9780982278420, $14.95, www.aliformgroup.com

Across oceans and through time, to find truth one will travel anywhere. "Passionate Nomads" follows legendary magician Merlin and his associate Rosaura as they travel through ancient America and their search of the Ranquel Indians, hoping to link them to lost manuscripts and the history of their world that was never known before. A novel blending legend with mythology and so much more, "Passionate Nomads" is an excellent pick, very much recommended.

Death Drop
Sean Allen
Vintage Six Media
PO Box 8897, Pueblo, CO 81008-8897
9780983284093, $19.95, www.devolutionnovels.com

You'd think it'd be easier to be a fugitive in space, with greater places to run and hide. It isn't. "Death Drop" is a science fiction novel set in a universe where humanity has become a commodity on the black market. Secret human Dezmara Strykar is a smuggler, dealing in her own kind in a search to find her own people. But her lie can't continue forever, as she will soon have everyone gunning for her for a crime she may not have even committed. "Death Drop" is a fascinating and fast paced science fiction read, very much recommended.

Claire
Sally Kuntz
Wolfsinger Publications
4260 Cassidy St., Security, CO 80911
9781936099115, $9.95, www.wolfsingerpubs.com

Truth can destroy everything you believe. "Claire" is a science fiction mystery following Mark as he's looking for the truth behind who or what killed his sister. As his search goes deeper, black and white dies quickly and everything else he knows to be true falls apart. A novel of secret pasts and where justice lies, "Claire" is an excellent read, very much recommended reading for science fiction readers.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Stepping Through Cancer
Deborah Hardy
HigherLife Publishing
400 Fontana Circle, Building 1- Suite 105
Oviedo, FL 32765
9781935245384, $14.99, www.ahigherlife.com

Cancer is not a battle you are destined to lose. "Stepping Through Cancer: A Guide for the Journey" is a guide for those or have someone close to them facing cancer. Deborah Hardy advises readers to take strength in themselves and others to face the fears that come along with cancer and mortality. With support for facing treatment and conquering the pain, "Stepping Through Cancer" has a powerful and very highly recommended message, a must for self-help and health collections.

Stress Cure Now
Sarfraz Zaidi
iComet Press
6988 Calle Dia, Camarillo, CA 93012
9780615425849, $16.00, www.icometpress.com

Stress is a construct of the mind, and it can be conquered with willpower alone. "Stress Cure Now" is an advisory guide from Sarfraz Zaidi, an Endocrinologist. He discusses what stress can do with people and how best to face it and come out on top against it, to fight aging, and to reduce the impact stress has on one's life. With a bit of philosophy and spirituality mixed in, "Stress Cure Now" is well worth considering, highly recommended.

Essential Stretches
John Gifford
Motionwise
2315 Coolidge Highway
Berkley, MI 48072
9780979589034, $9.95, www.motionwise.com

Stretches are vital to prevent injuries and maximize the effectiveness of muscles. "Essential Stretches (You'll Actually Use) is a small handbook from John Gifford as he advises readers with a quick and easy to use reference to find what stretches to use for your work out of choice, in addition to many questions and answers. "Essential Stretches" is a useful and recommended pick for anyone looking for a solid and comprehensive reference.


The Humor Shelf

Faculty Fables
Gerald Stone
Chautauqua Press
11925 Mont Lake Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33437-4918
9780615448626, $14.95, www.facultyfables.com

What goes on behind the scenes at school can be the last things you expect to happen at school. "Faculty Fables: A Campy Expose" is a memoir from Gerald Stone as he presents the strange and unusual that goes down behind faculty doors and what he encountered during his years teaching at a college. Promising plenty of humor and plenty to catch readers off guard, "Faculty Fables" is a fine assortment of memoir and thought, highly recommended.

Kids Say the Cutest Things When They're Drunk
Dan McQuinn
Fauldhose Publishing
PO Box 2813
Naperville, IL 60567-2813
9780983255307, $12.95, www.danmcquinn.com

Life isn't sanitized, so humor shouldn't be either. "Kids Say the Cutest Things When They're Drunk: A Book of Pointless Satire and Vulgar Humor" is a collection of unique and cynical humor from Dan McQuinn who pulls no punches and strikes out at readers with a very unique brand of humor and spin on it all, on self-destruction to what it takes to get what you want, he gives anything and everything and makes for a very fun, if incredibly offbeat read. "Kids Say the Cutest Things When They're Drunk" is an addition worth adding to humor collections.


The Money/Finance Shelf

Why Chinese Women are Not Broke
Giovanna Pang Garcia
More Heart Than Talent Publishing
6507 Pacific Ave #329
Stockton, CA 95207
1934919136, $14.99, www.whychinesewomenarenotbroke.com

The culture you come from may predispose you to success or failure. "Why Chinese Women are Not Broke: Real Life Stories and Proven Keys for Success" is a collection of success stories of Chinese American women who made their own way through life by Giovanna Pang Garcia. Stating that these women used the traditional values of Chinese culture and combined it with the American value of making something out of nothing and presents it as a way to find success, the stories within can prove inspirational to anyone, regardless of race, sex, or otherwise. "Why Chinese Women are Not Broke" is an excellent addition to any Business oriented self-help collection.


The Military Shelf

Rough War
Walt Shiel
Jacobsville Books
28151 Quarry Lake Rd.
Lake Linden, MI 49945
9781934631157, $14.95, www.jacobsvillebooks.com

In a life or death situation, the most important thing is to keep a level head. "Rough War: The Combat Story of Lt. Paul J. Eastman, A "Burma Banshee", P-40 and P-47 Pilot" is a war biography from Walt Shiel, wring about Eastman who took up the call as a combat pilot following the Pearl Harbor attack. Fighting in a lesser known front of China, India, and Burma, he tells a story of a man pulled away from life and the struggles of survival where one wrong move could mean a fate worse than death. "Rough War" is a riveting war story, highly recommended.


The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf

Anne Steelyard: The Garden of Emptiness
Barbara Hambly
Penny Farthing Press
Suite 550
2000 West Sam Houston Parkway South
Houston, TX 77042
9780984214341, $14.95, amazon.com

Anne Steelyard: The Garden of Emptiness is the conclusion to the pre-World War I adventures of Anne Steelyard, a determined and talented young Englishwoman woman seeking to avoid a destiny of 'socially correct' marriage and to secure a career as an archaeologist working in the Middle East only to be drafted by the British Secret Service and investigate some murderously ill doings of the Germans while seeking a lost and fabled city of antiquity. This superbly written and illustrated, full color, and action packed, attention riveting, highly recommended graphic novel offers a non-stop, cliff-hanging, fully entertaining adventure comparable to any Indiana Jones film.

Freshman
Corinne Mucha
Zest Books
35 Stillman Street, Suite 121
San Francisco, CA 94107
9780981973364, $12.99, www.zestbooks.net

With hormones and the world expecting world out of you, everything can change pretty quickly. "Freshman: Tales of 9th Grade, Obsessions, Revelations, and Other Nonsense" is a graphic novel following Annie, new 9th grader who has the world thrown at her face as her emotions and body are revolting against her. With high hopes, she soon realizes survival is the only thing she should think of as she fails at everything she tries. "Freshman" is a fine read and very much recommended.


The Cookbook Shelf

Joyful Cooking
Joy Feldman
JHF Nutritional Consulting
510 Ten Rod Road Unit 1
North Kingstown, RI 02852
9780615433073, $21.95, www.maryglenn.com

A good life requires good health, and good health requires good cooking. "Joyful Cooking: In the Pursuit of Good Health, Restore & Heal Through Nutritional Balancing" is a cookbook from Joy Feldman who provides a wide array of recipes for pursuing better health. With advice on recipes to cater to your own body and health style, weight loss, recipes to apply to any palette, pregnancy diets, and much more. For those who want to promote health and happiness with their meals, "Joyful Cooking" is filled with plenty of ideas, from Eat 'Em Up! Sloppy Joes to Cream of Broccoli soup.

The Cook & The Butcher
Brigit Binns
Williams-Sonoma
c/o Weldon Owen
andrea@andreaburnett.com
9781616281137, $29.95, www.wopublishing.com

Choosing good meat is the first step for trying magnificent meals. "The Cook & Butcher: Juicy Recipes for Everyday Beef, Pork, Lamb, & Veal Dishes" is the meat lover's cookbook to making the most delectable meat dishes. A combination of expert cooks and butchers, readers are walked through how to choose the best cuts of meat, how to cook the meat for perfection, trimming the fat, and much more. Organized by meat and presented in full color, for anyone who wants to get the best meals and flavor out of their meat, "The Cook & The Butcher" should absolutely not be overlooked.

101 Hearty Recipes
Gooseberry Patch
2500 Farmers Dr. #110
Columbus, OH 43235
9781936283712, $14.95, www.gooseberrypatch.com

A good hearty meal simply cannot be beat. "101 Hearty Recipes" is a recipe book from the people at Gooseberry Patch. These recipes are taken from many cooks all over the country as well as the editors at Gooseberry Patch with easy to follow directions. With original taking on good old fashioned home cooking, those looking for light dishes should look elsewhere. From deluxe cocktail sausage appetizers to Cornbread Chicken pot pie, to sweet Pretzel twists and so much more, with full color photos throughout, "101 Hearty Recipes" is a must for anyone who wants to craft a good, filling meal for themselves and their loved ones.


The Autism Shelf

The Funny Side of Autism
Lisa Masters
Inkwell Productions
10869 N. Scottsdale rd., #103-128
Scottsdale, AZ 85254-5280
9780978620295, $14.95, www.inkwellproductions.com

Children with Autism are still children, and still say the darnedest things. "The Funny Side of Autism: Funny Things Children with Autism Do and Say" is an inspirational read touching on the lighter side of autism and the spirit that shines brightly through the disorder into poignant moments with ab it of humor. For those who want charming moments of children with autism and assurance that children are children no matter what, "The Funny Side of Autism" is an excellent and very much recommended pick.


The Parenting Shelf

101 Offline Activities
Steve and Ruth Bennett
BPT Press
PO Box 834, Randolph
MA 02368-0834
9780984228522, $19.95, www.offlineactivities.com

There's nothing more valuable than face time with your children. "101 Offline Activities You Can Do With Your Child" is a guide from Steve and Ruth Bennett to spending greater time with your children away from the embrace of electronics. With plenty of games and projects, one is sure to find something everyone will enjoy. For the parent who values play and life, "101 Offline Activities You Can Do With Your Child" is a fine assortment of idea and thought, not to be missed.

Cookies for Dinner
Pam Johnson-Bennett and Kae Allen
White River Press
PO Box 3561
Amherst, MA 01004
9781935052517, $16.00, www.twoloonsandabook.com

Perfect parenting is quite the oxymoron. "Cookies for Dinner: The Tales of Two Moms in Their Quest to Survive Motherhood" is a book about the struggle to simply survive parenting and the challenges that come with it. Two women who claim to be total opposites are united in the struggles of motherhood and the madness of trying to raise a child and live a life a the same time. Heavily influenced by memoir, the story is mainly that motherhood is imperfect, and one needs to realize as such to stay sane. "Cookies for Dinner" is a moving read that any new mother should fully embrace.


The Science Shelf

Breakthrough Power, second edition
Jeane Manning & Joel Garbon
Breakthrough Power
PO Box 315
Salmon Arm, BC, Canada V1E 4N5
9780981054308, $19.95, www.breakthroughpower.net

Technology brings many new changes, and how we find our energy for them may be the next major breakthrough. "Breakthrough Power: How Quantum-Leap New Energy Inventions Can Transform Our World" is the second edition of discussion surrounding major breakthroughs in how we power our machines and technology will change our world. From using water as fuel, making current systems more efficient, and ideas that come from out of left field, "Breakthrough Power" is a fascinating breakdown of fuel and how sustainability may be a reality we are finally reaching.

Radio Wave Propagation Fundamentals
Artem Saakian
Artech House Publishers
685 Canton Street, Norwood, MA 02062
9781608071371, $135.00, www.amazon.com

"Radio Wave Propagation Fundamentals" is a succinctly written and superbly organized 380-page technical compendium for students and professional engineers specializing in antenna, communication, and radar systems reliant on the electromagnetic wave propagation of radio frequencies operation under 'real world' conditions. Arthur Artem Saakian draws from his years of experience and expertise as an antenna engineer in the Antennas and Radar Systems Division of the Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, Maryland, to provide a comprehensive instructional study and reference work on the classification of radio waves, as well as electromagnetic wave theory, antennas for RF radio links, atmospheric affects in radio wave propagation. Of special note are the more than one thousand specific and time-saving equations and key discussions enhanced with more than 190 illustrations. Of special note are the probelm sets testing the reader's mastery of the material in each individual chapter. Featuring a list of symbols, acronyms, and a comprehensive index, "Radio Wave Propagation Fundamentals" is informed and informative, and a highly recommended text book as well as a continuing instructional reference work for personal, professional, and academic library collections.


The Economic Studies Shelf

The Inflation Deception
Craig R. Smith
Idea Factory Press
13232 N. 1st Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85029
9780971148222, $19.95, www.inflationdeception.com

There's more to the world's economic problems than economics. "The Inflation Deception" is a discussion of economics surrounding inflation, stating that the government and economy have become driven by inflation rather than being a byproduct of the times. Economics thinkers Craig Smith and Lowell Ponte argue that inflation is being used as a power grab and tool of control, and explain their beliefs, calling it an Inflatocracy. "The Inflation Deception" presents many wise thoughts on this growing crisis, highly recommended.


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


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