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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Disaster Handbook
Robert Brown Butler
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781497528185, $15.95, 216 pages, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Disaster Handbook" by Robert Brown Butler is a practical and comprehensive primer
that describes how to prepare for a disaster in advance, be safe as it happens, and repair anything
afterward. Also covered are such vital topics as how to store and use all the foods, tools, and
other "calamity commodities"; how to perform those everyday tasks that keep you alive from
cooking, washing the dishes, and clean clothes, to bathing, going to the bathroom, and keeping
everything sanitary; how to fashion all kinds of household items in simple and useful ways; how
to deal with disasters at home or at work, in a public building or while driving, in a plane crash or
train wreck, on a sinking ship or in the vicinity of a shooter; how to deal with disasters without
generators, weapons, and wilderness survival skills; and so much more.
Critique: Exceptionally 'user friendly' from beginning to end, "Disaster Handbook" is
comprehensive, profusely illustrated, practical, exceptionally well organized and presented, and
is enhanced with the inclusion of and Addenda' that covers surviving a plane crash, a train wreck,
a sinking ship, and even a shooting. Given the modern world we live and such issues as climate
change, terrorism, civil unrest, extreme weather phenomena, and economic uncertainties,
"Disaster Handbook" should be a part of every personal, family, and community library reference
collection.
Recipes And Road Stories
Hannah Melby & Caroline Melby
Sartoris Literary Group
PO Box 4185, Brandon, MS 39047
www.sartorisliterarygroup.com
9781941644089, $19.95, 230pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: By the time Hannah was in the 11th grade and Caroline was in the 7th grade, the
Melby sisters were touring the country in bluegrass bands, with Hannah on fiddle and Caroline
on mandolin. Today the sisters are the front persons of a very popular Nashville-based country
music touring band named HanaLena. "Recipes and Road Stories: Life on the Road with Sisters
Hannah and Caroline Melby blends touching and rollicking road stories with an assortment of
tasty recipes, and then tops everything off with plenty of exciting photographs. Also contributing
recipes are friends they made on the road, including Rhonda Vincent, a 5-time Grammy nominee
who has been called the "Queen of Bluegrass," and Claire Lynch, who is the reigning Female
Vocalist of the Year for the International Bluegrass Association.
Critique: Nicely illustrated with occasional period photos, "Recipes and Road Stories" is solid
entertainment and a fascinating read from beginning to end. Each of the four chapters comprising
"Recipes and Road Stories" begins with specific stories of the girls' adventures and encounters,
followed by a roster of recipes provided by themselves and their friends. A joy to simply browse
through, "Recipes and Road Stories" will be a mandatory 'must read' for their legions of fans and
is an ideal for browsing through repeatedly. Also available in a Kindle edition ($8.95), "Recipes
and Road Stories" will prove to be a popular addition to community library collections.
What Was the World of Jesus?
Carl E. Roemer
True Directions / Tarcher Books
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
1663 Liberty Dr. Suite #300, Bloomington, IN 47403
Bohlsen Group (publicity)
9781491733554 $36.95 www.iuniverse.com
Also available as an ebook, What Was the World of Jesus? A Journey for the Curious Pilgrim
draws upon the evidence of history to reconstruct the world that Jesus Christ and other figures of
the Gospels once lived in. "The Galileans were often looked upon as a coarse people without
history, traditions or prophetic succession... Frequent too was the contempt a Judean would hold
them in for their social intercourse with Gentiles. The question of Nathaniel in John's Gospel,
'Can anything good come out of Nazareth?' [John 1:46] reflects the attitude of Judeans toward
their cousins in the north." Extensive notes and an index round out this excellent,
thought-provoking resource highly recommended especially for those interested Bible study, or
simply in learning more about the era, cultures, and peoples that surrounded Jesus during his
life.
The Political Science Shelf
Accountability Citizenship
Stephen P. Tryon
Xlibris Corporation
1663 South Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
www.xlibris.com
Smith Publicity
9781479783564, $22.99, 116pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In "Accountability Citizenship", author Stephen P. Tryon explains how we can restore
accountability in government by accepting our personal accountability for some simple tasks we
must do as individual citizens living in the age of information. "Accountability Citizenship" is
non-partisan. Readers are asked only to agree on the very basics -- that the government of the
United States is supposed to represent the people of the United States. "Accountability
Citizenship" makes a compelling case that changes in our information distribution technologies
and business models discourage effective political participation by citizens. In the early days of
our republic, information distribution was based on newspapers which were subscription-based
and geographically aligned with the representative structure of Congress. Over the past forty
years, deregulation of television and radio along with the information technology revolution have
disrupted this alignment. But we can restore accountability through the three steps of
accountability citizenship: being appropriately positive, appropriately informed and appropriately
engaged.
Critique: Rarely has the case for why and how American citizens must and can (and on a
bi-partisan basis) reform and resist the corruptive elements that have degraded our federal
government across all three branches. Simply stated, "Accountability Citizenship" should have as
wide a public readership as possible and be a part of every academic and community library
Contemporary Political Science collection. Exceptionally well written for the benefit of the
non-specialist general reader, it should be noted that "Accountability Citizenship" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781479783557, $15.99) and a Kindle edition ($3.99).
America's Suicide
Michael H. Davison
Dapa Publishing, LLC
Rebecca Brown
The Cadence Group
9780979243707, $27.00, 264pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: We are murdering industrial America, self-reliant America, entrepreneurial America,
confident America, proud America. In its place we erect a welfare state, a nanny state, a parental
state, a nation of dependent adults. Call it whatever you like. We stumble along, bitterly divided,
not so far behind Western Europe. Is this good? If that is what we really want and freely vote for
it. No non controversial moral principle forbids us to follow this course. But are we sufficiently
aware of the not only economic price that we must inevitably pay? The salient question is why?
Was this historically incomparable nation built on parental government principles? Can such a
government guarantee greater freedom? Justice? Fairness? Compassion? Equality? Voters have
repeatedly answered yes. To all the above questions this book forcefully answers no. The
chapters focus on two overarching themes. One, the world, with emphasis on the United States,
is in a potential deadly moral crisis as harmful principles and practices displace traditional ones
among which many bring equal harm. Second, the book argues that the political solutions that we
commonly apply to satisfy our needs must inevitably fail to achieve their purpose simply because
our moral dilemma and political problems are not at root political. They cannot be resolved by
electing the "right" political party. "America's Suicide" presents a compelling argument that the
tiresome squabbling in Congress will never achieve anything constructive until we adopt a
radically different view of ourselves as individuals and begin to move our nation in a much
healthier direction
Critique: An articulate, clarion call for action, Michael H. Davison's "America's Suicide" is as
informed and informative as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking. Ideal for both the political
activist seeking cogent arguments for reform, and the non-specialist general reader alarmed by a
chronically grid-locked federal government, corporate dominated political financing, and all the
other ills that seem to be chipping away at our once great nation, "America's Suicide" should be a
part of every academic and community library Contemporary Political Science collection. It
should be noted that "America's Suicide" is also available in a hardcover edition
(9780979243714, $17.00) and a Kindle edition ($5.60).
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
The End of Unbelief
Shane Hayes
www.shanehayes.com
Leafwood Publishers
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
www.leafwoodpublishers.com
9780891124382, $14.99, 208pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: The trend toward agnosticism, atheism, and other forms of unbelief is gathering force,
especially among the young. And churches simply don't know how to counter it. "The End of
Unbelief: A New Approach to the Question of God" provides the new kind of outreach
needed--sophisticated, bold, and intellectually challenging. As a former atheist turned Christian,
Shane Hayes offers a unique perspective for skeptics. While standard conversion literature rarely
penetrates unbelievers' defenses, this book brings them to God even as their minds are slammed
shut to Christ. Hayes found the direct transition from atheism to Christianity to be impossible.
Instead, a period of Pure Theism occurred where Hayes took one step out of atheism towards the
second step: Christ. Both steps require an acceptance of God as a personal and loving deity. "The
End of Unbelief" serves as the response to the New Atheists and to anti-faith arguments in
general. Read it and give it to the skeptic in your life.
Critique: As thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is inspired and inspiring, "The End of
Unbelief: A New Approach to the Question of God" is exceptionally well written and reasoned,
making it very strongly recommended reading, especially for anyone struggling with faith issues of
their own. It should be noted that 'The End of Unbelief: A New Approach to the Question of
God" is also available in a Kindle edition ($8.49).
The Fiction Shelf
The Ninth Floor
Liz Schult
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
Breakthrough Promotions
9781490566825, $13.99, 282pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: The ninth floor of St. Michael's Hospital was shut off to the public, staff, and
administrators in 1984. The doors were welded and chained shut, the stop was removed from the
elevators, and the no one talked about what happened there - ever. Ryan Sterling knew her life
was going to change forever the day she found out her aunt needed a transplant, and she agreed to
return to a home she never wanted to see again. Spending the vast majority of her time in St.
Michael's hospital, she soon notices peculiarities: her aunt's roommate rants about evil, the nurses
whisper about hauntings, and no one will tell her why the ninth floor is locked. Ryan thinks all
the rumors are ridiculous until two nurses die right after she speaks with them about the floor in
question. Noises and disembodied voices begin to haunt her night and day. Strange presents
appear on her doorstep with notes that makes her blood run cold. Someone or something is
watching Ryan, and she is certain whatever is behind the locked doors of the ninth floor is the
key to her and her aunt's survival. Ryan never wanted to go home again, now she may never
leave.
Critique: An exceptionally well written and entertaining read from beginning to end, "The Ninth
Floor" clearly documents author Liz Schult imaginative literary skills and is especially
recommended for personal reading lists and community library collections. It should be noted
that "The Ninth Floor" is also available in a Kindle edition ($4.99). For those to whom "The
Ninth Floor" is their first introduction to the storytelling talents of Liz Schult, they would be well
rewarded to read her earlier novel "Dark Corners" (9781468115123, $3.99 Kindle).
A Life Unbroken
K. M. Hewitt
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
MM Book Publicity
www.maryglenn.com
9781499160819, $12.33, 340pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: As the sole witness to a devastating accident at a secret Biological Weapons Lab, Alex
McKay vanishes while on assignment in South America. Six years later... through luck and a
twist of fate... she resurfaces in the U.S. with a new name, a new face and a new identity. Alex
has a frightening story to tell and she knows it could send shockwaves throughout the nation and
world... if she lives long enough to tell it.
Critique: A riveting read from first page to last, "A Life Unbroken" introduces 26 year old Alex
McKay and is the first volume in the 'Alex McKay' series. "A Life Unbroken" documents the
impressive storytelling talents of author K. M. Hewitt and is very highly recommended for
personal reading lists and community library Contemporary Fiction collections. It should be
noted that "A Life Unbroken" is also available in a Kindle edition ($1.99).
The Industry
Natasha Rocca Devine
New Generation Publishing
The Old Fire Station, 140 Tabernacle Street
London, England, EC2A 4SD
Smith Publicity
9781910162675, $13.99, 366pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Leaving her beloved family and friends behind in her hometown of Kerry, Alanna
heads for London in search of success as a performer at one of the city's most prestigious
colleges. As the beautiful young singer ingratiates herself in a world of affluent excess, partying
and debauchery, she's quick to realize it's not all as glamorous as it once seemed. Rising through
the ranks of London's elite, Alanna finds herself living a double life, stooping to new lows to pay
rent and compromising her character in the process. Withholding a dark secret, no one knows her
motivation save for the words found in digital journal entries to 'Sally', which reveal the truth
behind her relentless tenacity. Now, as the opportunity of a lifetime in Los Angeles gives her the
chance to break America, Alanna must decide what truly matters and just how far she'll go in her
bid for stardom. The Industry is a gripping journey of survival and self-discovery with a modern
young heroine, struggling to achieve her dream and stopping at nothing in the process. But will
she weather the storm and prove her detractors wrong by making it in show-business, or will it be
too late to fix the mess she's created along the way?
Critique: A superbly crafted novel featuring memorable characters deftly woven into an engaging
story that hold's the reader's total attention from beginning to end, "The Industry" is solid
entertainment and documents author Natasha Rocca Devine's considerable literary skills. Very
highly recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Contemporary
Fiction collections, it should be noted that "The Industry" is also available in a Kindle edition
($7.99).
Cocktails With A Tryst
Cheri Loughlin
The Intoxicologist LLC
http://intoxicologist.net
Concierge Marketing Inc.
9780990568018, $16.95, 182pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In "Cocktails with a Tryst: An Affair with Mixology and Seduction", author Cheri
Loughlin artfully mixes 12 tantalizing stories with 27 original cocktail recipes that will keep the
reader craving more. These sexy short stories are the quickies we all fantasize about. They are the
quick fix breath of stimulation that keep you going during the day. Readers will love the way
these erotic stories mix deliciously with sexy, sensual cocktails and exquisite photos in each
chapter. Whether you are looking for a little inspiration in the bedroom or the bar you'll find it
between these pages. Share "Cocktails with a Tryst: An Affair with Mixology and Seduction"
with someone special for a delightful kiss and don't tell kind of evening, or have some fun with
the girls for Ladies Night Out. Whatever your pleasure, "Cocktails with a Tryst: An Affair with
Mixology and Seduction" will hit the spot.
Critique: Author Cheri Loughlin draws upon her years of developing recipes for big-brand liquor
companies, artisanal brands, and craft distillers to provide a variety of cocktail recipes that will
liven up any and all social occasions. That the stories are as sexy as they are entertaining is a
bonus! Highly recommended for an adult readership, "Cocktails with a Tryst: An Affair with
Mixology and Seduction" will prove to be an enduringly popular and practical addition to
personal reference collections. It should be noted that "Cocktails with a Tryst: An Affair with
Mixology and Seduction" is also available in a Kindle edition ($8.95).
A Guide to Bars and Nightlife in the Sacred City
Benjamin Wachs
Strange Castle Press
ImMedia Inc.
9780979327070, $15.95, 150pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "I was traveling across America, and then Europe, and then Russia, and then the
Middle East," author Benjamin Wachs says of these 26 remarkable tales, "waking up each
morning not knowing which city I would fall asleep in. Cities became pieces of a jigsaw puzzle,
connecting in ways that you could not see on a map, to reveal the secret order of the universe."
While these twenty-six short stories had their visible beginnings in a freelance journalist's world
travel, they had their inner beginnings in the fertile workings of a remarkable mind. Almost all
these tales originated in a San Francisco workshop taught by publisher Cary Tennis.
Critique: Benjamin Wachs reveals a distinctive and highly personal flair for storytelling that will
engage the reader's total and rapt attention throughout. As thoughtful and thought-provoking as
they are solidly entertaining, the short stories comprising "A Guide to Bars and Nightlife in the
Sacred City" are highly recommended and rewarding reading.
Football
Don Skiles
Pelekinesis
112 Harvard Avenue, #65, Claremont, CA 91711
www.pelekinesis.com
9781938349201, $25.00, 520pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Football" is a powerful, character-driven tale that follows Larry Simmons through
several life-changing events as 1957 looms on the horizon. Should he continue his athletic
aspirations? Will he be inspired by more poetry? What does high school mean to him? And what
is happening with Cameron Mitchell?
Critique: An impressively well written and thoroughly entertaining novel, "Football" documents
author Don Skiles as a skilled and talented storyteller. A rewarding read, "Football" is especially
recommended for community library General Fiction collections. It should be noted that
"Football" is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).
The Blind Eye
Marcia Fine
www.marciafine.com
L'Image Press, LLC
6701 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 40, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Bel Vista Public Relations
9780982695234, $16.95, 232pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "The Blind Eye: A Sephardic Journey" is comprised of parallel stories set in 15th
century Portugal and the 1990's, as two women explore their identities. Set against historical
events, "The Blind Eye" creates a sweeping narrative about a family expelled from Spain
connecting forward across tine to a modern woman of Cuban descent.
Critique: A unique and compelling novel, "The Blind Eye: A Sephardic Journey" showcasing the
impressive writing talents of author Marcia Fine who is able to deftly weave a complex plot
populated with memorable characters and unexpected twists and turns. A solid entertainment
from beginning to end "The Blind Eye: A Sephardic Journey" is very highly recommended for
personal reading lists and community library General Fiction collections. It should be noted that
"The Blind Eye: A Sephardic Journey" is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).
Petals Around The Rose
Bayode Ojo
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781500587666, $15.00, 218pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Petals Around The Rose" is the intriguing and compelling love story of Damilohun
Olotu, a chaste Christian virgin and Ayobami Agbeja, the Campus Fellowship president who
started an affair as undergraduates. Damilohun's Christian upbringing would influence her
preference for Ayobami over Tunmise Adegbite. Tunmise Adegbite is the handsome, fun- loving
and amiable first male friend she cultivated on Campus. Despite their differences in religious
beliefs, she liked Tunmise and kept their friendship. Damilohun and Ayobami's relationship
began in her second year, but Ayobami's final year. Ayobami traveled out to the United States of
America after his NYSC in pursuit of his academic goals, and for four years they lived apart in
two different worlds. When Ayobami returns to the country in exactly three months to their
wedding, a lot of water has passed under the bridge. The unfolding drama is riddled with secrets
and puzzles that will rock the boat of their seven year old relationship.
Critique: "Petals Around The Rose" clearly documents author Bayode Ojo has a major literary
talent who is able to deftly weave memorable characters into a complex story that is a solid
entertainment experience for the reader from beginning to end. "Petals Around The Rose" is very
highly recommended reading and would be an enduringly popular addition to community library
collections. It should be noted that "Petals Around The Rose" is also available in a Kindle edition
($10.00).
A Season for Martyrs
Bina Shah
www.binashah.net
Delphinium Books
http://www.delphiniumbooks.com
Meryl L. Moss Media Relations
9781883285616, $14.95, 288pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Ali Sikandar is assigned to cover the arrival of Benazir Bhutto, the opposition leader
who has returned home to Karachi after eight years of exile to take part in the presidential race.
Already eager to leave for college in the U.S. and marry his forbidden Hindu girlfriend, Ali loses
a friend in a horrific explosion and finds himself swept up in events larger than his individual
struggle for identity and love when he joins the People's Resistance Movement, a group that
opposes President Musharraf. Amidst deadly terrorist attacks and protest marches, this
contemporary narrative thread weaves in flashbacks that chronicle the deep and beautiful tales of
Pakistani history, of the mythical gods who once protected this land. Bina Shah, a journalist
herself and now a NYT op-ed writer, illustrates with extraordinary depth and keen observation
into daily life the many contradictions of a country struggling to make peace with itself.
Critique: Riveting and articulate, "A Season for Martyrs" by Pakistani journalist Bina Shah is the
author's debut novel for an American readership and clearly denotes her ability to deftly craft and
complex storey of suspenseful twists and unexpected turns that holds the reader's total attention
from beginning to end. Very highly recommended for personal reading lists and community
library General Fiction collections, it should be noted that "A Season for Martyrs" is also
available in a Kindle edition ($10.80).
Amelia
Bernadette Marie
5 Prince Publishing
c/o Author Marketing Experts
9781631120398, $11.95, 250pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Amelia Monroe had felt the sharp pain from the loss of a soldier before--Adam
Monroe's death didn't have that same effect. Sam Jackson had one job -- deliver Adam Monroe's
revised will. Even he couldn't have anticipated that he'd be entangled in the web of lies his client
had woven. Doing what is right had been inbred in Amelia. She'd planned to say her goodbyes
and start fresh. Staying in Adam's small town with his other lies, that wasn't part of her plan.
Critique: The first volume of author Bernadette Marie's outstanding "The Three Mrs. Monroes"
trilogy. Solidly entertaining from beginning to end, "Amelia" is especially recommended for
anyone who appreciates a well crafted romance with all manner of unexpected plot twists and
turns encountered by deftly crafted and memorable characters. Also very highly recommended
for personal reading lists and community library collections are the other two volumes of this
wonderfully entertaining series: "Penelope" (9781631120411, $11.95) and "Vivian"
(9781631120435, $11.95).
The Health/Medicine Shelf
College Basic Training
Susan Jensen
Swan Fitness Publishing
178 Peninsula Road, Medicine Lake, MN 55441
www.swanfitcoach.com
9780990578925, $19.95, 136pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "College Basic Training: Strengthen Your Mind and Body to Leap Any College
Hurdle" by personal fitness trainer and health coach Susan Jensen is a be-good-to-your-body
guide for young women in college or going off to college. The colorfully whimsical and
easy-to-read chapters offer life-changing wellness tips in a lighthearted, casual, and humorous
narrative. "College Basic Training" gets straight to the point when it comes to exercise, nutrition,
body image, media distraction, substance abuse, sex, mental health, safety, and more. Included
are eye-opening personal stories of trial and tribulation, illustrating the tools needed to avoid or
overcome adversity and pressures that come with college life. "College Basic Training" will
guide mothers, daughters, and granddaughters toward a healthy lifestyle and a positive future. It
might even save a life!
Critique: Nicely illustrated, "College Basic Training: Strengthen Your Mind and Body to Leap
Any College Hurdle" is an informed and informative instruction guide that is thoroughly 'user
friendly' from beginning to end. More than just another exercise manual, "College Basic
Training" covers such aspects of personal health and well-being as sleep, nutrition, eating
disorders, alcohol and drugs, media distraction, and time management. Of special note is the
chapter devoted to sexual assault. Enhanced with the inclusion extensive Notes and Additional
References, "College Basic Training" is very highly recommended for personal, family,
academic, and community library Health & Medicine instructional reference collections. It
should be noted that "College Basic Training" is also available in a Kindle edition ($4.99).
Adrenaline Dominance
Michael E. Platt
Clancy Lane Publishing
www.clancylanepublishing.com
Blessingway Authors Services
9780977668311, $19.95, 186pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Adrenaline is a powerful hormone whose effects have been virtually ignored by the
medical community. "Adrenaline Dominance: A Revolutionary Approach to Wellness" explains
how this hormone might be a major underlying cause of many conditions currently considered
incurable. "Adrenaline Dominance: A Revolutionary Approach to Wellness" explains why
people produce this "fight-or-flight" hormone even when they are not facing danger. It presents a
natural protocol for rapidly reducing excess adrenaline. In most cases, this protocol allows
patients to reassess their need for taking prescription medications, which treat symptoms rather
than address the root cause of their conditions.
Critique: In "Adrenaline Dominance: A Revolutionary Approach to Wellness", author Michael E.
Platt, M.D. draws upon his many years of experience and expertise to write an informed and
informative work that is ideal for the non-specialist general reader wanting to better understand
the role of hormones in restoring and maintaining good health. Dr. Platt not only covers just how
adrenaline works in the human body, but how to reduce excess adrenaline. Very highly
recommended for community library Health & Medicine collections, "Adrenaline Dominance: A
Revolutionary Approach to Wellness" will prove to be of particular value and interest to anyone
dealing with diabetes, depression, IBS, weight problems, headaches, addictions, urinary
problems, and so much more.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
We Are The Destroyers
D. K. Lindler
First Life Publishing
1034 E San Juan Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85014
The Cadence Group
9780991509027, $16.95, 428pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Captain Bel'lar can't accept that he's lived all this before. Overconsumption is
destroying his home planet, and synthetic foods are turning his people into degenerated mutants
under the control of the Brotherhood of Syn. As one of the few remaining but persecuted Organs
- those who still live the organic lifestyle - Bel'lar and his small crew must escape from their
dying world to the semi-mythical blue-white planet. They are to discover if it is really what the
prophecies say it is: a place for humanity to make a new beginning. But the visions of his
beautiful companion Ry Sing, a mystic and seer shake Bel'lar. She tells him that eons ago, Bel'lar
was also faced with the burden of saving his people from their own greed. Only then he was the
Great One, the sacred head of their religion. He had seen no other way to liberate them from their
collision course with environmental destruction and spiritual degradation than to purify the
planet in a great cataclysm... But could the horrible vision be true? Could he really have done
such a thing? And what about the scriptures that predict that a man with a mark like his would be
fated to purify a corrupted planet once again and free the souls? As Bel'lar, Ry Sing and the rest
of the elite team embark on their mission to save mankind, the truth of the vision begins to reveal
itself, and Bel'lar's destiny is set before him. But will he be able to avoid it this time? Or is he
fated to live the vision once again?
Critique: "We Are The Destroyers" by D. K. Lindler is a solid science fiction entertainment from
beginning to end. A deftly woven and complex story that will linger in the mind long after the
novel is finished and set back upon the shelf, "We Are The Destroyers" is very highly
recommended reading and would prove to be an enduringly popular addition to community
library science fiction collections. It should be noted that "We Are The Destroyers" is also
available in a Kindle edition ($6.99).
Ed Undead: The Chronicles of a Teenage Zombie
Edward Kent
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781470086626, $11.99, 284pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Sixteen year old Ed Kirk never believed that he would have to live through a zombie
apocalypse. He had a loving family, a beautiful girlfriend, and a full life ahead of him. Now he
finds himself on the run from zombies, being hunted by a dark force that threatens his very
existence, all the while trying to escape this zombie infested town and find help. There's just one
little detail -- Ed is a zombie too!
Critique: With "Ed Undead: The Chronicles of a Teenage Zombie", author Edward Kent
demonstrates impressive skills for original storytelling and taking a classic staple of the fantasy
genre and giving it a whole new 'life'. Solid entertainment from beginning to end, "Ed Undead:
The Chronicles of a Teenage Zombie" is very highly recommended -- especially to fans of the
Zombie fantasy genre and would make an enduringly popular addition to community library
Science Fiction & Fantasy collections. It should be noted that "Ed Undead: The Chronicles of a
Teenage Zombie" is also available in a Kindle edition ($1.99). Also very highly recommended is
the sequel "Ed Undead: Dead Like Me" (978-1500935986, $11.99 (PB), $2.99 (Kindle),
252pp).
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Dirty Tricks
Judith K. Ivie
Mainly Murder Press, LLC
PO Box 290586, Wethersfield, CT 06109
www.JudithIvie.com
www.MainlyMurderPress.com
9780990510307, $15.95, 236pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Kate Lawrence is an amateur sleuth. She and her realtor partners investigate the
sometimes adversarial relationship between authors and publishers and the frightening
consequences of thwarted creative egos. When well-known mystery writer Maybelle Farnsworth
moves to Wethersfield a few weeks before Halloween, she becomes the target of a neighborhood
prankster, or so Kate and her partners believe at first. When the dirty tricks escalate from
annoying to terrifying, May's secret sideline as the publisher of a line of sexy romance novels
comes into play. Within the context of this cozy mystery, Judith K. Ivie's "Dirty Tricks" shines a
light into the seldom acknowledged dark corners of today's ultra-competitive publishing industry,
including cynical agents, clashing egos, and unethical ploys used by misguided authors to gain
readers' attention, such as fraudulent claims of prize nominations and paid-for reviews.
Critique: "Dirty Tricks' is the seventh Kate Lawrence mystery and continues to document author
Judith K. Ivie as a skilled and imaginative mystery writer with a flair for weaving memorable
characters seamlessly into a complexly woven storyline. It should be noted that "Dirty Tricks" is
also available in a Kindle edition ($3.99). All of her previous Kate Lawrence novels are highly
recommended, especially "Dying Wishes" (9780984666645, $14.95).
The Dream Of Saint Ursula
Kenneth Butcher
Black Rose Writing
PO Box 1540, Castroville, TX 78009
www.blackrosewriting.com
9781612964249, $16.95, 264pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Who is smuggling illegal aliens into the U.S. through the Virgin Islands? Lieutenant
Esteban finds out but not before dealing with a nagging older sister, a sexy park ranger, a parade
of eccentric artists, the Colebrook family, a sleazy media man, various departments of the
government and a drug crazed marmoset. Is this what the Dream of Saint Ursula was all
about?
Critique: A thoroughly engaging and entertaining read from first page to last, "The Dream Of
Saint Ursula" demonstrates author Kenneth Butcher's flair for weaving unexpected twists and
turns in a gripping storyline populated with memorably crafted characters. Also available in a
Kindle edition ($6.99), "The Dream Of Saint Ursula" is very highly recommended for personal
reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Death at Chinatown
Frances McNamara
Allium Press of Chicago
http://alliumpress.com
The Cadence Group
9780989053556, $15.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 226pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: In the summer of 1896, amateur sleuth Emily Cabot meets two young Chinese women
who have recently received medical degrees. She is inspired to make an important decision about
her own life when she learns about the difficult choices they have made in order to pursue their
careers. When one of the women is accused of poisoning a Chinese herbalist, Emily once again
finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation. But, before the case can be solved, she must
first settle a serious quarrel with her husband, help quell a political uprising, and overcome
threats against her family. Timeless issues, such as restrictions on immigration, the conflict
between Western and Eastern medicine, and women's struggle to balance family and work, are
woven seamlessly throughout this riveting historical mystery. Rich with fascinating details of life
in Chicago's original Chinatown, "Death at Chinatown" is the fifth book in the Emily Cabot
Mysteries series by Frances McNamara and will continue to delight history buffs and mystery
lovers alike.
Critique: As in her previous four novels in this outstanding series, "Death At Chinatown" pays
meticulous attention to historical accuracy in an engaging mystery novel that holds the reader's
total attention from beginning to end. A solid entertainment, "Death At Chinatown" is very
highly recommended as a 'stand-alone' read, but don't be surprised for those to whom this is their
first introduction to McNamara's impressive storytelling talents if they find themselves
compelled to track down the first four volumes including "Death At The Fair" (9780984067619,
$14.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle); "Death At Hull House" (9780984067602, $14.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle);
"Death At Pullman" (9780984067695, $14.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle); "Death At Woods Hole"
(9780983193838, $14.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle).
Mind Over Murder
Cary Allen Stone
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781495402005, $12.50, 346pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Jake Roberts returns in the thriller "Mind Over Murder" which is the sequel to Cary
Allen Stone's superbly crafted debut novel "After The Evil". Lori Powers had fled the U.S. after
leaving a trail of dead men behind. She has been returned to the U.S. to stand trial. Once again,
Lori escapes, only this time it's to save Detective Jake Roberts' life from a new serial killer in
town.
Critique: Cary Allen Stone has an impressive gift for constructing a complex and compelling
detective novel, the kind that grips the reader's total and rapt attention from first page to last and
just doesn't let go. "Mind Over Murder" continues the adventures of Jake Roberts and is a total
entertainment that is to be wholeheartedly commended to the attention of mystery fans and would
prove to be a popular addition to community library collections as well. It should be noted that
"Mind Over Murder" is also available in a Kindle edition ($2.99).
After the Goode
Cary Allen Stone
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781493682645, $11.99, 324pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Jake Roberts' superiors in Atlanta Homicide gave him a choice--retire, or face criminal
prosecution. Jake went beyond the rules to capture serial killer Jared Hamilton. Jake decided to
retire and move to Los Angeles with his Hollywood agent girlfriend Caitland where he writes
best-selling crime novels. They decide to take a mini-vacation to visit his best friend in Phoenix.
Bobby Goode is a superstar comedian. During his opening night in Phoenix, he humiliates a
heckler. After the show, the heckler stalks Bobby with a baseball bat. Defending himself, Bobby
shoots the man. He panics from the fear that he will lose his fame and fortune if anyone finds out.
At the crime scene, Phoenix homicide detectives Wynter Williams and Vince Farina investigate a
charred body and torched Cadillac. They invite Jake to consult on the case. Jake later determines
that it is Bobby they are looking for. On closing night, inside the comedy club, Jake and Wynter
arrive to arrest Bobby....
Critique: A riveting read from first page to last, "After the Goode" continues to document Cary
Allen Stone has an extraordinarily talented master of the detective crime novel as she deftly
weaves memorable characters into a complex plot of surprise twists and unexpected turns. The
third volume in Stone's 'Jake Roberts' mystery series, "After the Goode" is very highly
recommended for both personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense
collections. It should be noted that "After the Goode" is also available in a Kindle edition
($2.99).
The Self-Help Shelf
Living Balance
H.H. the Dali Lama, Joel Levey, Michelle Levey
Divine Arts
5615 hazel Avenue, Richmond, CA 94805
www.divineartsmedia.com
781611250299, $18.95, 360pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: As our world grows increasingly more complex and stressful, developing our capacity
for dynamic balance in our lives, work, and relationships becomes more and more vital. Based on
the ancient wisdom traditions, contemporary neuroscience research, and the insights of
indigenous cultures throughout our world, "Living in Balance: A Mindful Guide for Thriving in a
Complex World" shows that, in each moment, we have the capacity to be mindful of whether our
thoughts and actions are moving toward harmony and balance or away from it. Through this
awareness we can make a conscious choice to continue on the path we are on or to change our
attitude and direction. With a foreword by H.H. the Dalai Lama, "Living in Balance" offers a rare
synthesis of ancient wisdom traditions with cutting-edge research on peak human performance
that points toward mindfulness as being truly the key to living in balance.
Critique: Informative, thoughtful, inspiring, "Living in Balance: A Mindful Guide for Thriving in
a Complex World" is very highly recommended reading and especially commended to anyone
seeking personal growth and a more pervasive spirituality for themselves. Instructive, reflective,
impressively well written, organized and presented, "Living in Balance: A Mindful Guide for
Thriving in a Complex World" would make a valued addition to personal, community, and
academic library collections. It should be noted that "Living in Balance: A Mindful Guide for
Thriving in a Complex World" is also available in a Kindle edition ($10.49).
The LGBT Shelf
The Passion of Christ: A Gay Vision
Kittredge Cherry, author
Douglas Blanchard, illustrator
The Apocryphile Press
1328 Montecito Circle, Los Angles, CA 90031
www.apocryphile.org
9781940671406, $38.95, 150pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "The Passion of Christ: A Gay Vision" introduces Jesus as a gay man of today and
living in a contemporary city. In stunning new images by Douglas Blanchard, the modern Christ
figure is jeered by fundamentalists, tortured by Marine look-alikes, and rises again to enjoy
homoerotic moments with God. His surprisingly diverse friends join him on a journey from
suffering to freedom. Readers call it "accessible but profound." Some are moved to tears. The 24
paintings in the gay Passion cover Jesus' final days, including his arrest, trial, crucifixion, and
resurrection. A queer Passion is important now because Christianity is being used to justify hate
and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Each image is
accompanied by insightful commentary, plus a short prayer and scripture. If Jesus came back
today, would he be crucified all over again? Would we even recognize him? "The Passion of
Christ: A Gay Vision" is relevant to such enduring questions.
Critique: Douglas Blanchard's impressive artwork is a perfect compliment to Kittredge Cherry's
thoughtful and thought-provoking story. Deftly written and superbly illustrated, "The Passion of
Christ: A Gay Vision" is a very highly recommended and rewarding read -- especially for
members of the LGBT community and enlightened Christians regardless of their denominational
affiliation.
The Nautical Shelf
Man & The Sea
Wayne O'Neil
Photo'neil, LLC
PO Box 1004, Long Beach, WA 98631
9780978530525, $29.00, 221pp, www.manandthesea.com
Synopsis: In "Man & The Sea", author Wayne O'Neil tells the dramatic story of shipwrecks,
groundings and mishaps at the mouth of the Columbia River and its environs, dating from 1792
through the year 1949. These are individual stories of wooden ships under sail, and brave
mariners sailing without accurate charts, facing the shifting sands, monstrous rollers and roaring
breakers of the Columbia River bar. The Columbia River, with nearby Long Beach Peninsula and
Clatsop Spit, have truly earned their infamous reputation as the 'Graveyard of the Pacific'.
Critique: An informed and informative maritime history, "Man & The Sea" is profusely enhanced
with period photos throughout. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, this
inherently fascinating history of Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon shipwrecks from
1792 to 1949 is a unique and invaluable contribution that should be a part of every academic
library's American Maritime History reference collection and supplemental studies reading
list.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Clairvoyant Psychotherapy
Susan Feinbloom
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
Bohlsen Group
www.createspace.com
9781492963042, $24.95, 268pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Clairvoyant Psychotherapy" is a rare new work that succeeds in being groundbreaking
in the field of psychotherapy while being both a professional and consumer book. Susan
Feinbloom's approach begins by using traditional psychotherapy techniques to aid her client's in
probing the roots of their emotional difficulties. This is her foundation. It's what happens next
that is groundbreaking. In addition to being trained as a psychotherapist, Susan has spent the last
thirty years honing her skills as a clairvoyant. Her psychotherapy goes beyond intuition into the
use of clairvoyance - clear seeing - exploring energetic patterns and movements as they apply to
and elucidate emotional states. Ancient wisdoms, the energetic anatomy, the chakras -
information that has been deeply buried in the subconscious is explored as it reveals prior
wounding, programming and imprints. These all form the underlying limits that block the client's
access to their brilliance, talents and unique vision of their own lives. "Clairvoyant
Psychotherapy" progresses through a description of the meditation patterns, an in depth
discussion of the psychological and spiritual aspects of the seven chakras and finally explores
how these are woven within the sessions. There are transcripts of different therapy sessions to
demonstrate this process. Like shining a beacon in the dark, "Clairvoyant Psychotherapy" serves
as an opening to the amazing powers and mysteries of the mind and its ability to change our
physical reality. We see how expanding our consciousness leads us to high functioning radiant
wholeness and a more encompassing picture of who we truly are - a spirit incarnated in a
physical body.
Critique: Impressively written so as to be of immense value to students of psychotherapy and
metaphysics, "Clairvoyant Psychotherapy" is ideal for the non-specialist general reader as well,
making it highly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as both community and
academic library Psychology/Psychotherapy Studies reference collections.
Dreams and Resurrection: On Immortal Selves, Psychedelics, and Christianity
Jack Call
Christian Alternative
c/o John Hunt Publishing, Ltd.
Laurel House, Station Approach, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9JH, UK
www.johnhuntpublishing.com
9781782796831, $16.95, 135pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Dreams and Resurrection: On Immortal Selves, Psychedelics, and Christianity"
presents an extended inductive argument based on the time-honored analogies between life and
dream, death and sleep. Author Jack Call takes an argument of David Hume's and turns it on its
head. That argument forms the core of a view the Call describes as Taoistic, psychedelic
Christianity. Taoistic in that God's power is conceived as purely artistic and inspirational, and
psychedelic in that the author acknowledges that taking LSD had a profound and benign
influence on his life. On this view, the first-person perspective is given in experience. The basic
message in "Dreams and Resurrection: On Immortal Selves, Psychedelics, and Christianity" is
that kind of person you are is an ever-unfolding story that you must strive to perfect.
Critique: As informed and informative as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Dreams and
Resurrection: On Immortal Selves, Psychedelics, and Christianity" is especially recommended to
the attention of non-specialist general readers with an interest in the nature of death, the concept
of an afterlife, the human psyche, and metaphysics. Exceptionally well written, organized and
presented, it should be noted that "Dreams and Resurrection: On Immortal Selves, Psychedelics,
and Christianity" is also available in a Kindle edition ($6.39).
The Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: A Guide to DIY Enlightenment
Kevin West
6th Books
c/o John Hunt Publishing, Ltd.
Laurel House, Station Approach, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9JH, UK
www.johnhuntpublishing.com
9781782793977, $14.95, 116pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "The Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: A Guide to DIY Enlightenment" was
specifically written by author and enlightenment expert Kevin West for people who wish to
develop their psychic and spiritual awareness in a very practical way. Although organically
linked, each chapter deals with a separate aspect of development and also acts as a diagnostic
empowering tool. "The Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: A Guide to DIY Enlightenment"
is a companion to the teacher and student of these disciplines alike and is based around the
Spiritualist and New Age approach to full realization. It fills the gap left by so many books
written by people who are not true, experienced practitioners or adepts in these fields. "The
Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: A Guide to DIY Enlightenment" is filled with helpful
exercises and hands-on useful techniques designed to empower the reader and awaken within
them a sense of who, what, why, where and how they are. The chapters include lessons and
writings on healing, meditation, psychic awareness, clairvoyance, psychometry, scrying, psychic
and spiritual philosophy, colors, auras and their energies, sitting in circle, and much more. This
book is not a narrative - it is a do-it-yourself instruction manual.
Critique: Exceptionally well written so as to be fully accessible to the non-specialist reader and
of enduring value to advanced students of metaphysics and spirituality, "The Psychic & Spiritual
Awareness Manual: A Guide to DIY Enlightenment" is very highly recommended and
thoroughly 'user friendly'. It should be noted that "The Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: A
Guide to DIY Enlightenment" is also available in a Kindle edition ($7.69).
Life Without Elgar: A Tale of a Journeying Soul
Ann Merivale
6th Books
c/o John Hunt Publishing, Ltd.
Laurel House, Station Approach, Alresford, Hants, SO24 9JH, UK
www.johnhuntpublishing.com
9781782795261, $16.95, 158pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: During a regression to find out the reason for the unusual emotional attachment that
she'd had since the age of sixteen to Sir Edward Elgar (both his music and the man himself)
author Ann Merivale was knocked for six at finding herself in the life of Helen Weaver, his first
fiancee. One year on, following a meeting held at Plas Gwyn, in the very room that had been
Elgar's study from 1904-11, a series of letters between Edward Elgar and Helen Weaver started
writing themselves in her head. Gradually, and on the advice of colleagues, she decided that this
'imaginary correspondence' should form the middle section of a book devoted to her personal
experiences. The first part is autobiographical, showing how she came to her present beliefs and
the third part (also somewhat autobiographical) draws conclusions re healing. It has the dual aim
of introducing spiritual subjects to musical people who are unfamiliar with them, and introducing
Elgar to spiritually minded people who know little or nothing about him.
Critique: Sir Edward William Elgar, 1st Baronet, OM, GCVO (2 June 1857 - 23 February 1934)
was an English composer, many of whose works have entered the British and international
classical concert repertoire. Among his best-known compositions are orchestral works including
the Enigma Variations, the Pomp and Circumstance Marches, concertos for violin and cello, and
two symphonies. He also composed choral works, including The Dream of Gerontius, chamber
music and songs. He was appointed Master of the King's Musick in 1924. A fascinating,
informative and engaging read from beginning to end, "Life Without Elgar: A Tale of a
Journeying Soul" is especially recommended to students of metaphysical studies. It should be
noted that "Life Without Elgar: A Tale of a Journeying Soul" is also available in a Kindle edition
($7.99).
The Terrorism Studies Shelf
The Hitler Legacy
Peter levenda
Ibis Press
c/o Red Wheel/Weiser/Conari
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
www.redwheelweiser.com
www.ibispress.net
9780892542109, $26.95, 320pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: More than thirty years after his first investigation of the Nazi underground author and
researcher Peter Levenda has returned again and again to his quest for the truth about the true
character of the Nazi cult and the people and political movements it has influenced in the decades
since the end of World War II. The wide sweep of this investigation moves from a Ku Klux Klan
headquarters in Reading, Pennsylvania to the New York City office of the Palestine Liberation
Organization; from the apartment of a notorious neo-Nazi leader to an Islamic boarding
school--headquarters of the man who ordered the Bali Bombings. When Levenda uncovered the
existence of a Nazi underworld in Asia, the nexus of religion, politics, terrorism and occult
beliefs was revealed to be the real domain of the threat to global security. Meticulously
researched and drawing from both archival material and declassified intelligence agency files, as
well as personal interviews and investigations undertaken in Asia, Europe and Latin America,
"The Hitler Legacy" is the astonishing story of how the mistakes of the 20th century have come
home to roost in the 21st. "The Hitler Legacy" will challenge the conventional thinking about
such subjects as the Muslim Brotherhood and Islamist terrorism and even about the alleged death
of one of history's most infamous killers -- Adolf Hitler.
Critique: An impressive work of seminal and original scholarship, ""The Hitler Legacy: The Nazi
Cult in Diaspora: How it was Organized, How it was Funded, and Why it Remains a Threat to
Global Security in the Age of Terrorism" is as informed and informative as it is thoughtful and
thought-provoking. Exceptionally well written, organized, and presented, "The Hitler Legacy" is
enhanced with nine pages of Sources & Bibliography, and features a comprehensive Index. Also
available in a Kindle edition ($12.99), "The Hitler Legacy" is strongly recommended to the
attention of non-specialist general readers with an interest in the 20th Century roots of 21st
Century terrorist organizations, as well as an important and valued addition to academic library
World History and Global Terrorism reference collections and supplemental studies reading
lists.
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
Bread or Death
Milton Mendel Kleinberg
Fifth Generation Books
www.fifthgenbooks.com
Concierge Marketing Inc.
9780989928434, $16.95, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: World War II brought about scarcities of just about everything...except misery. "Alle
raise," (everybody out), the German soldiers screamed as they pounded on our door with the butts
of their rifles. And thus began a 4,500-mile journey from Poland through Russia and Siberia and
eventually to Uzbekistan in Central Asia, as the author Milton Mendel Kleinberg's family used
bribery and darkness of night to flee as the Nazis invaded Poland in 1939. Young Mendel, from
age four to fourteen, tells in vivid detail the wretched journey in cramped cattle cars through
frigid Russia, the indignities of being forced labor, the shame of begging for bread just to
survive, and death of those closest to him. The family's plight includes abandonment, hunger, and
separation (and later remarkable twists of fate and reunion) quite unlike other Holocaust stories.
"Bread or Death: Memories of My Childhood During and After the Holocaust" is a
coming-of-age, Holocaust memoir. A very personal account of how (through great sacrifices by
his mother) he managed to survive the worst atrocities in human history and his uncertain days in
a Polish Children's Home, scrabbling for fallen fruit, and surviving kidnapping and murder on the
Black Road, and return to German Displaced Persons camps at war's end. But to what fate?
Originally written as a memoir just for his grandchildren, Milton Kleinberg gives a moving
account of his family's hardships and eventual immigration with a lump-in-the-throat passage to
America past the Statue of Liberty and into a land of opportunity tinged with bigotry yet with a
promise to future generations.
Critique: An extraordinary true story, "Bread or Death: Memories of My Childhood During and
After the Holocaust" is especially appropriate for a young adult readership. Enhanced with a
glossary, book club study questions, a teacher's guide, a timeline, and a photo gallery, "Bread or
Death: Memories of My Childhood During and After the Holocaust" is a strongly recommended
acquisition for school and community library collections, and would be a valued contribution to
academic library Holocaust Studies reference collections as well. It should be noted that "Bread
or Death: Memories of My Childhood During and After the Holocaust" is also available in a
Kindle edition ($3.95).
The Music Shelf
The History of Classical Music For Beginners
R. Ryan Endris, author
Joe Lee, illustrator
For Beginners LLC
155 Main Street, Suite 211 Danbury, CT 06810
www.forbeginnersbooks.com
9781939994264, $15.95, 176pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Music history is nearly as old as human civilization itself, and while it has permeated
the arts and popular culture for centuries, it still has a mystifying aura surrounding it. But it's not
as complicated as it seems, and anyone can learn the origins and history of Western classical
music. In addition to learning how better to understand (and enjoy!) classical music, "The History
of Classical Music For Beginners" will help the non-specialist general reader learn some of the
more interesting and sometimes comical stories behind the music and composers. For example:
Did you know that Jean-Baptiste Lully actually died from conducting one of his own
compositions? You may have heard of Gregorian chant, but did you know there are many forms
of chant, including Ambrosian and Byzantine chant? And did you also know that only a small
portion of "classical music" is even technically Classical? All this and more are presented in "The
History of Classical Music For Beginners".
Critique: Classical music is art music produced or rooted in the traditions of Western music (both
liturgical and secular). It encompasses a broad period from roughly the 11th century to the
present day. The central norms of this tradition became codified between 1550 and 1900, which
is known as the common practice period. The major time divisions of classical music are the
early music period, which includes Medieval (500 - 1400) and Renaissance (1400 - 1600), the
Common practice period, which includes the Baroque (1600 - 1750), Classical (1750 - 1830) and
Romantic (1804 - 1949) periods, and the modern and contemporary period, which includes 20th
century (1900 - 2000) and contemporary (1975 - current). Informed and informative, "The
History of Classical Music For Beginners" is a thoroughly 'reader friendly' introduction and ideal
for personal reading lists, as well as school and community library Music History collections. It
should be noted that "The History of Classical Music For Beginners " is also available in a
Kindle edition ($9.99).
The Economic Studies Shelf
Bridging the Pacific
C. Fred Bergsten, Gary Clyde Hufbauer, Sean Miner
Peterson Institute for International Economics
1750 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036
www.piie.com
9780881326918, $21.95, 278pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: The terrain of the world trading system is shifting as countries in Asia, Europe, and
North America negotiate new trade agreements. However, none of these talks include both China
and the United States, the two biggest economies in the world. "Bridging the Pacific: Toward
Free Trade and Investment Between China and the United States" is a pathbreaking study in
which C. Fred Bergsten, Gary Clyde Hufbauer, and Sean Miner argue that China and the United
States would benefit substantially from a bilateral free trade and investment accord. In the
process, they contend, each country would also achieve progress in addressing its internal
economic challenges, such as the low saving rate in the United States. Achieving greater trade
and investment integration could be accomplished with one comprehensive effort or through
step-by-step negotiations over key issues. "Bridging the Pacific: Toward Free Trade and
Investment Between China and the United States" calls upon the United States to seek
liberalization of China s services sector as vital to securing an agreement, and explains that such
contentious matters as cyber espionage and currency manipulation be handled through parallel
negotiations rather than in the agreement itself. "Bridging the Pacific: Toward Free Trade and
Investment Between China and the United States" is an important study of the benefits and
difficulties of a complex matter that could yield dividends to the two economies and help
stabilize the security and well-being of the rest of the world.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Bridging the Pacific: Toward
Free Trade and Investment Between China and the United States" is a critically important
contribution to a national discussion of how the two largest economic systems in the world
should work together to protect and expand the economic basis for a stable and increasingly
prosperous relationship. A work of impressive scholarship and practicality, enhanced with the
inclusion of graphs, charts and an index, "Bridging the Pacific: Toward Free Trade and
Investment Between China and the United States" is very highly recommended for academic
library Contemporary Economic Studies reference collections. It should be noted that "Bridging
the Pacific: Toward Free Trade and Investment Between China and the United States" is also
available in an eBook edition.
The Memoir Shelf
Family Medical History
Nancy Kacirek Feldman & Rebecca Crofoot
Becknan Books
Concierge Marketing Inc.
9781936840908, $16.95, 180pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: Knowing where you came from often determines who you are. At the age of 45, Nancy
Feldman knew how her doctor appointment would go. They would ask her about her family's
health history, and she would hear the doctor's familiar sigh after she answered, "I don't know,
I'm adopted." Being perfectly happy with the loving family she had, Feldman never took an
interest in finding her biological parents until diagnosed with a disease that she passed on to her
son. Suddenly, Nancy's lack of family history was affecting someone else. Nancy wrote a letter to
the Nebraska Children's Home Society for help, and the adoption agency assigned her case to
Rebecca Crofoot. This began a 17-year journey between the two women who were determined to
find information about a family that might not know, or want to know, Nancy existed.
Critique: "Family Medical History: Unknown/Adopted" is a deftly told and heart-warming story
of personal, medical, genealogical, and emotional discovery about "how a routine inquiry led to
unexpected answers for an adopted woman". As informed and informative as it is inspired and
inspiring, "Family Medical History: Unknown/Adopted" is a wonderfully true story and very
highly recommended for personal reading lists and community library collections. It should be
noted that "Family Medical History: Unknown/Adopted" is also available in a Kindle edition
($3.55).
The Biography Shelf
Remembering Inez
Robert P. J. Cooney, Jr.
American Graphic Press
PO Box 362, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
www.AmericanGraphicPress.com
9780977009527, $14.95, 96pp, www.amazon.com
Synopsis: "Remembering Inez: The Last Campaign of Inez Milholland, Suffrage Martyr"
includes articles, photographs, and emotional memorials as well as her classic 'Appeal to the
Women Voters of the West'. "Remembering Inez: The Last Campaign of Inez Milholland,
Suffrage Martyr" concludes with a poem by Carl Sandburg. The 19th Amendment to the
Constitution enfranchising women was ratified on August 26, 1920. "Remembering Inez: The
Last Campaign of Inez Milholland, Suffrage Martyr" honors both an outstanding American
leader and the historic movement of which she was an important part.
Critique: Inez Milholland Boissevain (August 6, 1886 - November 25, 1916) was a suffragist,
labor lawyer, World War I correspondent, and public speaker who greatly influenced the
women's movement in America. She was active in the National Woman's Party and a key
participant in the Woman Suffrage Parade of 1913. Author Robert P. J. Cooney Jr. has done an
excellent job in assembling this memorial to a woman whose contribution to the political
emancipation of women has been obscured and who now is brought back to the deserved
attention of a whole new generation of readers. Exceptionally well organized and presented,
"Remembering Inez: The Last Campaign of Inez Milholland, Suffrage Martyr" is very highly
recommended for personal, community, and academic library collections. It should be noted that
"Remembering Inez: The Last Campaign of Inez Milholland, Suffrage Martyr" is also available
in an ebook edition.
James A. Cox
Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
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