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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Seeking Home
Donna Rae Wagner
Sea-Hill Press
P.O. Box 60301
Santa Barbara, CA 93160-0301
9781937720049, $18.95, www.seahillpress.com
Harmony around the house is priceless. "Seeking Home: Tips for Living Happily in an Adult
Family Home" explores the adult family home, which many elderly individuals must turn to in
order to live when certain conditions disable their complete independence. Donna Rae Wagner
comes with sage advice about forming good memories during these times and avoiding the
common pitfalls that cause problems. "Seeking Home" is a strong addition to self-help and
collections focused on senior living, highly recommended.
Icon of an Age: Titanic
Michael McCaughan
The Black Staff Press
9780856408656, $42.95, www.blackstaffpress.com
Bigger is better, and the Titanic proves to be an icon of that era where companies built bigger and
bigger transcontinental ships. "Icon of an Age: Titanic" tells the story of the famous vessel
through its design to its resting place at the bottom of the Atlantic. Michael McCaughan compiles
black and white photography all throughout its history, revealing a quintessential icon of Western
civilization's triumph and folly in pre-World War I globalization. From the men who built it to
the memories of those lost, "Icon of an Age" is a journey of history, very much recommended
reading.
The Kabbalist
Laitman Kabbalah Publishers
1057 Steeles Avenue West, Suite 532
Toronto, ON M2R 3X1, Canada
9781897448755, $25.00, www.kabbalah.info
The legends of Jewish mysticism are vast, but lie unknown to most. "The Kabbalist" is a novel
set around the turn of the twentieth century, as a Kabbalist seer sees horrible things lying in the
distance for the world, consumed by world. Using the strong foundation of Jewish legend to
create a novel that challenges readers insights about spirituality and free will, and what we can do
in the bigger picture of the world. "The Kabbalist" is a strong pick for any literary novel
collection that draws on religious themes.
My American Struggle for Justice in Northern Ireland
Fr. Sean McManus
Irish National Caucus, Inc.
PO Box 15128, Washington, DC 20003-0849
9781469934839, $30.00, www.irishnationalcaucus.org
Ireland has had a rocky road throughout much of recent history. Expanding on the original Irish
edition, "My American Struggle for Justice in Northern Ireland" discusses the role of American
Congress in recent struggles for justice and peace in Ireland. Father Sean McManus discusses the
many congresspeople who have contributed to the furthering of justice in this land and the
progress that has been made. "My American Struggle for Justice in Northern Ireland" is a strong
pick for those concerned about the challenges of Ireland.
Nature Notebook
Illustrated by Tammy Stellanova
www.tammystellanova.com
Yosemite Conservancy
PO Box 230
El Portal, CA 95318
9781930238312 $12.95 yosemiteconservancy.org
Nature Notebook is a softcover, blank composition book for the user to write down his or her
thoughts and sketches. The binding is designed to lay flat with ease, and a ribbon bookmark
keeps track of the user's place with ease. What especially distinguishes Nature Notebook are the
beautiful plant and animal sketches that enliven every few pages, some in color, some in
black-and-white. Frogs, ducks, hummingbirds in flight, trees beneath a rising moon, mushrooms,
a flying squirrel in mid-glide, and more images from nature captivate the eye; Nature Notebook
could almost qualify as an artbook, save that the art is deliberately interleaved with blank pages.
Nature Notebook is an excellent gift especially for hikers, birdwatchers, and other nature lovers
who enjoy jotting down their thoughts and drawings.
The Automotive Shelf
Auto Upkeep, third edition
Michael E. Gray & Linda E. Gray
Rolling Hills Publishing
242 Eagle Flight, Ozark, MO 65721
www.autoupkeep.com
9781627020060, $75.00 hc
9781627020015, $40.00 pbk
Any car owner should know the basics of keeping their car alive and running. "Auto Upkeep:
Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair" is a guide to general auto upkeep from Michael E. and
Linda Gray as they present a to the point guide about the basics of keeping a harmonious car.
With plenty of colored illustrations and information throughout, the Grays outline how to best
manage one's cars safely, breaking chapters down into the many compartments of one's vehicle.
For those who want to manage their vehicle themselves and not be a deer in headlights when it
comes to auto management, "Auto Upkeep" is an ideal and much recommended pick.
The Parenting Shelf
Mothers and Daughters
Teena M. Stewart
Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City
PO Box 419527, Kansas City, MO 64141
9780834128361, $13.99, www.teenastewart.com
The bonds of parenthood can falter over time. "Mothers and Daughters: Mending a Strained
Relationship" is a family relationship guide by Teena Stewart, who advises mothers and
daughters on how to form that connection that can endure the petty family squabbles we all face
so often. Poignant and to the point reading, "Mothers and Daughters" is a strong pick for
parenting and family collections, a much recommended pick for those who have a love/hate
relationship with the family they love, and they hate that.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Dying Wishes
Judith K. Ivie
Mainly Murder Press, LLC
PO Box 290586
Wethersfield, CT 06129
9780984666645 $14.95 www.MainlyMurderPress.com
The latest in the Kate Lawrence sleuth series, Dying Wishes is a dark, first-person perspective
mystery featuring an intuitive older woman. Kate has just turned 50, and she's about to become a
grandmother two times over, when an inexplicable death occurs in the Vista View retirement
complex. The intrigue deepens as Kate investigates the sudden disappearance of a wealthy and
flirtatious older woman and evidence of a prostitution scandal. Time is running out to uncover
the corruption in Vista View before it claims another life! A choice pick for mystery fans.
Election Day
Jim Moore
Raven Publishing
PO Box 2866, Norris, MT 59745
9781937849009, $25.00, www.ravenpublishing.net
Politics invites very strange circumstances to the table. "Election Day" is a political thriller
surrounding the coming day to elect a new president. Following the sudden deaths of the
President Elect and the Vice President Elect post Election Day, there are those clawing to claim
the office for themselves, where the constitution does not currently hold an answer on who rises
to power. From those who want the office through any means necessary to those trying to figure
out a legal precedent, "Election Day" provides a riveting plot that will be hard to put down.
Whiskey Island
Les Roberts
Gray & Company, Publishers
1588 E. 40th St., Cleveland, OH 44103
9781938441097, $24.95, www.grayco.com
Private investigators often find themselves tip toeing around the law. "Whiskey Island" is an
entry into Les Robert's Milan Jacovich mysteries, as he tells about the Cleveland Private Eye and
the councilman who confided with him in his suspicions that he's the target of an assassination.
With a rookie of a partner and bodies starting to pile up in the city through unexplained means,
Jacovich finds that he's digging deep into a corruption hole in the city's local government, and
spilling over to murder may have been inevitable. A fast paced and riveting read of fiction,
"Whiskey Island" is a fine and much recommended addition to mystery and thriller
collections.
The Girl Who Fished with a Worm
Harry Groome
The Connelly Press
243 Abrahams Lane, Villanova, PA 19085
9780979741524, $7.99, www.harrygroome.com
A fishing trip is often remote enough to get stuff done. "The Girl Who Fished with a Worm" is a
mystery surrounding the death of a Swedish billionaire in Olaf Gedda. Accused is Gotilda, whose
prints were all over Olaf's worm fishing bucket. Old romances re-emerge as leads to the truth to
free her from accusation, but there's plenty of reasons to want an old billionaire dead. "The Girl
Who Fished with a Worm" is a riveting and fun mystery, very highly recommended.
The Hanging
Wendy Hornsby
John Daniel & Company
PO Box 2790, McKinleyville, CA 95519
9781564745262, $15.95, www.danielpublishing.com
Money problems stops everyone from being at ease. "The Hanging" is a mystery from Wendy
Hornsby, following fired filmmaker Maggie MacGowen as she accepts her fall back position
teaching film production at a local college. But times are tough and the stress builds at the
school, and there may be blood in play soon enough. Maggie might quickly embrace her amateur
sleuthing skills when things start to go wrong. "The Hanging" is a fine choice for those looking
for an old school whodunnit with modern conventions.
The Accident Stager
Susan Moss
Source Publications
4767 York Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90042
9780964232945, $14.95, www.amazon.com
For those driven by greed and ingenuity, there are plenty of easy marks. "The Accident Stager" is a true story inspired tale from Susan Moss, as she follows Gaude Velasquez, accident staging specialist who preys on people by staging accidents and fooling them into thinking they're at fault. But one wrong mark will give him all the trouble in the world, and fights back against him. "The Accident Stager" is an intriguing twist of mystery and crime, highly recommended.
The Villa
Ben Rolphe
Carpenter's Son Publishing
307 Verde Meadow Drive
Franklin, TN 37067
9780984977215, $15.95, www.amazon.com
Cruelty can be excessively profitable. "The Villa" is the third book in Ben Rolphe's Branson
Family series, following Mattie Branson, seeking to travel to Guatemala to do missionary work.
But as an importing company seeks to further its illegal businesses, Mattie may find herself
targeted by an international human trafficking operation that will bring evil into her life and
maybe never let her go. "The Villa" is an intriguing thriller of the tragedies throughout the world
used to further the drive for profits.
Gunfight in Gatlinburg
J. R. Ripley
Beachfront Publishing
PO Box 37354, Raleigh, NC 27627
9781892339355, $27.95, www.beachfrontentertainment.com
When murder is loose, no one can relax. "Gunfight in Gatlinburg" is an old western flavored
mystery from J. R. Ripley, following Tony Kazol, and his brushes with love, murder, and a taste
for single action guns. In the search to get down to the bottom of this, Kazol will learn much
about himself and what's really important. "Gunfight in Gatlinburg" keeps the gunslinging fun
coming, much recommended.
White Heat
Paul D. Marks
Timeless Skies Publishing
PO Box 803100, Santa Claria, CA 91380
9780985076023, $14.99, www.timelessskiespublishing.blogspot.com
Finding a murderer is often a difficult endeavor to begin with, and with the world going to hell, it
makes it all the more difficult. "White Heat" is a murder mystery novel set amongst the unrest of
the 1992 Los Angeles Riots, where private investigator Duke Rogers finds plenty to shake his
investigation as he tries to escape from L.A. and find the truth behind his case. "White Heat" is a
riveting read of mystery, much recommended.
After The Evil
Cary Allen Stone
Fine Line Books, Inc.
285 Centennial Olympic Park, NW Suite 1906
Atlanta, GA 30313
9781439208441, $7.99, www.amazon.com
The prize for evil is sometimes only immortality, and that's enough. "After the Evil" is a mystery
from Cary Allen Stone, telling of an ensemble of characters trying to get by in their world. From
law enforcement trying to piece together a crime to everyday people coping wit their actions, to
those who want to cement their legacy as a mass killer, "After the Evil" is well worth considering
for general mystery and thriller collections.
Seminal Murder
Mary Vermillion
Quest
1017 Wylde Green Road
Iowa City, IA 52246
9781619290495, $15.95, www.maryvermillion.com
A crusade can leave many harmed in its wake. "Seminal Murder" follows Mara Gilgannon, a
lesbian who is on the trail of finding the murderer of a sperm bank worker. Trying to keep an old
ex's desires under control, her trail leads her to find there are many motives to go against one
who runs a sperm bank, including those who claim moralism and other conspiracies beneath it
all. "Seminal Murder" is a strong pick for those seeking lesbian-oriented mysteries and fiction,
recommended.
The Art Shelf
Into the Light
Susan Beilby Magee
Hard Press Editions
PO Box 176, Stockbridge, MA 01262
9781555953850, $50.00, www.hardpresseditions.com
Art reflects on the state of things, and can capture its story. "Into the Light: The Healing Art of
Kalman Aron" discusses the artistic career of Kalman Aron, as told by one of his early subjects
when coming to America, Susan Beilby Magee. Throughout the twentieth century, Aron
continued to paint, being a young prodigy who has painted official portraits, the author and the
topic of the writing discuss his story in depth. Throughout, full color reproductions of Aron's
work are displayed. For those with an interest in the artist, art history, the story of an immigrant,
"Into the Light" is a strong pick for both Art History and Studies collection, as well as coffee
tables.
The Art of Katheryn Davis
Leroy Krzycki, author
Katheryn Davis, artist
Quiet Waters Publishing
89190 Sherwood Island Road, Florence, OR 97439
9780615499130, $99.99, www.katheryndavis.com
Many see life differently; Katheryn Davis sees art. "The Art of Katheryn Davis" is a collection of paintings and sketches from award winning artist Katheryn Davis. Author Leroy Krzycki guides the reader through five decades of Davis' work, presenting roughly two hundred and fifty illustrations in all. From capturing landscapes, figures of history, religion, bible, family, and much more, each masterpiece is presented in a full color reproduction. Enticing and sweeping works of watercolor and oil, "The Art of Katheryn Davis" is well worth considering for coffee table artbook collections, highly recommended.
The Military Shelf
Great Black War Fighters
Ben L. Walton
Strategic Book Publishing
7670 South Hudson St.
Centennial, CO 80122-3862
9781618971081, $29.95, www.sbpra.com
There are many great men who have contributed to the fulfillment of America's wishes. "Great
Black War Fighters: Profiles in Service" is a collection of profiles of African American service
men who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, focusing on the period since President
Harry S. Truman signed orders abolishing segregation in the armed services, and show examples
that will inspire today's youth to follow their path. "Great Black War Fighters" is a strong
addition to any black or military history collection, highly recommended.
The Mathematics Shelf
The Nature of Negative Numbers
Peter F. Erickson
FluXion Press
PO Box 87687, Vancouver, WA 98687
9781463761608, $21.99, www.amazon.com
The square root of negative one does not seem like it should cause many problems to
mathematicians as it does. "The Nature of Negative Numbers" is Peter F. Erickson, a student of
Mathematics presenting a discussion of the implications of such a square root, which is usually
written off as simply 'i'. Musing on what these means in the field of mathematics, "The Nature of
Negative Numbers" is well worth considering for those intrigued by high level mathematics.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Your Dog's Golden Years
Jennifer Kachnic
Wallingford Vale Publishing
303 S. Broadway, Suite 200, Denver, CO 80209
9780984706518, $22.00, www.seniordogbooks.com
As dogs enter the twilight of their lives, everything seems to slow down. "Your Dog's Golden
Years: A Manual for Senior Dog Care" is a recommended read for pet owners who want to take
care of their beloved pet into the later years of their life, understanding the risks old dogs face,
and how to attain greater general long term health. "Your Dog's Golden Years" is well worth
considering for any dog owner who is worried about their dog as they pass that decade of
life.
The Economic Studies Shelf
The U. S. Financial Crisis
Cheng Siwei
Long River Press
360 Swift Avenue, Suite 48, South
San Francisco, CA 94080
9781592651474, $34.95, www.chinabooks.com
Despite its troubled economy, America remains an economic power house. "The U.S. Financial
Crisis: Analysis and Interpretation" explores the recent history of the American economy from a
Chinese perspective, as Professor Cheng Siwei studies the American financial crisis with its
problematic financial institution and how the lack of action on the economy is affecting the
financial relationship between America and China and its relationship in other ways as well. "The
U. S. Financial Crisis" is a recommended book for an international perspective on the American
economic problems, highly recommended.
The Benefits of the New Economy
Guy Isaac, Joseph Levy, & Alexander Ognits
ARI Publishers
2009 85th Street #51, Brooklyn, NY 11214
9781897448731, $15.00, www.ariresearch.org
The economy of the world shifts as the world shrinks. "The Benefits of the New Economy:
Resolving the Global Economic Crisis Through Mutual Guarantee" calls for a revolution of
economic thinking that realizes that old fashioned economic thinking doesn't apply in an era of
globalization. Exploring the idea of a mutual guarantee that empowers worldwide
interdependence, "The Benefits of the New Economy" presents plenty to think about for the
amateur and professional economist in us all.
The American History Shelf
Thomas Jefferson's Creme Brulee
Thomas J. Craughwell
Quirk Books
215 Church Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781594745782 $19.95 quirkbooks.com
Thomas Jefferson's Creme Brulee: How a Founding Father and his Slave James Hemings
Introduced French Food to America is the amazing true story of the bargain that founding father
Thomas Jefferson struck with one of his slaves, seventeen-year-old James Hemings. Jefferson
was traveling to Paris, and if Hemings could master the culinary art of French cuisine, Jefferson
would grant him freedom. Together, they would make little-known history by introducing French
cooking to the American palate. Thomas Jefferson's Creme Brulee is not expressly a cookbook,
but it does feature a number of those early recipes destined to become integrated into American
culture. Highly recommended especially for gourmands and those curious about American
culinary history.
History's Bare Essentials
Arthur J. Amchan
Amchan Publications
7010 Westbury Rd., McLean, VA 22101
9780961713256, $9.99, www.amazon.com
America didn't get to its level overnight. "History's Bare Essentials: A Brief Introduction to the
Events That Shaped America" is a collection of writings on the events of history that have led to
America's status today, with a stronger focus on the past fifty years of development, but not
lacking in touches on the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and other topics as well. "History's
Bare Essentials" is a strongly recommended addition to any American history collection that
seeks to create an overview.
The World History Shelf
Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained
Arthur D. Robbins
Acropolis Books
PO Box 2629, New York, NY 10009
9780967612768, $34.95, www.acropolis-newyork.com
Democracy may have lost is way in the avenues of history. "Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained:
The True Meaning of Democracy" explores the history of democracy, in this time where many
are beginning to question its value in serving the common good, with its nature being co-opted in
many ways. From the time of Athens to the ideas of Enlightenment Europe, to the nature of the
American Constitution as written. An enticing read that covers much of history and presents
history in context of democracy, "Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained" is a must for history and
political science discussions, highly recommended.
The Last Divine Office
Geoffrey Moorhouse
BlueBridge
P.O. Box 601
Katonah, NY 10536
9781933346526, $14.95, www.bluebridgebooks.com
It was politically prudent to support the Catholic Church. And when it stopped being so, Henry
the VIII gladly beheaded those relations. "The Last Divine Office: Henry VIII and the Dissolution
of the Monasteries" looks at the last divine king of England, ans the severance between Henry
and the Catholic Church and the fall of the English monasteries. Looking at the effects of this act
that tore apart these monasteries for the crown's profit, "The Last Divine Office" studies the
effects of the formation of the Anglican Church and the fall of the Catholic institution.
The Poetry Shelf
Oppressive Light
Robert Walser, poet
Daniele Pantano, translator and editor
Black Lawrence Press
326 Bigham Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
9781936873180 $19.00 blacklawrence.com
Oppressive Light is a bilingual anthology of brief, free-verse poetry, originally composed in
German by the early twentieth century poet Robert Walser and skillfully translated into English
by Daniele Pantano. Although possessed of incredible talent, he led a hard life marked by
poverty, isolation, and mood swings, and his final years were spent within a mental hospital
(doctors eventually diagnosed him as schizophrenic). This collection gathers poems from the
varying phases of his life, but they all resonate with emotional power and pathos. Oppressive
Light is highly recommended especially for international poetry shelves. "Faint-Hearted": Silent
grief / visited me, / I lowered myself / into its chill, // I felt there / not fear, not haste, / only a
heavy burden. / Grief led me // further on / through a dark sorrow, / until this striding / returned
to the light. // I bade softly: / keep me- / but it moved on / to a new journey.
Pruning Burning Bushes
Sarah M. Wells
Wipf and Stock Publishers
199 W. 8th Ave., Suite 3, Eugene, OR 97401
9781620323304, $12.00, www.wipfandstock.com
Sometimes you have to destroy to allow the chance to regrow. "Pruning Burning Bushes" is a
collection of poetry from Sarah M. Wells as she presents her arts, using thought provoking verse
and ideals all throughout to present a fine collection of poetry. "Pruning Burning Bushes" is a
strong addition to poetry collections, highly recommended. "The ladies' quilting club is out
today": their floral dresses, low brown leather heels and stockings shuffle from a bus/to the
restaurant. Sunday hats cover//graying buns, thinning heads. Their coffee cups/clink and shake to
painted lips. They make me look/so young/their penciled brows, rouge,/heavy foundation
creased. I hold/my daughter's flawless hand past their table,/wait for our turn to collect change at
the register.
If Night is Falling
John Taylor
The Bitter Oleander Press
4983 Tall Oaks Drive
Fayettesville, NY 13066-9776
9780978633561, $16.00, www.bitteroleander.com
A touch of the world's cultures gives a unique way of seeing the world. "If Night is Falling" is a
collection of poetry from John Taylor who takes his study of contemporary European literature
and applies his American roots to form a unique blend of poetry. "If Night is Falling" is a must
for modern poetry collections. "The Very Day": ...school let out, Paul I decided to build a tree
house./But where in the neighborhood could one be built? We had a pin/oak out back that was
still too short. Our elms had trunks too thick to/climb, branches too high to reach./The river birch
out front had slender, brittle branches./We gave up./We climbed the Cellinis' maple tree across
the street, sat for a long/while on a branch hidden high up in the leaves.
Cheshire Born
John Wright
Balboa Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
9781452501888, $16.99, www.balboapress.com
All round the world he see many things and seek to share those experiences. "Cheshire Born" is a
collection of poetry from John Wright, a man of Cheshire, England, and transplanted to Australia
in mid-life. Sharing an inspirational flavor of poetry, "Cheshire Born" is very much worth
considering. "One for the Pot": Ah Yes! I get it!/You call Irish Breakfast Tea/the perfect
nightcap...
The Organ Builder
Austin MacRae
Dos Madres
PO Box 294, Loveland, OH 45140
9781933675749, $16.00, www.dosmadres.com
Poetry and music develop often strongly with one another. "The Organ Builder" is a collection of
poetry from Austin MacRae a she steps all around the ideas of poetry, music, craftsmanship,
God, and a bit of everything else to put it all together. "The Organ Builder" is a fine assortment
of poetry, very much recommended reading. "Burl": He sensed the swelling long before my
birth:/an unheard crack, a breach in the trunk revealed/a hemisphere of fire that swirled
beneath/the bark. Dying to be turned on the world,/it burned its insides dark with stunted
buds/consumed by rippling flames of cherry grain./The long explosion crept into his blood/and
birthed a bowl, a pipe, a fountain pen/he passed to me along the lightning-lines/that span our
palms. My own blood gathering/inside his marbled vessels, I divine/his passion for the rooted,
aberrant thing,/a faith that something beautiful will start/to turn inside the spirit-knotted
heart.
Blood Red Dawn
Jon Shutt
Kitsune Books
PO Box 1154, Crawfordville, FL 32326-1154
9780982740996, $12.00, www.kitsunebooks.com
War shifts one's view of the world. "Blood Red Dawn" is a collection of poetry from Jon Shutt,
an engineer National guardsman who was deployed to Iraq in 2007, and deployed to an infantry
unit in Afghanistan in 2009. Sharing his experiences through poetry, "Blood Red Dawn" is well
worth considering for those who want to understand PTSD through poetry. "Laughing": Looking
around I see that they're all safe --/and no doubt, smiling./We can laugh now, because we're all
here.//Leaving the gunfire behind, waning in the wake/of artillery rounds, we can surly
smile./Amped up screaming everyone is reveling in the thrill of life.//In the thrill of having
cheated death -- again.//Another close call but, we can laugh now, because -- we're all
here./We're all safe.
The Sports Shelf
No 3 Putts
David Perry
50 Interviews Inc.
215 S. Loomis Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80521
9781935689546, $19.95, www.amazon.com
Short range aiming sounds like it should be easy, but it is often the bane of any golfer. "No 3
Putts: What the Pros Really Want You to Know to Improve Your Putting" is an advisory for
those who want to improve their short game in golf, outlining the importance of putting, how to
make sure one's aim is true, and driving the ball home without driving your score too high. "No 3
Putts" is worth considering for those who want to help their golf score lower and not be
frustrated on the home stretch, highly recommended.
Fantasy Basketball Handbook
Sam Hendricks
XP Press
PO Box 206, Forest, VA 24551
9781936635092, $12.95, www.XPPress.com
Succeeding at fantasy sports is knowing the game. "Fantasy Basketball Handbook: The Ultimate
'How-To' Guide for Beginners and Experienced Players" is a guide to excelling at Fantasy
basketball as Sam Hendricks advises readers on best understanding the rules of fantasy sports and
how to use them to build the right team, score points, and ultimately win. For anyone who wants
to make their NBA experience more fun, "Fantasy Basketball Handbook" is a must for sports
fans and basketball fans in particular, recommended.
The Business Shelf
The Kickstarter Handbook
Don Steinberg
Quirk Books
215 Church Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781594746086, $14.95, www.quirkbooks.com
Start up money is the most difficult part of a business. "The Kickstarter Handbook: Real-Life
Crowdfunding Success Stories" is a business inspirational guide from Don Steinberg, as he
shares true stories of Kickstarter success, of people coming to the internet with good ideas and
getting the money they sought, and succeeding with their ideas. "The Kickstarter Handbook" is a
strong pick for those who think they have a good idea and are seeking advice to really give it
wings, highly recommended.
Dominate Your Space
Greg DiCillo
Life Cycle Strategies, Inc.
37923 Brown Avenue, Willoughby, OH 44094
9780615594071, $16.95, www.lifecycle.us.com
Leadership blazes the way towards business success. "Dominate Your Space: Unleashing the
Power of Your Product Managers" is a business advisory guide from Greg DiCillo who advises
readers how to best add to their management potential and embracing the strengths of one's
business while improving on its weaknesses. "Dominate Your Space" is a must for those who
want to lead and manage their business more effectively, highly recommended.
The Cold Calling Equation
Michael Halper
Launch Pad Solutions
908 Town and Country Blvd, Suite 312
Houston, TX 77024
9781468173543, $15.95, www.amazon.com
When you call someone out of the blue, you better make sure the call is worth their time. "The
Cold Calling Equation: Problem Solved" is guide to the ins and outs surrounding the practice of
cold calling for business and how to make it worth both parties while. For anyone who wants to
more aggressively push their business, "The Cold Calling Equation" is worth considering.
The Memoir Shelf
As Sick As Our Secrets
Steven Farber, MD
Wasteland Press
18 Village Plaza
PMB # 177, Shelbyville, KY 40065
9781600477010, $16.95, www.amazon.com
Drug and alcohol addiction are so pervasive in the American culture that half of all adults over
the age of 18 know someone in recovery from substance abuse. "As Sick As Our Secrets" is the
intimate memoir of the author, himself a medical doctor specializing in cardiovascular diseases
for more than twenty-five years, who became an addict and how he found release and recovery
from what could well have proved to have a lethal outcome should his addiction gone
uncontested. But more than an autobiography, "As Sick As Our Secrets" is also the presentation
of how others similarly afflicted can overcome their addiction by letting go of their past,
embracing a life free from the slavery of addiction, and ultimately securing a present and a future
that would otherwise be denied them. Informed and informative, "As Sick As Our Secrets" is an
engaging read and highly recommended for anyone who are themselves having to deal with an
addition either in their own lives or in the lives of loved one.
Four Seasons for Charlotte
Rachel Reynolds
Palari Publishing
PO Box 4, Montpelier, VA 23192
9781928662259, $14.95, www.palaribooks.com
Cancer at such a young age is devastating, and to be the parent is an agonizing endeavor. "Four
Seasons for Charlotte: A Parent's Year with Pediatric Cancer" is a memoir from Rachel Reynolds
as she shares her tragic journey as her daughter faced a brain tumor at the age of three, a tumor
that would eventually claim her life. From the diagnosis to the grieving period following her
death, "Four Seasons for Charlotte" will resound with other parents who have faced this great
tragedy, a much recommended addition for trauma memoir collections.
Lost and Found
Geoff Dalglish
Findhorn Press
9781844095919, $16.95, www.findhornpress.com
We all seek greater thrills in our lives, but they can only take us so far to fulfillment. "Lost and
Found: From Racecar Driver to Pilgrim, from Soweto to Findhorn" is a memoir of spirituality
and travel from Geoff Dalglish, who speaks on his long personal journey to fulfillment and
happiness out of his life. Much of his youth was embracing being an adrenaline junkie, before his
spiritual awakening gave him a whole new way to view the world. "Lost and Found" is an
excellent and much recommended pick for those seeking a blend of memoir, travelogue, and
spirituality.
Here and Away
Deborah Cummins
Maine Authors Publishing
558 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841
9781936447039, $17.95, www.deborahcummins.com
When we find a place we belong, we embrace it wholly. "Here and Away" is a collection of
essays from Deborah Cummins who presents her journeys from the Midwest to Maine and what
drew her there, establishing a love of the region and its nature. Touching on much memoir of
nature, life, past and present, "Here and Away" is a fine memoir that presents plenty to ponder
and think about life, highly recommended.
Jesus Loves Women
Tricia Gates Brown
Cascadia Publishing House
126 Klingerman Road, Telford, PA 18969
9781931038911, $15.95, www.cascadiapublishinghouse.com
Fundamental Christianity often has unreasonable expectations of its women. In "Jesus Loves
Women: A Memoir of Body and Spirit", Tricia Gates Brown tells of how she moved away from
Fundamentalist Christianity, and sought something else in her life after her departure. In her
search, she finds something to understand about God's unconditional love and living fully,
including finding one's own sexuality completely. "Jesus Loves Women" is a fine and much
recommended memoir for those who want a memoir of faith found once more.
Dodging Machetes
Will Lutwick
Peace Corps Writers
735 Lawton Street
San Francisco, CA 94122
9781934924118, $15.95, www.amazon.com
The Peace Corps often seems like a good idea, and that thought should be second guessed.
"Dodging Machetes: How I Survived Forbidden Love, Bad Behavior, and the Peace Corps in
Fiji" is a memoir from Will Lutwick, as he recalls his journeys through Fiji and his encounters
with its people and the romance he struck up with a native, strictly forbidden by her culture. With
humor, Lutwick's memoir touches cross cultural romance with much to ponder, "Dodging
Machetes" is a read worth considering.
Before The World Intruded
Michele Rosenthal
Your Life After Trauma
1447 Barlow Court
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
9780615549941, $14.95, www.healmyptsd.com
If we let it, our life's past will consume us. "Before the World Intruded: Conquering the Past and
Creating the Future" is an inspirational memoir from Michele Rosenthal as she reflects on the
emergence of trauma in her life, how it almost claimed her life physically and emotionally and
how she empowered herself to power through her life and make something more of it. "Before
the World Intruded" is a strongly recommended pick for those who have been taken to near death
and have struggled to return to a life worth living. "Before the World Intruded" is a fine pick for
memoir collections, highly recommended.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Wonder Stories
Alex Jeffers
Lethe Press
118 Heritage Ave, Maple Shade, NJ 08052
9781590211038, $15.00, www.lethepressbooks.com
There are things that shift through the world and challenge what we know. "Wonder Stories" is a
collection of short fiction from Alex Jeffers, who explores our relationship with the world around
us and explores it by throwing it up against the unusual and fantastical. "Wonder Stories" is an
enticing collection, an excellent pick for short fiction assortments at community libraries. Also
from Lethe Press Short Fiction is "Lauriat: A Filipino-Chinese Speculative Fiction Anthology"
(9781590212547, $18.00), taking notes from both of the titular cultures and adding a blend of the
unknown for distinct flavor.
The Color of Evil
Connie Corcoran Wilson
Quad Cities Press
2127 3rd St. B
East Moline, IL 61244
9780982444856, $10.95, www.amazon.com
The burden of seeing a person's true nature can be quite horrifying. "The Color of Evil" is a novel
following Tad McGreevy, who has the power to see auras, a power that he keeps strictly to
himself, but still fills him with fear when he sees those with contempt for their fellow man. With
dreams haunting him of evil men targeting his family, he must find a way to stop it, to stop the
dreams and to save his family. A paranormal novel of adventure and mystery, "The Color of
Evil" is a riveting read that should prove difficult to put down.
The Legend of the Soul Eater
James L. Dickerson
Sartoris Literacy Group
PO Box 4185, Brandon, MS 39047
9780985513559, $14.95, www.amazon.com
The force of evil cannot be deterred so easily. "The Legend of the Soul Eater" is a novel set two
thousand years ago among the Mississippi Valley. Miko, son of the chief, encounters the force
known as the Soul Eater, and he learns about its nature, and finds that he and his father must
stand against them and learn the rules of mortality. "The Legend of the Soul Eater" is riveting
fantasy of pre-colonial America, a strong pick for those looking for something different.
The First Sword
Anna Kashina
Wildside Press
9710 Traville Gateway Dr. #234
Rockville, MD 20850
9781434441027, $15.99, www.wildsidebooks.com
There are always those who will plot for power, and always those who try to set things right.
"The First Sword" is a fantasy surrounding the land of Tallan Dar, and a group of friends who
embark on a journey to piece together what's happening to their land as they dodge attempts on
assassination, and finding their true nature. A riveting fantasy with plenty of intrigue, "The First
Sword" is a fine pick for those seeking a new taste of fantasy.
The Self-Help Shelf
iMotivate Me
Bob Prentiss
Tiger Arts Communications
PO Box 8217, Santa Cruz, CA 95061
9780615310107, $17.95, www.amazon.com
We all have our goals in life, and succeeding in those goals requires more than a little drive.
"iMotivate Me: Take Control of Your Motivation to Reach Your Goals and Achieve Your
Dreams" is an inspirational read from Bob Prentiss as he advises readers to piece together their
own plan for life and gain the motivation to make their life flourish and get what you want out of
life. "iMotivate Me" is a choice pick for self-help collections, highly recommended.
Defining Moments
Dorothea S. McArthur
Cove Press
2632 Cove Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90039-3123
9780984773510, $24.95, www.covepressbooks.com
Control of our emotions is control of our lives. "Defining Moments: Breaking Through Tough
Times" is an inspirational read from Dr. Dorothea McArthur who advises readers on how to
better control their emotions and mental state to face the many problems of life. From cultivating
good habits, enjoying the power of friendship and romance, completing one's life, and finding
good help when things get too difficult for one person to handle alone. "Defining Moments" is a
fine pick for motivational collections, highly recommended.
Take the Lid Off
Carol Holm
C&C Books
494 North Meridian Street, Blackfoot, ID 83221
9780984010424, $12.99, www.takethelidoffbook.com
The only ceiling on one's potential is held by the self. "Take the Lid Off: Unleashing Your
Unlimited Potential" is an inspirational read from Carol Holm who advises readers to realize
their potential and visualize their dreams for a more complete vision of their own future. From
forming stronger relationships and finding the next step in one's goals, "Take the Lid Off" is a
motivational and much recommended addition to self-help collections.
Spirited Clearings
Margaret Hoopes & Eli Galla
Balboa Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
9781452544120, $11.99, www.balboapress.com
Fear can stop the love we seek. "Spirited Clearings: Negative Program Removal" is an
inspirational read by Eli Galla & the late Margaret Hoopes. "Spirited Clearings" advises readers
on overcoming life's fears to help us find greater love throughout our lives and use that love to
succeed and flourish in what we seek. Powerful and highly recommended, "Spirited Clearings" is
a strong pick for those who want to purge the negativity out of their lives for a life of
happiness.
Mixed Nuts
Mary Speed
Abbott Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781458201348, $8.99, www.abbottpress.com
Therapy is allowing someone else to help shoulder your weight. In "Mixed Nuts", Dr. Mary
Speed touches on her own experiences with therapy and counseling, and shares what she's
learned with her readers. With plenty to inspire and motivate readers, "Mixed Nuts" is an
excellent choice for any facing the gauntlet of life's problems.
Quantum Psychophysics
Ernest Solivan
Performance Consults International
821 Del Rio Way, #203
Merritt Island, FL 32953
9780578063423, $19.95, www.amazon.com
Quantum physics is a branch of physics dealing with physical phenomena at microscopic scales,
where the action is on the order of the Planck constant. Quantum mechanics departs from
classical mechanics primarily at the quantum realm of atomic and subatomic length scales. QM
provides a mathematical description of much of the dual particle-like and wave-like behavior and
interactions of energy and matter. Psychophysics quantitatively investigates the relationship
between physical stimuli and the sensations and perceptions they affect. Kinesiology, also known
as human kinetics, is the scientific study of human movement. Kinesiology addresses
physiological, mechanical, and psychological mechanisms. In "Quantum Psychophysics", Ernest
Solivan (Founder of Performance Consultants International and creator of Hemispheric
Kinesiology) provides an informed and informative 142-page presentation on how the readers
can (on a quantum physics and psychological level) create positive changes in their lives through
the process of utilizing 'Hemispheric Kinesiology' as a self-help technique. Thoroughly 'reader
friendly' in both tone and substance, "Quantum Psychophysics" is highly recommended and
instructive reading for anyone seeking to improve the quality of their lives.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Real Ghosts, Restless Spirits, and Haunted Places
Brad Steiger
Visible Ink Press
43311 Joy Road #414, Canton, MI 48187-2075
9781578594016, $24.95, www.visibleinkpress.com
There are plenty of things that linger past their lives. "Real Ghosts, Restless Spirits, and Haunted
Places" is a metaphysical guide to the many spirits and paranormal tales and entities throughout
the world, drawing on stories surrounding contact with the other side, and stories of famous
individuals seeking guidance from the occult. Thick with over six hundred pages of stories and
black and white photography, "Real Ghosts, Restless Spirits, and Haunted Places" is a much to
be considered addition to metaphysical and paranormal history collections, recommended.
Dead Strange
Matt Lamy
Zest Books
35 Stillman Street, Suite 121
San Francisco, CA 94107
9781936976270, $12.99, www.zestbooks.net
There are countless unexplained phenomena throughout history. "Dead Strange: The Bizarre
Truths Behind 50 World-Famous Mysteries" is an exploration of many events throughout history
from the realities of Noah's flood, time seeing prophets, how many great monuments throughout
history were built, and much more. With black and white photography throughout, "Dead
Strange" is a strong pick for metaphysical studies and history collections.
A Ghost Hunter's Guide to the Most Haunted Places in America
Terrance Zepke
Safari Publishing
PO Box 4881, Greensboro, NC 27404
9780985539801, $9.95, www.amazon.com
The dark history behind many places in America attracts a certain flavor to them. "A Ghost
Hunter's Guide to the Most Haunted Places in America" explores the story behind these ghost
story settings all throughout the country, from theatres, old factories, asylums, homes, prisons,
and much more. "A Ghost Hunter's Guide to the Most Haunted Places in America" is a must for
lovers of the paranormal in America, highly recommended.
The Jobs/Career Shelf
Work Less, Do More
Jan Yager
Hannacroix Creek Books, Inc.
1127 High Ridge Road, #110
Stamford, CT 06905
9781889262376, $19.95, www.amazon.com
There are diminishing returns with work, and realizing where that lies is vital to maximum value
out of productivity. "Work Less, Do More: The 14-Day Productivity Makeover" is a guide to
understanding the full extent and potential of productivity from Jan Yager, as she advises readers
on how to get the most out of their workday through focusing through distraction, and
maximizing even one's leisure time. "Work Less, Do More" is a must for career-driven
self-improvement collections.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Are We Together?
R. C. Sproul
Reformation Trust
421 Ligonier Court, Sanford, FL 32771
9781567692822, $17.00, www.reformationtrust.com
The division that lies between the protestant and Catholic churches seems quite vast at times.
"Are We Together?: A Protestant Analyzes Roman Catholicism" explores the gulf between the
two branches of Christianity, as R. C. Sproul provides a religious discussion surrounding
scripture, church hierarchy, the papacy, and other sticking points of division, including the very
issues that sparked the Protestant reformation in the first place. "Are We Together?" is a strong
pick for Christian and Religious Studies collections, enthusiastically recommended.
God With Us
Phil Ware
Leafwood Publishers
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891123132, $13.99, www.leafwoodpublishers.com
Loneliness in the world can make one feel hopeless, even though God will always be there. "God
With Us: 365 Devotionals From the Gospel of Matthew" is a faithful collection of things to
ponder each day, enough for an entirely year of devout times of faith and insight. For those
looking to forge a stronger bond to their faith for the strength it gives to their life, "God With Us"
is a strong addition to any Christian Studies collection, not to be overlooked.
A Love Story
Samantha Ryan Chandler
Crossbooks Publishing
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
9781615077618, $28.95, www.crossbooks.com
The ways we find God in our lives rarely are typical. "A Love Story: How God Pursued Me and
Found Me, An Impossibly True Story" is a faithful memoir from Samantha Ryan Chandler found
her way back to God, living in a world away from her so long. In her journeys she shares a
spiritual journey, and brings her tale of God being everywhere she went. "A Love Story" is a
humorous and devoted memoir, very much recommended reading.
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
Thanks for My Journey
Dr. Erica Miller
Emerald Book Co.
PO Box 91869, Austin, TX 78709
9781937110260, $14.95, www.emeraldbookcompany.com
A youth spent in fear is not an enviable youth at all. "Thanks for My Journey: A Holocaust
Survivor's Story of Living Fearlessly" is a memoir of the Holocaust from Erica Miller as she
shares her journey of being forced from camp to camp and into the arms of the Russian war
machine afterwords. From seven years old, she never knew a normal childhood and found
guidance when her family finally escaped to Israel. "Thanks for My Journey" is an inspirational
and much recommended read, not to be overlooked.
The Fiction Shelf
This is America!
Henye Meyer
Israel Bookshop Publications
501 Prospect Street, Lakewood, NJ 08701
9781600911965, $23.95, www.israelbookshoppublications.com
The new world brings many opportunities, but life is far from perfect. "This is America!" is a tale
of a Russian family coming to Ellis Island looking for opportunity at the turn of the century. As a
father tries to get his family to embrace its new American culture, each of the members of the
family facing their own struggles in the new world. With strong cultural roots in the center of it
all, "This is America!" is a strong addition to any historical fiction collection looking for
something with a Russian Jewish flavor.
Touring With Stalin
Norman Beim
New Concept Press
425 West 57 Street, Suite 2J
New York, NY 10019
9780931231186, $18.95, www.amazon.com
Stalin was not a topic spoken of lightly in Stalinist Russia. "Touring with Stalin" is a novel
drawn from true history as Norman Beim explores the company of New York actors who were
charged with acting out Arthur Koestler's drama surrounding the fate of Josef Stalin, being under
his thumb in his territory. An enticing read with plenty to consider, "Touring with Stalin" is a fun
historical fiction read, highly recommended.
French Letters
Jack Woodville London
Vire Press
c/o Perceptive Marketing
12436 FM 1960, Suite 200
Houston, TX 77065
9780981597508, $13.99, www.virepress.com
The home front during a long war is wrought with worry and confusion. "French Letters:
Virginia's War: Tierra, Texas 1944" is an entry into Jack Woodville London's French Letters
series circling the homefront and the struggles there. Virginia Sullivan is faced with a town
struck with malaise, and there seems to be something stewing throughout the town, surrounding
Virginia that even she doesn't know about. "French Letters" is a fine series for those seeking
historical drama, very much recommended reading.
Shadows in the Sun
Rukhsana Hasib
Abbott Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781458201126, $28.99, www.abbottpress.com
Society demands sons, but nature doesn't always want to deliver. "Shadows in the Sun" follows
the struggle of Mayuri, a young woman whose husband and his family are demanding a male
heir. As she delivers female twins, her family begins to crush in on her, and she tries to flee it all.
But fleeing as a woman of her culture is not easy, and the changes that come her way may
ultimately cost her their life. "Shadows in the Sun" is a tragic and dramatic read, very highly
recommended.
Freedom Farm
Kevin Caldwell
Dept of Empathy
171 Pier Ave #281
Santa Monica, CA 90405
9780983682813, $14.95, www.amazon.com
Animal Farm warned us of the dangers that communism could wreak. But if they had embraced
capitalism, would they have fared any better? "Freedom Farm: The Liberation of Chief White
Feather" takes a new spin on George Orwell's political classic, as a clever and sadistic raven
passes over a recently free farm and turns them onto Democratic capitalism, which leads to a
delightful creative destruction in the raven's eyes. With plenty of humor and even more to think
about, "Freedom Farm" is a choice pick of fiction for those looking for something with some
political charge.
Reis's Pieces
Karen Winters Schwartz
Goodman Beck Publishing
PO Box 253, Norwood, NJ 07648
9781936636082, $14.95, www.karenwintersschwartz.com
Mental illness can take your whole world away from you. "Reis's Pieces: Love, Loss, and
Schizophrenia" is a novel surrounding mental illness. Professor Reis Welling had everything he
thought he could want, until the world starts telling him how it really feels, or so his mind feels.
A diagnosis of schizophrenia seems crushing, and normalcy seems impossible. A novel of the
road to wellness as a schizophrenic, "Reis's Pieces" is a strong and much recommended addition
to any literary fiction collection.
Winds of Redemption
Harvey Goodman
JupiterSky
2689 County Road 318, Suite 100
Westcliffe, CO 81252
9781617507298, $14.95, www.amazon.com
When we get everything we want, we want to defend what we get. "Winds of Redemption"
follows young Sammy Winds as he believes he has everything he could want in his New Mexico
Territory life, with peace and more than enough prosperity. But when the wild west rolls into his
life and threatens everything he holds dear, Sammy has to be ready to fight to keep what he's
wanted for so long, working with an ex-priest and others to make sure that peace stays. "Winds
of Redemption" is a fine old western adventure, highly recommended.
Hanna's Courage
Elyse Cregar
Tamerac Publishing
1111 East 1st Street, Moscow, ID 83843
9780962129223, $8.99, www.tameracpub.com
Brother against brother, the American Civil War tested many. "Hanna's Courage: A Story of
Love and Betrayal at the Battle of Gettysburg" is a novel of the period, as the Confederate Army
takes Gettysburg, and Hanna, whose mother is tending to hidden Union soldiers, finds herself
stuck between it all and fears for the lives of her family. As romance tempts her with the enemy,
"Hanna's Courage" is an enticing and recommended addition to historical fiction collections.
Flesh
Khanh Ha
Black Heron Press
PO Box 13396, Mill Creek, WA 98082
9780930773885, $25.95, www.blackheronpress.com
History marches on, and there will never be something like that ever again. "Flesh" is a historical
novel set in pre-turn of the twentieth century Vietnam, a Vietnam so very different than the
Vietnam known today. A young man is faced with the honest brutality of his world in his first
sight. Trying to understand a world filled with such hate and such joys, and how it can twist
young minds, "Flesh" is a strong addition to any literary historical fiction collection, much
recommended.
Destined to Dance
Marcy Heidish
F. Peter Dolan
2040 S. Fillmore St., Denver, CO 80210
9780983116493, $14.95, www.amazon.com
The greatest at their art usually got there with many demons along the way. "Destined to Dance"
is a novel centered around American dance icon Martha Graham, as author Marcy Heidish circles
the life story of Graham, who had faced many challenges in her career and made many enemies.
Written by a dedicated fan of dance, "Destined to Dance" is a novel that lovers of contemporary
dance will enjoy, very much recommended reading.
Not Mine to Give
Laura Landon
Prairie Muse Publishing
2840 S. 70th Suite 7 #316
Lincoln, NE 68506
9781937216337, $14.95, www.amazon.com
Love makes you go against what tradition asks, no matter the cost. "Not Mine to Give" is a novel
of medieval romance and intrigue. Lady Katherine Downing is charged with returning the crown
to England. But as a cruel earl by the name of Bolton comes into the scene, and brush with the
Scot Duncan Ferguson. Stuck between two worlds, tradition, duty, and love, she finds that no
matter what she chooses, there will be pain. "Not Mine to Give" is a riveting read of medieval
political intrigue, highly recommended.
Realms of Gold
Terry Stanfill
Story Merchant Books
9601 Wilshire Boulevard #1202
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
9780615657547, $14.99, www.amazon.com
An ancient mystery will give a woman insight into her own life's mystery. "Realms of Gold:
Ritual to Romance" follows art writer Bianca Evan Caldwell as she becomes fascinated with a
krater, a large golden pot of Greek origin, and the history behind it. Brushing up with Italian
archeologist Giovanni De Serlo, she finds some of her answers and much more surrounding the
krater, and that those with profit in mind will do away with them if they become problematic.
"Realms of Gold" is a riveting romantic thriller, not to be missed, weaving history and modern
problems amongst the world of 1950s art and archeology.
The Chloe Chronicles
Chris Bournea
All World Books
172 S. James Road Columbus, OH 43213
9780615415994, $22.95, www.amazon.com
Success and contentment is worth more than all the money in the world. "The Chloe Chronicles"
is a novel following Chloe Bareaux who has her money and fame, but has been spurned from her
true passion of acting. But typecast as a pretty girl with little hope for advancement, love might
give her another chance at her dreams. "The Chloe Chronicles" is a novel of pursuing what one
truly wants out of life, and to never stop pursuing it.
Two Women, One Man
James L. Dickerson
Sartoris Literary Group
PO Box 4185, Brandon, MS 39047
9780615631561, $14.95, www.amazon.com
There's more than one magnificent guy in the world. "Two Women, One Man" is a romance from
James Dickerson, who tells the story of Jack, a man who thought he found the one with Lori. But
when Faith enters his life as well, he struggles to find what's the right path for his heart and for
all three of them, where the wrong choice will leave all of them unhappy. "Two Women, One
Man" is a strong pick for those seeking a work of romance, highly recommended.
The Biography Shelf
The Ascension of Jerry
Chip Jacobs
Vireo Book
c/o Rare Bird Books
453 South Spring Street, Suite 531
Los Angeles, CA 90013
9780983925545, $25.00, www.rarebirdbooks.com
The pay for some deals is wonderful, but the drawbacks that can come along with it may be too
much to swallow. "The Ascension of Jerry: Murder, Hitmen, and the Making of L.A. Muckraker
Jerry Schneiderman" follows the life of Jerry Schneiderman, whose legal career prospered, then
quickly spun out of control when his business party ate a bullet via assassin. Fearing for his life,
he was on the run for years, before he found his calling to return to his life's calling. "The
Ascension of Jerry" is an enticing true tale of getting one's life back in the midst of mob
skullduggery, highly recommended.
From Harvard to Hagerman
Myron Finkbeiner
Borderline Publishing LLC
406 S 3rd Street, Boise, ID 83702
9781936408993, $16.99, www.borderlinepublishing.com
There are truly magnificent stories that can go under the radar. "From Harvard to Hagerman: An
Incredible Journey of an Unknown Athlete" is a biography of Harry LeMoyne, athlete and
humanitarian whose works crept under the rug of history. Myron Finkbeiner tells his story and
hopes to bring him to modern light. "From Harvard to Hagerman" is a strong addition to any
sports history collection, recommended.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Edgar Cayce's Story of the Bible
Robert W. Krajenke
ARE Press
215 67th Street
Virginia Beach, VA 23451-2061
9780876047033, $27.95, www.edgarcayce.org
Edgar Cayce has gained much renown throughout the metaphysical community for his sleeping
prophecies. "Edgar Cayce's Story of the Bible" explores the connections his readings prophecy
had with the Bible, as Robert W. Krajenke, a student of Cayce's words and writings, touches on
his connection to the Christian scripture and his spiritual and psychic insights on the many
stories, and how it will ultimate connect humanity to their spiritual heritage. "Edgar Cayce's
Story of the Bible" is a strong pick.
God is Real
Sanjay C. Patel
Purplewater Paperbacks
4771 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 333
Sugar Land, TX 77479
9780982226711, $27.95, www.sanjaycpatel.com
Humanity has been searching for proof of something greater ever since it has come into
existence. "God is Real" is a discussion of metaphysical spirituality as Sanjay C. Patel delves into
scripture, the roots of the practice of Yoga, and explores modern scientific developments for
what he strongly believes is proof of God in our world and his place in our world. For those
seeking a spiritually driven read of faith and the universe, "God is Real" may be strongly worth
considering, highly recommended.
Body Broken
Charles D. Drew
New Growth Press
1451 S. Elm Eugene Street, Suite 1102
Greensboro, NC 27406
9781936768301, $15.99, www.newgrowthpress.com
The country seems more polarized than ever. "Body Broken: Can Republicans and Democrats Sit
in the Same Pew?" discusses the fierce divide in modern politics and how this political hatred has
spawned into hatred within Christianity. Encouraging outreach to both sides and how mending
the broken fences of faith could help mend the broken fences of life. "Body Broken" is an
intriguing analysis of religion and politics, highly recommended.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
The Food Is My Friend Diet
Ruth Frechman, MA, RD, CPT
Gales Publishing
3316 W Victory Blvd., Suite B
Burbank, CA 91505
9780984597918 $21.95 www.RuthFrechman.com
Registered dietitian and certified personal trainer Ruth Frechman presents The Food Is My Friend
Diet, a guide to improving one's overall eating and fitness habits in order to lose weight and face
the day with more energy than ever before. Best of all, there's no need to give up one's favorite
foods entirely - they can (and should!) be enjoyed in moderation. Chapters teach the reader about
the benefits of portion sizing, which foods are good sources of calcium, and a wealth of tips,
tricks, and techniques for taking control of one's daily food and exercise routine. "Keeping a food
journal will increase your awareness of what and how many snacks you're having. If you're a
grazer, limit yourself to one or two snacks a day. However, munching on broccoli and
cauliflower all day is fine." The Food Is My Friend Diet is emphatically not a quick-fix or fad
diet book; it's grounded in solid, long-term nutritional principles and practical actions to help
readers gradually lose weight and keep it off. Highly recommended.
Whole-Body Dentistry
Mark A. Breiner
Quantum Health Press
PO Box 1637, Fairfield, CT 06825
9780967844312, $21.95, www.wholebodydentistry.com
Dentistry is more than just your teeth. "Whole-Body Dentistry: A Complete Guide to
Understanding the Impact of Dentistry on Total Health" is a discussion of the impact of dentistry
and general dental health can have on the whole body. From basic oral hygiene elements to the
chain reaction that can emerge from poor dental health, Dentist Mark A. Breiner presents a
comprehensive advisory guide, making "Whole-Body Dentistry" a choice and much
recommended addition to general health collections.
Make Weight Loss Last
Deborah Kesten & Larry Scherwitz
White River Press
PO Box 3561, Amherst, MA 01004
9781935052616, $20.00, www.makeweightlosslast.com
Weight loss shouldn't be a yo-yo habit, it should be something permanent. "Make Weight Loss
Last: 10 Solutions that Nourish Body, Mind, and Soul" is an inspirational health guide from
Deborah Kesten & Larry Scherwitz as they advise readers on how to best put together their
fitness plans and ensure permanent weight loss instead of relying on crash diets. A whole
lifestyle approach that encourages readers to care for their mental and emotional health on top of
their physical health, "Make Weight Loss Last" is a strongly recommended addition to health and
wellness collections.
The Take-Charge Patient
Martine Ehrenclou
Lemon Grove Press
1158 26th Street, Suite #502
Santa Monica, CA 90403
9780981524030, $19.95, www.thetakechargepatient.com
Good healthcare is more than a good doctor. "The Take-Charge Patient: How You Can Get the
Best Medical Care" is a guide to pushing oneself on how to get the best healthcare out of one's
system, by aggressively pursuing the best doctors, be prepared for medical appointments to work
with the doctor most effectively, notice errors doctors may miss, save money, and generally form
better partnerships with the medical professionals. "The Take-Charge Patient" is a must for those
who are shopping for healthcare and want to make sure they get the most value for their
investment.
The Travel Shelf
Travel Unscripted
Mark Murphy
Highpoint Executive Publishing
593 Rancocas Road, Westhampton, NJ 08060
9780983943228, $24.95, www.travelalliance.com
The world is a big place, but what may be more intriguing than everything to see is everything in
between. "Travel Unscripted" is a travel-based memoir as Mark Murphy, who has worked with
many major news outlets in recent times. Murphy seeks to tell the stories that a life that focuses
heavily on travel gives people, sharing the countless stories he has seen of brushes with the
people he has seen off the beaten path, the strange attempts at romance, criminals, and so much
more. "Travel Unscripted" is a strong pick for those who love stories of the modern open road,
and going all over the world.
The Philosophy Shelf
Reading Aristotle Physics VII.3
Stefano Maso, Carlo Natali, Gerhard Steel, editors
Parmenides Publishing
3753 Howard Hughes Pkwy #200
Las Vegas, NV 89169
9781930972735, $65.00, www.parmenides.com
Aristotle's writings form the basis of much scientific and philosophical thought. "Reading
Aristotle Physics VII.3: What is Alteration" which focuses on his extensive writings and thoughts
on the subject of alteration and change, deeply analyzing Aristotle's writings from the original
language and presenting much to ponder on his works and what they mean. Discussing the results
of the International ESAP-HYELE conference on his works, seeking the origin of the arguments
the historical philosopher made. "Reading Aristotle Physics VII.3" is a scholarly addition to any
collection focusing on the works of the ancient man of thought, highly recommended.
The Cookbook Shelf
Short and Simple Family Recipes
Amy Roloff
WestWinds Press
c/o Graphic Arts Books
PO Box 56118
Portland, OR 97238-6118
9780882408880 $19.99 www.graphicartsbooks.com
Short and Simple Family Recipes lives up to its title with an extensive assortment of delicious,
nutritious, and easy-to-prepare dishes suitable for prospective cooks of all skill and experience
levels. From "Mushroom Goat Cheese Puffs" to "Berry Pancakes", "Southwestern Slaw",
"Tilapia with Homemade Pesto & Quinoa", "Roloff Farm Rustic Peach & Berry Cobbler" and
more, every recipe embodies the flavorful charm of home cooking at its finest. Full color
photographs of the majority of dishes illustrate this wonderful addition to practical cookbook
collections. Many of the recipes, such as the quick and tasty "Scallop Pesto Crostini", are
especially ideal to whip up for parties and other gatherings!
Knives on the Cutting Edge
Bob MacDonald
Red Portal Press
c/o Scarletta Press
10 South Fifth Street, #1105
Minneapolis, MN 55402
9780983021988, $15.95, www.scarlettapress.com
Cooking is an art as old as man itself, but there are always new techniques to explore. "Knives on
the Cutting Edge: The Great Chef's Dining Revolution" explores the greatest chefs in the western
world, as Bob MacDonald shows dedication to 75 of these individuals. Exploring each of their
specialties and styles and touching on his own personal culinary journey through good food and
good wine, "Knives on the Cutting Edge" comes with a full color photo insert, a must for those
foodies who want to find the best the world has to offer.
The LGBT Shelf
For Colored Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Still Not Enough
Keith Boykin, editor
Magnus Books
PO Box 1849, New York, NY 10025
9781936833153, $15.95, www.4coloredboys.com
The pressures that go on homosexual youths is often exacerbated when racism is added in. "For
Colored Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Still Not Enough" discusses
the plight of many colored youths who struggle to get by under the pressures of society, faced
with the double whammy of homophobia and racism. Keith Boykin places much thought into the
struggles of many young folks and the problems they face with homosexuality as they intersect
with affairs of African, Asian, Hispanic, and other minority groups. "For Colored Boys" is a
powerful read that tackles vital issues that are claiming many youths across the country
today.
The Judaic Studies Shelf
Jewish Symbols and Secrets
Anton Felton
Valentine Mitchell
920 NE 58th Avenue, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213-3786
9780853038344, $74.95, www.vmbooks.com
There have been many mediums for art. "Jewish Symbols and Secrets: A Fifteenth-century
Spanish Carpet" discuss a fifteenth century carpet that is currently kept in the Vizcaya Museum.
Unlike most carpets of the era, the Christians nor the Muslims wove the rug, instead it is
distinctly Jewish in origin. The symbols used in its design are drawn from the Kabbalah, the
ancient book of Jewish mysticism, with definite influence from medieval metaphysical practices
of the era. Providing a scholarly study on the item, the history of its ownership, and its journey
from Spain to Florida, "Jewish Symbols and Secrets" is a strong addition to any history
collection.
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Confessions of a Transylvanian
Kevin Theis & Ron Fox
Berwick Court Publishing Co.
1562 Willow Rd., Northfield, IL 60093
9780983884644, $16.95, www.berwickcourt.com
There are few works that better capture the cult spirit than the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
"Confessions of a Transylvanian" is a memoir and backstage look at the production of this film,
as Kevin Theis & Ron Fox present their encounters with the production of the film, a story which
may prove just quite as bizarre as the very movie itself. With plenty of humor and plenty of
insights that fans of the cult classic film will love, "Confessions of a Transylvanian" is not to be
overlooked, highly recommended.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Publish Like The Pros
Michele DeFilippo
1106 Design, LLC
610 East Bell Road, Suite 2-139
Phoenix, AZ 85022
www.1106design.com
9780985489908, $7.95, www.amazon.com
"Publish Like the Pros: A Brief Guide to Quality Self-Publishing and an Insider's Look at a
Misunderstood" is an 88 page booklet packed solid from cover to cover with practical,
'real-world' information and advice specifically designed to help novice authors to publish their
own work in accordance with the highest standards of the publishing industry. Beginning with
the provision of background information about publishing, author Michele DeFilippo devotes
separate chapters to the importance of covers, editing, interior layout, and proofreading. Of
special note is her concluding chapter on 'Book Distribution, Pricing and Marketing'. Informed
and informative, "Publish Like the Pros: A Brief Guide to Quality Self-Publishing and an
Insider's Look at a Misunderstood" is highly recommended reading for anyone who is
considering publishing their own work.
A Writer's Journey
Carren Strock
Gray Rabbit Publications
1380 East 17 Street, Suite 2233
Brooklyn, NY 11230
www.fantasticbooks.biz
9781604599206, $14.99, www.amazon.com
Carren Strock was informed by one of her college professors that she was not cut out to be a
writer. She believed that judgment and gave up her dream of becoming a published writer for the
next fifteen years. Then an unusual set of circumstances led her to writing articles for national
magazines and the sale of her first nonfiction book to a major New York publishing house. "A
Writer's Journey: What to Know Before, During, and After Writing a Book" is the colorful and
engaging story of her unlikely journey to become a published author. But more than a simple
personal memoir, "A Writer's Journey" also offers other aspiring authors a wealth of information
on what to consider before starting to write, what to understand while engaged in writing, and
what to know after writing a book is completed. Of special note are the tips about the different
types of publishers, how to make marketing a book an enjoyable experience, avoiding common
mistakes, and the value of persistence! "A Writer's Journey" should be considered a 'must read'
for anyone aspiring to become a published author or establish a professional career as a
writer.
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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