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Reviewer's Choice
Truth Demands
Abby Reyes
North Atlantic Books
www.northatlanticbooks.com
9781623175214, $19.95, PB, 296pp
https://www.amazon.com/Truth-Demands-Memoir-Climate-Justice/dp/1623175216
Synopsis: In 1999, Abby Reyes lost her partner, Terence Unity Freitas, as he and two others were murdered after departing
Kajka Ika (the heart of the world) of Indigenous U'wa territory in Colombia.
Imperiled by multinational oil interests, U'wa lifeways were under attack. Terence, Ingrid Washinawatok El-Issa
(Menominee), and Lahe'ena'e Gay (Hawaiian) arrived to listen to community needs and accompany the U'wa. But then they
disappeared. Days later, their bodies were found, bound and bullet-riddled in a cow field across the border in
Venezuela.
Twenty years later, Abby finds herself in Case 001 of Colombia's truth and recognition process. They want to know her
stories. They want to know her questions. They want to know her truth demands: the fragments she's held for decades
about the last days of Terence's life. Why was he taken? Who pulled the trigger? Who was really behind the killings?
Plunged back into grief, ambiguity, and the unknown, Abby is called to navigate the past. Old wounds are reopened, old
histories are redrawn, and fresh angers flare as she confronts the testimony of one of her lover's killers -- and the burden
that Terence unwittingly compelled her to bear.
Spanning three decades and three continents, "Truth Demands: A Memoir of Murder, Oil Wars, and the Rise of Climate
Justice" charts Abby's parallel journeys as she navigates the waters of loss, purpose, and impermanence while fighting for
truth and accountability from big oil. A profound and haunting memoir, "Truth Demands" is an invitation into the current.
It shows us how to hold fast even as we let go -- holding us as we bear witness and welcome with courage and skill what
the truth demands of us all.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, emotionally engaging, impressively memorable, and a simply fascinating read from
start to finish, "Truth Demands: A Memoir of Murder, Oil Wars, and the Rise of Climate Justice" by Abby Reyes will
prove of immense interest and relevance to readers concerned with a true life story of love, loss, environmental issues, and
the risk environmentalists and human rights workers must deal with in their struggles against those who are all too willing
to resort to lethal violence to stop them. "Truth Demands" is also a very human memoir of how one woman has had to
cope (and been able to cope) with unthinkable tragedy over a span of decades. While a unique and recommended pick for
community and college/university library American Biography/Memoir and Environmental History/Biography collections,
in should be noted that this paperback edition of "Truth Demands" from North Atlantic Books is also readily available for
personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Abby Reyes (https://www.abbyreyes.org) cut her teeth doing rural environmental legal assistance in the
Philippines, her father's homeland, and walking alongside the Colombian U'wa Indigenous pueblo for dignity against big
oil. She directs community resilience at University of California, Irvine, supporting community-academic partnerships to
accelerate community-owned just transition solutions.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
How to Use Storytelling in Your Academic Writing, second edition
Timothy G. Pollock
Edward Elgar Publishing
www.e-elgar.com
9781035325887, $135.00, HC, 256pp
https://www.e-elgar.com/shop/usd/how-to-use-storytelling-in-your-academic-writing-9781035325900.html
Synopsis: Good writing skills and habits are critical for scholarly success. Every article is a story, and employing effective
storytelling techniques enhances scholars' abilities to share their insights and ideas, increasing the impact of their
research.
In this timely and updated second edition of "How to Use Storytelling in Your Academic Writing: Techniques for
Engaging Readers and Successfully Navigating the Writing and Publishing Processes", Professor Tim Pollock draws on
fiction and non-fiction writing tools and techniques to help academic authors enhance the clarity, presentation and flow of
their scholarly work.
With new chapters focusing on the intricacies of writing developmental reviews and dissertations, the second edition of
"How to Use Storytelling in Your Academic Writing" provides comprehensive discussions illustrating the structural and
stylistic factors involved in effective storytelling and how to apply them in writing each section of an academic article. The
second edition also expands on important topics such as managing the co-authoring, writing and review processes.
"How to Use Storytelling in Your Academic Writing" continues to be an invaluable resource for academics across business
disciplines, particularly those in management-related sectors such as organizational behavior, organization theory, business
and management history and corporate governance. It is also useful to those in adjacent social science disciplines such as
sociology, psychology and economics.
Critique: One of the imperatives for a successful academic career (including the process of acquiring tenure at a college or
university) is to become published. A major step toward that goal being achieved is to be able to be deftly creative and
'reader friendly' in presenting your work be it a paper, an article, or a book. This newly updated and expanded second
edition of "How to Use Storytelling in Your Academic Writing: Techniques for Engaging Readers and Successfully
Navigating the Writing and Publishing Processes" by Professor Timothy G. Pollock is especially and unreservedly
recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Academic/Scholarly
writing/publishing instructional reference collections. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general
readers (and non-academic writers) with an interest in the subject that this hardcover edition of "How to Use Storytelling in
Your Academic Writing: Techniques for Engaging Readers and Successfully Navigating the Writing and Publishing
Processes: 2nd Edition" from Edward Elgar Publishing is also available in paperback (9781035325900, $45.95).
Editorial Note: Timothy G. Pollock (https://www.timothypollock.com) holds the Haslam Chair in Business, and is the
Distinguished Professor of Entrepreneurship and Kinney Family Faculty Research Fellow, Haslam College of Business,
University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
The Social Issues Shelf
Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right
Randall Balmer
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
www.eerdmans.com
9780802879349, $16.99, HC, 141pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Faith-Race-Religious-Right/dp/0802879349
Synopsis: What really gave rise to the Religious Right?
There is a commonly accepted story about the rise of the Religious Right in the United States. It goes like this: with
righteous fury, American evangelicals entered the political arena as a unified front to fight the legality of abortion after the
Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.
The problem is this story simply isn't true.
With the publication of "Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right", Professor Randall Balmer recounts how it
was in fact the elimination of tax-exempt status for racially discriminatory Christian institutions, like Bob Jones
University, that galvanized evangelicalism into a political force. It was only later, when something more palatable was
needed to cover for what was becoming an increasingly unpopular position following the civil rights era, was the moral
crusade against abortion made the leading issue.
Through exhaustive research and trenchant historical analysis, Professor Balmer exposes the ingrained priorities of the
Religious Right movement and uncovers the roots of coded evangelical watchwords like "religious freedom" and "family
values" -- helping to explain, in part, what this movement has become.
Critique: Simply stated, "Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right" is critically important reading for anyone
with an interest in how our American style democracy is now teetering on the edge of being replaced by an
authoritarian/oligarchical/fundamentalist Christian domination. Eloquent, erudite, informed and informative, "Bad Faith:
Race and the Rise of the Religious Right" by Professor Randall Balmer is especially and unreservedly recommended for
personal, professional, community, seminary, and college/university library Political Science and Christian Studies
collections. It should be noted for students, academia, clergy, political activists, and members of faith-based communities,
that this hardcover edition of "Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right" is also readily available in paperback
(9780802885647, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.79, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Randall Balmer (www.randallbalmer.com) is the John Phillips Professor in Religion at Dartmouth College.
He is the author of more than a dozen books, including Evangelicalism in America, Redeemer: The Life of Jimmy Carter,
and Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: A Journey into the Evangelical Subculture in America, which is now in its fifth
edition and has been made into an award-winning three-part series for PBS.
The International Studies Shelf
Palestine in a World on Fire
Katherine Natanel and Ilan Pappe, editors
Haymarket Books
https://www.haymarketbooks.org
9798888902585 $17.95 pbk / $9.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Palestine-World-Fire-Katherine-Natanel/dp/B0CT8BQLPX
Synopsis: A collection of interviews with some of the world's leading progressive thinkers on the movement for
Palestinian liberation and its connections to struggles for justice across the globe.
As more and more people align themselves with the Palestinian people, Palestine in a World on Fire provides the global
perspective and analysis needed to inform how we forge ahead on this path of newfound solidarity. Editors Ilan Pappe and
Katherine Natanel have gathered a collection of interviews that are intimate, challenging, and rigorous - many of them
conducted before October 7th but still startlingly prescient. The interviewees connect the struggle for Palestinian liberation
to various liberatory movements around the world, simultaneously interrogating and recontextualizing their own positions
given the ongoing aggression in Palestine. This incredible group includes Angela Y. Davis, Noam Chomsky, Judith Butler,
Nadine El-Enany, Gabor Mate, Mustafa Barghouti, Yanis Varoufakis, Paul Gilroy, Elias Khoury, Gayatri Spivak, and
Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian.
Palestine in a World on Fire highlights the centrality of Palestine in struggles shared across the world: capitalism,
imperialism, misogyny, neo-colonialism, racism, and more. Each conversation tackles urgent events and unfolding
dynamics, and the scholar-activists interviewed here provide invaluable perspectives and insights, illuminating the richness
and relevance of recent scholarship on Palestine.
Critique: Palestine in a World on Fire was almost entirely compiled before the political and military group Hamas conducted the murderous October 7, 2023 attack that slaughtered approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israel's subsequent war on Hamas has been characterized as genocide due to Israel's brutal attacks on hospitals, aid workers, water infrastructure, civilian residences, and civilians themselves. As of May 2025 the Palestinian death toll is estimated to be at least 52,000 and growing; over half of the dead are civilians, including many women and children. Israel's ongoing blockade is causing additional civilian deaths through starvation and disease.
Palestine in a World on Fire is a collection of interviews and essays about Israel's suffocating oppression of Palestinian people before the October 7th attacks, and ways to seek global solidarity and justice for an entire demographic that Israeli law binds but does not protect. Some of the writings are frighteningly clairvoyant; others propose questionable ideas, such as advocating a one-state solution instead of a two-state solution. Overall, Palestine in a World on Fire offers insightful perspectives into Palestine's state of increasing crisis prior to the October 7th attack, and is highly recommended for public and college library contemporary International Studies collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that Palestine in a World on Fire is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).
The AI Studies Shelf
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work
Medicine National Academies of Sciences
The National Academies Press
www.nap.edu
9780309717144, $34.00, PB, 200pp
https://www.amazon.com/Artificial-Intelligence-Engineering-Medicine-Academies/dp/0309717140
Synopsis: The rapidly evolving technological advances in artificial intelligence (AI) promise to improve productivity
significantly, but there are many questions about how AI could affect jobs and workers.
Recent technical innovations have driven the rapid development of generative AI systems, which produce text, images, or
other content based on user requests -- advances which have the potential to complement or replace human labor in
specific tasks, and to reshape demand for certain types of expertise in the labor market.
A seminal and groundbreaking study, "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work" evaluates recent advances in AI
technology and their implications for economic productivity, the workforce, and education in the United States. The report
notes that AI is a tool with the potential to enhance human labor and create new forms of valuable work - but this is not an
inevitable outcome. Tracking progress in AI and its impacts on the workforce will be critical to helping inform and equip
workers and policymakers to flexibly respond to AI developments.
Critique: This large format paperback edition of "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work" is a timely, informative,
insightful, thought-provoking, and collaborative study that, impressively organized and presented, is a critically important
and unreservedly recommended contribution to personal, professional, and college/university library Artificial Intelligence
(AI) collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: The National Academies Press (NAP) publishes the publications of the National Academies of Sciences,
Engineering, and Medicine. NAP publishes more than 200 publications per year on a wide range of topics in science,
engineering, and medicine, providing authoritative, independently researched information on important matters in science
and health policy.
Inside AI
Akli Adjaoute
Manning
https://www.manning.com
9781633437722, $29.99, PB, 216pp
https://www.amazon.com/Inside-AI-billion-purchases-authors/dp/1633437728
Synopsis: With the publication of "Inside AI", entrepreneur and AI professor Dr. Akli Adjaoute provides a comprehensive
perspective on artificial intelligence, drawing on 30 years of valuable insights from his field experience. Through
accessible and jargon-free explanations, "Inside AI" offers a clear-headed overview of modern artificial intelligence,
covering recent advances in Generative AI and Large Language Models.
"Inside AI" also takes readers on a journey through various artificial intelligence techniques, starting from its origins in
traditional expert systems and progressing seamlessly to the current era of deep learning and Large Language Models.
Within the pages of "Inside AI" the reader will gain practical insights, learning how to:
Understand diverse AI techniques and methodologies
Draw lessons from both successful and failed AI applications
Identify the capabilities and limitations of AI systems
Grasp the successful and unsuccessful uses of AI in business
Recognize areas where human cognition still surpasses AI
Dispel common myths, such as AI's threat to jobs and civilization
Effectively manage AI projects
"Understanding AI" presents a pragmatic blueprint that leaders can leverage to drive innovation through the application
and utilization of Artificial Intelligence.
Critique: An ideal introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students and non-professional general readers with an
interest in the subject, "Inside AI" by Dr. Akli Adjaoute is exceptionally accessible, well written, and impressively
organized and presented from start to finish. Ideal as an AI workshop or curriculum studies list, this large format (7.38 x
0.4 x 9.25 inches, 11.6 ounces) paperback edition from Manning is especially and unreserved recommended for personal,
professional, community, and college/university library Artificial Intelligence collections.
Editorial Note: Dr. Akli Adjaoute is a renowned academic, speaker, and writer on the subjects of AI and security. He
served as an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco (USF) and as the Head of the A.I. department and
Scientific Committee Chair at EPITA, one of Europe's leading computer science universities. He holds a master's degree in
computer science from the Universite de Technologies de Compiegne and a Ph.D. in artificial intelligence from the
University of Pierre & Marie Curie. (https://thinkfuture.com/962-the-human-element)
More Human
Rasmus Hougard, author
Jacqueline Carter, author
Harvard Business Review Press
http://hbr.org/books
9798892790628, $32.00, HC, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/More-Human-Power-Transform-Lead/dp/B0D8XL11N9
Synopsis: Humans have always been good at inventing tools that change the way we live and work, but not always good at
adapting to those changes. The internet has given us instant access to gigabytes of data and yet has made us more
distracted. Social media has enabled constant connection to our networks and yet it can also alienate or isolate us. What
impact will the phenomenal growth of AI ultimately have on our life and work?
So far, that question has mostly prompted a wave of anxiety about the disappearance of jobs and the loss of humanity in
our work and social lives.
With the publication of "More Human: How the Power of AI Can Transform the Way You Lead", Rasmus Hougaard, (the
founder and managing partner of Potential Project), and Jacqueline Carter (senior partner of the Potential Project) show in
this essential study, that's a very limited perspective, leaving out a crucial point: AI has the power to transform leadership
for the better. The key is in how leaders use it.
The co-authors conducted in-depth interviews with more than a hundred CEOs and executives across a range of industries,
met with top AI experts, and completed 360-degree surveys of scores of leaders and employees worldwide. They found
that by thoughtfully delegating tasks to AI and using it to augment skills and behaviors, leaders can unlock a truly human
experience of work while enhancing organizational performance.
The AI-augmented leader moves beyond a focus on the technology itself to constantly probe how it can strengthen the core
qualities of human-centered leadership: awareness, wisdom, and compassion. In this way, AI can help leaders and
organizations become more human. With deep insight and rigorous research, "More Human: How the Power of AI Can
Transform the Way You Lead " will help leaders navigate our AI-enabled future.
Critique: A seminal, timely, meticulous, and ground-breaking study, "More Human: How the Power of AI Can Transform
the Way You Lead" by Rasmus Hougaard and Jacqueline Carter is a deftly presented and critically important study that
will hold immense interest to readers concerned with Artificial Intelligence and its impact on workplace leadership and
culture. While an especially recommended and vitally important pick for persona, professional, community, corporate, and
college/university library AI collections and supplemental MBA curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for MBA
students, academia, business mangers, corporate executives, and non-specialist general reader with an interest in AI
applications and workplace issues that this hardcover edition of "More Human: How the Power of AI Can Transform the
Way You Lead" from the Harvard Business Review Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $30.40,
Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Rasmus Hougaard is the founder and managing partner of Potential Project. In 2019 he was nominated
by Thinkers50 as one of the eight most important leadership thinkers in the world. He writes for Harvard Business Review,
Forbes, Fast Company, and Fortune and is the coauthor, with Jacqueline Carter, of Compassionate Leadership and The
Mind of the Leader. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7728926.Rasmus_Hougaard)
Editorial Note #2: Jacqueline Carter is a senior partner at Potential Project. She has over twenty years of experience
working with leaders in large global companies to unlock potential. She writes regularly for Harvard Business Review and
Fast Company. She is the coauthor, with Rasmus Hougaard, of "Compassionate Leadership and The Mind of the Leader".
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14057223.Jacqueline_Carter)
The Science Shelf
Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World
Michael J. Benton, author
Bob Nicholls, illustrator
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500298046, $24.95, PB, 240pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dinosaurs-New-Visions-Lost-World/dp/0500298041
Synopsis: Dinosaurs are not what we originally thought they were -- or at least, they didn't look like we thought they did.
"Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World" is new visual guide to the world of the dinosaurs with which world-leading
paleontologist Michael J. Benton shows how rapid advances in technology and amazing new fossil finds have changed the
way we see these extinct beasts forever. Stunning new illustrations by paleoartist Bob Nicholls display the latest and most
exciting scientific discoveries in vibrant color.
From Sinosauropteryx, the first dinosaur to have its color patterns identified (a ginger-and-white striped tail) by Benton's
team at the University of Bristol in 2010, to recent research on the surprising mixed feathers and scales of
Kulindadromeus, "Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World" is one of the first books to include this cutting-edge scientific
research in paleontology.
Each individual chapter specifically focuses on a particular extinct species, featuring a specially commissioned illustration
that brings to life the latest scientific breakthroughs, with accompanying text exploring how paleontologists have
determined new details, such as the patterns on skin and the colors of feathers of animals that lived millions of years ago.
This visual compendium surprises and challenges everything you thought you knew about what dinosaurs looked like and
how they lived.
Critique: A magnificent illustrated guide to our astonishing new understanding of dinosaurs, with the latest science and the
most accurate and visually stunning paleoart, this trade paperback (7.4 x 0.9 x 9.8 inches, 1.83 pounds) edition of
"Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World" features 100 museum quality color illustrations enhancing an informative and
'reader friendly' commentary about the various dinosaur species showcased. While also readily available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $19.99) for the personal reading lists of students, academia, paleontologists, and non-specialist general
readers with an interest in the subject, "Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World" is especially and unreservedly
recommended as an essential, core addition to community and college/university library Paleontology and Natural History
collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note #1: Michael J. Benton is head of the world-leading Palaeobiology Research Group at the University of
Bristol. He has written more than fifty books, including Dinosaurs: New Visions of a Lost World, Dinosaurs Rediscovered:
The Scientific Revolution in Paleontology, When Life Nearly Died: The Greatest Mass Extinction of All Time, and
Extinctions: How Life Survives, Adapts and Evolves. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Benton)
Editorial Note: Bob Nicholls is one of the world's leading paleoartists. His exceptionally impressive artwork is regularly
used to illustrate the latest discoveries in both science journals and the general press.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Nicholls_(artist))
The Education Shelf
EdTech Essentials, second edition
Monica Burns
ASCD
www.ascd.org
9781416632979, $32.95, PB, 185pp
https://www.amazon.com/EdTech-Essentials-Strategies-Every-Classroom/dp/1416632972
Synopsis: In a world awash in technology, what EdTech skills and strategies should educators focus on to ensure they are
making the best use of online spaces for classroom learning? How can they sift through the overwhelming number of
options in digital tools and platforms? How can they guide students in learning best practices especially now that
generative artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the landscape?
EdTech consultant Monica Burns answers these and other questions in this powerful and reader-friendly guide to
incorporating EdTech across all grade levels and subject areas. This second edition is updated and expanded to help
educators meet the needs of students amid the proliferation of apps that leverage AI, the easy access we all have to
chatbots, and the clear need for educators and students to understand the implications of AI. Readers will gain practical
advice on
Navigating online spaces effectively
Curating resources to support every student
Generating ideas and resources with AI
Evaluating digital content with an AI mindset
Exploring the world with students
Collaborating across digital spaces
Creating multimodal artifacts of learning
Assessing to check for understanding and pivot instruction
Sharing student creations in big and small ways
Connecting students to authentic audiences
Transferring skills across digital spaces
Planning for tech-rich learning experiences
Each chapter explains why the skill or strategy is essential, including supporting research, classroom examples, guiding
questions for planning and reflection, and suggested websites and digital tools for classroom use. The book also includes
access to downloadable forms to help you set goals, assess your progress, and equip your EdTech tool belt.
Timely, accessible, and informed by the author's experience and expertise, the second edition of EdTech Essentials is a
must-read for educators who want proven ways to prepare their students to be productive, responsible users of technology
both within and outside the classroom.
Critique: Now in a fully updated and expanded second edition, "EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in
the Age of AI" by Dr. Monica Burns is an impressively accessible, thoroughly practical instructional guide for teachers
seeking to incorporate 12 essential EdTech skills and strategies in every learning setting in this new and rapidly evolving
era of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Exceptionally well written and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and
presentation, "EdTech Essentials" includes five Appendices, a four page listing of References, and a seven page Index. A
timely and highly recommended pick for personal, professional, school district, and college/university library Education/AI
and Teacher Education collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, this trade paperback edition of "EdTech
Essentials, second edition" from ASCD is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $25.53, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Monica Burns (https://classtechtips.com/about-monica) is a curriculum and EdTech consultant, Apple
Distinguished Educator, and founder of ClassTechTips.com. As a classroom teacher, Monica used digital tools to create an
engaging, differentiated learning experience to meet the needs of her students. Monica started her blog,
ClassTechTips.com, in 2012 and launched the Easy EdTech Podcast and her membership site, the Easy EdTech Club, to
support educators who want to streamline technology integration. She leads workshops and provides keynote presentations
to teachers, instructional coaches, administrators, and tech enthusiasts at numerous national and international conferences,
including SXSW EDU, ISTE, FETC, and EduTECH. Monica is the author of Tasks Before Apps and four ASCD quick
reference guides, among other publications.
The AI Assist
Nathan Lang-Raad
ASCD
www.ascd.org
9781416633334, $31.95, PB, 168pp
https://www.amazon.com/AI-Assist-Strategies-Integrating-Teaching/dp/1416633332
Synopsis: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is impacting all aspects of modern society -- and that includes education
methodologies/technologies and the classroom. Teachers need to not only keep up with technology but also harness its
potential to create more engaging, personalized, and effective learning experiences for their students.
With the publication of "The AI Assist: Strategies for Integrating AI into the Very Human Act of Teaching" educator
Nathan Lang-Raad covers:
How to use the innovative HAIL model (Humanize, Augment, Integrate, Leverage) as a guide to seamlessly incorporate AI
into your teaching practice.
More than 40 practical AI tools and templates, ready for classroom implementation.
Strategies for maintaining the irreplaceable human touch in an AI-enhanced environment.
Real-world examples of AI integration across various subjects and grade levels.
Essential processes to evaluate the effectiveness of your AI integration and assess student progress.
Whether you are already using AI tools or are just starting to explore their potential benefits, "The AI Assist" provides the
insights and practical knowledge you need to confidently integrate this technology into your teaching practice. You can
embrace the inevitable future of education. by utilizing "The AI Assist" as your introduction and guide in creating a
classroom where technology and a very human connection work in harmony to unlock every student's potential.
Critique: This trade paperback edition of "The AI Assist: Strategies for Integrating AI into the Very Human Act of
Teaching" by Nathan Lang-Reed is enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of an informative Introduction, an
erudite Conclusion (Embrace the On-Going Process!), a one page listing of References, and a seven page Index. Essential
reading for K-12, college, and university classroom teachers and instructors, "The AI Assist" is especially and unreservedly
recommended for personal, professional, school district, and college/university library Teacher Education collections and
supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted that this paperback edition of "The AI Assist" is also available in
a digital book format (Kindle, $28.37, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Nathan D. Lang-Raad (https://drlangraad.com) is an educator, speaker, author, and founder and CEO of
Raad Education, where he spearheads innovations in educational practice and theory. Nathan's distinguished career
encompasses roles as a teacher, an elementary and high school administrator, and a university adjunct professor. Notably,
he has served as the director of elementary curriculum and instruction for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools and as an
education supervisor at NASA's Johnson Space Center. An accomplished author, Nathan has contributed significantly to
the education landscape, writing extensively about instructional coaching, innovative teaching methods, and the integration
of technology in classrooms.
The Cookbook Shelf
Taste of Home: One-Dish Meals
Taste of Home, editor
https://www.tasteofhome.com
c/o Trusted Media Brands
https://www.trustedmediabrands.com
9798889771104, $22.99, PB, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Taste-Home-One-Dish-Meals-MEAL/dp/B0DJZDYYJT
Synopsis: From casseroles, protein bowls and slow-cooked favorites to sheet-pan suppers, entree salads and Instant-Pot
greats, the timesaving specialties comprising "Taste of Home: One-Dish Meals" will enable even the most novice of family
kitchen cooks to get dinner on the table fast. No need to plan menus or prepare separate sides with "Taste of Home:
One-Dish Meals" at your fingertips.
Looking for a quick solution to the "What's for dinner" quandary? Consider Pork & Asparagus Sheet-Pan Dinner. It's a
one-dish sensation featuring tender pork chops and two sides that all bake simultaneously on one sheet pan!
Need a slow-simmered specialty? Try Meatball Tortellini. Each serving includes juicy meatballs, colorful veggies and
tender pasta in a creamy sauce all simmered to perfection in the slow cooker. What could be easier?
You will also find one-dish greats made in the Instant Pot and air fryer, make-ahead breakfast bakes, all-in-one foil packets
cooked on the grill, stews loaded with meats and veggies, and Dutch-oven dinners made quickly on the stovetop. These are
just a few of the convenient, timesaving specialties inside this brand-new cookbook.
Cut down your grocery list, beat the kitchen clock and kiss menu planning goodbye. With Taste of Home: One-Dish
Meals" as your culinary resource, whipping up a complete dinner has never been easier!
Critique: "Taste of Home: One-Dish Meals" is a beautifully illustrated compendium of 210+ meal-in-one dishes perfect for
busy weeknights and special occasions alike allowing the family cook to save time and money by preparing entrees and
sides together in one baking pan, skillet, Dutch oven, slow cooker or Instant Pot. Of special note is the inclusion of a bonus
clip-out list of pantry staples, prep and cook timelines with each dish help make the most of your time, and nutrition facts
with every recipe makes it easy to feed your family right. While an extraordinary and highly recommended, kitchen cook
friendly pick for personal, professional, and community library cookbook collections, it should be noted that this trade
paperback (8.06 x 0.7 x 8.94 inches, 1.82 pounds) edition of "Taste of Home: One-Dish Meals" is also readily available in
a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Taste of Home is America's #1 food/lifestyle brand, inspiring togetherness through cooking, baking and
entertaining. Featuring recipes shared by today's home cooks, Taste of Home magazine has hundreds of thousands of
subscribers throughout North America and publishes best-selling cookbooks and newsstand specials. The brand's web site
is a top destination, featuring kitchen-tested recipes, how-to techniques, cooking videos and more. Taste of Home has more
than 6.4 million fans on Facebook, 2 million followers on Instagram, 2.7 million Pinterest followers and receives more
than 28 million unique monthly visitors. Visit Taste of Home on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest to learn more.
Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook
Taste of Home, editor
Taste of Home
c/o Trusted Media Brands
https://www.trustedmediabrands.com
9798889771029, $22.99, PB, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Taste-Home-Ultimate-Outdoor-Cookbook/dp/B0D7J4NCLM
Synopsis: Enjoy more than 390 easy recipes that are ideal for barbecues, picnics and block parties as well as al fresco
dinners perfect for any night of the week, "Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook" will enable even the most novice
of kitchen cooks to make the most of summer for themselves and their families with this 'user friendly' illustrated
collection featuring 390+ recipes ideal for warm-weather dining!
Within its covers are to be found step-by-step recipes for everything from juicy burgers and savory steaks to grilled corn
and brilliant berry desserts, "Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook" delivers on its promises to be an ideal go-to
cookbook all summer long.
Take your love of the outdoors to new heights when you dine outside! Whether you're whipping up a weeknight dinner on
the deck, packing up a picnic basket, planning a baseball tailgate or contributing to the church picnic, this sensational new
culinary compendium has you covered!
Family cooks can learn pro tips on grilling pizzas and preparing desserts over an open flame. Check out foil-packet entrees
that cook to perfection on a campfire and discover, snacks perfect for enjoying while watching the fireworks. There are
also new treats to enjoy around the bonfire, impressive contributions to block parties and more.
From flame-broiled specialties to swift weeknight suppers, everything tastes better when enjoyed outside. Experience the
joy of dining al fresco like never before with the "Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook" as it features:
394+ sensational dishes perfect for outdoor dining, including summer's best snacks, appetizers, desserts, potluck classics
and more.
3-minute and 5-ingredient icons highlight dishes perfect for workweek meals.
Prep and cook timelines with each dish help make the most of your time.
Nutrition facts with every recipe makes it easy to feed your family right.
A clip-and-keep guide to grilling lets you keep essential facts at your fingertips, including cook times and how to know
when things are done.
Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout with gorgeous full color photos of finished dishes, this large
format (8.06 x 0.7 x 8.94 inches, 1.84 pounds) paperback edition of "Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook" is a
mouth-watering, appetite invoking, culinary pleasure to plan menus with for all summer dining occasions from tailgate
parties to camping trip and RV cookouts. Comprised from cover to cover with quick and easy DIY recipes for healthy, and
delicious dining for summer (as well as spring, fall and winter!), "Taste of Home Ultimate Outdoor Cookbook" is a very
special and unreservedly recommended pick for personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook
collections.
Editorial Note: Taste of Home is America's #1 food/lifestyle brand, inspiring togetherness through cooking, baking and
entertaining. Featuring recipes shared by today's home cooks, Taste of Home magazine has hundreds of thousands of
subscribers throughout North America and publishes best-selling cookbooks and newsstand specials. The brand's web site
is a top destination, featuring kitchen-tested recipes, how-to techniques, cooking videos and more. Taste of Home has more
than 6.4 million fans on Facebook, 2 million followers on Instagram, 2.7 million Pinterest followers and receives more
than 28 million unique monthly visitors. Visit Taste of Home on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest to learn more.
Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President's Taste
Adrian Miller & Deborah Chang
The White House Historical Association
www.whitehousehistory.org
9781950273683, $45.00, HC, 172pp
https://shop.whitehousehistory.org/products/asian-heritage-chefs-in-white-house-history-cooking-to-the-president-s-taste
Synopsis: "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President's Taste" is the first history to focus on
the many chefs of Asian Heritage who have prepared meals for American presidents at the White House, for State Dinners,
on Presidential Yachts, and at Camp David. From navy stewards to Executive White House Chefs, the presidential service
of these chefs extends back more than a century and continues to the present day, yet many of their names are largely
unknown.
Two-time James Beard award winner Adrian Miller was inspired to uncover and share their stories after discovering the
extraordinary but long out-of-print biography of Lee Ping Quan who served President Warren G. Harding and then
President Calvin Coolidge aboard the presidential yacht USS Mayflower.
Miller was inspired not only to make Quan's story available again, but to expand the story to include experiences of many
Asian Heritage chefs who have served the presidency. He explains that he was able to identify presidential chefs with roots
in China, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, and Thailand.
With a representative, rather than a comprehensive, approach, Miller draws out the unique stories the Asian Heritage chefs
whose culinary accomplishments and devotion to service combine to create a powerful chapter in America's culinary
history.
Miller opens "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President's Taste" with chapters on
immigrants who entered the U.S. Navy and were assigned to the culinary operations on presidential yachts and continues
on to an in-depth focus on Lee Ping Quan's life story. He then explores the stories of Asian Heritage chefs who cooked at
presidential retreats, the Vice President's Residence, and the Navy Mess in the West Wing and concludes with profiles of
Asian Heritage Executive, Guest and Staff White House Chefs who bring the story to the present day.
Miller's research is enriched by the biographies, memoirs, cookbooks, and news coverage of the early chefs, and by his
own interviews with former and current White House chefs. We learn that each chef has taken a unique path to the
American dream, but they share remarkable talents, a devotion to excellence, and a pride in their service.
Co-author Deborah Chang selected and shaped sixty recipes that can be made in a twenty-first-century home kitchen. We
see that featured chefs specialized not only in Asian dishes but also in creative approaches to fusion cuisine, healthy
choices, and American classics such as fried chicken and chocolate cream pie.
Critique: Part cookbook, part White House culinary history, "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to
the President's Taste" this large format (9"W x 11"H) hardcover edition from The White House Historical Association is
impressively illustrated throughout and an inherently fascinating read for anyone with an interest in the subject.
Thoroughly reader (and kitchen cook) friendly in organization and presentation, "Asian Heritage Chefs in White House
History: Cooking to the President's Taste" by co-authors Adrian Miller and Deborah Chang is unique and unreservedly
recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note #1: Adrian Miller (https://adrianemiller.com) is a food writer and attorney. A two-time James Beard Award
winner, his books include Soul Food: The Surprising Story of an American Cuisine, One Plate at a Time, The President's
Kitchen Cabinet: The Story of the African Americans Who Have Fed Our First Families, From the Washingtons to the
Obamas and Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue. Adrian served as a special assistant to
President Bill Clinton with his Initiative for One America and went on to serve as a senior policy analyst for Colorado
Governor Bill Ritter Jr. Since 2013, Adrian has been the executive director of the Colorado Council of Churches. Adrian is
also the co-project director and lead curator for the "Proclaiming Colorado's "Proclaiming Colorado's Black History"
exhibit at the Museum of Boulder. A certified barbecue judge, Adrian lives in Denver, Colorado.
Editorial Note #2: After graduating from the Napa Valley Culinary School, Deborah Chang cooked at numerous Bay Area
restaurants, created award winning recipes for Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt and the National Peanut Board and tested and
wrote recipes for a cookbook with Insalata's, a Mediterranean restaurant in Marin County. She is a graduate of Stanford
University and the Michigan Law School. Her expansive career has included being an attorney, a tech executive, and most
recently a career counselor. Her writing has been published in the San Francisco Chronicle, the Hill, and Bridge Eight
Literary Press.
The Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes Cookbook
Kelly Jaggers
Everything
c/o Simon and Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com
9781507223239, $18.99, PB, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Restaurant-Copycat-Recipes-Cookbook/dp/1507223234
Synopsis: With the publication of "The Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes Cookbook", you can skip the pricey
restaurant bill and recreate your favorite dishes right at home with this culinary compendium of 200 fast, easy-to-follow
recipes that are so good people will think it's takeout!
This illustrated collection 200 fast, easy, and delicious restaurant recipes for every meal of the day ranges from IHOP's
Original Buttermilk Pancakes, Olive Garden's Bread Sticks, In-n-Out's Double-Double Burger, and Pizza Hut's Stuffed
Crust Pizza, to Crumbl's Classic Pink Sugar Cookie, Southwestern Eggrolls from Chili's, The Pink Drink from Starbucks --
and so many more!
Critique: This large format (8 x 0.7 x 9 inches, 1.47 pounds) trade paperback edition of "The Everything Restaurant
Copycat Recipes Cookbook" allows even the most novice of kitchen cooks to successfully and easily recreate popular
restaurant meals as closely as possible on a much smaller tab per serving from having the same dishes in the restaurants of
their origin. Exceptional, kitchen cook friendly in organization, ideal in presentation for menu planning purposes, and also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99), "The Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes Cookbook" is a unique
and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note: Kelly Jaggers is a cookbook author, recipe developer, food photographer, food stylist, and founder of the
recipe blog Evil Shenanigans (EvilShenanigans.com). She is the author of The Everything(R) Pie Cookbook,
Not-So-Humble Pies, Moufflet, The Everything(R) Easy Asian Cookbook, The Everything(R) Dutch Oven Cookbook, and
The Everything(R) Easy Instant Pot Cookbook. She is also a cooking instructor, personal chef, and caterer. Kelly lives in
Dallas, Texas. (https://evilshenanigans.com)
The American History Shelf
A Place in Common
Karen L. Marrero, editor
Andrew K. Sturtevant, editor
Michigan State University Press
https://msupress.org
9781611865172, $119.95, HC, 254pp
https://msupress.org/9781611865189/a-place-in-common
Synopsis: At the turn of the eighteenth century, Indigenous nations designated Detroit as a "common bowl" and a crucial
nexus where they shared resources, made compromises, and coexisted. As the century unfolded, Detroit continued as a
polyglot community in the face of expanding Euro-American settlement.
The region became a highly charged space where the rituals of political negotiation grew in importance alongside a
constant threat of violence. British political and economic systems continued to operate long after the end of the American
Revolution, creating a shared cultural border at the end of the eighteenth century that would endure even as the American
Empire reestablished rule on the north side of the river.
Both Anishinaabe and Wyandot people set aside land for future occupation of their people, re-creating another
transnational space in the region.
A hundred years later, issues of race, economic development, political partisanship, and overlapping national claims
continued to resonate as the city commemorated and mythologized its origins.
With the publication of "A Place in Common: Rethinking the History of Early Detroit", academicians and co-editors Karen
L. Marrero and Andrew K. Sturtevant have recruited contributors who considers how larger watershed occasions impacted
the Detroit region and how, in turn, the unique particularities of local custom impacted regional and national trade and
politics and the very nature of how the city continues to view its past.
Critique: A seminal and groundbreaking study of meticulous and detailed scholarship, "A Place in Common: Rethinking
the History of Early Detroit" is collaboratively compiled and co-edited by historians Karen Marrero and Andrew Sturtevant
who have included a listing of the contributors and their credentials. A valued and unreservedly recommended addition to
personal, professional, community, and college/university library United States History - Detroit collections and
supplemental curriculum Native American, Colonial, and Immigration History studies lists, it should be noted for students,
academia, American history buffs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that this hardcover
edition of "A Place in Common: Rethinking the History of Early Detroit" from the Michigan State University Press is also
available in paperback (9781611865189, $44.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $44.95).
Editorial Note #1: Karen L. Marrero is associate professor in the Department of History at Wayne State University in
Detroit, associate of the Wilson Institute for Canadian History at McMaster University, and member of the Canadian
Studies Committee Advisory Board, Whitney and Betty MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies at Yale
University. (https://clasprofiles.wayne.edu/profile/bx2389)
Editorial Note #2: Andrew K. Sturtevant (www.uwec.edu/profiles/sturteak) received his PhD in history from the College
of William & Mary and is currently an associate professor of history and affiliate of the American Indian Studies Program
at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
The World History Shelf
Thutmose III and Hatshepsut, Pharaohs of Egypt
Aidan Dodson
American University in Cairo Press
www.aucpress.com
9781649031594, $35.00, HC, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Thutmose-III-Hatshepsut-Pharaohs-Egypt/dp/1649031599
Synopsis: Thutmose III and Hatshepsut are among the best-known figures in Egyptian history. Thutmose has been called
the "Napoleon of ancient Egypt," during whose reign Egypt's armies penetrated deep into northern Syria and consolidated
Egyptian dominion over much of Sudan. Hatshepsut, one of the handful of female pharaohs, also took to the battlefield,
but is best known today for a great trading expedition, down the Red Sea coast to the mysterious land of Punt.
At first, Hatshepsut served simply as regent for her young nephew-stepson Thutmose, but subsequently the two shared the
throne of Egypt as co-pharaohs for over a decade. Later, as sole king, Thutmose devoted much of the rest of his life to
military matters and large-scale building works, continuing the work of Hatshepsut that created much of the core of the
great temple of Karnak. During the very last years of his life, Thutmose launched an attack on the memory of Hatshepsut,
with most of her images destroyed. Yet, some four centuries later, Thutmose III and Hatshepsut were still remembered
together as great figures of the past, whose conception of pharaonic kingship served as the model for later rulers, into the
eighth century BC.
"Thutmose III and Hatshepsut, Pharaohs of Egypt: Their Lives and Afterlives" by Egyptologist and author Aidan Dodson is
illustrated in full color as it traces what we know about the lives and times of Thutmose and Hatshepsut, and the
monuments they built to guarantee their afterlives. It then explores their posthumous reputations in ancient times, and ends
with the story of how the two pharaohs emerged from the mists of time during the nineteenth century AD, to resume their
places in history.
Critique: This large format (7.48 x 1.34 x 9.53 inches, 2.7 pounds) hardcover edition of "Thutmose III and Hatshepsut,
Pharaohs of Egypt: Their Lives and Afterlives" from the American University of Cairo Press is enhanced for the reader's
benefit with the inclusion of an informative Preface and Introduction, a listing of Abbreviations and Conventions, a four
page Chronology of Egypt, twelve pages of Notes, a twenty page Bibliography, a four page listing of Image Sources, and a
six page Index. Exceptionally well written, impressively informative, thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and
presentation, as well as beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout in full color, Professor Aiden Dodson's "Thutmose
III and Hatshepsut, Pharaohs of Egypt: Their Lives and Afterlives" is especially and unreservedly recommended as a core
addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university library Egyptology collections and supplemental
curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for students, academia, Egyptologists, and non-specialist general readers with
an interest in the subject "Thutmose III and Hatshepsut, Pharaohs of Egypt: Their Lives and Afterlives" is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $30.44, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Aidan Dodson is honorary full professor of Egyptology in the Department of Anthropology and
Archaeology at the University of Bristol, UK. He was also Simpson Professor of Egyptology at the American University in
Cairo in 2013, and Chair of the Egypt Exploration Society during 2011-16. Awarded his PhD by the University of
Cambridge in 2003, he was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 2003. He is the author of some
thirty books. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/75466.Aidan_Dodson)
The Military History Shelf
World War II Order of Battle
Shelby L. Stanton
Stackpole Books
c/o Globe Pequot
https://www.globepequot.com
9780811777193, $100.00, HC, 676pp
https://www.amazon.com/World-War-Order-Battle-Encyclopedic/dp/0811777197
Synopsis: "World War II Order of Battle: An Encyclopedic Reference to U.S. Army Ground Forces from Battalion through
Division 1939-1946" by Shelby L. Stanton is unique and comprehensive guide to the U.S. Army ground force organization
that won World War II. This massive encyclopedia contains a wealth of information: tables of organization and equipment;
charts detailing the mobilization and expansion of the major units; the important dates and locations of each unit;
campaigns participated in; and valuable narrative histories of the divisions and regiments.
Critique: A singularly essential, extraordinarily comprehensive, and thoroughly 'reader friendly' reference that must be
considered as a core addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university library World War II History
collections and supplemental WWII curriculum studies lists, this hardcover edition of "World War II Order of Battle: An
Encyclopedic Reference to U.S. Army Ground Forces from Battalion through Division 1939-1946" from Stackpole Books
is further enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of an informative Foreword by Russell F. Weigley who was
the Distinguished University Professor of History at Temple University and the author of "The American Way of War" and
"Eisenhower's Lieutenants", among other influential books.
Editorial Note: Shelby L. Stanton (February 01, 1948 - May 31, 2023) was the author of more than a dozen books,
including Vietnam Order of Battle, The Green Berets at War, Anatomy of a Division, and U.S. Army Uniforms of World
War II. A complete listing of his work is available at
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/191727.Shelby_L_Stanton)
Remember Us
Robert M. Edsel & Bret Witter
Harper Horizon
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9781400337811, $31.99, HC, 528pp
https://www.amazon.com/Remember-Us-American-Sacrifice-Freedom/dp/140033781X
Synopsis: "Remember Us: American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and A Forever Promise Forged in World War II" by
Robert Edsel (with the assistance of Bret Witter) begins in the pre-dawn hours of Hitler's invasion of Western Europe on
May 10, 1940, when his forces rolled into the small rural province of Limburg in the Netherlands shattering more than 100
years of peace. Their freedom gone, the Dutch lived through four-and-a-half years of occupation until American forces
reached Limburg in September 1944, the last portion of Western Europe liberated by the Allies before their advance on
Nazi Germany slammed to a halt.
"Remember Us" is an ensemble piece that follows twelve main characters over a six-year span, zeroing in on ordinary
people including Frieda van Schaik, a teenager who falls in love with an American soldier; Lieutenant Colonel Robert
Cole, the first member of the 101st Airborne to receive the Medal of Honor; and Sergeant Jeff Wiggins of the 960th
Quartermaster Service Company, who escaped the poverty and racism of Alabama for yet another indignity -- digging
graves.
Drawing on never-before-seen letters, diaries, and other historical records, in the pages of "Remember Us", Edsel shows
the painful price of freedom, on the battlefields and inside American homes. In this rich, dramatic, and suspenseful story,
he captures both the horrors of war and the transcendent power of gratitude, showing the extraordinary measures the Dutch
have taken to thank their liberators.
Given the present state of the world, "Remember Us" is exactly the book that is needed today as a vividly and telling
reminder that grief is universal, that humanity knows no national or racial boundaries, and that we all want to be
remembered, somehow, someway, by somebody.
Critique: Deftly crafted, emotionally engaging, "Remember Us: American Sacrifice, Dutch Freedom, and A Forever
Promise Forged in World War II" is an informative and compelling read from start to finish. Occasionally featuring B/W
historical photographs, "Remember Us" will be of immense appreciation for readers with an interest in the World War II
History/Biographies in general, and the Allied Dutch campaign in particular. While highly recommended for community
and college/university library World War II collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for the
personal reading lists of students, academia, and military history buffs that this hardcover edition of "Remember Us" from
Harper Horizon is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note #1: Robert M. Edsel (https://www.robertedsel.com) is the author of four non-fiction books including
Rescuing da Vinci, Saving Italy, and The Monuments Men (also with Bret Witter), which served as the basis for Academy
Award recipient George Clooney's 2014 film. Mr. Edsel has been honored with the Texas Medal of the Arts; the
President's Call to Service Award; the Hope for Humanity Award, presented by the Dallas Holocaust Museum; and the
Foundation for the National Archives' Records of Achievement Award. In 2022, the United States Army and the
Smithsonian Institution made Mr. Edsel an honorary graduate of the first Army Monuments Officer Training Program, an
idea Mr. Edsel advocated for nearly twenty years. Mr. Edsel is also the Founder and Chairman of the Monuments Men and
Women Foundation, recipient of the National Humanities Medal, awarded by President George W. Bush.
Editorial Note #2: Bret Witter (https://www.bretwitterbooks.com) is the author of "Dewey: The Small Town Library Cat
Who Touched the World". and six more New York Times bestsellers, including "The Monuments Men", which was turned
into a movie by George Clooney.
The Borinqueneers
Noemi Figueroa Soulet
El Pozo Productions
https://borinqueneers.com/en_US
9798218001841, $39.99, HC, 200pp
https://www.amazon.com/Borinqueneers-Visual-History-Infantry-Regiment/dp/B0B6B52LTR
Synopsis: "The Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th Infantry Regimen" is an inspiring collection of more than 700
rare B/W historical photographs which traces the glorious history of the 65th Infantry Regiment -- the only
Hispanic-segregated unit in U.S. Army history, comprised primarily of Puerto Ricans.
With the publication of this bilingual (English/Spanish) edition of "The Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th
Infantry Regimen" by Noemi Figueroa Soulet impressively illustrates the regiment's more than 120 years of service, from
its origins in 1899 through its service during World War I, World War II and the Korean War.
The historical content, veteran quotes, and photography captions are in both English and Spanish -- providing an in-depth
perspective about the service of one of the country's last segregated military units.
Recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal, the unit's trajectory comes to life as they train and fight in Puerto Rico,
Panama, Europe and Korea. "The Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th Infantry Regimen" provides a rich visual
legacy of the regiment's valiant service to our country.
Critique: This large format (11.57 x 9.05 x 0.67 inches, 2.5 pounds) hardcover edition of Noemi Figueroa Soulet's "The
Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th Infantry Regiment" from El Pozo Productions is an inherently fascinating and
informative read from cover to cover. Unique, comprehensive, exceptional, impressively detailed, organized and presented,
""The Borinqueneers, A Visual History of the 65th Infantry Regimen" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick
for professional, community, and college/university library American Military History collections and the personal reading
lists of students, academia, historians, military history buffs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the
subject.
Editorial Note: Noemi Figueroa Soulet is the Executive Producer of El Pozo Productions which produced the PBS
documentary film "The Borinqueneers," winner of the Military Channel Award at the GI Film Festival, amongst other
awards. For more than 26 years, she has been speaking about the regiment at corporations, universities, military facilities
and community organizations; recorded veteran interviews and preserved archival photographs.
(https://borinqueneers.com/en_US/the-film/the-team)
The Civil War Shelf
The Final Bivouac
Chris Calkins, author
Bert M. Dunkerly & Patrick A. Schroder, contributors
Savas Beatie LLC
www.savasbeatie.com
9781611217346, $22.95, PB, 252pp
https://www.amazon.com/Final-Bivouac-Confederate-Appomattox-Disbanding/dp/1611217342
Synopsis: With the publication of "The Final Bivouac: The Confederate Surrender Parade at Appomattox and the
Disbanding of the Virginia Armies, April 10 - May 20, 1865", Civil War historian Chris Calkins (with the assistance of
Bert Dunkerly and Patrick Schroder) presents what actually happened during the first six weeks of new-found peace once
General Lee surrendered the remnants of the Army of Northern Virginia to General Grant.
"The Final Bivouac" covers the initial reactions of the soldiers and Virginia citizens to the devastating news of Lincoln's
assassination. How they handled the situation of the emancipated slaves. Along with many other issues covered in depth by
the men themselves. brought to you by Chris Calkins, former chief historian at Appomattox.
The first installment, "No One Wants to Be the Last to Die" (formerly The Battles of Appomattox), set the stage for the
final dramatic act of the Civil War in Virginia: the surrender parade at Appomattox. Calkins vividly captured the intense
feelings and emotions of Union and Confederate soldiers as the former enemies faced each other for the last time. The
honor and respect shown by the victorious Federal troops toward the defeated Southerners is one of the most moving
episodes in American history.
"The Final Bivouac" continues the story with marvelous firsthand accounts by homeward-bound Confederates, the
members of the Union encampment at Burkeville, men involved in the Danville Expedition, and those present for the
occupation of Southside Virginia. The narrative concludes as the last few regiments in blue cross the James River at
Richmond on their way to Washington, D.C., and then, finally home.
Calkins based his work on primary sources, photographs, and archaeological evidence. The Final Bivouac is a timeless
account and will be of deep interest to everyone who enjoys reading about the American Civil War.
Critique: Fascinating, informative, exceptional, meticulous, and a substantial read from start to finish, "The Final Bivouac:
The Confederate Surrender Parade at Appomattox and the Disbanding of the Virginia Armies, April 10 - May 20, 1865" is
a seminal and documented study that is an essential addition for personal, professional, community, college, and university
Amerian Civil War History collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for students,
academia, historians, civil war buffs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that this hardcover
edition of "The Final Bivouac: The Confederate Surrender Parade at Appomattox and the Disbanding of the Virginia
Armies, April 10 - May 20, 1865" from Savas Beatie is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.95,
Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Chris Calkins is the author of a dozen publications and many articles and was popular on the speaking
circuit. He received the 2014 Award of Merit "for his dedication to preserving the Civil War battlefield landscape of
Virginia" from the American Association for State and Local History, one of only three Virginians to receive this award. In
2020, he was bestowed with the Edwin C. Bearss Lifetime Achievement Award for extraordinary work in historic
preservation. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6051074.Chris_Calkins)
Editorial Note #2: Robert M. (Bert) Dunkerly studied history at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA, and historic
preservation at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN. He led tours of the battlefield and researched its
history, preservation, and its National Cemetery. The author of three other books in the Emerging Civil War Series, he's
active in historic preservation and research. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/701558.Robert_M_Dunkerly)
Editorial Note #3: Patrick A. Schroeder is the full-time Historian of Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. He
graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Historical Park Administration from Shepherd College, Shepherdstown, WV., and
has an M.A. in Civil War History from Virginia Tech.
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/938587.Patrick_A_Schroeder)
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet
Arthur Conan Doyle, author
Julien Choy, artist
Manga Classics
www.mangaclassics.com
9781947808324, $19.99
https://www.amazon.com/Classics-Sherlock-Scarlet-CLASSICS-SHERLOCK/dp/194780832X
Synopsis: There's the scarlet thread of murder running through the colourless skein of life, and our duty is to unravel it, and
isolate it, and expose every inch of it. It is 1887 and a man has been murdered in an abandoned house. On his face is an
expression of utter horror; in his pocket is a woman's wedding ring. On the wall above him is the word RACHE, written in
blood. But whose blood is it? Thus begins the story of one of the world's most famous partnerships. Join Manga Classics
now as we return to the first appearance of Sherlock Holmes, in which he and his newfound partner Dr. John Watson
unravel the mystery behind a murder that spans the globe!
Critique: The first volume of a new Manga Classics series, Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet is a full-color graphic
novel adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's classic mystery that debuted his most famous characters - the moody yet brilliant
consulting detective Sherlock Holmes, and former battlefield surgeon Doctor John Watson, whose need to find lodging
and employment leads him to become Holmes' roommate and assistant. The beautiful art in the style of manga (Japanese
comics) brings A Study in Scarlet to life, and accurately portrays the main characters in their twenties - although their ages
aren't explicitly given in the original story, Watson had become an assistant surgeon fairly recently before his discharge due
to a war injury, and Holmes was a college student. (Doyle's later stories would chronicle Holmes and Watson as they
aged.)
Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet is extremely faithful to Doyle's writings, and an enthralling new way to experience a
cherished work of literature. Here is the original Sherlock Holmes, who despised the police for their laziness and
incompetence even though he aided them for a living; whose array of knowledge was immense yet lacking in specific areas
such as philosophy, literature, astronomy, and politics; who could make masterful deductions yet had such poor social
skills that only an easygoing person like Watson could tolerate him as a roommate; and who was absolutely not immune to
being deceived by a clever or well-prepared antagonist!
The Manga Classics edition of A Study in Scarlet is worthy of the highest recommendation for every Sherlock Holmes fan
as well as public and school library graphic novel collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that a second
Manga Classics volume, Sherlock Holmes: A Scandal in Bohemia and Other Stories, is forthcoming.
John Muir: To the Heart of Solitude
Lomig, author/illustrator
NBM Publishing
www.nbmpub.com
9781681123523, $24.99, HC, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/John-Muir-Solitude-Comics-Biographies/dp/1681123525
Synopsis: What pushed John Muir to become the pioneering environmentalist and founder of the Sierra Club?
1867: A sawmill is running at full speed with a terrible noise when suddenly, workers run to rescue a man on the ground.
He has seriously injured his eyes. John Muir is twenty-nine years old, and it is likely that he may remain blind. But
miraculously, after months of an almost mystical convalescence, he regains his sight. This episode convinces him he's
going to leave everything behind and embrace his lifelong dream: head south to meet the wilderness.
Armed with only his courage, his youth, a magnifying glass and a botanical book, Muir treks hundreds of miles on foot
from Indiana to Florida. Imagine an almost pristine wilderness, where only a few dangerous ex-soldiers from the South and
former slaves thrown out of the old plantations roam...
"John Muir: To the Heart of Solitude" by French illustrator and storyteller Lomig is a graphic novel biography that also
covers his other life-changing pioneering trek along the Sierra Nevada Trail which now bears his name. Here, in
breathtaking vistas, is the inspiration he got to found the Sierra Club, create the first national parks, and become one of
America's first and foremost environmentalist champions.
Critique: This large format (8.5 x 0.7 x 11 inches) hardcover edition of "John Muir: To the Heart of Solitude" is rendered
in the B/W artwork of French illustrator Lomig. An informative and fascinating read from start to finish, this graphic novel
edition of "John Muir: To the Heart of Solitude" from NBM Publishing is a compelling, entertaining, and unreservedly
recommended pick for personal, highschool, community, and college/university library American Biography and Graphic
Novel collections. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the
subject that this hardcover edition of "John Muir: To the Heart of Solitude" is also readily available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Self-taught, author/illustrator Lomig first honed his skills in comic drawing. His stories feature individuals
stuck in the throes of modern civilization. Lomig lives in Rennes, France.
Punk Rock in Comics!
Thierry Lamy and Nicolas Finet (writers) & various artists
NBM Publishing
www.nbmpub.com
9781681123509, $27.99, HC, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Punk-Rock-Comics-NBM-Biographies/dp/1681123509
Synopsis: "Punk Rock in Comics!" from NBM Publishing is the iconic overview (in a graphic novel style format) of the
punk rock scene from its early inception in the seventies in New York and the UK.
Included are illustrated chapters on The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and more. Punk was also the flex point for women in
rock that paved the way for the Riot Grrrl movement like Siouxsie and the Banshees, Blondie, The Runaways, Patti Smith
and The Slits.
Flashing the finger against the slick corporate rock of the '70s, punk was faster, messier, and louder than anything before it.
Covered here with the same raw energy, look, and attitude as the music itself!
Critique: Drawing upon twenty artist contributors, and ably translated into English for an American readership by James
Hogan, "Punk Rock in Comics!" is part of the acclaimed 'NBM Comics Biographies' series. A fun and informative read
from cover to cover, this large format (7.5 x 0.7 x 10 inches, 1.65 pounds) hardcover edition of "Punk Rock in Comics!" is
a 'must' for the legions of Punk Rock fans and a very special, recommended addition to personal, community, and
college/university library 20th Century Popular Music History/Performers collections. It should be noted that this
hardcover edition of "Punk Rock in Comics!" is also available from NBM Graphic Novels in a digital book format
(Kindle, $16.99).
Editorial Note #1: Born in 1962 in Chateaubriant, France, Thierry Lamy is a scriptwriter for many graphic novels and
biographies in comics, including co-authoring NBM's David Bowie in Comics and Pink Floyd in Comics. Nicolas Finet,
author, publisher, filmmaker, journalist, curator, speaker, translator, has worked in comics for more than three decades. He
is also the author of more than half a dozen reference works on it. In music, he has just made a documentary on the blues
and comics, " Mississippi Ramblin," devoted to bluesman Robert Johnson. He is the writer, also with Christopher, of "
Forever Woodstock."
Editorial Note #2: Nicolas Finet (https://nicolasfinet.net/biography-2) is a French writer, editor, consultant, journalist and
speaker.
Haruki Murakami Manga Stories 3: Scheherezade; Sleep
Haruki Murakami, author
PMGL, illustrator
Jean-Christophe Deveney, adapter
Tuttle Publishing
https://tuttlepublishing.com
9784805317686, $19.99, HC, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Haruki-Murakami-Manga-Stories-Scheherezade/dp/480531768X
Synopsis: Haruki Murakami's novels, essays and stories have sold millions of copies worldwide and been translated into
fifty languages. Now for the first time, his best-loved stories are available in the form of three independent manga style
graphic novel volumes.
With their trademark mix of realism and fantasy, centering around Murakami's signature themes of loss, remorse and
confusion, the two stories in this third volume of his manga trilogy adapted by Jean-Christophe Deveney and deftly
illustrated by PMGL are:
1. Scheherazade: A man, Habara, is confined to his home, as though under house arrest. He is visited regularly by a
woman, Scheherazade, who brings provisions then has sex with him. She tells him about a boy she was in love with in
high school, and how she would break into his house. She starts re-enacting the break-ins, which further enhances their
passion. At the end of the story, Habara anxiously awaits her next break-in and the continuing account of her youthful
affair.
2. Sleep: A housewife has not slept for many days, but her family doesn't notice. She stays up all night reading Anna
Karenina and sees her surroundings through new eyes. Her sleeplessness provides freedom from a monotonous life looking
after her husband and son.
These graphic novel versions of Murakami's classic stories will be devoured by his fans and will provide a new window
onto his work for readers not yet familiar with it!
Critique: As "Haruki Murakami Manga Stories 3: Scheherezade; Sleep" from Tuttle Press demonstrates that graphic novel
adaptations of iconic literary fictions has become an impressively sophisticated and exceptionally effective form of
illustrated storytelling. This third volume of the series showcasing Haruki Murakami's trilogy is especially and
unreservedly recommended for personal, community, and college/university library Literary Graphic Novel collections. It
should be noted that this hardcover edition from Tuttle Publishing is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$18.99).
Editorial Note #1: Haruki Murakami's first novel, Hear the Wind Sing, won the Gunzou Literature Prize in 1979. He is the
author of many novels including Norwegian Wood, Sputnik Sweetheart and Kafka on the Shore. He has published three
collections of short stories: The Elephant Vanishes, After the Quake and Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman. The most recent
of his many international literary honors is the Jerusalem Prize, whose previous recipients include J. M. Coetzee, Milan
Kundera and V. S. Naipaul. Murakami's work has been translated into more than fifty languages.
Editorial Note #2: PMGL illustrates magazines and underground comix, and publishes comic strips, short stories and
feature comics. He also teaches human morphology and anatomy to animators and videogame artists. On the side he
collects 45rpm records from the 70s and deejays under the nom de plume Koffi Gnato.
Editorial Note #3: Jean-Christophe Deveney's comic book adaptations have been published in Italy, Spain, England, USA,
Japan and Argentina. He organizes international projects and comics exhibitions. He taught scriptwriting for comics and
animation for sixteen years.
The Audiobook Shelf
The Broken Kingdom
Angus Donald, author
Mike Rogers, narrator
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781399182454, $126.95, CD, 12 Hours 22 Minutes
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781399182454
Synopsis: Post-Roman Britain. Thousands of desperate Saxon refugees are flooding the island, fleeing their homelands as
the whole world warms and the waters rise, and worse, the mighty dragon Cythraul from the once-frozen North has been
awoken by an evil sorceress.
His lust for human flesh is insatiable, and he threatens to extinguish all human life. The land is riven with strife and
warfare. The petty kingdoms battle constantly with each other for supremacy and only one man, a young Dumnonian
warrior, can hope to unite them.
His name is Arthur.
Critique: Offering a solidly delivered 'theatre of the mind' experience, the narrative skills of Mike Rogers brings author
Angus Donald's "The Broken Kingdom" sword and sorcery novel brilliantly to life. Original, deftly crafted, complete and
unabridged, "The Broken Kingdom is a 'must' for community library audio book collections. It should be noted that this 11
disc CD edition (with a sturdy clamshell casing) of "The Broken Kingdom" from Boldwood Books is also readily available
in an MP3-CD format (9781399182461, $126.95).
Editorial Note #1: LJ Andrews (https://ljandrews.net) is a gifted author of fantasy romance. She mystically brings to life
worlds of dark Nordic and Viking myths bound by conflicts that bring together impassioned heroes and heroines.
Editorial Note #2: Mike Rogers (https://mikerogers.info/voice) has worked as a voice artist for a wide range of clients,
narrating television documentaries, commercials, internet video, conference VO's, video game characters, BBC radio
drama, as well as a long list of unabridged audio books for publishers such as HarperCollins, Oakhill and Audible. He has
his own studio based in West Berkshire, England.
Whisper Of War And Storms
C. L. Mecca, author
Kate Handord & Max Dowler, narrators
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781836562801, $90.95, CD, 8 Hours 20 Minutes
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781836562801
Synopsis: When a forgotten ring reveals Mevlida Brennan's true heritage as the long-lost princess of Aetheria, a kingdom
of immortals and magic, her world is turned upside down. But there's just one problem -- Mev didn't know she was
missing.
Thrust into a realm on the brink of war, Mev is caught between her newfound legacy and a dangerous political game. A
powerful king holds the key to restoring the ancient portal that connects their realms, but his son, Kael, stands in her way.
Brooding, relentless, and dangerously irresistible, Kael is sworn to protect his people - even if it means kidnapping Mev to
keep her from uncovering the truth.
As dark forces rise and her dormant powers awaken, trust is a luxury neither can afford, yet their hearts may leave them no
choice. Mev must embrace her destiny or risk losing everything. Because the storm isn't coming -- it's already here. In a
battle of elemental magic, loyalty, and love, one whisper could spark a war.
Critique: Complete and unabridged, this 7 CD audio book edition of the heroic fantasy "Whisper of War and Storms" by C.
L. Mecca is brought vividly to life by the narrative storytelling talents of Kate Hanford and Max Dowler. Of special appeal
to fans of fantasy stories with a determined princess, a forbidden love, and a special destiny revealed slowly throughout,
"Whisper of War and Storms" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended pick for community library audio book
collections. It should be noted that this CD edition of "Whisper of War and Storms" is also readily available from
Boldwood Books in an MP3-CD format (9781836562818, $90.95) and in a large print trade paperback edition
(9781836562863, $42.00).
Editorial Note #1: C.L. Mecca (a.k.a. Cissy Mecca) writes romance with a twist -- whether it's swoony small-town hunks,
brooding historical knights, or magical romantasy heroes, she's ready to transport readers to another time and place.
(https://meccaromance.com/cissy-mecca)
Editorial Note #2: Kate Handord (https://www.katehandford.com) is an actress living in London, England.
Editorial Note #3: Max Dowler (https://maxdowler.com) has narrated audiobooks, as well as delivering ADR and
performing corporate voiceover and adverts for both TV and radio. He has perform in feature films such as 'Ammonite',
directed by Francis Lee, starring Kate Winslet and Saiorse Ronan; and 'The One and Only Ivan', with Bryan Cranston and
Angelina Jolie. His television credits include some of the UK's most iconic TV series such as 'Line Of Duty', 'The Crown',
'Coronation Street', 'This England', 'I Hate Suzie', 'The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family', 'Emmerdale', 'EastEnders', and
more.
Mrs. Sidhu Investigates
Suk Pannu, author
Meera Syal, Justin Edwards, & Amy Morgan, narrators
BBC Audio
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781529958188, $50.95, CD, 3 Hours 43 Minutes
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781529958188
Synopsis: Mrs. Sidhu is an Indian caterer with a highly active imagination and her own brand of crime solving -- enough of
a brand, in fact, that the local police have a file on her 'observations'.
This complete and unabridged audio book eddition of "Mrs. Sidhu Investigates" from BBC Audio features: "Murder with
Masala" and finds Mrs Sidhu catering an upscale Berkshire wedding at Lapsley Hall, where a bridesmaid goes missing.
Calling in her contact Inspector Burton, Mrs Sidhu finds herself investigating the family's playboy son, the mysterious
butler, and even Lord and Lady Lucas themselves. While simultaneously dealing with her argumentative son and her wily
supplier, Mrs Sidhu must uncover the truth about the whole wedding party before it's too late.
In the second story comprising "Mrs. Sidhu Investigates" is "Mrs Sidhu's Dangerous Highland Game". The sleuthing chef
travels up to Scotland, catering for a billionaire at a remote shooting estate. But soon the client is missing and the estate is
cut off by bad weather. Will Mrs Sidhu's clues give Inspector Burton a helping hand, or a headache? And is she there to
reveal the truth about Castle Tannoch - or are they all just there as quarry for an entirely different type of hunt?
Critique: Perfect for the legions of British cozy mystery fans, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of author
Suk Pannu's "Mrs. Sidhu Investigates" that originated as BBC 4 radio plays is once again brought to life in a true 'theatre of
the mind' experience by the narrative acting and storytelling skills of a full cast that includes Meera Syal, Justin Edwards,
and Amy Morgan. This 3 disc edition is encased in a sturdy clamshell casing, making it especially and unreservedly
recommended for personal and community library Cozy Mystery audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Meera Syal Meera Syal CBE FRSL is an English comedian, writer, playwright, singer, journalist and
actress. She rose to prominence as one of the team that created Goodness Gracious Me and by portraying Sanjeev's
grandmother, Ummi, in The Kumars at No. 42. She has become one of the UK's best-known Asian personalities.
Editorial Note #2: Justin Matthew Edwards is an English actor, comedian and writer. His roles include Ben Swain in the
BBC political comedy The Thick of It and the lead role in the short-lived Channel 5 sitcom Respectable.
Editorial Note #3: Amy Morgan is an English actress best known for her roles in movies like Mr. Selfridge (2013), Pan
(2015), and No Time to Die (2021).
Murder In The Tuscan Hills
T. A. Williams, author
Simon Mattacks, narrator
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781835187760, $83.95, CD, 5 Hours 32 Minutes
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781835187760
Synopsis: As grape harvest season rolls around, retired DCI Dan Armstrong and his beloved canine companion, Oscar, are
looking forward to a nice quiet September. But when Dan is contacted about a mysterious death out in the Tuscan Hills, it
seems that work must come before pleasure when a body found lying outside a prestigious winery, the result of a tragic hit
and run. But then the police discover that this is a cover up for murder... but who would kill in such an idyllic spot and
why?
As Dan investigates, he meets famous ex rock star, Digger, owner of the winery and prestigious Podere Dei Santi hotel.
Digger's guests include wealthy businessmen, tourists, and, among them, suspected mafia hitmen. But more significant for
Dan is a face he knows only too well from his own past and he soon finds that wine isn't the only thing fermenting around
him.
Could this murder be the start of a gangland war, or do the killer's motives lie much closer to home? Will complications
from Dan's past return to trouble his future? Either way, Dan and Oscar must work around the clock to solve another
Tuscan mystery.
Critique: The latest addition to author T. A. Williams' simply outstanding murder mystery series "Murder in the Tuscan
Hills" once again stars a retired British police detective and his dog, both of whom live and travel through the beautiful
Italian countryside and small villages of Tuscany. Original and fun from start to finish, this complete and unabridged, 6 CD
audio book with its sturdy clamshell container, and deftly narrated by the vocal storytelling talents of Simon Mattacks, is
an ideal and popular pick for community library collections. It should be noted for the growing legions of T. A. Williams
fans that "Murder in the Tuscany Hills" is also available from Boldwood Books in an MP3-CD format (9781835187777,
$83.95) and in a large print paperback edition (9781835187838, $42.00).
Editorial Note #1: T. A. Williams (https://www.bookseriesinorder.com/t-a-williams) has written all sorts of books
including: thrillers, historical novels, short stories, romances and cozy mystery 'whodunnits'.
The Library CD Shelf
East Meets West: Connections
Composed by Fred Stride and Jean-Nicolas Trottier
Performed by The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra
winnipegjazzorchestra.com
Chronograph Records
chronojazz.com
$12.99 CD / $10.99 digital
https://chronographrecords.com/releases/east-meets-west-connections
The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, Canada's first professional community-based jazz orchestra, presents their eighth album
East Meets West: Connections, an original nine-movement suite by composers Fred Stride and Jean-Nicolas Trottier. An
extraordinary medley showcasing the talents of various orchestra members on flugelhorn, vibraphone, tenor sax, baritone
sax, and much more, East Meets West: Connections is a richly textured soundscape and a welcome addition to personal
and public library jazz collections. Highly recommended! The tracks are Sounds of Joy, Hello Jean-Nicolas, Leave No
Stone, Echoes From Within, The Healing Song, Halfway Point, Another Look, The Jaws of Defeat, and The Great Return.
49 min, 20 sec.
The Precious Dark
David Helpling and Eric "the" Taylor
Spotted Peccary Music
www.SpottedPeccary.com
$16.00 CD / $10.00 digital
https://davidhelpling.bandcamp.com/album/the-precious-dark
The Precious Dark is the latest music album collaboration by ambient electronic music artists David Helpling and Eric
"the" Taylor. Notably, The Precious Dark consists entirely of the original music crafted and performed by human beings,
not by artificial intelligence! The sweeping songs evoke the galaxy-spanning forces of the unknowable cosmic expanse.
Contemplative and profound, The Precious Dark is a choice pick for creative inspiration, highly recommended. The tracks
are The Space Between Atoms, The Precious Dark, Cavernous Heart, The Ice Has Dreams, Her Endless Cold Embrace,
For Those in Shadow, and We Rise in a Harmonious System.
Open
Stephen Wallack
www.stephenwallackmusic.com
Privately Published
$9.99 CD / $TBA digital
https://www.stephenwallackmusic.com/store-1/open
Open is an original, new age solo piano album written and performed by Stephen Wallack. The quiescently beautiful
soundscape guides the listener on a peaceful, immersive journey. A treasure ideal for fostering meditation, or simply
soothing the mental stress of a hard day, Open is highly recommended for both personal and public library music
collections. The tracks are Faith, Love Story, Fall, Changes, Ireland, Maine, Once Upon a Time, One Last Run, Girl in the
Painting, and Storm. 48 min 19 sec.
The Library DVD Shelf
Final Vows
A film by Victoria Westover
First Run Features
FirstRunFeatures.com
$19.95 DVD
https://firstrunfeatures.com/finalvowsvod.html
Synopsis: Final Vows chronicles the life of a cloistered order of nuns at Santa Rita Abbey, a Cistercian monastery in the
high desert of Arizona. The nuns, who take a vow that binds them to remain in the community they entered for life,
candidly share their joys and struggles. While each woman's journey is unique, they all felt a call and chose to join this
community of prayer and work.
The nuns rise at 4am for their first prayers of the day and support themselves through the production and sale of altar
bread. The Abbey faces challenges as the nuns are aging and few young women are choosing a monastic life. The Abbess,
a life-sustaining presence for this striving community, may be required to step down soon when she turns 75 years
old.
Made from small moments of daily life, the film serves as a meditation on aging and caring for others and asks viewers to
consider if this lifestyle offers any wisdom for our society.
Critique: An intimate portrait of daily life among a cloistered order in the Cistercian monastery of Santa Rita Abby in
Arizona, Final Vows candidly portrays prayer and work among the community of aging nuns. Few young women choose
monastic life and its required vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience; yet there are strong spiritual draws to a lifetime of
service and dedication. Final Vows is captivating, emotional, and highly recommended especially for school and public
library DVD collections. 84 minutes, optional English subtitles.
The Biography Shelf
Roy Reuther and the UAW
Alan Reuther
Michigan State University Press
https://msupress.org
9781611865301, $89.95, HC, 348pp
https://msupress.org/9781611865318/roy-reuther-and-the-uaw
Synopsis: With the publication of "Roy Reuther and the UAW: Fighting for Workers and Civil Rights", biographer Alan
Reuther examines the tumultuous life of Roy Reuther, including the triumphs and tragedies in the labor and civil rights
movements. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers activists may face as they confront entrenched societal
powers.
As the brother of famed labor leader Walter Reuther, Roy was a key figure in the historic Flint sit-down strike that gave
birth to the United Auto Workers (UAW). He became the political director of the UAW and was deeply involved in
struggles to pass civil rights legislation. "Roy Reuther and the UAW" explores his passion for increasing voter
participation and his vow to help downtrodden farmworkers.
Many of the injustices that Reuther fought continue to plague the American labor movement today. "Roy Reuther and the
UAW" provides important context for the current efforts of workers to organize, for the Black Lives Matter movement,
and for efforts to reform the filibuster rule and stop voter suppression. It shows how dedicated individuals can overcome
enormous odds to win great victories for social justice and emphasizes the potential connections between the labor and
civil rights movements, offering hope for a more just future.
Critique: A seminal and original contribution to the history of the American labor movement in general, and the life of Roy
Reuther in particular, "Roy Reuther and the UAW: Fighting for Workers and Civil Rights" is a documented and
compelling read from start to finish. Offering B/W historical photos, forty pages of Notes, and a seven page Index, "Roy
Reuther and the UAW" is an original work of impeccable scholarship and unreservedly recommended for community and
college/university library American Biography and American Labor History collections and supplemental curriculum
studies lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with
an interest in the subject that this hardcover edition of "Roy Reuther and the UAW" from the Michigan State University
Press is also available in paperback (9781611865318, $38.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $31.16, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Alan Reuther (https://www.alanreuther.com) is the son of Roy Reuther and the nephew of famed labor
leader Walter Reuther. He received a law degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1977. Following in his
father's and uncles' footsteps, Alan spent his career working for the United Auto Workers (UAW). In 1977 he began as a
lawyer in the union's legal department, litigating in federal district and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
In 1982 he transferred to the UAW's Washington office to work on legislative matters. He became legislative director in
1991 and supervised the union's activities lobbying Congress and the executive branch on health care, pensions, worker
rights, and other issues.
Prohibition's Prince: The Bizarre Life of America's Millionaire Moonshiner, second edition
Guy Graybill
Catamount Press
c/o Sunbury Press
https://www.sunburypress.com
9798888192306, $29.95, PB, 411pp
https://www.amazon.com/Prohibitions-Prince-Americas-Millionaire-Moonshiner/dp/B0DMVM4QST
Synopsis: With the publication of the expanded second edition of "Prohibition's Prince: The Bizarre Life of America's
Millionaire Moonshiner", author and historian Guy Graybill presents the entertaining story of one of America's once most
prolific moonshiners and bootleggers during the Prohibition era.
Prince David Farrington plied his trade through the early to mid 20th century. Graybill biography of this prolific
moonshiner follows Farrington from his roots in Guilford County, North Carolina to Lycoming County, Pennsylvania,
detailing the decades of illicit moonshing and bootlegging activity along the way.
Farrington amassed a large fortune. His exploits remain legendary to this day.
Biographer Guy Graybill presents the adventurous life of Prohibition's Prince through numerous legends, testimonials,
news accounts, and still locations. This volume is visually enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of 44 pages
of vintage B/W photographs and is indexed as well.
Critique: This new and significantly expanded second edition of "Prohibition's Prince: The Bizarre Life of America's
Millionaire Moonshiner" combines author Guy Graybill's first edition and Prince plus the inclusion of the Paupers into one
single volume. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Prohibition's Prince: The Bizarre Life of America's
Millionaire Moonshiner" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community and college/university library 20th
Century American Biography/Memoir collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia,
and non-specialist general readers with an interest in Prohibition Era history and biographies that this paperback edition of
"Prohibition's Prince: The Bizarre Life of America's Millionaire Moonshiner: 2nd Edition" from Catamount Press in a
digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Guy Graybill is an author and historian who graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in History.
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1589251.Guy_Graybill)
The General Fiction Shelf
Kate & Frida
Kim Fay
G. P. Putnam's Sons
c/o Penguin Group
www.penguin.com
9780593852385, $28.00, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Frida-Novel-Friendship-Books/dp/0593852389
Synopsis: Sometimes a book can change your life...
Twenty-something Frida Rodriguez arrives in Paris in 1991, relishing the city's butter-soaked cuisine and seeking her
future as a war correspondent. But then she writes to a bookshop in Seattle, and receives more than just the book she
requests. A friendship begins that will redefine the person she wants to become.
Seattle bookseller Kate Fair is transformed by Frida's free spirit, spurred to believe in herself as a writer, to kiss her
handsome coworker, and to find beauty even in loss. Through the most tumultuous years of their young lives (personally
and globally) Kate and Frida sustain and nourish each other as they learn the necessity of embracing joy, especially through
our darkest hours.
"Kate & Frieda" is a kind of love letter to bookshops and booksellers in the form of a novel, paying homage to the passions
of life in our twenties, and to the last precious years before the internet was to change everything.
Critique: A unique, fascinating, deftly crafted, thought-provoking, and emotionally engaging novel on the themes of food,
books, and the friendship of women, "Kate & Frida" by Kim Fay is a fun and memorable read from cover to cover. While
especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be
noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "Kate & Frida" from G.P. Putnam's Sons is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Kim Fay (https://www.kimfaybooks.com) is the author of "Love & Saffron" and Edgar Award-nominated
"The Map of Lost Memories". A former independent bookseller, she lived for many years in Vietnam, which was the
inspiration for "Communion: A Culinary Journey Through Vietnam".
The Historical Fiction Shelf
Yankeeland
Lacy Fewer
Koehler Books
www.koehlerbooks.com
9798888246078, $28.95, HC, 258pp
https://www.amazon.com/Yankeeland-Lacy-Fewer/dp/B0DQYC91WS
Synopsis: Fiercely independent and passionate, Brigid feels hindered by her family and the strict society of her small Irish
town in the early 1900s.
Brigid and her cousin Molly (who is more like a sister) dream of a new life in the seemingly unlimited land of opportunity
they call Yankeeland - America. Brigid gets her chance when she emigrates with her husband Ben and her brother James,
while Molly stays in Ireland.
But when Brigid's quest to have a child leads her to seek unconventional help, her mental stability is questioned. She is
soon caught up in a patriarchal medical establishment she has little power to fight.
The new life in America Brigid dreamed about takes a drastic turn. Decades later Brigid's grandniece discovers a sack full
of letters between the two cousins. She unravels the story and vows to tell the tale of what really happened to Brigid in
Yankeeland.
Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "Yankeeland" is author Lacy Fewer's debut as a novelist and was
inspired by to write her novel by her discovery of her grandaunt's letters -- which in her words, 'haunted her'. Original,
deftly crafted, emotionally engaging, and an entertaining read from cover to cover, Lacy's genuine flair for the kind of
distinctive and narrative driven storytelling style has raised her work of historical fiction to an impressive level of literary
excellence. Especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Literary & Historical Fiction collections, it
should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Yankeeland" from Koehler Books is also readily available for personal
reading lists in paperback (9798888246054, $18.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Lacy Fewer (https://lacyfewer.com) is an award winning author and a native of Dublin, Ireland. A graduate
of University College Dublin, she has enjoyed a career in banking and finance. Following her passion for storytelling, she
has shifted her focus to writing. She lives in Dublin with her husband and children.
The Western Fiction Shelf
Dark Horse
Lee Clinton
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444853193, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 276pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444853193
Synopsis: Nettie Youcheck must fight for what is rightfully hers, the large and profitable Double U cattle ranch. If she
fails, her future will be a life of servitude under the control of a vicious and vindictive father. By her side are just two allies
-- Hollis, the old, black house servant, and Rita, who runs the town brothel and knows Nettie's past. If justice prevails then
all will go well for Nettie, but since when was life like a fairy tale? Certainly not with the involvement of Albert Hopkins
from the Missouri Savings and Loans Bank who has his own malicious agenda. Just thank the Lord that Nettie can shoot
straight -- because she soon has a fight on her hands.
Critique: Original, clever, compelling, and a fun read from cover to cover, "Dark Horse" by western author Lee Clinton is a
memorable story told with a genuine flair for the kind of narrative fiction that raises this western novel to an impressive
level of literary excellence. A simply great read that will be appreciated by fans of deftly crafted stories set in the Old
West, this large print paperback edition of "Dark Horse" is a very special and unreservedly recommended addition to
personal reading lists and community library Western Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Lee Clinton aka Leigh Alver, is a hobby writer from Perth, Australia. Leigh has written and published in
other genres, but a love for the Western remains unbridled believing that it allows for universal stories to be told in a
variety of ways, which will engaging a modern reader.
(https://play.google.com/store/info/name/Lee_Clinton?id=113rbnvr9)
Last Chance in Laredo
Frank Callan
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444853148, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 228pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444853148
Synopsis: Jack Brady has seen more of the hard edge of life than most. He's worked cattle trails, ridden shotgun, and won a
reputation as a hired gun. Then, as the American-Mexican War is breaking out, he is jailed after a fight in a small Texas
town. Brady is at his lowest when a preacher arrives and reminds him that there is still a chance to redeem himself. He
determines to enlist with the fledgling Texas Rangers. This is his last chance to rub out his bad reputation - if he can
survive!
Critique: The kind of western they used to make Saturday matinee movies from, "Last Chance in Laredo" by author Frank
Callan is a simply riveting read from start to finish. Action, gunplay, and going up against the odds, the character of Jack
Brady begs to have been played by the likes of John Wayne, Gary Cooper, or Clint Eastwood. A movie in a book, this
large print paperback edition of author Frank Callan's "Last Chance in Laredo" from Linford Western Library will prove a
prized and appreciated pick for personal reading lists and community library collections.
Editorial Note: Frank Callan, aka Stephen Wade (https://stephen-wade.com), has held a long fascination with the West. He
is the author of Bad Name Drifter, The Feud at Broken Man, and Return to Blood Creek.
Return to Sundown Valley
Cole Shelton
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444853421, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 264pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444853421
Synopsis: Luke Dawson and his Navajo Indian friend Honani, both Union soldiers, have ridden home from the Civil War.
Each man yearns to return to a normal life, but after they went away to war, things changed in Sundown Valley. Instead of
a peaceful homecoming, they're met with Dallas Zimmer, who's consumed by greed and has a bunch of killers at his
disposal. He has even claimed Luke's woman. Faced with murder, corruption and injustice, Luke rides through hostile
Apache Country to confront Zimmer and his gang in a final showdown. But are the odds too great?
Critique: Packed from cover to cover with gun blazing action and unexpected plot twists, "Return to Sundown Valley" is a
western fan's delight. Deftly crafted and a compelling read from beginning to end, this large print paperback edition of
Cole Shelton's "Return to Sundown Valley" is especially recommended for personal reading lists and community library
Western Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Cole Shelton, aka Roger Norris-Green, has written 137 published westerns under 6 pen names plus 2 under
his own name. Some of his westerns have received "Best Western of the Month" awards.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Green_(author))
The Road Agent
Clyde Barker
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444853223, $25.00, PB, Large Print, $234pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444853223
Synopsis: What should have been the simple robbery of a stagecoach for outlaw Brent Clancy turns into a deadly game of
wits with a band of assassins determined to kill the President of the United States. In the course of this adventure, the
one-time road agent finds himself on the right side of the law for a novelty, fighting both to save the President's life while
at the same time avenging a personal grievance.
Critique: As a western novelist, Clyde Barker is at the top of his game with "The Road Agent". Packed with action and
adventure, "The Road Agent" is a fun read from cover to cover and this large print paperback edition from the Linford
Western Library collection will prove to be an exceptional and enduringly popular pick for personal reading lists and
community library collections alike.
Editorial Note: Clyde Barker, aka Simon Webb (https://www.simon-webb.com), is the author of more than 30 westerns,
published under both his own name and also a number of pseudonyms, including Brent Larssen, Harriet Cade, Ed Roberts,
Ethan Harker, and Fenton Sadler. In addition to westerns, he has written many nonfiction books, chiefly on the subjects of
social history and education.
The Shootout at Dogleg Crossing
P. J. Gallagher
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444855135, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 224pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444855135
Synopsis: Journalist Peter Lomass is enjoying a break from work, travelling and revisiting old haunts, when he discovers a
poem entitled 'The Shootout at Dogleg Crossing' on a newspaper clipping from twenty years earlier, pinned up in a hotel
reception area. He decides to trace the origins of the poem, and his quest takes him deep into Mexico, where he finds
himself mixed up in all sorts of skulduggery and danger.
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, entertaining, and showcasing western author P. J. Gallagher's natural flair for the kind of
distinctive and narrative driven storytelling that keeps the reader's full attention from start to finish, this large print
paperback edition of "The Shootout at Dogleg Crossing" will prove a welcome pick for the personal reading of western
fans, as well as community library Western Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: P.J. Gallagher is the author of such western novels as: "The Pinfire Lady", "The Return of the Pinfire
Lady", "Pinfire Lady Strikes Back", "Race Against Time"; "Escape from Casa Grande", "The Cross of Santiago", and
"Remington's Gold'. A complete listing of his westerns is available at
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19725756.P_J_Gallagher
Fury of the .44
Adam Brady
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444855128, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 216pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444855128
Synopsis: It was drought country. The land was little more than dust, the cattle slowly but surely dying on the hoof. For
most of the ranchers in those parts, it had been a year-long disaster. But for local businessman Harp McPhee, it was a
situation he aimed to exploit for all it was worth.
Knowing the drought couldn't last forever, McPhee aimed to buy the land and the stock at rock-bottom prices, and he
brought in a bunch of hired gunnies to back him against any opposition.
The situation seemed hopeless. And yet banker Finch Rogan had an idea that his old friend, Buck Halliday, might be able
to challenge McPhee and his army of gunslingers. Halliday didn't want trouble. But the settling of trouble was how he
made his living. So he tied down his .44 and came to deliver salvation to a town called Redemption.
Critique: A classic 'against the odds' western hero going up against the bad guys seeking to end him, "Fury of the .44" by
western novelist Adam Brady fully lives up to the promise of its title. Action-packed from cover to cover, a fun read from
start to finish, the stuff of which western movies are made, this large print paperback edition of "Fury of the .44" from the
Linford Western Library series is a memorable and unreservedly recommended pick for community library and personal
reading lists alike!
Editorial Note: Adam Brady is also the author of the western novels "So Who's Arguin'", "Halliday", and "Only the
Fastest".
Hell in Paradise
Pete B. Jenkins
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444855142, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 240pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444855142
Synopsis: Ex-sheriff Jed Grayson is on his way to Wyoming when he stops at the township of Paradise to rest few days. At
the Golden Nugget Saloon he has an altercation with Zach Bassett, the son of the wealthiest rancher in the territory.
Beating Zach to the draw, he humiliates the youngster in front of the saloon's patrons. Zach gets even. Enlisting the help of
friends, he beats Jed to within an inch of his life.
Recovering from his injuries, Jed vows to repay Zach for his crime, earning the enmity of the boy's father, who is waging a
private war against the Thornton family who own the second biggest ranch in Paradise. Events escalate as, forced by
circumstances to throw his lot in with the Thornton family, Jed finds himself the target of a hired killer and has to fight to
save his life.
Critique: An original and riveting read for all dedicated gunplay western fans who appreciated unexpected plot twists and a
showdown finale, "Hell in Paradise" continues to showcase author Pete B. Jenkins' undeniably talent for the kind of
storytelling that has made him an enduringly popular western novelist. This large print paperback edition of "Hell in
Paradise" from the Linford Western Library folk is an extraordinary and highly recommended pick for both the personal
reading lists of western action-adventure fans and community library Western Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Peter B. Jenkins is the author of "The Man With No Past", "Warrior of the Storm", and "The Forsaken
Man".
Robbers Roost
Steven Gray
Linford Western Library
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444855111, $25.00, PB, Large Print, 240pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444855111
Synopsis: Gustavus Greeley is a bounty hunter, not a private detective. Nevertheless, he reluctantly accepts an assignment
to travel to Elk Horn and discover whether or not Robin Warner, the town's ex-sheriff, is guilty of being a member of the
gang of stagecoach robbers plaguing the area.
On the way he sees for himself the way the gang operate when the stagecoach he is on is held up and he and the other
passengers are robbed and threatened.
Is the new sheriff, Casey Smart, who defeated Warner in the last elections, involved? He certainly objects to Greeley's
presence. And what about the investment scheme to bring a spur line of the railroad to town? Does that have anything to
do with what is going on?
Greeley must use his wits and his guns to find out the truth and bring those responsible to justice.
Critique: Action, adventure, gunplay, mystery solving, unexpected plot twists, "Robbers Roost" by Steven Gray has
everything a western novel fan could hope for. A fun and fascinating read from cover to cover, this large print paperback
edition of "Robbers Roost" from the Linford Western Library is an extraordinary and recommended pick for personal
reading lists and community library Western Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Steven Gray, a writer of westerns, is also the author of "Fight at Felicidad", "Flight at Felicidad",
"Bloodshed at the Broken Spur", "Stopover at Sweetwater", "Incident at Black Horn", "The Incident at Wheeler's Canyon",
"Stagecoach to Serenity", "The Shadow of the Gallows", and "The Payroll Ambush".
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The D.A. Calls It Murder
Erle Stanley Gardner
American Mystery Classics
c/o Penzler Publishers
https://penzlerpublishers.com
9781613166635, $15.95, PB, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/D-Calls-Murder/dp/161316663X
Synopsis: In a small town north of Los Angeles, Doug Selby claims narrow victory in a hotly-contested race for District
Attorney. Then his troubles begin: First, when the local paper, supportive of the incumbent, immediately launches an effort
to get Selby recalled. And then there's the murdered man that turns up in the very hotel that housed Selby's campaign
headquarters. If he can quickly solve the case, Selby will prove that he deserves his new position; if not, he risks providing
more fodder to his enemies at The Blade.
What follows is a fast-paced and twisty investigation involving a famous actress, a stolen identity, and plenty of red
herrings as Selby, the sheriff, and a sympathetic journalist endeavor to determine whodunit. This clever Golden Age
page-turner features the same legal acumen that fans expect from the author of the Perry Mason series and Erle Stanley
Gardner's signature snappy dialogue and quick plotting, as well.
Originally published in 1937 and reissued for the first time in over thirty years, "The D.A. Calls It Murder" is a classic
legal mystery. Doug Selby went on to star in eight more celebrated novels by Erle Stanley Gardner.
Critique: Another 'time lost treasure' for the mystery buff, this new paperback edition of "The D.A. Calls It Murder" from
the pen of an iconic Erle Stanley Gardner is an unreservedly recommended pick for personal reading lists and community
library Mystery/Suspense collections. From the creator of the Perry Mason novels, "The D.A. Calls It Murder" is a riveting
read with expertly inserted and unexpected plot twists. A fun read from cover to cover, "The D.A. Calls It Murder" well
deserves its status as a "Classic" of a murder mystery.
Editorial Note: Erle Stanley Gardner (July 17, 1889 - March 11, 1970) was the best-selling American author of the 20th
century, mainly due to the enormous success of his Perry Mason series, which numbered more than 80 novels and inspired
a half-dozen motion pictures, radio programs, and a long-running television series that starred Raymond Burr. Having
begun his career as a pulp writer, Gardner brought a hard-boiled style and sensibility to the early Mason books, but
gradually developed into a more classic detective story novelist, showing enough clues to allow the astute reader to solve
the mystery. For more than a quarter of a century he wrote more than a million words a year under his own name and
numerous pseudonyms, the most famous being A.A. Fair. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erle_Stanley_Gardner)
The Mystery of the Cape Cod Tavern
Phoebe Atwood Taylor, author
Otto Penzler, introduction
American Mystery Classics
c/o Penzler Publishers
https://penzlerpublishers.com
9781613166598, $25.95, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Mystery-Cape-Cod-Tavern/dp/1613166591
Synopsis: In a small Cape Cod town, a local tavern owner is convinced that someone is trying to kill her. She tells tales of
being shot at in the woods and of a trip wire strung up at the top of her staircase. Others in the village think she's just out
for some free publicity, as she's always cooking up creative ways to get people into her establishment. But when she is
found stabbed to death her suspicions are confirmed!
Man about town and jack of all trades Asey Mayo is helping out at the tavern when the murder occurs, and he's just the
sleuth that such a dastardly case needs. It seems that Eve Prence had no shortage of enemies both at the inn and around the
town. Asey Mayo knows people (especially Cape Codders) and has both the common sense and the deductive powers
necessary to cut through the puzzling case and determine whodunit. But will he succeed before an innocent person takes
the fall?
Critique: Informatively enhanced for the reader's benefit with an introduction by Ottot Penzler, "The Mystery of the Cape
Cod Tavern" by Phoebe Atwood Taylor (18 May 1909 - 9 January 1976) is a light and entertaining mystery that takes place
within a richly described 1930s Cape Cod setting. A Golden Age era cozy mystery, "The Mystery of the Cape Cod Tavern"
is replete with charming characters, period detail, and unexpected plot twists leading to a thoroughly reader engaging
finale! While a highly recommended pick for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists of 'whodunnit' cozy mystery fans that this hardcover edition of "The Mystery of the Cape Cod
Tavern" from American Mystery Classics is also readily available in paperback (9781613166604, $15.95) and in a digital
book format (Kindle, $15.95).
Editorial Note #1: Phoebe Atwood Taylor was one of the most beloved and most successful mystery authors of the 1930s
and 1940s, writing under her own name and two pseudonyms, Freeman Dana and Alice Tilton. The Asey Mayo character,
first introduced in The Cape Cod Mystery, went on to star in 24 novels in a series informed by the author's family history
in Cape Cod. (https://www.bookseriesinorder.com/phoebe-atwood-taylor)
Editorial Note #2: Otto Penzler (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otto_Penzler), is the creator of American Mystery Classics,
and the founder of The Mysterious Press (1975); an electronic-book publishing company -- MysteriousPress.com (2011);
and New York City's Mysterious Bookshop (1979). He has won a Raven, the Ellery Queen Award, two Edgars (for the
Encyclopedia of Mystery and Detection, 1977, and The Lineup, 2010), and lifetime achievement awards from NoirCon and
The Strand Magazine. He has edited more than 70 anthologies and written extensively about mystery fiction.
The Case of the Christie Conspiracy
Kelly Oliver
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781836175452, $42.00, PB, Large Print, 368pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781836175452
Synopsis: England 1926 - Agatha Christie is a darling of the literary circuit and the most desired guest in London's
glittering social scene. She can often be found at meetings of the Detection Club, a place where mystery writers come
together to share ideas, swap secrets and drink copiously.
But then a fellow author's initiation ceremony takes a gruesome turn, and one of the group ends up dead. Now, Agatha is
no longer just the creator of great mystery plots -- she is now a player in one.
And when Agatha disappears the day after the murder, she's widely assumed to be guilty. Only Eliza Baker, assistant to the
Club's enigmatic secretary, Dorothy Sayers, is interested in investigating the case.
But in a world where murder is the ultimate plot device, can Eliza piece together the evidence and find the killer before it's
too late?
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, compelling, fascinating, and a simply fun and riveting read for any and all cozy mystery
fans from start to finish, this large print, trade paperback edition of Kelly Oliver's novel, "The Case of the Christy
Conspiracy" is exceptional, phenomenal, memorable, and unreservedly recommended addition to community library
Mystery/Suspense collections and a 'must' for the personal reading lists of Agatha Christie fans and cozy mystery
buffs.
Editorial Note: Kelly Oliver (https://kellyoliverbooks.com) is the author of four award-winning mystery series and dozens
of nonfiction books. Kelly is also Emerita Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University. Kelly's
nonfiction work includes over 100 articles and over twenty books, including Hunting Girls: Sexual Violence from The
Hunger Games to Campus Rape (which won a CHOICE AWARD for Outstanding Title).
The Dog Sitter Detective Plays Dead
Antony Johnson
Allison & Busby
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781444854725, $42.00, PB, Large Print, 294pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781444854725
Synopsis: Gwinny Tuffel is on location in the misty Yorkshire Dales filming a small part in Draculania, a genderswapped
remake of Bram Stoker's classic tale, when life begins to imitate art a little too closely. One of the cast members is found
dead inside a locked trailer, with a stake through their heart.
With a prima donna in the starring role, filming is already facing delays, while Gwinny is being run ragged by Lily, the
Jack Russell terrier she's looking after for a friend in hospital. Against the backdrop of Hendale Hall with its own vampire
legend, a flesh-and-blood killer has struck. Will Gwinny be able to find the murderer before the production or any further
victims are cut?
Critique: A part of author Antony Johnson's 'Dog Sitter Detective' series of cozy mysteries, this large print trade paperback
edition of "The Dog Sitter Detective Plays Dead" from Alison & Busby is a fun read from first page to last. A classic cozy
animal mystery featuring an amateur female sleuth caught up in having to solve a cleverly crafted 'whodunnit' murder
before another tragedy strikes, "The Dog Sitter Detective Plays Dead" is an extraordinary, entertaining, and recommended
pick for the personal reading lists of dedicated cozy mystery fans and an enduringly welcome addition to community
library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Antony Johnston (https://www.antonyjohnston.com) is the author of books, video games, and graphic
novels -- including collaborations with Anthony Horowitz and Alan Moore. He wrote the New York Times bestseller
Daredevil Season One for Marvel Comics and is the creator of Atomic Blonde which grossed over $100 million at the box
office. The first book featuring Gwinny Tuffel, The Dog Sitter Detective, was also the winner of the Barker Fiction
Award.
One Dark Summer
Saskia Sarginson
Boldwood Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781836030188, $42.00, PB, Large Print, 499pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781836030188
Synopsis: With trembling hands, Meg knocks on the door of the large manor house. Behind her, the view down to the river
is spectacular. She's here to be the nanny to two young children.
It's not the job Meg is anxious about, though. It's the house itself that scares her, and the secrets lurking inside. Not only
that, but will her new employer recognise her?
The door opens. A beautiful, smiling woman greets her and ushers her inside.
As she walks in, Meg realizes the house is exactly as she remembers. Her employer hasn't changed much, either, unlike
Meg. The last time they met was fifteen years ago, when Meg was a child.
Because this is where Meg lived the summer her mother went missing. The summer her life changed. The summer Meg
believes she killed a man.
Now she's back, in disguise as Margaret the nanny, and determined to find out what really happened. But some secrets are
best left buried. Because someone knows exactly who Meg is, and they will do whatever it takes to keep her quiet!
Critique: A brilliantly written psychological thriller of a mystery novel by Saskia Sarginson, "One Dark Summer" is an
impressively fascinating, riveting, and compelling read from cover to cover. This large print paperback edition of "One
Dark Summer" from Boldwood Books is an extraordinary and memorable read -- one of those novels that will linger in the
mind and memory of the reader long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. Highly recommended for
personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted that "One Dark Summer" is
also available from Boldwood Books in a complete and unabridged audio book a CD format (9781836030119, $107.95)
and an MP3-CD audio book format (9781836030126, $107.95).
Editorial Note: Saskia Sarginson (https://www.saskiasarginson.co.uk) is also the author of: Without You, The Other Me,
The Stranger, How It Ends, The Bench, The Central Line, Seven Months of Summer and Identical. Her novels have been
translated into 15 languages.
Death Of A Foreign Gentleman
Steven Carroll
Isis LP
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print, Inc.
www.ulverscroft.com
9781399170338, $42.00, PB, Large Print, 246pp
https://www.ulverscroft.com/store/us/search/9781399170338
Synopsis: Cambridge, UK, 1947. Martin Friedrich, a German philosopher, is cycling through an intersection on his way to
give a lecture when a speeding car strikes and kills him. Shortly afterwards, Detective Sergeant Stephen Minter, an
Austrian-born cockney Jew, whose parents were interned during the war as enemy aliens, stands over the body of
Friedrich, contemplating the age-old question -- who did it?
Friedrich might be one of the finest minds of his age, but he's problematic: arrogant and a womaniser, he was also, in the
1930s, a member of the Nazi Party. As Stephen is soon to discover, there is no shortage of suspects. Friedrich was hated by
almost everybody, even those who loved him. Is there any sense to his death or was it just a case of rotten, random luck?
Has the universe spoken? Or are there more sinister factors at work?
Critique: Steven Carroll is one of Australia's finest, most critically acclaimed writers. His novel, "Death of a Foreign
Gentleman" is a deftly crafted and impressively literary 'whodunnit' crime novel in a story that also examines the question
of how to live a meaningful life in a seemingly indifferent, apparently random, post-Holocaust world. An entertaining,
emotionally engaging, reader riveting novel of mystery, murder, and suspense, the large print paperback edition of "Death
of a Foreign Gentleman" from Isis LP is an extraordinary read from start to finish and especially recommended for both
personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collection. It should be noted for librarians that "Death of a
Foreign Gentleman" is also available as a complete and unabridged audio book (9781399176460, $90.95, CD /
9781399176477, $90.95, MP3-CD).
Editorial Note: Steven Carroll (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Carroll) is an Australian novelist and drama critic, He
is the author of "The Art of the Engine Driver" (2001) and is now a full-time writer living in Melbourne. As of 2019, he
also writes the non-fiction book review column for the Sydney Morning Herald.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Another Fine Mess
Lindy Ryan
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250324238, $28.00, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Another-Fine-Mess-Novel-Bless/dp/1250324238
Synopsis: For over a hundred years, the Evans women have kept the undead in their strange southeast Texas town from
rising. But sometimes the dead rise too quick -- and that's what left Lenore Evans, and her granddaughter Luna, burying
Luna's mother, Grace, and Lenore's mother, Ducey. Now the only two women left in the Evans family, Luna and Lenore
are left rudderless in the wake of the most Godawful Mess to date.
But when the full moon finds another victim, it's clear their trouble is far from over. Now Lenore, Luna, and the new
sheriff (their biggest ally) must dig deep down into family lore to uncover what threatens everything they love most. The
body count ticks up, and the most unexpected dead will rise -- forcing Lenore and Luna to face the possibility that the
undead aren't the only monsters preying on their small town!
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, a fun and fascinating read from cover to cover, "Another Fine Mess" by author Lindy
Ryan will hold a very special attraction for readers with an interest in vampires. With a distinctive and narrative driven
storytelling style that raises her novel to an impressive level of literary excellence, Lindy Ryan adds an impressive addition
to the every expanding Vampire Cannon. While highly recommended as a popular pick for community library
Contemporary Fantasy/Horror collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of
"Another Fine Mess" from Minotaur Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Lindy Ryan (https://www.lindyryanwrites.com) is an award-winning author, anthologist, and short-film
director whose books and anthologies have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist and Library
Journal. She is also a professor at Rutgers University.
The Money/Finance Shelf
Principles of Finance
Zvi Bodie, Robert C. Merton, & Richard T. Thakor, authors
Cambridge University Press
www.cambridge.org
9781108833813. $200.00, HC, 766pp
https://www.amazon.com/Principles-Finance-Zvi-Bodie/dp/1108833810
Synopsis: Written and published specifically for the MBA or undergraduate's first course in finance (as well as follow-on
courses), and co-authored by the team of Professors Zvi Bodie, Robert C. Merton, and Richard T. Thakor, "Principles of
Finance" is a comprehensive textbook that provides a clear, accessible, and thorough explanation of the principles of
finance; how they connect to real-world practice and how they are used to solve problems.
Structured around ten unifying principles representing the core tenets of the science, "Principles of Finance" imparts basic
financial concepts irrespective of the institutional framework, ensuring that students learn about finance in a way that is
applicable both now and into the future.
Pedagogical features include learning objectives and major takeaways, applications in the world of business, numerous
worked examples, key equation boxes highlighting the most important financial equations, quick check questions with
solutions, key finance terms with a detailed glossary, and more than 380 homework problems.
It should be noted that the online resources featured in "Principles of Finance" include a solutions manual, detailed
instructor manual to adapt the textbook to a formal course curriculum, lecture slides, and an 800 question test bank for
instructors.
Critique: This large format (9.94 x 1.39 x 8.62 inches, 4.37 pounds) hardcover edition of "Principles of Finance" from the
Cambridge University Press is comprehensive, exceptionally well organized, and an ideal informational resource for
students in both presentation and structure. While especially and unreservedly recommended for professional and
college/university library Finance/Economics collections and curriculum studies lists, "Principles of Finance" is also
readily available for students and academia in paperback (9781108987165, $74.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$69.17, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Zvi Bodie (https://zvibodie.com) is Professor Emeritus at Boston University where he was the Norman
and Adele Barron Professor of Management. He has served on the finance faculty at the Harvard Business School (1992-
94) and MIT Sloan School of Management (2008-9). Among his many published books and textbooks is the best-selling
Investments textbook with Alex Kane and Alan Marcus.
Editorial Note #2: Robert C. Merton (https://robertcmerton.com) is the School of Management Distinguished Professor of
Finance at the MIT Sloan School of Management and John and Natty McArthur University Professor Emeritus at Harvard
University. Merton received the Alfred Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1997 for a new method to
determine the value of derivatives.
Editorial Note #3: Richard T. Thakor (https://www.richardthakor.com) is Associate Professor of Finance at the University
of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management. He is a research affiliate at the MIT Laboratory for Financial Engineering
(LFE) and at the WFA Center for Finance and Accounting Research (WFA-CFAR) at Washington University in St. Louis.
He has published numerous academic articles in top economics, management, and finance journals, and has won multiple
teaching awards.
The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
A Green and Pagan Land
David Huckvale
McFarland & Company
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476670508, $29.95, PB, 227pp
https://www.amazon.com/Green-Pagan-Land-Landscape-Television/dp/1476670501
Synopsis: British literature often refers to pagan and classical themes through richly detailed landscapes that suggest more
than a mere backdrop of physical features.
The myth-inspired writings of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Algernon Blackwood, Aleister Crowley, Lord Dunsany and even
Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows informed later British films and television dramas such as The Owl Service
(1969-70), Blood on Satan's Claw (1971), The Wicker Man (1973), Excalibur (1981) and Monty Python and the Holy
Grail (1975).
With the publication of "A Green and Pagan Land: Myth, Magic and Landscape in British Film and Television", author
David Huck analyzes the evocative language and esthetics of landscapes in literature, film, television and music, and how
"psycho-geography" is used to explore the influence of the past on the present.
Critique: A seminal and groundbreaking study, David Huckvale's "A Green and Pagan Land: Myth, Magic and Landscape
in British Film and Television" will be of immense interest to film buffs. Enhanced for the reader's benefit with the
inclusion of a four page Bibliography, ten pages of Chapter Notes, and eight page Index. Exceptionally well written,
organized and presented, "A Green and Pagan Land: Myth, Magic and Landscape in British Film and Television" is a
unique and recommended addition to community and college/university library Cinematic History/Criticism collections
and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of film students, academia, and
non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that this paperback edition of "A Green and Pagan Land:
Myth, Magic and Landscape in British Film and Television" is also available from McFarland & Company in a digital
book format (Kindle, $19.99).
Editorial Note: David Huckvale has worked as a researcher, writer and presenter for BBC Radio and as a lecturer for
various universities in England. He lives in rural Bedfordshire, England.
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/127355.David_Huckvale)
The Mythology Shelf
Goddess and Grail: The Battle for King Arthur's Promised Land
Jeffrey John Dixon
McFarland & Company
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476668666, $19.99, PB, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Goddess-Grail-Battle-Arthurs-Promised/dp/1476668663
Synopsis: The early chroniclers of Britain presented the island as the promised land of the Roman goddess Diana. Later,
when the story of Arthur was transformed by Christian mythology, a new literary concept of the island was promoted: the
promised land of the Holy Grail.
As the feminine enchantment of the Goddess gave way to the masculine crusade of the Grail Quest, the other-world realms
of the fays or fairy women were denigrated in favor of the heavenly afterlife.
The dualism of the medieval authors was challenged by modern writers such as Blake and Tolkien, as well as by the
scholars of the Eranos conferences. With the publication of "Goddess and Grail: The Battle for King Arthur's Promised
Land", author Jeffrey John Dixon explores the conflict between Goddess and Grail (a rift less about paganism versus
Christianity than about religious literalism versus spiritual imagination) which is resolved in the figure of Sophia (Divine
Wisdom).
Critique: A seminal and groundbreaking Arthurian study that will hold an immense and thoughtful value for readers with
an interest in historical British folklore and mythology, "Goddess and Grail: The Battle for King Arthur's Promised Land"
by Jeffrey John Dixon is informative enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of an Introduction (The Other
World of the Gods), a Prologue (From Eden to Albion), and Epilogue (From Albion to Avalon), and Appendix (Tolkien's
Lonely Isle), eight pages of Chapter Notes, a six page Bibliography, and an eight page Index. An inherently fascinating,
thoughtful and thought-provoking read from start to finish, "Goddess and Grail: The Battle for King Arthur's Promised
Land" is a welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university
library collections. It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the
subject that this paperback edition of "Goddess and Grail: The Battle for King Arthur's Promised Land" from McFarland &
Company is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Jeffrey John Dixon, after studying English literature at Sussex University, travelled widely and now lives
and writes in Powys, United Kingdom. An interview and a listing of his books are available
(www.goodreads.com/author/show/5865987.Jeffrey_John_Dixon)
The Architecture Shelf
Episodes in Public Architecture
Andrew Frontini, author
Ned Cramer, editor
ORO Editions
https://oroeditions.com
9781961856417, $60.00, 448pp
https://www.amazon.com/Episodes-Public-Architecture-Andrew-Frontini/dp/1961856417
Synopsis: With the publication of "Episodes in Public Architecture", Andrew Frontini provides eleven narrative insertions
which are bound into the body of the monograph providing a parallel reading experience -- one that gets in behind the
polished architectural photography and curated drawings to reveal the poignant, often absurd and occasionally painful
lessons that accompanied the gestation of each architectural project cited.
Every building has a story to tell and, in sum, these stories map the road an architect's career can take. Populated with
cunning contractors, inspiring design legends (such as the late Cornelia Oberlander), intractable bureaucrats, obstinate
senior partners, mentors, students, rivals and collaborators of every stripe, Frontini's road navigates technological
revolutions, precipitous economies and societal threats that challenge the very notion of what architecture needs to be.
With candor, humor and a design philosophy that is fundamentally open to suggestion, Frontini converts his personal
experience into a set of universal reflections that are sure to inform, inspire and console architects (and the architecturally
curious) at any stage in their journey.
Critique: This hefty format (7.7 x 1.5 x 10.1 inches, 3.3 pounds) hardcover edition of "Episodes in Public Architecture"
from ORO Editions is a unique and eloquent contribution to architectural drafting, presentation, and criticism by Andrew
Frontini. Deftly edited by Ned Cramer, and will an informative Introduction by Ian Chodikoff, "Episodes in Public
Architecture" is informatively enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of a listing of Built Projects, and the
contributors and their credentials. Profusely illustrated and a seminal, groundbreaking study of meticulous scholarship,
"Episodes in Public Architecture" is a unique, especially, unreservedly recommended acquisition for personal,
professional, and college/university library Architecture collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Andrew Frontini is an award-winning architect who, over thirty years, has built a highly collaborative
studio culture and a singular vision of public architecture imbued with poetry, humor and theatre. Andrew serves as the
design director of Perkins&Will's Toronto and Ottawa studios.
The Music Shelf
The YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians
Carter Fox
https://www.carterfoxconsulting.com
Independently Published
9798334496279, $6.00, PB, 42pp
https://www.amazon.com/YouTube-Rockstar-Musicians-Business-Bassics/dp/B0DBZBDFB1
Synopsis: Here's something they don't teach you in music class -- being a musician, being part of a band, is a business. And
businesses require effective promotion, publicity, and advertising if they are to succeed against all their competition.
With the publication of "The YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians", Carter Fox has created a
comprehensive instruction guide and 'how-to' manual that teaches you everything you need to know to hit the right notes as
a musician with your YouTube and Google Ads!
Finding success on social media and digital platforms is a great way for independent artists to find new fans and build a
career. If you've been feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out how to create compelling ads, target the right audience,
optimize your ad performance, and engage potential fans, then "The YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians"
is the essential guide for you!
In "The YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians", musician and marketer Carter Fox breaks it down into
understandable language and actions as part of his Music Business Bassics learning series and covers:
Mastering the YouTube/Google Ads Algorithm: Learn how to optimize your ads to ensure your music reaches more fans
and gets discovered by a wider audience.
Targeting the Right Audience: Discover how to identify and engage your ideal audience for maximum impact, using
advanced targeting features.
YouTube Channel Optimization: Ensure your channel is attractive to potential followers and keeps current fans engaged
with effective branding and content strategies.
Creating a 30-Day Ad Campaign Planner: Eliminate the guesswork with this musician-focused campaign calendar that
helps you plan and execute your ads consistently.
Additionally, as part of the guide, you will receive musician-centric hooks and a visual guide to help you create engaging,
authentic content!
If you're ready to stop stressing about ad creation, audience targeting, and engaging hooks, and want to ensure you're
hitting all the right notes on YouTube and Google, is the ideal guide for beginners in the music business!
Critique: Succinct, comprehensive, thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, this trade paperback (6 x 0.1
x 9 inches, 4 ounces) booklet edition of "The YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians" is especially and
unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, highschool, and college/university library Music
Business instructional reference collections. It should be noted aspiring and practicing musicians that "The
YouTube/Google Ads Rockstar Guide for Musicians" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$3.00).
Editorial Note: Carter Fox is a multifaceted talent, earning acclaim as an award-winning musician, songwriter, producer,
and entrepreneur. From touring across the globe playing bass with R&B artist Freddie Jackson to crafting his own music
that has amassed millions of streams, His musical and marketing collaborations range from indie sensations to revered
icons across all facets of the music industry, from legendary icons Freddie Jackson and Leon Huff to independent music
publishing powerhouse Reservoir Media Management, Universal Music Group, and CD manufacturer Disc Makers.
Through his expertise in marketing, social media strategy, brand development, and beyond, Carter has left an indelible
mark on the music landscape. He is also the author of "Music Business Bassics: How to Effectively Release & Promote
Your Music".
The Business Shelf
Our Robotics Future
Elad Inbar
Independently Published
https://www.robotlab.com
9798344586663, $27.99, PB, 251pp
https://www.amazon.com/Our-Robotics-Future-transformative-automation/dp/B0DL8LZK2V
Synopsis: In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, robots are no longer a fixture of science fiction but a
tangible reality that, combined with the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe.
With the publication of "Our Robotics Future: The ultimate guide to the transformative power of automation, robotics and
AI", Elad Inbar (CEO of RobotLAB and a visionary in the field of robotics, invites business owners and decision-makers)
deftly explores the transformative power of automation in any enterprises.
"Our Robotics Future" serves as an essential introduction and guide for anyone considering the integration of robotics into
their operations. Elad demystifies the current robotics market, offering clear insights into the latest technologies and
emerging trends that are set to revolutionize the way we work. Whether you're looking to enhance efficiency, address labor
shortages, or stay ahead of the competition, "Our Robotics Future" provides the knowledge you need to make informed
decisions.
Critique: Comprised of comprehensive overviews of available robotic solutions tailored to various industries, forward
looking perspectives on what the future holds for robotics and artificial intelligence, providing practical evaluation tools to
assess products and partners thereby ensuring successful implementation, and offering strategic advice on overcoming
common challenges and maximizing the benefits of automation, "Our Robotics Future: The ultimate guide to the
transformative power of automation, robotics and AI" by Elad Inbar is exceptionally well written, impressively 'reader
friendly' in organization and presentation, and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community,
corporate, and college/university library Business/AI/Robotics collections and supplemental MBA curriculum studies lists.
It should be noted for MBA students, academia, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and non-specialist general readers
with an interest in the subject that this hardcover edition of "Our Robotics Future" is also available in paperback
(9798344588759, $17.99)
Editorial Note: Elad Inbar leverages his leadership at RobotLAB, the only franchise network for robots, which services
thousands of customers nationwide. This unique position allows him to provide unparalleled insights and real-world
examples of successful robotics implementations across diverse sectors. RobotLAB's extensive network ensures that
readers gain access to a wealth of resources and support, making the transition to automated solutions smoother and more
effective. (https://www.robotlab.com/about-us)
The Art Shelf
Revisions: Francis Bacon in the Act of Painting
Martin Harrison and Sophie Pretorius, authors
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500966280, $65.00, HC, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Revisions-Francis-Bacon-Act-Painting/dp/0500966281
Synopsis: The manner in which the paintings of Francis Bacon evolved was misunderstood during his lifetime. Since he
always painted alone in his studios, there were no witnesses to the emergence of his visceral imagery. His insistence on
privacy helped generate considerable speculation about his painting process -- most of it erroneous.
Bacon did make one clear statement about the genesis of his paintings: "I sketch out very roughly on the canvas with a
brush, just a vague outline of something, and then I go to work..." Yet this fundamentally accurate summation of his
technique ran counter to the received wisdom and was misunderstood or ignored.
With the publication of "Revisions: Francis Bacon in the Act of Painting", Martin Harrison's introductory essay begins by
demonstrating exactly what Bacon meant, and what he did: it will show what "rough sketching' signified. It also deploys
X-ray and infrared images that reveal under-drawing, and analyzes other features that elucidate Bacon's methodology.
Photographs of paintings briefly arrested at intermediate points before completion (taken by the few visitors to the studio
allowed the privilege) help to explain later stages in painting process.
"Revisions: Francis Bacon in the Act of Painting" also features Sophie Pretorius's survey that deftly incorporates every one
of the images that have hitherto remained unseen, illustrating the transitional states of all the paintings recorded in
photographs, arranged thematically.
A reference section includes thumbnail images of all the paintings discussed here, arranged in chronological order. This is
consistent with the layout of Francis Bacon: Catalogue Raisonne (2016), to which this volume may be regarded as a
supplement, publishing significant new information.
Critique: Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of 200 color illustrations, this large format (10 x 0.9 x 12.5 inches, 2.2
pounds) hardcover edition of "Revisions: Francis Bacon in the Act of Painting" from Thames & Hudson is a ground-
breaking monograph that must be considered essential reading for anyone having an interest in the paintings of Francis
Bacon (22 January 1561 - 9 April 1626). Impressively informative and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and
presentation, "Revisions: Francis Bacon in the Act of Painting" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal,
professional, community, and college/university library 17th & 18th Century European Art History collections and
supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note #1: Martin Harrison is one of the foremost scholars of Francis Bacon, and the editor of Francis Bacon:
Catalogue Raisonne.
Editorial Note #2: Sophie Pretorius is archivist of The Estate of Francis Bacon collection, and has transcribed all Bacon's
surviving medical records.
Moroccan Modernism
Holiday Powers
Ohio University Press
www.ohioswallow.com
9780821425794, $99.95, HC, 392pp
https://www.amazon.com/Moroccan-Modernism-New-African-Histories/dp/082142579X
Synopsis: In the years after Morocco gained its independence, new art forms and practices flourished at the Casablanca
Ecole des Beaux-Arts, transforming the colonial relic into a zeitgeist of Moroccan modernism.
Casablanca School artists, including Farid Belkahia, Mohammed Chebaa, and Mohammed Melehi, defined the modernist
movement in Morocco through their radical anticolonial pedagogy and their use of abstraction as a means of expanding the
horizons of postcolonial national culture.
Best known for their iconic outdoor exhibition in the large public plaza, Djemaa al Fna, in Marrakech, and for their collaborations with the cultural and political journal Souffles, the Casablanca School artists
shaped the Moroccan experience of modernism through their visual arts activism.
With the publication of "Moroccan Modernism", Professor Holiday Powers argues that the pedagogy and transnational
solidarities of this generation of artists were intrinsic to their broader artistic projects. Professor Powers also advances a
novel reading of Moroccan modernism that is rooted in its cosmopolitan national context and in the transnational
anticolonial, pan-African, and pan-Arab intellectual movements that defined the era.
Critique: A seminal, fascinating, informative, and groundbreaking study that is especially and unreservedly recommended
for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Modern Art as well as Moroccan Cultural History
collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, "Moroccan Modernism" is part of the Ohio University Press 'New
African Histories' series. Featuring illustrations, an informative Introduction, a Conclusion (The Lasting Impacts of
Moroccan Modernism Today), thirty-eight pages of Notes, a twelve page Bibliography, and a ten page Index, this
hardcover edition of "Moroccan Modernism" is also readily available to students, academia, and non-specialist general
readers with an interest in the subject in paperback (9780821425800, $36.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $35.10,
Amazon).
Editorial Note: Holiday Powers (https://post.moma.org/author/holiday-powers) is an assistant professor of art history at
VCUarts Qatar. Her work has appeared in Nka: Journal of Contemporary African Art, the Journal of North African
Studies, and in numerous book chapters.
Street Beauty
Hannah Judah, photographer
ATMA, curator/designer
ORO Editions
https://oroeditions.com
9781961856479, $60.00, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Street-Beauty-Hannah-Judah/dp/1961856476
Synopsis: Street art is visual art created in public locations for public visibility. It is also associated with the terms
"independent art", "post-graffiti", "neo-graffiti" and guerrilla art.
Playfully designed and curated by ATMA, "Street Beauty" by Hannah Judah unlocks the wonder and beauty of large scale
murals from hundreds of the world's most recognized street artists today.
Judah's unique photographic aesthetic enhances the brilliance of the artists and fully captures the impact of their works
with her own brand of creative genius: her singular vision elevating street art photography as we once knew it.
"Street Beauty" adeptly showcases extraordinary works of public art to their fullest advantage: the imagination from the
artists amplified by the mighty force of Judah's creative captures.
Critique: This large format (8.6 x 1.3 x 12 inches, 4.15 pounds) hardcover edition of Hannah Judah's "Street Beauty" from
ORO Editions is a seminal and ground-breaking study that is original, unique, stunningly illustrated, and an especially and
unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university library Street Art and
Modern Art collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Hannah Judah (https://www.hannahjudah.com) is celebrated for not only documenting street art but placing
the works in context and infusing the whole theme with drama and life. Hannah Judah is the official photographer for a
wide variety of international street art festivals and is a long standing contributor to Street Art United States. Her photos
have been published in books for some of the most prominent street artists today.
The Philosophy Shelf
Mind, Matter and Life
Massimiliano Sorrentino and Daniela Panighetti, authors
Essentia Books
c/o Collective Ink Books
https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com
9781803416137, $19.95, PB, 216pp
https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Matter-Life-Mind-Matter-Neo-Darwinian/dp/1803416130
Synopsis: With the publication of "Mind, Matter and Life: The Mind-Matter Problem within the Neo-Darwinian
Materialist Conception of Nature", co-authors Massimiliano Sorrentino and Daniela Panighetti collaborate to show that the
mind-body problem concerns not only the relationship between mind and brain but also our current conception of the very
phenomenon of life.
This is a problem that concerns our conception of nature as a whole in materialist terms. By addressing neo-Darwinism's
argument (that since a naturalistic explanation for the emergence and development of living organisms exists or is, in
principle, viable, living organisms are not what they appear to be and thus not the products of a mind), "Mind, Matter and
Life" ably argues that this is not the case.
Critique: Thoughtful, thought-provoking, iconoclastic, and of particular interest to readers with a concern with the concept
and philosophy implications of mind/matter consciousness and thought, "Mind, Matter and Life: The Mind-Matter
Problem within the Neo-Darwinian Materialist Conception of Nature" is an inherently fascinating read and one that is
informatively enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of an Introduction and Conclusion, five pages of Notes,
and a five page Index. A seminal study, and one that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists
and college/university library Philosophy collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted that his
paperback edition of "Mind, Matter and Life: The Mind-Matter Problem within the Neo-Darwinian Materialist Conception
of Nature" from Essentia Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Massimiliano Sorrentino holds a Ph.D. in Physics and is interested in the mind-matter problem. He
currently work as a software developer and as a maths and science teacher in a state school. This is his first book, which is
written in collaboration with his wife Daniela Panighetti, who is a doctor in Philosophy. They live in Esine, Italy.
The Criminology Shelf
Backbeat Gangsters: The Rise and Decline of the Mob in Rock Music
Jeffrey Sussman
Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group
www.rowman.com
9781538190265, $34.00, HC, 190pp
https://www.amazon.com/Backbeat-Gangsters-Rise-Decline-Music/dp/1538190265
Synopsis: In the 1950s, when rock and roll music burst upon the scene, the major established record companies thought
that the new music was a passing teenage trend, but mobsters were there and pounced on the new business opportunity.
They opened small independent record companies, signed ambitious young singers and musicians, and produced
truckloads of 45 rpm records. To make sure that their records would be successful, the mob bribed disc jockeys in major
cities to play the records and made sure jukeboxes, which were already mob-controlled, were filled to capacity with the
new music. Whatever it took to gain airtime and repeated plays of their songs, the mob made sure it happened.
Backbeat Gangsters includes the stories of the most sinister people who took control of the record business during the early
days of rock and roll, as well as those of the numerous, young performers who were exploited and received threats and
beatings instead of the compensation they were promised. The Mafia used intimidation and violence to achieve their ends
and made millions from denying royalties, maintaining copyrights and trademarks, bribing DJs, and numerous scams like
flooding the market with counterfeit records which didn't have the burden of paying royalties. In yet another
well-researched and thorough account, Jeffrey Sussman, details how the mob was able to infiltrate and control another
aspect of American culture with devastating results.
Critique: What is not well known by the general public is that during those early days of rock and roll the Mafia and other
elements of organized crime used every legal and illegal tactic they could, ranging from creating their own record labels, to
bribing radio DJs, to stacking jukeboxes with their own artists, to exploiting and intimidating performers, and creating
their own black market of bootlegged records which allowed them to make millions of dollars with their domination of the
professional Rock 'n Roll music scene.
With the publication of "Backbeat Gangsters: The Rise and Decline of the Mob in Rock Music" organized crime expert
Jeffrey Sussman lays it all out in fascinating and documented detail from jukeboxes to Morris Levy, Vincent 'the Chin'
Gigante to Payola, from Scalping to Skimming, and so much more. Informatively enhanced for the reader's benefit with the
inclusion of an Appendix (List of Murdered Hip Hop Performers), eight pages of Notes, a two page Bibliography, and a
sixteen page Index, "Backbeat Gangsters" is a meticulous and comprehensive history of organized crime that is highly
recommended for community and college/university library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that
this hardcover edition of "Backbeat Gangsters" from Rowman & Littlefield is also readily available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $17.60).
Editorial Note: Jeffrey Sussman (www.jeffreysussmanauthor.com) is the author of 18 non-fiction books. He has written
several books about organized crime and has been recognized as one of America's leading authorities on the subject. He
has been interviewed on numerous radio programs and podcasts and participated in several documentaries about organized
crime. His most recent books about organized crime are Big Apple Gangsters: The Rise and Decline of the Mob in New
York; Sin City Gangsters: The Rise and Decline of the Mob in Las Vegas; Tinseltown Gangsters: The Rise and Decline of
the Mob in Hollywood; and Boxing and the Mob: The Notorious History of the Sweet Science.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
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
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