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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
A Child of the Indian Race: A Story of Return
Sandy White Hawk
Minnesota Historical Society Press
www.mnhs.org/mhspress
9781681342412, $18.95, PB, 232pp
https://www.amazon.com/Child-Indian-Race-Story-Return/dp/1681342413
Synopsis: In the 1950s, when Sandy White Hawk was a toddler, she was taken from her Lakota family on the Rosebud
Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Her adoption papers identify her as "a child of the Indian race," and her adoptive
mother never let her forget it, telling her she was unwanted and shaming her for being "Indian."
White Hawk medicated her traumas with drugs and alcohol. At age twenty-eight, she gained sobriety and reconnected with
her birth relatives. As she learned what it means to be Lakota, she also learned that thousands of Native adoptees shared
her experience as they were left to navigate racial and cultural complexities as children, with no way to understand what
was happening to them.
Mentored by a respected elder, White Hawk began to work with relatives who also had been separated by adoption and
foster care, taken away from their families and communities. Fighting through her feelings of inadequacy, she accepted
that she could use her voice to advocate. Ultimately, White Hawk founded the First Nations Repatriation Institute, an
organization that addresses the post-adoption issues of Native American individuals, families, and communities.
White Hawk lectures and presents widely on the issues around adoption. She exposes the myth that adoption is a path to
protecting "unwanted children" from "unfit mothers", offering a child a "better chance at life". Rather, adoption,
particularly transracial adoption, is layered in complexities.
"A Child of the Indian Race" is Sandy White Hawk's intensely personal story. It is also the story of her life work helping
other adoptees and tribal communities to reconcile the enormous harms caused by widespread removals.
Critique: Exceptionally well written and deeply personal, "A Child of the Indian Race: A Story of Return", now published
by the Minnesota Historical Society Press, is informatively enhanced for the reader with an impressively informative
Introduction by Terry Cross and an insightful Foreword by Gene Thin Elk. An impressive and welcome addition to
personal, professional, community, and academic library Native American Biography/Memoir collections, it should be
noted for personal reading lists that "A Child of the Indian Race: A Story of Return" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $8.99).
Editorial Note #1: Sandy White Hawk is a Sicangu Lakota adoptee from the Rosebud Reservation, South Dakota. She is
the founder and director of First Nations Repatriation Institute, which offers resources for First Nations people impacted by
foster care or adoption to return home, reconnect, and reclaim their identity. White Hawk is Director of Healing Programs
at the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition and was elder-in-residence at the Indian Child
Welfare Law Office in Minneapolis. She is the subject of several documentaries, including Blood Memory: A Story of
Removal and Return.
Editorial Note #2: Gene Thin Elk (Sicangu Nation) is an internationally known consultant in the area of Indigenous healing
methods.
Editorial Note #3: Terry Cross (Seneca Nation) is the founding executive director of the National Indian Child Welfare
Association. He is the author of the Heritage and Helping and Positive Indian Parenting curriculum, as well as
Cross-Cultural Skills in Indian Child Welfare.
Gauntlet in the Gulf
Claude Clayton Smith, editor
Shanti Arts
https://shantiarts.co
9781956056730, $18.95, HC, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Gauntlet-Gulf-Mexican-Journal-William/dp/1956056734
Synopsis: Lorenz Hall at the Mendota Mental Health Institute in Madison, Wisconsin, is named for William F. Lorenz, the
man who first observed, in 1916, that chemistry could treat the mentally ill. Professor of neuropsychiatry at the University
of Wisconsin, Dr. Lorenz developed the fledgling Psychiatry Department while engaged in his ground-breaking
research.
In 1925, seeking a much-needed respite, he signed on with the Ruth, a fishing smack out of Pensacola, Florida, for a
working vacation in the Gulf of Mexico. The Ruth struck a reef, the ship was abandoned, and the crew was rescued from
perilous seas by a Mexican Navy vessel, only to be imprisoned as spies, smugglers, gun-runners, and for fishing in illegal
waters. Dr. Lorenz's diary details their ordeal.
Critique: Deftly edited by Claude Clayton Smith (who also provides an informative Foreword), "Gauntlet in the Gulf: The
1925 Marine Log and Mexican Prison Journal of William F. Lorenz, MD" will prove to be of immense appeal to readers
with an interest in maritime histories and memoirs. A fascinating account, "Gauntlet in the Gulf" is a very highly
recommended pick for community and academic library 19th Century American History/Biography collections and
personal reading lists.
Editorial Note: Professor Emeritus of English, Ohio Northern University and the author of eight books and
co-editor/translator of four, Claude Clayton Smith's own work has been translated into five languages, including Russian
and Chinese. Gauntlet in the Gulf, his third book with Shanti Arts, is his first solo editing adventure. He holds a DA from
Carnegie-Mellon, an MFA from the University of Iowa's Writers' Workshop, an MAT from Yale, and a BA from
Wesleyan. (www.claudeclaytonsmith.wordpress.com)
A Brave and Lovely Woman
Mark Borthwick
University of Wisconsin Press
728 State Street, Suite 443, Madison, WI 53706-1418
www.uwpress.wisc.edu
9780299342906, $34.95, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Lovely-Woman-Borthwick-Wright/dp/0299342905
Synopsis: Mamah Borthwick (June 19, 1869 - August 15, 1914) was an energetic, intelligent, and charismatic woman who
earned a master's degree at a time when few women even attended college, translated writings by a key figure of the early
feminist movement, and taught at one of Germany's best schools for boys.
She is best known, however, as the mistress of the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and for her shocking
murder at the renowned Wisconsin home he had built for her and called Taliesin.
"A Brave and Lovely Woman: Mamah Borthwick and Frank Lloyd Wright" by Mark Borthwick offers an important
corrective to the narrative of Wright and Borthwick. It is a love story as American in character as it is Shakespearean in
conclusion.
Little of Wright's life and work has been left untouched by his many admirers, critics, and biographers. And yet the woman
who stood at the center of his emotional life, Mamah Borthwick, has fallen into near obscurity. With the publication of "A
Brave and Lovely Woman, Mark Borthwick (himself a distant relative) recenters Mamah Borthwick in her own life,
presenting a detailed portrait of a truly fascinating woman, a complicated figure who was at once a dedicated mother and a
faithless spouse, a feminist and a member of a conservative sorority, a vivacious extrovert and a social pariah.
Careful research and engaging prose at last give Borthwick, an obscure but crucial character in one of America's most
famous tragedies, center stage.
Critique: A compelling read from first page to last, "A Brave and Lovely Woman: Mamah Borthwick and Frank Lloyd
Wright" will have a very special appeal to readers with an interest in 19th Century Feminism, Frank Lloyd Wright's life
and career, and the dramatic impact his mistress had on his emotions and creativity. Fascinating, informative, sensational,
memorable, and enhanced with black/white historical photos and illustrations, "A Brave and Lovely Woman: Mamah
Borthwick and Frank Lloyd Wright" is unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library
American Biography collections and supplemental curriculum Frank Lloyd Wright studies lists.
Editorial Note: Mark Borthwick (https://uwpress.wisc.edu/books/6116.htm) served as the director of the U.S. Asia Pacific
Council at the East-West Center. He is also the author of "Pacific Century: The Emergence of Modern Pacific Asia".
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Once Upon a Tome: The Misadventures of a Rare Bookseller
Oliver Darkshire
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.wwnorton.com
9781324092070, $27.95, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-Misadventures-Rare-Bookseller/dp/1324092076
Synopsis: Some years ago, Oliver Darkshire stepped into the hushed interior of Henry Sotheran Ltd (est. 1761) to apply for
a job. Allured by the smell of old books and the temptation of a management approved afternoon nap, Darkshire was soon
unteetering stacks of first editions and placating the store's resident ghost (the late Mr. Sotheran, hit by a tram).
A novice in this ancient, potentially haunted establishment, Darkshire describes Sotheran's brushes with history (Dickens,
the Titanic), its joyous disorganization, and the unspoken rules of its gleefully old-fashioned staff, whose mere glance may
cause the computer to burst into flames. As Darkshire gains confidence and experience, he shares trivia about ancient
editions and explores the strange space that books occupy in our lives -- where old books often have strong sentimental
value, but rarely a commercial one.
By turns unhinged and earnest, "Once Upon a Tome: The Misadventures of a Rare Bookseller" is the colorful story of life
in one of the world's oldest bookshops and a love letter to the benign, unruly, fascinating, and frustrating world of
antiquarian bookselling, where to be uncommon or strange is the best possible compliment.
Critique: Simply stated, "Once Upon a Tome: The Misadventures of a Rare Bookseller" is a fun and memorable read from
first page to last. Written with insight, humor, and authenticity, "Once Upon a Tome" is a 'must read' selection for all
dedicated bibliophiles and anyone else who has ever spent time browsing through an old bookstore not really knowing
what they want but certain to recognize it when the see it. Certain to be a treasured addition to personal, professional,
community, and academic library Biography/Memoir collections, it should be noted for readers with an interest in
Booksellers and Bookselling -- along with the wonderfully arcane world of antiquarian bookstores, that "Once Upon a
Tome" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.66).
Editorial Note: Oliver Darkshire (@DeathByBadger) is an antiquarian bookseller at Henry Sotheran Ltd, and the voice of
@Sotherans twitter account. He lives in Manchester, England, with his husband and his neglectfully curated collection of
books. There is an informative online essay by Oliver Darkshnire of considerable interest to booksellers, writers, and
bibliophiles at https://www.bookpage.com/behind-the-book/oliver-darkshire-essay
How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers
Dr. Judith Briles
Mile High Press
http://www.milehighpress.com
9781885331922, $20.00, PB, 114pp
https://www.amazon.com/Create-Crowdfunding-Success-Authors-Writers/dp/1885331924
Synopsis: "How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers" by Dr. Judith Briles is the ideal 'how-to'
manual for aspiring self published authors who need money for design and printing; money for marketing; money to
develop a website; even money for a PR campaign.
The principle promise of Dr. Briles is that if your financial resources are low, there are ways to increase it. You want the
odds to be on your side. You want to be in the 35 percent minority that succeeds if you are an author or authortobe. Not the
65 percent that don't.
It's the power of OPM (Other People's Money!).
"How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers" shows how to:
Create rewards that your donors want.
Identify timelines: pre, during and post a crowdfunding campaign.
Determine which crowdfunding sites are best for authors and writers.
Pinpoint the essentials that every successful crowdfunding campaign has.
Get hot tips for creating momentum and the final push.
Structure a social media checklist that's ideal for your project.
Here is the perfect step-by-step instructional guide on the subject of how to set budgets and limit costs.
Does crowdfunding work for financing authors and writers? Yes it is. Can you as an author or writer succeed at it?
Absolutely -- Start with a careful reading of "How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers"
Critique: It costs money to turn a manuscript into a book. It costs money to persuasively bring a book to the attention of its
intended readership. Over the years, Dr. Judith Briles has earned her nickname of 'The Book Shepherd' and is one of the
most respected and knowledgeable book marketing and promotion experts in the publishing industry today. Simply stated,
anyone and everyone that aspires to becoming a successfully self-published author needs to give a careful 'note-taking' read
of "How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers". While especially and unreservedly recommended for
personal, professional, community, college, and university library Writing/Publishing instructional reference collections, it
should be noted that "How to Create Crowdfunding Success for Authors and Writers" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $8.67).
Editorial Note: Dr. Judith Briles (http://www.milehighpress.com) is the author of 43 books and known as The Book
Shepherd, working with authors globally to create and publish books in all subject categories and genres.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judith_Briles) A number of her titles have been previously reviewed and archived by the
Midwest Book Review at www.midwestbookreview.com
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Eat Everything
Dawn Harris Sherling
BenBella Books
www.benbellabooks.com
9781637742594, $21.95, PB, 312pp
https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Everything-Additives-Emulsifiers-Reclaim/dp/1637742592
Synopsis: Carbs aren't causing your weight gain. Dairy may not be the reason for your upset stomach. And your liver isn't
fatty because of the occasional hamburger. It's time to enjoy eating everything again -- and to reclaim our health along the
way.
With the publication of "Eat Everything: How to Ditch Additives and Emulsifiers, Heal Your Body, and Reclaim the Joy
of Food" offers a better alternative to complicated, minimally effective, and highly restrictive diets as physician Dawn
Harris Sherling lays out compelling new evidence implicating food additives as the real culprits behind diet-related
diseases and shares simple, actionable advice to heal.
We're constantly told to fear carbs, gluten, and dairy, and we turn to strict diets to solve our health problems. Yet
Americans still have one of the highest rates of obesity and diabetes in the world, and millions suffer from digestive
ailments like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Digging into emerging research, Dr. Sherling realized it's not the foods but the food additives, especially emulsifiers, that
are at the root of our problems. Our bodies can't digest them, but they feed our microbiomes and they're everywhere in the
ultra-processed foods that make up about half of our daily diets.
In this refreshing and accessible guide, readers will learn: How to lose weight without a restrictive diet; Why so many
popular ultra-processed foods are actively harmful to our bodies; How to navigate eating at restaurants -- for any meal or
occasion; Tips for filling our grocery bags with real food; Why avoiding food additives is beneficial for our bodies and
minds; How to embrace healthful cooking at home, with 25 delicious recipes
Dr. Sherling lays out the research on food additives and offers a straightforward guide to eating just about everything (yes,
even bread, pasta, and ice cream!) without pain, worry, or guilt. This isn't just another restrictive diet in disguise; it's a call
to rediscover our love of real food.
Critique: Highly recommended to the attention of any reader that has tried and failed to improve their health through trying
out various dieting fads, "Eat Everything: How to Ditch Additives and Emulsifiers, Heal Your Body, and Reclaim the Joy
of Food" is impressively informative, especially well written, accessibly organized, and thoroughly 'user friendly' in
presentation. While readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99), "Eat Everything:
How to Ditch Additives and Emulsifiers, Heal Your Body, and Reclaim the Joy of Food" is an essential and unreservedly
recommended addition to community and academic library Health/Medicine collections.
Editorial Note: After struggling with IBS herself, Dr. Dawn Harris Sherling's symptoms seemingly disappeared while in
Italy. In an effort to help her patients and herself, Dawn began learning more about how food additives such as emulsifiers,
thickeners, and stabilizers are wreaking havoc on our microbiomes and how eliminating them can reverse several
diet-related diseases. Dawn currently sees patients at a clinic for the underserved in South Florida and teaches at the
Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University where she is a Clinical Associate Professor of
Medicine. (https://dawnsherlingmd.com)
The Cookbook Shelf
Bold Beans: Recipes To Get Your Pulse Racing
Amelia Christie-Miller
Kyle Books
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
http://www.kylebooks.com
9781804190821, $26.99, HC, 192pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bold-Beans-recipes-pulse-racing/dp/1804190829
Synopsis: For too long in the United Kingdom beans were thought of as dreary hippy fodder, but lately they have
undergone a radical image makeover. At long last they are being recognized for their brilliant versatility as well as for
being truly delicious and nutritious -- something that has been known in Europe and the Americas for years. One of the
healthiest and most sustainable of foods, they help with meat reduction by providing a cheap source of plant protein and at
the same time aid soil health, one of the most pressing issues in farming today.
"Bold Beans: Recipes To Get Your Pulse Racing" showcases 80 specialized recipes divided into the following chapters:
Beans on Toast; Bean Snacks and Share Plates; Hearty Salads; Bean Bowls; Soup Beans; and Bean Feasts.
The majority of these recipes are written by the Bold Bean team, but in keeping with their community-driven growth they
also include some 20+ recipes from guest writers, the influencers who've been their greatest supporters so far -- including
Ben Lebus of MOB and Melissa Hemsley. Appealing to vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians, they are recipes offering
guaranteed heartiness, protein and satisfaction -- with reduced carbs too.
Critique: Enhanced for the family cook with full color, full page photographs of finished dishes, "Bold Beans: Recipes To
Get Your Pulse Racing" is a delight to simply browse through and inspiring to plan menus with. With its thoroughly
'kitchen cook friendly' recipes for palate pleasing, appetite satisfying dishes that would grace any and all dining occasions,
and also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99), "Bold Beans: Recipes To Get Your Pulse Racing" is an
original and highly recommended addition to personal, family, professional, and community library cookbook
collections.
Editorial Note: Established a year ago, Bold Bean Co was set up by Amelia Christie-Miller who, following a bean
epiphany in Spain, decided that the UK both needed and deserved to have a better understanding of beans and how brilliant
they can be. Now listed in Selfridges, Waitrose and Planet Organic (as well as numerous independent shops and online
outlets), Bold Beans are taking the food world by storm. (https://boldbeanco.com/pages/about-us)
True North Cabin Cookbook
Stephanie Hansen
Minnesota Historical Society Press
345 Kellogg Boulevard, West, St. Paul, MN 55102-1906
www.mnhs.org/mhspress
9781681342351, $29.95, HC, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/True-North-Cabin-Cookbook-Recipes/dp/1681342359
Synopsis: Rural cabins provide an ideal getaway from the demands of everyday life, with adventuresome days of hiking or
boating or lounging fueled by hearty, home-cooked meals. The rhythms of cabin life are familiar to food writer and blogger
Stephanie Hansen, who relishes the opportunity to create memorable and delicious meals for friends and loved ones using
simple ingredients from pantry and garden.
From her family cabin on picturesque True North Island near Ely, Minnesota, and with the publication of "True North
Cabin Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from a North Woods Table", Hansen shares favorite recipes for the summer
months.
In May, she presents cozy dishes like Beef Bourguignon and Drunken Cowboy Beans followed by a sweet and tart
Rhubarb Skillet Cake, while June might call for Molasses Pork Chops accompanied by Roasted Carrots with
Scallion-Ginger Sauce. For the lazy summer days of July and August, the classic Fried Walleye with Lemony Tartar Sauce
might hit the spot, and a Grilled Ratatouille with Herb Vinaigrette takes advantage of fresh seasonal vegetables. As autumn
starts to creep in, Grilled Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Feta Sauce and Warm Bacon Potato Salad keep the summer vibe
going.
Throughout the months, Hansen shares recipes for desserts both simple and adventurous - from a No-Bake Layered Lemon
Loaf with Blueberries to Molten Chocolate Cakes -- and refreshing cocktails to meet your every mood.
Hansen's creative dishes will nourish and delight those who gather at your table whether at the cabin or at home. "True
North Cabin Cookbook" offers ample opportunity to savor north woods living and cuisine at its very best.
Critique: Beautifully and profusely enhanced with full color photography throughout, "True North Cabin Cookbook:
Recipes and Stories from a North Woods Table" is a delight to simply browse through and exciting to plan out menus with.
Thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' in organization and presentation, "True North Cabin Cookbook" is an extraordinary and
unreservedly recommended addition to personal, family, professional, and community library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note: Stephanie Hansen (https://www.stephaniesdish.com) is a Minnesota food writer and blogger. From chatting
about local dining on FM 107.1's Weekly Dish to sharing recipes on The Jason Show to highlighting local entrepreneurs
and craftspeople through the Makers of Minnesota podcast.
The Architecture Shelf
Designing-Women's Lives: Transforming Place and Self
Toby Israel
ORO Editions
31 Commerical Blvd., Suite F, Novato, CA 94949
www.oroeditions.com
9781954081116, $29.95, PB, 200pp
https://www.amazon.com/Designing-Womens-Lives-Psychology-Transform-Practice/dp/1954081111
Synopsis: With the publication of "Designing-Women's Lives: Transforming Place and Self ", Toby Israel calls for a
place-making revolution based on women's culturally nurtured "feeling" sensibility.
Women too often have had to repress that sensibility in order to become designers. Now, rather than struggle to fit-in,
women can break new ground by using "Design Psychology" as the foundation for creating emotionally satisfying place.
To encourage such a heart/mind shift, the author discusses how she took architecture Gold Medalist Denise Scott Brown
and interior design legend Margo Grant Walsh through a series of Design Psychology exercises.
The process revealed ways these renowned women unconsciously embedded their heroic struggles as minority females in
their designs: Grant Walsh's journey from her Chippewa childhood home with only one green couch to her plush NYC
residence reflected her embrace of her Native American + designing-woman's identity. Scott Brown grew up in a more
privileged South African household, yet she translated the oppression she witnessed during Apartheid and the bias she
experienced as a Jewish woman into the inclusive approach to architecture that made her famous.
Interweaving such designing-women's stories, feminist design thinking and her personal vignettes, Toby Israel inspires her
readers to "design from within" their personal psychology as a form of personal liberation. Project case studies further
demonstrate how Design Psychology helped women create a nurturing (even transformative) home during life-passages
such as partnering or grieving. Such case studies provide inspiring examples of how color, shape, texture, space layout, and
special objects can be catalysts for such personal evolution.
Critique: A unique and seminal architectural study, "Designing-Women's Lives: Transforming Place and Self " is
exceptionally well presented and informatively enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of an eight page Bibliography,
twelve pages of Endnote, and interviews with Julia Morgan, Margo Grant Walsh, Denise Scott Brown, Gloria Steinem,
and Esther Sternberg. Nicely illustrated throughout, "Designing Women's Lives" must be considered as a core and
invaluable addition to personal, professional, corporate, college, and university library Contemporary Architecture
collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Toby Israel (http://www.designpsychology.net) is the founder of Design Psychology, a field that's gained
international attention in the LA, NY and Financial Times, CBS Sunday Morning, and NPR's "Talk of the Nation". Trained
as an environmental psychologist, she is a multi-disciplinary design, psychology, arts, and education professional who
applies scholarship to the "real-world" practice of place-making.
The ReView: How & What For
Andrea Bardon de Tena, editor
Tulane School of Architecture
c/o Actar Publishers
440 Park Avenue S, 17th FL, New York, NY 10016
http://actar.com
9781638400707, $39.95, PB, 400pp
https://www.amazon.com/ReView-What-Tulane-School-Architecture/dp/1638400709
Synopsis: This edition of "The ReView: How & What For" tries to communicate the pedagogical project and some of the
lines of research of the Tulane School of Architecture (TuSA) through the work, mostly visual, of its students and
professors. As in any educational project, the essential questions are "what for?" and "how?".
Deftly edited by Andrea Bardon de Tena, "The Review: How & What For", presents the pedagogical project of the Tulane
School of Architecture through the work (mostly visual) of both students and faculty over the past few years. "The Review:
How & What For" is organized into two main blocks, "how" and "what for".
On the one hand, "how" exposes the sequence of studies and theoretical courses with exceptional pedagogical
methodologies. On the other hand, "what for" shows the connection of the TuSA's academic work with the social,
economic, and environmental reality we face today.
The conceptual link that connects the "How?" and the "What for?" is the idea of innovation. In a time of global crisis, the
Architecture (and our educational systems) needs to be revised. This revision of academic programs is crucial to educate
new architects to address social and environmental challenges from an innovative perspective.
Critique: Profusely illustrated throughout, "The Review: How & What For" showcases the work being done at the Tulane
School of Architecture. Exceptionally well organized and presented, "The Review: How & What For" is an ideal
architectural studies textbook and especially recommended for professional and academic library Architectural Studies
collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note #1: Andrea Bardon de Tena is a Spanish architect who develops her PhD in Advanced Architectural
Projects at the Polytechnic University of Madrid. Her research focuses on the impact of cultural hybrization on local
architecture and spatial transformations. (https://architecture.tulane.edu/faculty/andrea-bardon-de-tena)
Editorial Note #2: The Tulane School of Architecture is the school of architecture at Tulane University in New Orleans,
Louisiana. The school has a student body of approximately 442 students.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulane_School_of_Architecture)
Folio 2: The Elements of Design
Clare Jacobson
ORO Editions
31 Commerical Blvd., Suite F, Novato, CA 94949
www.oroeditions.com
9781957183206, $40.00, PB, 100pp
https://www.amazon.com/Folio-Elements-Design-Publication-Glen-Gery/dp/1957183209
Synopsis: From antiquity to the present day, the Brick has long been a trusted material, used worldwide by builders who
appreciate its strength and versatility. It offers proven value to both traditional works and contemporary designs. The
venerable material has even become a trendsetter; as the New York Times recently reported, "Bricks Return with Style in
New High-End Buildings."
Following the popular first volume of Folio, "Folio 2: The Elements of Design, A Publication by Glen-Gery " features the
most inspiring new brick buildings in North America and Australia. Here single-family homes, university buildings,
cultural centers, showroom interiors, and more show the possibilities of brick.
Each project uses material manufactured by Glen-Gery in a variety of shapes, colors, and textures, from conventional brick
to glass brick to custom-designed brick for unique implementations. The buildings are thoroughly documented in photos
and drawings, and with texts based on new interviews with their designers -- a veritable who's who of both up-and-coming
and established architecture firms.
Critique: "Folio 2: The Elements of Design, A Publication by Glen-Gery" by Clare Jacobson is a coffee-table style (9.5 x
0.4 x 12.3 inches, 1.29 pounds) paperback volume that will have a very special value for readers with an interest in
architectural materials and criticism. Profusely illustrated with full color photography and black/white schematic drawings,
"Folio 2" is a significant and highly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, corporate, college, and
university library Architectural Studies collections and supplemental curriculum Contemporary Architecture reading
lists.
Editorial Note: Clare Jacobson (https://www.clarejacobson.com) is a San Francisco-based writer and editor on architecture
and design. She is author of the books Folio and New Museums in China and co-author of Jigsaw City and Karlssonwilker
Inc.'s Tell Me Why. Jacobson was a contributing editor to Architectural Record, and her articles have also appeared in
Interior Design, Engineering News Record, Landscape Architecture, and other magazines.
The Biography Shelf
Truth or Consequences
Daniel Asa Rose
High Road Books
c/o University of New Mexico Press
1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM 87131-0001
www.unmpress.com
9780826364784, $27.95, HC, 264pp
https://www.amazon.com/Truth-Consequences-Improbable-Adventures-Near-Death/dp/0826364780
Synopsis: Daniel Asa Rose was a successful novelist, memoirist, book critic, and columnist for the New York Times
Magazine, Esquire, and others, when the top blew off his domestic life. His wife of sixteen years wanted out. Before he
could slip into depression, doubt, and self-loathing, Dan's lifelong friend Tony made an irresistible proposition: go back to
the place where, forty years earlier, their college road trip had come to a crashing halt, T-boned by a woman in the
decidedly oddball little town of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.
Dan and Tony return to the scene of the crash in an effort to make sense of that fateful moment. He's certain that if he can
locate the woman in whose arms he almost died, he will find the self he lost and make peace with his life choices since.
Dan moves into a single-wide trailer four blocks from the crash. Over the next eight months, inexplicable encounters make
him fall in love with the New Mexico desert and the wiggy place that embraces him.
Critique: A deeply personal memoir that readers with all the literary flair of a deftly crafted novel, "Truth or Consequences:
Improbable Adventures, a Near-Death Experience, and Unexpected Redemption in the New Mexico Desert" by Daniel Asa
Rose is an inherently fascinating and ultimately inspiring read. While especially and unreservedly recommended for
community, college, and university library Contemporary American Biography/Memoir collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Truth or Consequences" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $27.95).
Editorial Note: Daniel Asa Rose (https://www.danielasarose.com) won an O. Henry Prize and two PEN Fiction Awards for
the stories in his first collection, Small Family with Rooster. His first novel, Flipping for It, a black comedy about divorce,
was a New York Times New and Noteworthy Paperback. Daniel is also the author of Hiding Places, the story of how he
took his young sons to Belgium to retrace their family's escape from the Holocaust. His book, Larry's Kidney: Being the
True Story of How I Found Myself in China with My Black Sheep Cousin and His Mail-Order Bride, Skirting the Law to
Get Him a Transplant--and Save His Life, was named one of the Top Books of the Year by Publishers Weekly.
Your Heroes, My Grandparents: A Granddaughter's Love
Julie Rogers Pomilia
Briton Publishing
https://britonpublishing.com
9781956216110, $22.99, PB, 262pp
https://www.amazon.com/Your-Heroes-My-Grandparents-Granddaughters/dp/1956216111
Synopsis: Singing cowboy film star Roy Rogers (November 5, 1911 - July 6, 1998) and his third wife, actress, singer and
songwriter Dale Evans (October 31, 1912 - February 7, 2001) were particularly famous nation-wide in the 1940s, 50s. and
60s.
"Your Heroes, My Grandparents: A Granddaughter's Love" by Julie Rogers Pomilia is their biography and life story filled
with an abundance of candid pictures, many of them never seen by the public.
"Your Heroes, My Grandparents" is a charming read, and the first book ever to chronicle the lives of Roy Rogers and Dale
Evans, one of the most famous couples in western film and television history from the distinctive perspective of their
grandchild. We knew them as our heroes, but she knew them as simply, Grandma and Grandpa.
Having lived through the '50s and '60s at the height of their popularity, and on into these current times when few people
under the age of 50 remember who they were and the impact they had on American culture, the author shares unique
insights about what it was like living with her famous grandparents. Still relatable, these heartwarming experiences
transcend time and generational differences.
Being the youngest daughter of Dale Evans' only biological son, Julie shares from personal experience, the love, and
acceptance her grandparents exuded as they adopted five children from different walks of life and cultures. Combining
"yours, mine, and ours, step, adopted and foster" making nine total, they were the Brad and Angelina of the '50s before it
was in vogue.
Each chapter stands alone, one short story after another, as she recalls with humor and tenderness, the perception of fame,
the tragedies they endured, and the rollicking times they experienced being part of this multicultural brood. Spanning from
her earliest memories until the time of their passing, this is a must-read for anyone longing for an intimate, positive
encounter with two of the most beloved heroes in American history.
Critique: An absolutely 'must read' for the still remaining legions of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans fans, "Your Heroes, My
Grandparents: A Granddaughter's Love" is a fascinating, informative, and a little nostalgic trip down memory lane. A
welcome and recommended addition to personal and community library 20th Century American Biography/Memoir
collections, librarians should note that there is a large print hardcover edition of (9781956216097, $29.95) available from
Briton Publishing LLC,
Editorial Note: Julie Rogers Pomilia. being the granddaughter of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, her life from childhood on,
has been colored with the deep familial love born out of the most famous on-screen (and off-screen) western couples of all
time The King of Cowboys, Roy Rogers, and The Queen of the West, Dale Evans. Her book "Your Heroes, My
Grandparents", is a collection of short stories and family photos of Roy and Dale, that was originally written for her three
sons. Because this couple played such a vital role in the formation of American culture, as well as much encouragement
from people along the way, she decide to widen her audience to the public.
In Search of the Blonde Tigress
Silvia Pettem
The Lyons Press
www.lyonspress.com
c/o The Globe Pequot Press
www.globepequot.com
9781493068630, $29.95, HC, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Search-Blonde-Tigress-Untold-Eleanor/dp/1493068636
Synopsis: Beginning in 1933, Eleanor Jarman was sensationalized by the press as the "blonde tigress" and "the most
dangerous woman alive." But a closer look at her life shows that she was an otherwise ordinary woman who got caught up
in a Chicago crime spree, then was convicted as an accomplice to murder and sent to prison. In 1940, Eleanor escaped and
managed to live out her life as, perhaps, America's longest-running female fugitive.
Following the murder of an elderly shopkeeper, readers are given a front-row seat for Eleanor's arrest, trial, conviction, and
sentencing (all documented with recently unearthed primary-source police records, court transcripts, and prison files) and
her subsequent prison years. Woven in are comparisons and contrasts between Eleanor's and her escape partner's criminal
histories, as well as speculation on their lives on the lam. Whether Eleanor deserved her sentence, or whether it was too
harsh, is left for the reader to decide.
With the publication of "In Search of the Blonde Tigress: The Untold Story of Eleanor Jarman", author Silvia Pettem sets
the mystery and intrigue of this wanted woman into an historic context. It also includes her family's plea, in 1993, for
Eleanor to come forward and apply for clemency. Most revealing at the time was Eleanor's alias. With that information
(and considering that Eleanor, born in 1901, is certainly now deceased), "In Search of the Blonde Tigress" documents her
search for Eleanor's remains -- right up to a visit to her likely grave.
Critique: Rescuing from obscurity one of the most unusual stories in the annals of American Criminology, "In Search of
the Blonde Tigress: The Untold Story of Eleanor Jarman" is an extraordinary, exceptionally well researched, and simply
fascinating study that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as professional,
community, and academic library 20th Century American Biography collections and supplemental curriculum Criminology
studies lists.
Editorial Note: Silvia Pettem (http://www.silviapettem.com) is a Colorado-based historical researcher, writer, and author.
After local history research led her to the identification of a decades-old murder victim, Pettem switched from writing
about history to the genre of true crime. Pettem's other books that relate to cold case investigations include Someone's
Daughter: In Search of Justice for Jane Doe (2009); Cold Case Research: Resources for Unidentified, Missing, and Cold
Homicide Cases (2013); The Long Term Missing: Hope and Help for Families (2017); and Cold Case Chronicles:
Mysteries, Murders, and the Missing (2021).
The General Fiction Shelf
Willa's Pursuit
Jim Bastian
Bower House
https://www.bowerhousebooks.com
http://www.wisconsinloggingcamp.com
9781942280682, $17.95, PB, 248pp
https://www.amazon.com/Willas-Pursuit-James-Bastian/dp/1942280688
Synopsis: In the winter of 1971, graduate student Willa immerses herself in a sensory deprivation tank for a routine
psychological experiment. The hallucinations and delusions she experiences in the tank are considered normal side effects,
but the sudden ability to speak fluent French is not!
Each time she enters the tank, she becomes more convinced the hallucinations are actually someone else's memories. Her
boyfriend dismisses her delusions and resulting anxiety and depression as proof that she is having a psychotic break. But
what if her new abilities mean something more?
Set in Wisconsin during the social turmoil and budding psychological science of the early 1970s, and inspired by actual
events, Willa's pursuit of the source of her visions and fluency in French (a condition called xenoglossia) unearths an
unlikely archaeological discovery and a shocking truth that changes her life forever.
Critique: A compelling and inherently fascinating read from cover to cover, "Willa's Pursuit" by Jim Bastian is a unique
and deftly crafted novel that showcases the author's impressive and narrative driven storytelling skills. Especially and
unreservedly recommended for community library fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Willa's Pursuit" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: James Bastian (http://www.wisconsinloggingcamp.com) earned an MBA and then proceeded to have a
35-year career in business, most recently providing corporate organizational and human resource assessments. He is also
the author of "Wisconsin Logging Camp, 1921" (http://www.wisconsinloggingcamp.com).
Dinner Party
Sarah Gilmartin
Pushkin Press
www.pushkinpress.com
9781911590583, $16.95 PB, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dinner-Party-Sarah-Gilmartin/dp/1911590588
Synopsis: Kate is a young woman who has taught herself to be careful, to be meticulous.
To mark the anniversary of a death in the family, she plans a dinner party ranging from the fancy table settings to the
perfect Baked Alaska waiting in the freezer. Yet by the end of the night, old tensions have flared, the guests have fled, and
Kate is spinning out of control.
But all we have is ourselves, her father once said, all we have is family.
Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "Dinner Party" is author Sarah Gimartin's debut as a novelist, the
story is et between the 1990s and the present day, and ranges from a farmhouse in Carlow to Trinity College, Dublin. An
inherently fascinating, deftly crafted, and memorably entertaining coming-of-age story replete with the complications of
sibling relationships and the trauma of family secrets, "Dinner Party" is especially and unreservedly recommended for
community library Contemporary General Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Dinner
Party" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: Sarah Gilmartin (https://pushkinpress.com/our-authors/sarah-gilmartin) is a critic who reviews fiction for
the Irish Times. She is co-editor of the anthology Stinging Fly Stories and has an MFA from University College Dublin.
She won Best Playwright at the inaugural Short+Sweet Dublin festival. Her short stories have been published in The
Dublin Review, New Irish Writing and shortlisted for the RTE Francis MacManus Short Story Award. Her story "The
Wife" won the 2020 Mairtin Crawford Award at BelfastBook Festival. Sarah recently received a bursary for her
novel-in-progress from the Arts Council of Ireland.
Shelf Life
Martin Sneider
Forefront Books
https://www.forefrontbooks.com
9781637631683, $26.00, HC, 432pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shelf-Life-Martin-Sneider/dp/1637631685
Synopsis: As the son of Max Feldman, the self-proclaimed "sodbuster from Omaha" and brilliant founder of the successful
fashion shoe store chain Fratelli Massimo, Josh Feldman has always known his destiny -- working alongside his father and
one day succeeding him, a career path promised to him by Max.
Starting with one store in the 1950s financed by his mother's trust fund, his father has taken advantage of the heyday of
shopping malls to grow the St. Louis-based business to hundreds of locations across the United States. At industry events,
he's not just some Midwestern family business boss but a rock star courted by suppliers, shopping center developers, and
the media.
Josh is eager to step into his father's role. Unlike his charismatic brother and his sophisticated New York-born and -bred
mother, who inherited her powerful father's cunning but is more interested in literature and raising her sons,
Josh is passionate about the family business. He is his father's son and presumed successor. But as he comes of age, starts a
family of his own, and works his way up in the business, Josh slowly begins to understand his father's penchant for
treachery. With Max's ruthless ambition and his drive to be celebrated for his success, will Josh ever be allowed to succeed
him?
When the family is divided over the future of the business, Josh must face the fact that his father's pledge to him may have
exceeded its shelf life.
Critique: At the distinguished age of 80 years old, author Martin Sneider presents his debut novel "Shelf Life", the first of a
projected series of four novels about fashion and family. Fascinating, original, and fun, "Shelf Life" is an extraordinary
debut effort and will prove a welcome addition to community library Contemporary Literary and Jewish Fiction
collections. A deftly crafted Jewish-American family saga about the rise of its fashion retailing empire and how it splits
and ultimately devastates the family, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Shelf Life" is also readily available
in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: A fashion retailing legend, Martin Sneider has been a leader in the shoe and clothing industries for more
than five decades and has served as a multi-award-winning adjunct professor of retailing at the Olin School of Business at
Washington University since 1992. At the Olin School of Business, Martin created and taught a course devoted to luxury
goods merchandising and marketing that included trips with students to Milan, Paris, and London to visit the showrooms
of Armani, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Burberry, and Cartier. He also served on the Alumni Board of Directors of
Harvard Business School, was chairman of St. Louis Children's Hospital, and received the Distinguished Alumni award
from Washington University. He is the author of a highly acclaimed nonfiction book on the shoe industry.
Outer Sunset
Mark Ernest Pothier
University of Iowa Press
www.uiowapress.org
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781609388836, $17.00, PB, 266pp
https://www.amazon.com/Outer-Sunset-Mark-Ernest-Pothier/dp/1609388836
Synopsis: Jim Finley is a recently retired English teacher living alone on the shifting edge of San Francisco who has been
set, unwittingly, on the back porch of life. Trying to harmonize the voices in his head, he sits most days by his stack of
"to-do" books until, one day, his daughter comes home with the worst news of her life.
Everything changes. As his broken heart re-engages, he steps back into a new world. He sees his ex-wife has launched into
a larger life than the one they'd shared. He is surprised to find it easier to talk to his son's immigrant girlfriend, or even the
remains of a Russian saint, than to the young man he's raised. He misconnects with Carol (his first date in decades) a
woman he enjoys talking with but doesn't quite hear.
Set in the pre-tech calm before the turn of this century, "Outer Sunset" is a deeply felt story about the intimate place where
long-lasting growth occurs in our lives; how we revise, or live without, our dreams; how to love the flaws of those closest
to you and watch a child grow away into someone better than you'd imagined; and how to be shaken by beauty amidst
unimaginable loss and remain standing.
Critique: Deftly scripted from beginning to end, "Outer Sunset" is an original, compelling, memorable read by Mark Ernest
Pothier, an exceptionally gifted novelist with a genuine flair for the kind of narrative driven storytelling and impressively
crafted characters that keeps his readers raptly engaged and fully involved. While especially and unreservedly
recommended for community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Outer Sunset" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.15) and as a complete and
unabridged audiobook (Dreamscape Media, 9781666637571, $22.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Mark Ernest Pothier (https://www.outersunset.org) received a Nelson Algren Literary Award, and is the
former public information officer for the California Council for the Humanities.
The Bird Hotel
Joyce Maynard
Arcade Publishing
www.arcadepub.com
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781956763737, $29.99, HC, 432pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Hotel-Novel-Joyce-Maynard/dp/1956763732
Synopsis: After a childhood filled with heartbreak, Irene, a talented artist, finds herself in a small Central American village
where she checks into a beautiful but decaying lakefront hotel called La Llorona at the base of a volcano.
A novel by Joyce Maynard, "The Bird Hotel" tells the story of this young American who, after suffering tragedy, restores
and runs La Llorona. Along the way we meet a rich assortment of characters who live in the village or come to stay at the
hotel. With a mystery at its center and filled with warmth, drama, romance, humor, pop culture, and a little magical
realism, "The Bird Hotel" has all the hallmarks of a Joyce Maynard novel which have made her a leading literary voice of
her generation.
Critique: A sweeping saga of a novel spanning four decades and offering both lyricism and whimsey, "The Bird Hotel" is
impressively informed by the more than twenty years of which author Joyce Maynard has spent in the small Mayan
indigenous village in Guatemala. With her deftly scripted and narrative driven storytelling style, "The Bird Hotel" will be
of special interest to readers the enjoy Hispanic/American and Magical Realism stories. While highly recommended for
community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists
that "The Bird Hotel" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $19.99).
Editorial Note: Over her fifty-year career, author Joyce Maynard has published hundreds of essays as well as eighteen
books, both fiction and non-fiction, including the memoir At Home in the World and the novels To Die For and Labor
Day, both adapted for film. Her novel, Count the Ways, was recently awarded the Grand Prix Literaire in France. Every
winter for over two decades, Maynard has led the Lake Atitlan Memoir workshop, Write by the Lake, in Guatemala. She
has her own Wikipedia page at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joyce_Maynard
Moorewood Family Rules
HelenKay Dimon
Avon Books
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780063297142, $30.00, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Moorewood-Family-Rules-HelenKay-Dimon/dp/0063297140
Synopsis: One day a con man met an heiress, wooed her, married her, had two kids... and kept on conning. Jillian
Moorewood is the oldest child from that meet-cute-gone-wrong marriage. The stable one. The sensible and dependable
one. The one who protects and fixes. The one who went to prison to save their sorry butts. Now, thirty-nine months later,
she's out and she's more than a little pissed.
Finally home she finds the scheming clan in full family fleecing mode. They all claim they didn't really agree to Jillian's
previous go-legit-or-else ultimatum before she went away. They viewed it as a "suggestion" then ignored it. So, business as
usual. But Jillian is done with the lies and fakery. She demands the whole messed-up crew clean up its act, and this time
she's not kidding because she has the leverage to make it happen.
Problem is, her life is in shambles, but with the help of a great aunt (crooked but loveable), a bodyguard (who is a nice
surprise after three years in prison), and a few allies (all working undercover), Jillian starts to put her life back together.
She kicks out a few mooching relatives living under her roof, sets limits on everyone's access to the money, ducks from
their various attacks, and sees if that bodyguard is maybe interested in sticking around for a while. For the first time, she's
Jillian Moorewood, her own woman, and she's ready to figure out who she is.
Critique: A fun read from first page to last, "Moorewood Family Rules" by HelenKay Dimon is impressively original,
brilliantly scripted, laced through with humorous idiosyncracies, and a truly memorable novel that will have a special
appeal to readers with an interest in contemporary romantic comedy with a kick! While especially and unreservedly
recommended community library Contemporary Women's Fiction & Romance collections, it should be noted for personal
reading lists that "Moorewood Family Rules" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780063240520, $18.99), in
a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798212217392,
$41.99, CD).
Editorial Note: HelenKay Dimon (www.helenkaydimon.com) is a former divorce lawyer with a dual writing personality.
Her work has been optioned for television and featured in numerous venues, including The New York Times, The New
York Post, Cosmopolitan, The Washington Post, The Toronto Star, Popsugar, Goodreads, The Skimm, and Huffington
Post. In addition to writing thrillers as Darby Kane, she is now writing stories centered on family hijinks with a bit of
suspense and humor.
The Sound of Rabbits
Janice Deal
Regal House Publishing
https://regalhousepublishing.com
9781646033461, $18.95, PB, 252pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Rabbits-Janice-Deal/dp/1646033469
Synopsis: With the publication of "The Sound of Rabbits", novelist Janice Deal tells the story of Ruby, a bright woman
with a love of music who thought that leaving the small town where she grew up would ensure her happiness. But her life
in Chicago is not going the way she'd planned.
At 41, she's drifted away from music, and a long-term relationship with a boyfriend has ended badly. Everything changes
with one phone call from her sister, Val, who cares for their mother, Barbara, in the hardscrabble Midwestern town where
Ruby grew up. Ruby returns to confront some harsh truths about her family and herself as she tries to find meaning in her
mother's battle with Parkinson's disease.
Critique: The narrative driven storytelling style employed by Janice Deal in her "The Sound of Rabbits", (and all the more
impressive considering that it is her debut as a novelist) relies on presenting different points of view in order to explore
themes of change and death, and considers the role that the past (and the acceptance of that past) can play in our current
and future happiness. Original, entertaining, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "The Sound of Rabbits" is an impressive
work of literary fiction and highly recommended for community, college, and university library Contemporary Literary
Fiction collections. Also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Sound of
Rabbits" will have a special appeal for anyone with an interest in stories of Family Life and Small Towns.
Editorial Note: Janice Deal (https://www.janicedeal.com/bio.html) is the author of the short story collection The Decline of
Pigeons, a finalist in the Flannery O'Connor Award for Short Fiction; and Strange Attractors, a cycle of linked stories. Her
stories have won the Moth Short Story Prize and Cagibi Macaron Prize for fiction, and have appeared in publications
including Fiction, Harvard Review Online, The Sun, Emrys Journal, Ontario Review, and Zone 3.
The Historical Fiction Shelf
The Tiffany Girls
Shelley Noble
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780063252448, $19.99, PB, 416pp
https://www.amazon.com/Tiffany-Girls-Novel-Shelley-Noble/dp/0063252449
Synopsis: It's 1899, and Manhattan is abuzz. Louis Comfort Tiffany, famous for his stained-glass windows, is planning a
unique installation at the Paris World's Fair, the largest in history. At their fifth-floor studio on Fourth Avenue, the artists
of the Women's Division of the Tiffany Glass Company are already working longer shifts to finish the pieces that Tiffany
hopes will prove that he is the world's finest artist in glass. Known as the "Tiffany Girls", these women are responsible for
much of the design and construction of Tiffany's extraordinary glassworks, but none receive credit.
Emilie Pascal, daughter of an art forger, has been shunned in Paris art circles after the unmasking of her abusive father.
Wanting nothing more than a chance to start a new life, she forges a letter of recommendation in hopes of fulfilling her
destiny as an artist in the one place where she will finally be free to live her own life.
Grace Griffith is the best copyist in the studio, spending her days cutting glass into floral borders for Tiffany's religious
stained-glass windows. But none of her coworkers know her secret: she is living a double life as a political cartoonist
under the pseudonym of G.L. Griffith -- hiding her identity as a woman.
As manager of the women's division, Clara Driscoll is responsible for keeping everything on schedule and within budget.
But in the lead-up to the most important exhibition of her career, not only are her girls becoming increasingly difficult to
wrangle, she finds herself obsessed with a new design: a dragonfly lamp that she has no idea will one day become Tiffany's
signature piece.
Brought together by chance, driven by their desire to be artists in one of the only ways acceptable for women in their time,
these "Tiffany Girls" will break the glass ceiling of their era and for working women to come.
Critique: Original, deftly crafted characters, interesting storyline, "The Tiffany Girls" by novelist Shelley Noble is an
absorbing, entertaining read from first page to last. With a special appeal to fans of women's historical fiction, "The
Tiffany Girls" is especially commended for community library Historical Fiction collections and is available for personal
reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Shelley Noble (https://shelleynoble.com) is the author of Whisper Beach and Beach Colors. Her other titles
include Stargazey Point, Breakwater Bay, and Forever Beach (a story of foster adoption in New Jersey) and four spin-off
novellas. Shelley is also a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and the Women's Fiction Writers
Association.
Like the Appearance of Horses
Andrew Krivak
Bellevue Literary Press
c/o NYU School of Medicine
www.blpress.org
9781954276130, $28.99, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Like-Appearance-Horses-Andrew-Krivak/dp/1954276133
Synopsis: Rooted in the small, mountain town of Dardan, Pennsylvania, where patriarch Jozef Vinich settled after
surviving World War I, "Like the Appearance of Horses", novelist Andrew Krivak immerses his readers in the intimate
lives of a family whose fierce bonds have been shaped by the great conflicts of the past century.
After Bexhet Konar escapes fascist Hungary and crosses the ocean to find Jozef, the man who saved his life in 1919, he
falls in love with Jozef's daughter, Hannah, enlists in World War II, and is drawn into a personal war of revenge. Many
years later, their youngest son, Samuel, is taken prisoner in Vietnam and returns home with a heroin addiction and deep
physical and psychological wounds. As Samuel travels his own path toward healing, his son will graduate from Annapolis
as a Marine on his way to Iraq.
Critique: Featuring a spare, breathtaking prose by an author with a genuine flair for a distinctive and narrative driven
storytelling flair, "Like the Appearance of Horses" is an original and freestanding, and concluding novel in Andrew
Krivak's award-winning Dardan Trilogy, which began with "The Sojourn" and "The Signal Flame". This is a compelling
and deftly crafted story about borders drawn within families as well as around nations, and redrawn by ethnicity, prejudice,
and war. But it is also a tender story of love and how it is tested by duty, loyalty, and honor. While steadfastly
recommended for community and academic library Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists
that "Like the Appearance of Horses" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Andrew Krivak (https://www.andrewkrivak.com) is the author of The Bear, a Mountain Book Competition
winner and NEA Big Read selection, and the novels of the Dardan Trilogy: The Sojourn, a National Book Award finalist
and winner of both the Chautauqua Prize and Dayton Literary Peace Prize; The Signal Flame, a Chautauqua Prize
finalist.
The Literary Fiction Shelf
Hollyland
Patricia Leavy
She Writes Press
www.shewritespress.com
9781647422967, $17.95, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Hollyland-Novel-Patricia-Leavy/dp/1647422965
Synopsis: What happens when a seemingly ordinary woman with a passion for the arts falls in love with a Hollywood star
known for his bachelor status and quick temper with the paparazzi?
Something extraordinary.
Dee Schwartz is a writer and arts researcher. Ryder Field is a famous actor descended from Hollywood royalty. On the
night they meet outside a bar, their connection is palpable. Ryder's mother (legendary actress Rebecca Field, half of
Hollywood's golden couple when she died) was kidnapped and murdered by a crazed fan in a shocking event that forever
tarnished Tinseltown.
Dee's mother, too, died when she was young. Bonded by this loss, the two embark on a love story that explores their search
for magic (or "gold dust") in their lives. Everything changes, however, when Dee mysteriously disappears after an awards
ceremony. Is history repeating itself? Can there truly be a happily ever after in Hollywood?
Critique: Written with the kind of eloquence associated with award winning literary fiction, "Hollyland" by Patricia Leavy
is told against the backdrop of contemporary Los Angeles, An impressively poignant, laudably original, and thoroughly
entertaining novel that moves fluidly between romance, humor, suspense, and joy, "Hollyland" is one of those stories that
will linger in the mind and memory long after the book itself has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While highly
recommended for personal reading lists and community/academic library Literary Fiction collections, it should be noted
for fans of contemporary romance and romantic suspense that "Hollyland" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $9.49).
Editorial Note: Patricia Leavy (www.patricialeavy.com) was formerly an Associate Professor of Sociology, Chairperson of
Sociology & Criminology, and Founding Director of Gender Studies at Stonehill College. She has published more than
forty books; her work has been translated into many languages, and she has received more than forty book honors. She has
also received career awards from the New England Sociological Association, the American Creativity Association, the
American Educational Research Association, the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry, and the National Art
Education Association. In 2018, she was honored by the National Women's Hall of Fame and SUNY-New Paltz
established the "Patricia Leavy Award for Art and Social Justice".
The Romantic Fiction Shelf
To Swoon and to Spar
Martha Waters
Atria Books
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com
Blackstone Audiobooks
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9781668007907, $17.99, PB, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Swoon-Spar-Novel-Regency-Vows/dp/1668007908
Synopsis: Viscount Penvale has been working for years to buy back his ancestral home, Trethwick Abbey, from his
estranged uncle. And so he's thrilled when his uncle announces that he is ready to sell but with one major caveat -- Penvale
must marry his uncle's ward, Jane Spencer.
When the two meet in London, neither is terribly impressed. Penvale finds Jane headstrong and sharp-tongued. Jane finds
him cold and aloof. Nevertheless, they agree to a marriage in name only and return to the estate. There, Jane enlists her
housekeeper for a scheme: to stage a haunting so that Penvale will return to London, leaving her to do as she pleases at
Trethwick Abbey. But Penvale is not as easily scared as his uncle and as their time together increases, Jane realizes that
she might not mind her husband's company all that much.
Critique: Author Martha Waters is a master of the Regency Era romance novel and with the publication of "To Swoon and
to Spar" has once again demonstrated her decided and distinctive flair for writing humor laced period romance, While her
newest novel is unreservedly recommended for community library Historical Romance Fiction collections, it should be
noted for the growing legions of Martha Waters fans that "To Swoon and to Spar" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781797152240, $39.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Martha Waters (https://www.marthawaters.com) is the author of the Regency Vows series, which also
includes "To Have and to Hoax", "To Love and to Loathe", and "To Marry and to Meddle". She lives in coastal Maine,
where she works as a children's librarian by day.
Windswept Way
Irene Hannon
Fleming H. Revell Company
www.revellbooks.com
c/o Baker Publishing Group
http://www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
9780800742706, $29.99, HC, 340pp
https://www.amazon.com/Windswept-Way-Hope-Harbor-Novel/dp/0800742702
Synopsis: Buying a haunted house was never in Ashley Scott's plans, but when an intriguing opportunity drops into her lap
after a major setback, she finds herself trekking cross-country to Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast to launch a new
life.
Wounded warrior Jonathan Gray isn't sure what to make of the attractive woman on his reclusive older neighbor's isolated
property, but her presence is none of his business -- until she enlists his help with an ambitious project. When Jonathan
finds his interest in the new arrival becoming more personal than professional, however, his defenses go up. There's no
room in his life (or his heart) for romance.
Yet, as these hurting people join forces to restore life, laughter, and love to a historic estate that has known too much
sadness, they may also find healing, hope, and happiness for themselves.
Critique: Another deftly crafted contemporary Christian romance novel from author Irene Hannon, "Windswept Way" is a
wonderfully entertaining, impressively original, wholesome romance, making it an ideal addition to community library
Contemporary Romance Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of the legions of Irene Hannon
fans that "Windswept Way" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780800741914, $17.99), and in digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Irene Hannon (www.irenehannon.com) is the author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic
suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from
Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement
Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.
The Do-Over
Suzanne Park
Avon Books
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
Blackstone Audiobooks
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9780063216051, $16.99, PB, 368pp
https://us.amazon.com/Do-Over-Novel-Suzanne-Park/dp/0063216051
Synopsis: Bestselling author Lily Lee is on a short deadline to deliver her new career guide, "How to Land the Perfect Job",
and she's been interviewing at all the top companies around town. But when she's offered a coveted position at her dream
company, the employer's background check reveals she never actually finished her college degree. -- Unbelievably, her
worst nightmare has come true.
Lily returns to her alma mater to relive her senior year of college, after walking across the stage at graduation a decade
earlier. Just as she starts getting used to the idea of being a student again, things get even more weird and chaotic when she
discovers her computer science TA is her old college boyfriend, Jake Cho.
As Lily and Jake reconnect, she sees that her late-blooming ex has done well for himself: the handsome, charming grad
student appears to have his life together, while Lily's on the brink of losing her reputation and her book deal.
Critique: Told in present day with glimpses of the past, and a thoroughly fun read from beginning to end, "The Do-Over"
by talented novelist Suzanne Park is a delightfully warm and hopeful story about second chances in life and love, and how
the future might not be a straight line, but we still end up exactly where we're supposed to be. Especially commended to
the attention of readers with an interest in multicultural and comedic romance, "The Do-Over" is unreservedly
recommended for community library Romance Fiction collections. It should also be noted that "The Do-Over" is also
available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book
(Blackstone Audio, 9798212212830, $41.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Suzanne Park (https://www.suzannepark.com) is a Korean American writer who was born and raised in
Tennessee. In her former life as a stand-up comedian, she appeared on BET, was the winner of the Seattle Sierra Mist
Comedy Competition, and placed as a semi-finalist in NBC's "Stand Up For Diversity" showcase in San Francisco. She
currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, female offspring, and a sneaky rat that creeps around on her back patio.
In her spare time, she procrastinates.
When Tomorrow Came
Hannah Linder
Barbour Publishing
www.barbourbooks.com
Oasis Audio
www.oasisaudio.com
9781636094403, $15.99, PB, 320pp
https://us.amazon.com/When-Tomorrow-Came-Linder/dp/1636094406
Synopsis: Nan and Heath Duncan are siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian. They have no choice
but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and
raised in two vastly different social worlds.
Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and
reunites them -- bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she's never liked, and Heath is expected
to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.
Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves.
They've waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come--but now that it has, will they be able to see
through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?
Critique: Especially commended to the attention of readers who prefer clean and wholesome romance and historical novels
written from a Christian perspective, "When Tomorrow Came" by novelist Hannah Linder is a fun and pleasant read with
its memorably crafted characters and abundance of unexpected plot twists and turns. While unreservedly recommended for
community library Historical Romance collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "When Tomorrow
Came" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Oasis
Audio, 9781685923419, $37.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Hannah Linder (www.hannahlinderbooks.com) writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a two-
time 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers
(ACFW). Hannah is also a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design.
She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and
International bestsellers.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The Mill House Murders
Yukito Ayatsuji, author
Ho-Ling Wong, translator
Pushkin Vertigo
c/o Pushkin Press
www.pushkinpress.com
9781782278337, $15.95, PB, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Mill-House-Murders-Classic-Japanese/dp/1782278338
Synopsis: As they do every year, a small group of acquaintances pay a visit to the remote, castle-like Water Mill House,
home to the reclusive Fujinuma Kiichi, son of a famous artist, who has lived his life behind a rubber mask ever since a
disfiguring car accident.
This year, however, the visit is disrupted by an impossible disappearance, the theft of a painting and a series of baffling
murders.
The brilliant Kiyoshi Shimada arrives to investigate. But will he get to the truth, and will you too be able to solve the
mystery of the Mill House Murders?
Critique: A fun read and a classic Japanese locked room mystery with an ingenious conclusion from Yukito Ayatsuji (the author of The Decagon House Murders), and translated into English for the first time by Ho-Ling Wong, dedicated mystery buffs will not want to miss "The Mill House Murders", a beautifully constructed, highly entertaining and atmospheric murder mystery with a propulsive plot. "The Mill House Murders" is a compelling, page-turning read from start to finish. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of traditional detective 'whodunnit' mysteries in a Japanese setting that "The Mill House Murders" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note #1: Yukito Ayatsuji (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yukito_Ayatsuji) is a Japanese writer of mystery and
horror novels. He started writing as a member of the Kyoto University Mystery Club, a society dedicated to the writing of
fair play mysteries inspired by the Golden Age greats. The Decagon House Murders was Ayatsuji's debut and is considered
a landmark crime novel in Japan, where it revived the traditional puzzle mystery format and inspired a new generation of
writers. The Mill House Murders is the sequel, again starring the great detective Kiyoshi Shimada.
Editorial Note #2: Ho-Ling Wong (https://mysteriesahoy.com/category/translator/ho-ling-wong) is a translator currently
living in the Netherlands. Heis also both a Member of the Honkaku Mystery Writers Club of Japan and former member of
the Kyoto University Mystery Club.
The Magistrate
Brian Klingborg
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250855015, $28.00, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magistrate-Inspector-Lu-Fei-Mystery/dp/1250855012
Critique: A group of high-level civil servants has a tight grip on the extensive graft and corruption in Northern China's
Harbin Cit. for years the members of this group (the so-called Nangang Benevolent Association) have raked in untold
riches at the expense of ordinary citizens. But now they are being targeted by a shadowy figure who calls himself the
Magistrate. Some of them have been boldly kidnapped off the streets, then threatened, beaten, and worse. Others are in
hiding hoping to avoid the Magistrate's men, determined to find and eliminate their unseen foe. A brutal murder
investigation with connections to corruption at the very highest level threatens not just the career but also the life of
Inspector Lu Fei.
Critique: "The Magistrate" is author Brian Klingborg's latest mystery novel featuring the Chinese detective inspector Lu
Fie. Original, deftly crafted, and with more plot twists and turns than a Chinese Dragon Dance, "The Magistrate" is
unreservedly recommended as a top pick for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the
personal reading lists of mystery buffs with an interest in police procedurals and international crime novels that "The
Magistrate" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Brian Klingborg (https://www.brianklingborg.com) has both a B.A. (University of California, Davis) and
an M.A. (Harvard) in East Asian Studies and spent years living and working in Asia. He currently works in early childhood
educational publishing and lives in New York City. Klingborg is also the author of Kill Devil Falls.
The Murder of Anton Livius
Hansjorg Schneider, author
Astrid Freuler, translator
Bitter Lemon Press
www.bitterlemonpress.com
9781913394875, $15.95, PB, 208pp
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Livius-Inspector-Hunkeler-Investigates/dp/1913394875
Synopsis: Hunkeler must deal not only with the quarrelsome tenants of the garden but with the challenges of investigating
a murder that has taken place outside his jurisdiction, across the French border in Alsace. The clues lead to the Emmental
in Berne, and then to Alsace where wounds from the Second World War have never healed.
Series: Inspector Hunkeler is close to retirement age, gruff, intuitive, and endowed with a deep sense of psychology and a
horror of social injustice. It feels like Hunkeler investigates mostly by spending time in the bars and inns of his beloved
city of Basel and in neighboring Alsace where he shares a small farmhouse with his long-suffering 'girlfriend' Hedwig in a
harsh winter with unusually heavy snowfall and persistent sub-zero temperatures.
A riveting crime thriller, it emphasizes that as an outsider, Hunkeler is alive to class differences and social milieux. The
contrast between the xenophobia of the local police and the Swiss press and the desperate, often lonely, world of Balkan
and other immigrants informs the story.
Critique: It is interesting to note that the neighboring cities of Basel and Alsace are evoked with great love by author and
novelist Schneider -- who in real life lives on the same street and frequents the same bars and restaurants as his fictional
detective, Inspector Hunkeler. "The Murder of Anton Livius" is the third title in the Inspector Hunkeler series published in
English. The first was The Basel Killings published by Bitter Lemon in 2021, winner of the Friedrich Glauser Prize,
Germany's most prestigious crime fiction award. The second was Silver Pebbles, a beautifully crafted thriller about stolen
diamonds, drug couriers and people accidentally caught in a vortex of crime. A deftly crafted crime thriller ably translated
into English by Astrid Freuler, "The Murder of Anton Livius" is an eloquent, compelling, and unreservedly recommended
addition to personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note #1: Hansjorg Schneider (born 1938) lives in Basel and began his professional career as a journalist and
essayist. He is the author of a number of highly acclaimed plays and of the bestselling Hunkeler crime series, now with ten
titles published. "The Basel Killings" was awarded The Friedrich Glauser Prize, Germany's most prestigious crime fiction
prize. He has a website page at: https://www.bitterlemonpress.com/blogs/authors/hansjorg-schneider
Editorial Note #2: Astrid Freuler (https://aftranslations.co.uk) lives in Lydney, Gloucestershire, England. She is a translator
from German and has published translations of non-fiction and fiction, including the crime thriller A Shadow Falls by
Andreas Pfluger, published by Head of Zeus.
The Way of the Bear
Anne Hillerman
Harper
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780062908391, $30.00, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Way-Bear-Novel-Leaphorn-Manuelito/dp/0062908391
Synopsis: An unexpected death on a lonely road outside of Utah's Bears Ears National Monument raises questions for
Navajo Tribal Police officers Jim Chee and Bernadette Manuelito. Why would a seasoned outdoorsman and well-known
paleontologist freeze to death within walking distance of his car? A second death brings more turmoil. Who is the
unidentified man killed during a home invasion where nothing much seems to have been taken? Why was he
murdered?
The Bears Ears area, at the edge of the Navajo Nation, is celebrated for its abundance of early human habitation sites and
the discovery of unique fossils which revolutionized the scientific view of how early animals dealt with their changing
world. Chee and Manuelito appreciate the area's scenery and wealth of human and scientific resources, but their visit to
this achingly beautiful place is disrupted by a current of unprecedented violence that sweeps them both into danger. Illicit
romance, a fossilized jawbone, hints of witchcraft, and a mysterious disappearance during a blizzard add to the peril.
It takes all of Manuelito's and Chee's experience, skill, and intuition to navigate the threats that arise and see justice
served.
Critique: Another original and riveting novel from the mind and imagination of Anne Hillerman, "The Way of the Bear"
will prove to be a high demand addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the
personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery buffs in general, and the legions of Hillerman fans in particular, that "The
Way of the Bear" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99). Librarians should note for their collections
that there is also a complete and unabridged audio book (Harper Audio, (9780063291898, $34.99, CD) and a special
paperback edition (Harper Large Print, 9780063297814, $34.00, 416pp).
Editorial Note: Anne Hillerman (https://www.annehillerman.com) is the author of the Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito series.
The Way of the Bear is her eighth novel in this series, which was originally created by her father, Tony Hillerman.
Lay This Body Down
Charles Fergus
Arcade Publishing
www.arcadepub.com
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781956763447, $26.99, HC, 312pp
https://www.amazon.com/Lay-This-Body-Down-Mystery/dp/1956763449
Synopsis: "Lay This Body Down" by Charles Fergus is the third title in his Gideon Stoltz Mystery series and takes place in
1837 during one of the most horrific periods in pre-Civil War America, when human beings were considered chattel and
both northern and southern states grew rich from slave labor.
A Pennsylvania sheriff like Gideon could choose to uphold the federal Fugitive Slave Act of 1793 or defy that racist law at
great peril. Gideon and his wife True must solve a murder, bust a kidnaping ring, and help one unforgettable boy who has
fled north from a Virginia plantation, courageously choosing his freedom above all else.
Critique: "Lay This Body Down" is written by novelist Charles Fergus with the vivid, atmospheric prose that has imbued
the previous two novels ("A Stranger Here Below" and "Nighthawks Wings") comprising this superbly crafted series
featuring the life and times of an early American backwoods town and its hardscrabble citizens. Of particular interest to
fans of police procedurals, Civil War era novels, and suspense thriller reads, "Lay This Body Down" is especially
commended for community library Historical Mystery collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Lay
This Body Down" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).
Editorial Note: Charles Fergus (http://www.charlesfergus.com) is the author of twenty books. The Gideon Stoltz mysteries
are set during the Age of Andrew Jackson, a time when the foundations of the modern United States were being laid. It
was a tumultuous era with many echoes of our current day: controversy raged over foreign immigration, prison reform, free
education, religion, gun violence, a growing inequality of wealth, who should have the right to vote, states' rights versus
federal oversight, and that overarching and hugely incendiary issue, slavery.
Go Find Daddy
Steve Goble
Oceanview Publishing
1620 Main Street, Suite 11, Sarasota, FL 34236
www.oceanviewpub.com
9781608094479, $27.95, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Go-Find-Daddy-Runyon-Mystery/dp/1608094472
Synopsis: When a cop is murdered in rural Ohio on Donny Blackmon's property, the case seems open and shut. Donny
must've done it -- after all, he's a known cop-hater, and he's already fled.
Believing her husband is innocent, Donny's wife calls Whiskey River Investigations, the new one-man PI agency run by
former sheriff's deputy Ed Runyon, to see if Ed can find her husband.
Ed isn't sure he'll take the case until he visits the Blackmon family home and meets Donny's daughter, who has just been
diagnosed with cancer -- and Donny doesn't know. When Donny's daughter asks Ed to "go find Daddy", Ed knows he has
to find Donny before the police do, whether or not he's innocent.
Ed soon realizes finding Donny won't be an easy job: Donny trusts no one, and he's gone completely off the grid. But Ed
finds something the police have missed and begins piecing the puzzle together. The closer he gets to the truth, the more
danger he finds. But he took the job, so Ed is going to find Donny Blackmon -- or die trying!
Critique: Adeftly constructed crime thriller, "Go Find Daddy" by novelist Steve Goble will have a very special attraction to
readers with an interest in Private Investigator mysteries. With more unexpected plot twists and turns than a Coney Island
roller-coaster, and studded with memorably distinctive characters, "Go Find Daddy" will be a much appreciated acquisition
for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of detective crime
novel fans that "Go Find Daddy" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).
Editorial Note: Steve Goble (https://stevegoblefiction.wordpress.com) is a lifelong Ohio resident and a former journalist.
He now works for an SEO company as he reinvents himself as a mystery novel writer. Go Find Daddy is the third novel in
the Ed Runyon Mystery Series, following City Problems and Wayward Son.
Viviana Valentine Gets Her Man
Emily J. Edwards
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781639101825, $28.99, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Viviana-Valentine-Gets-Friday-Mystery/dp/1639101829
Synopsis: New York City, 1950. Viviana Valentine is Girl Friday to the city's top private investigator, Tommy Fortuna.
The clients can be frustrating, and none more maddening than fabulously wealthy Tallmadge Blackstone, who demands
Tommy tail his daughter, Tallulah, and find out why she won't marry his business partner, a man forty years her senior.
Sounds like an open-and-shut case for a P.I. known for busting up organized crime -- but the next day, Viviana opens the
office to find Tommy missing and a lifeless body on the floor.
The cops swoop in and Detective Jake Lawson issues a warrant for Tommy's arrest. Desperate to clear Tommy's name,
Viviana takes on the Blackstone case herself. When she goes out for a night on the town with the heiress, she begins to
learn the secrets behind Tallulah's headline-grabbing life. Meanwhile, Lawson is itching to solve his murder case, and
continues harassing Viviana for answers -- until she's the victim of a series of violent attacks.
But Tommy's still missing, and Viviana is scared. As she digs into the dirty history of the Blackstone empire, she suddenly
realizes the true danger at hand. Now, it's up to her to find her missing boss and make sure he doesn't turn up D.O.A.
Critique: "Viviana Valentine Gets Her Man" is a fun read from beginning to end, and one that will be of particular interest
to readers of Cozy Mysteries featuring an amateur female sleuth confronted with having to solve a murder mystery that has
more plot twists and turns than a Disneyland roller-coaster. Novelist Emily J. Edwards is a master of the genre and
"Viviana Valentine Gets Her Man" (part of the author's Girl Friday mysteries series) is a strongly recommended addition to
community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated Cosy
Mystery fans that "Viviana Valentine Gets Her Man" is also available in a paperback edition (9781639104277, $18.99), in
a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media,
9781666620825, $22.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Emily J. Edwards (https://www.msemilyedwards.com) earned her degree in Writing, Literature, and
Publishing from Emerson College and took the long road to becoming an author, working for over a decade as a wine and
spirits journalist, radio producer, and podcaster.
A Novel Disguise
Samantha Larsen
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781639103461, $19.99, PB, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Novel-Disguise-Lady-Librarian-Mystery/dp/1639103465
Synopsis: Miss Tiffany Woodall didn't murder her half-brother, but she did bury him in the back garden so that she could
keep her cottage. Now, the confirmed spinster has to pretend to be Uriah and fulfill his duties as the Duke of Beaufort's
librarian while searching Astwell Palace for Uriah's missing diamond pin, the only thing of value they own. Her ruse is
almost up when she is discovered by Mr. Samir Lathrop, the local bookseller, who tries to save her from drowning while
she's actually just washing up in a lake after burying her brother.
Her plan is going by the book, until the rector proposes marriage and she starts to develop feelings for Mr. Lathrop. But
when her childhood friend, Tess, comes to visit, Tiffany quickly realizes her secret isn't the only one hidden within these
walls. The body of a servant is found, along with a collection of stolen items, and someone else grows mysteriously ill.
Can Tiffany solve these mysteries without her own disguise being discovered? If not, she'll lose her cottage and possibly
her life.
Critique: Set in 1784 London, "A Novel Disguise" by Samantha Larsen has everything a cozy mystery fan could want -- an
historical mystery featuring an amateur female sleuth having to solve a murder mystery or suffer the most dire
consequences if she fails. Memorable characters and deftly crafted (and surprising!) plot twists make "A Novel Disguise" a
riveting read from cover to cover -- and will leave the reader looking eagerly toward Samantha Larsen's next murder
mystery! While highly recommended as a popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should
be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery buffs that "A Novel Disguise" is also available in a digital
book format (Kidle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Samantha Larsen (https://crookedlanebooks.com/samantha-larsen) has degrees from Brigham Young
University, the University of Reading (Berkshire, England), and the University of North Texas.
Forgotten War
Don Bentley
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593333563, $28.00, HC, 464pp
https://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-War-Matt-Drake-Novel/dp/059333356X
Synopsis: As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other's backs through some very dark days.
But one thing they've never doubted was their commitment to each other -- until now!
Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent,
but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won't share?
Critique: As a an author of military and espionage thrillers, novelist Don Bentley is able to bring a vivid sense of realism to
his stories because of his own military and FBI careers. "Forgotten War" is a compelling and compulsively page turner of a
narrative driven story and highly recommended for both personal reading lists and community library suspense thriller
fiction collections. It should be noted that "Forgotten War" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$14.99).
Editorial Note: Don Bentley (https://donbentleybooks.com) is the author of the Matt Drake series (Forgotten War, Hostile
Intent, The Outside Man, Without Sanction) and three Tom Clancy novels. Bentley spent a decade as an Army Apache
helicopter pilot and deployed to Afghanistan as an air cavalry troop commander. Following his time in the military,
Bentley worked as an FBI special agent and was a SWAT team member. Bentley is also a graduate of the Seton Hill
University Writing Popular Fiction MFA program.
Not So Perfect Strangers
L. S. Stratton
Union Square & Co.
unionsquareandco.com
9781454947431, $16.99, PB, 320pp
https://us.amazon.com/Not-So-Perfect-Strangers-Thriller/dp/1454947438
Synopsis: Tasha Jenkins has finally found the courage to leave her abusive husband. Taking her teenage son with her,
Tasha checks into a hotel the night before their flight out of D.C. and out of Kordell Jenkins's life forever.
But escaping isn't so easy, and Tasha soon finds herself driving back to her own personal hell. As she is leaving, a white
woman pounds on her car window, begging to be let in. Behind the woman, an angry man is in pursuit. Tasha makes a
split-second decision that will alter the course of her life: she lets her in and takes off.
Tasha and Madison Gingell may have very different everyday realities, but what they have in common is marriages they
need out of. The two women want to help each other, but they have very different ideas of what that means.
They are on a collision course that will end in the case files of the D.C. MPD homicide unit. Unraveling the truth of what
really happened may be impossible and futile. Because what has the truth ever done for women like Tasha and
Madison?
Critique: A deftly crafted combination of domestic thriller and a murder nail-biter of a read from first page to last, "Not So
Perfect Strangers" by novelist L. S. Stratton is unreservedly recommended pick for community library Contemporary
Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal lists of interested readers that "Not So Perfect Strangers"
is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).
Editorial Note: L.S. Stratton (https://crimereads.com/author/lsstratton) is an NAACP Image Award-nominated author and
former crime newspaper reporter who has written more than a dozen books under different pen names in just about every
genre from thrillers to romance to historical fiction.
Tina, Mafia Soldier
Maria Rosa Cutrufelli, author
Robin Pickering-Iazzi, translator
Soho Crime
c/o Soho Press
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
www.sohopress.com
9781641294249, $24.95, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Tina-Mafia-Soldier-Maria-Cutrufelli/dp/1641294248
Synopsis: Sicily, 1980s: When she was just eight years old, Tina watched as her father, a member of Cosa Nostra, was
murdered in cold blood. Now a teenager, she terrorizes her hometown of Gela, having made it her mission to join the
mafia, an organization traditionally forbidden to women as made members. Nicknamed a masculidda, or "the tomboy",
Tina has taken charge of her own clan, and is notorious for her cruelty and reckless disregard for societal expectations.
When a news article is published about Tina's latest crimes, a teacher living in Rome feels compelled to write a novel
about her -- even though it means returning to her native Sicily to gather material. She and Tina circle around each other in
a dangerous dance of obsession and violence until their first, and last, explosive meeting.
Critique: Deftly translated into English for an American readership by Professor Robin Pickering-Iazzi and a simply
riveting read from for page to last, "Tina, Mafia Soldier" is author and feminist icon Maria Rosa Cutrufelli's seminal
exploration of gender identity, organized crime, and clear-eyed presentation of an unseen side of the mafia. While
unreservedly recommended for community library Crime Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading
lists of readers with an interest in Mafia and organized crime thrillers that "Tina, Mafia Soldier" is also available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note #1: Maria Rosa Cutrufelli (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Rosa_Cutrufelli) was born in Messina,
Sicily and raised shuttling back and forth between Sicily and Bologna; she now resides in Rome. A major figure in Italian
feminist movements, she boasts a long, prolific career as a journalist, cultural critic, and novelist. After earning her degree
in Literature from the University of Bologna, she founded and directed the journal Tuttestorie. She also authored several
works of travel literature, largely devoted to Africa, where she lived for three years. Her works have been translated into
some twenty languages.
Editorial Note #2: Robin Pickering-Iazzi is Professor of Italian and Comparative Literature at the University of Wisconsin,
Milwaukee. Among her published works in translation are the novel Suspicion by Laura Grimaldi, Unspeakable Women:
Selected Short Stories Written by Italian Women during Fascism, and the widely acclaimed Mafia and Outlaw Stories
from Italian Life and Literature. (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=N57W5tkAAAAJ)
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The Great Unmaking
Brian A. Nelson
Blackstone Audiobooks
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9781538507841, $27.99, HC, 381pp
https://www.amazon.com/Great-Unmaking-Course-Empire/dp/1538507846
Synopsis: After usurping control of the world's most powerful military technology, General Chip Walden knows the
endgame is near and tasks scientist Eric Hill with one final assignment. Helped by the love of his life, Jane Hunter, Hill is
haunted by premonitions of a coming catastrophe as the technology he created takes on a life of its own.
As Hill attempts to avert disaster, FBI Special Agent Bud Brown seeks revenge for the murder of his fellow agents by
eco-terrorist Riona Finley. But what no one realizes is that forces are at work that have already decided humanity's fate.
With the clock ticking toward an irrevocable apocalypse, it's no longer a question of if the world can be saved, but who
will be the chosen few that survive.
Critique: A propulsive, mind-expanding, and compulsive thriller of a read from first page to last, "The Great Unmaking" is
the dramatic conclusion to author Brian Nelson's Course of Empire trilogy -- a series of SciFi novels about bold scientific
dreams turning into nightmares, or perhaps new beginnings! A deftly crafted technothriller novel, "The Great Unmaking"
is unreservedly recommended for community library Science Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal
reading lists of dedicated science fiction fans that "The Great Unmaking" is also available in a paperback edition
(9798212238397, $17.99), in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99), as as a complete and unabridged audio book
(9781538479360, $29.95, MP3-CD).
Editorial Note: Brian A. Nelson (https://twitter.com/Brian_A_Nelson) is a former Fulbright Scholar who holds degrees in
international relations, economics, and creative writing (fiction). His first book, The Silence and the Scorpion: The Coup
Against Chavez and the Making of Modern Venezuela, was named one of the Best Books of 2009 by The Economist. His
work has appeared in the Virginia Quarterly Review, Christian Science Monitor, and the Southern Humanities Review,
among others.
Heroes of an Unknown World
Ayize Jama-Everett
Small Beer Press
http://smallbeerpress.com
9781618731975, $17.00, PB, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Heroes-World-novel-Liminal-People/dp/1618731971
Synopsis: After traveling back in time to rescue his fostered daughter, Taggert has returned to the present and found
himself in his favorite place: up against the wall. But the world they've returned to is not the one they left: everything is
slightly grayer, the music is boring, joy is just out of reach.
The liminals' entropic enemies, the Alters, are trying to bring about the end of the world by sucking the life (literally) out
of enough people to tip the balance their way.
Traveling from Jamaica to London to Indonesia to the heart of the whirlwind in the desert at the heart of all deserts,
Taggert and his found family of liminals and supporters have to find a way to bring back the joy before they're all ground
down into the gray dust!
Critique: The fourth and final novel in author Ayize Jama-Everett's African-American science fiction series 'The Liminal
People', this paperback edition "Heroes of an Unknown World" from Small Beer Press is original, fun, fascinating, and
leaves the science fiction fan looking eagerly toward his next science fiction project. While highly recommended for
personal reading lists and community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted that "Heroes of an Unknown
World" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.49).
Editorial Note: Ayize Jama-Everett (https://ayizejamaeverett.com) holds a Masters degrees in Divinity, Clinical
Psychology, in Fine Arts, Creative Writing. Jama-Everett's Liminal series began with The Liminal People and continued
with The Liminal War and The Entropy of Bones. He has also written a graphic novel, Box of Bones with two-time Eisner
Award winner John Jennings and has written for The Believer and the LA Review of Books, among others.
The Game of 100 Candles
Marie Brennan
Aconyte Books
https://aconytebooks.com
9781839082153, $16.95, PB, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Game-100-Candles-Legend-Rings/dp/1839082151
Synopsis: The demon-vanquishing samurai, Asako Sekken and Agasha no Isao Ryotora are summoned to Winter Court.
Their exploits with the Spirit Realms have taken a toll on the pair and the cut and thrust of Rokugani politics proves
challenging. After being urged to share their tales of adventure, the Winter Court guests begin to fall into a deep sleep from
which they cannot wake. Fearing foul play, the Phoenix demand retribution, but Sekken and Ryotora uncover the hand of a
supernatural trickster seeking entry to the mortal realm. The path to victory will risk their lives and the strange bond
between them. But they must succeed, lest something awful escape into Rokugan.
Critique: An absolute 'must read' choice for fans of Samurai novels and Heroic Fantasy Fiction, "The Game of 100
Candles" is part of author Marie Brennan's ;A Legend of the Five Rings' series. Original, riveting, and a compulsive page
turner of a read from cover to cover, "The Game of 100 Candles" is a very special and recommended addition to personal
and community library Asian Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted that "The Game of 100 Candles" is also
readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.95).
Editorial Note: Marie Brennan (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marie_Brennan) is the author of the Hugo Award-nominated
Victorian adventure series The Memoirs of Lady Trent along with several other series, over seventy short stories, and the
New Worlds series of world building guides; as half of M.A. Carrick, she has written the epic Rook and Rose trilogy,
beginning with The Mask of Mirrors.
Queen of Deception
Anna Stephens
Aconyte Books
https://aconytebooks.com
9781839082030, $16.95, PB, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Queen-Deception-Marvel-Legends-Asgard/dp/1839082038
Synopsis: A burst of magic from Midgard attracts the attention of Hela, Queen of Hel. The Goddess of Death craves power
to enable her ultimate conquest of the Realms, and this new sorcery from Earth is tantalizing.
Pursuing its source, Hela is appalled to find herself in Elizabethan England. From Asgard, Lady Sif and the valkyrie,
Brunnhilde are also dispatched to Midgard, and neither of them have any love for Hela. Yet a still greater threat awaits: the
Dark Elves see Midgard as the first battle in war of the Realms. Only a team-up between hated enemies can win the day,
but how far can you really trust the Queen of Hel?
Critique: A pure delight for the legions of Marvel Universe fans, "Queen of Deception" by Anna Stephens is just the latest
in the outstanding Legends of Asgard series from Marvel. An original story, a riveting read, and showcasing some of
Marvel's most interesting heroes and villains, "Queen of Deception" is a deftly crafted and fun read from cover to cover
and will be a welcome and popular addition to community library Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Queen of Deception" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.95).
Editorial Note: Anna Stephens (https://anna-stephens.com) is the author of the Godblind trilogy (Godblind, Darksoul,
Bloodchild) and the Songs of the Drowned trilogy, which begins with The Stone Knife. Anna also writes for Black Library
in their Age of Sigmar and Warhammer Horror worlds, and for Marvel through their tie-in publisher, Aconyte Books.
Dear Diary: Run Like Hell
James A. Moore
Cemetery Dance Publications
https://www.cemeterydance.com
9781587678493, $14.99, PB, 136pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Diary-Run-Like-Hell/dp/1587678497
Synopsis: Sooner or later even the best prepared hitman is going to run out of bullets. Buddy Fisk has two new jobs, bring
back a few stolen books of sorcery, and then stop the unkillable man who wants to see him dead. There are problems even
the deadliest assassins can't be prepared for, like supernatural entities looking for the same prizes he seeks, and mob bosses
that refuse to die. The collateral damage adds up quickly and Fisk is looking to solve mysteries that border on the edge of
madness!
Critique: A quick and fun read from first page to last, "Dear Diary: Run Like Hell" by dark fantasy author James A. Moore
is impressively original, deftly crafted, and a compulsive page turner of a read. A recommended pick for readers with an
interest in assassination and supernatural thrillers, "Dear Diary: Run Like Hell" is also readily available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $4.99).
Editorial Note: James Arthur Moore (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bram_Stoker_Award) is an American horror novelist
and short story writer. In 2003, he was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award for "Best Novel" for his book Serenity Falls. In
2006, the novella Bloodstained Oz (co-authored by Christopher Golden) was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award for
"Best Long Fiction". He wrote the novelization of Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Chaos Bleeds (based on the video game
written by Christopher Golden). He also has done a lot of Collectible card game and Role-playing game related work for
White Wolf, Inc including writing manuals, storyteller's guides, short stories, modules, and novels.
The Christian Studies Shelf
Christianity and Critical Race Theory
Robert Chao Romero, author
Jeff M. Liou, author
Baker Academic
c/o Baker Publishing Group
www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
9781540966148, $49.99, HC, 208pp
https://www.amazon.com/Christianity-Critical-Race-Theory-Constructive/dp/1540966143
Synopsis: Critical race theory (CRT) is a cross-disciplinary examination by social and civil-rights scholars and activists of
how laws, social and political movements, and media shape, and are shaped by, social conceptions of race and ethnicity.
The word critical in the name is an academic reference to critical thinking, critical theory, and scholarly criticism, rather
than criticizing or blaming people. (Wikipedia)
Critical race theory has become a lightning rod in contemporary American politics and evangelical Christianity. With the
publication of "Christianity and Critical Race Theory: A Faithful and Constructive Conversation" co-authors Robert Chao
Romero and Jeff M. Liou provide a critical but constructive and sympathetic introduction written from a perspective rooted
in Scripture and Christian theology.
The authors take us beyond caricatures and misinformation to consider how critical race theory can be an analytical tool to
help us understand persistent inequality and injustice--and to see how Christians and churches working for racial justice
can engage it in faithful and constructive ways.
"Christianity and Critical Race Theory" explore aspects of critical race theory that resonate with well-trod Christian
doctrine but also that challenge or are corrected by Christian theology. It also address the controversial connection that
critics see between critical race theory and Marxism. The aim is to offer objective analysis and critique that go beyond the
debates about social identity and the culture wars and aid those who are engaging the issues in Christian life and
ministry.
Of special note is the inclusion of a helpful glossary of key terms.
Critique: A timely and invaluable contribution to our current national discussion on and about Critical Race Theory (and in
view of the Maga Republican political attacks on CRT being all too often an ideological attempt to dress up simple racism
with the veneer of intellectual legitimacy), "Christianity and Critical Race Theory: A Faithful and Constructive
Conversation" deserves the widest readership possible and is unreservedly recommended reading for clergy, seminary
students, academia, political activists, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject. While an essential
and core addition to community, seminary, and academic library Religious Ethics, Social Issues, and Contemporary Race
Relations collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Christianity and Critical Race Theory" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781540965196, $23.99) and in
digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).
Editorial Note #1: Robert Chao Romero (PhD, UCLA; JD, UC Berkeley) is associate professor in the UCLA departments
of Chicana/o, Central American, and Asian American Studies in Los Angeles, California; director of the Brown Church
Initiative at Fuller Theological Seminary; and an attorney. His award-winning books include The Chinese in Mexico,
1882-1940 and Brown Church.
Editorial Note: Jeff M. Liou (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is national director of theological formation for
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA and adjunct assistant professor of Christian ethics at Fuller Theological Seminary
in Pasadena, California. He cofounded the Asian American Christian Collaborative and writes on race and justice, Asian
American Christianity, theological ethics, and political theology. Ordained in the Christian Reformed Church, Liou has
served as a campus minister, pastor, and university chaplain.
Holy Habits from the Sacred Heart
Emily Jaminet
Ave Maria Press
PO Box 428, Notre Dame, IN 46556
www.avemariapress.com
9781646802180, $15.95, PB, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Habits-Sacred-Heart-Relationships/dp/1646802187
Synopsis: Jesus invites you to experience his love through devotion to his Sacred Heart, a powerful source of spiritual and
personal healing that can also transform your relationships with family, friends, and others around you.
With the publication of "Holy Habits from the Sacred Heart: Ten Ways to Build Stronger, More Loving Relationships",
Emily Jaminet (who is the Executive Director of the Sacred Heart Enthronement Network) identifies ten habits and virtues
that come from the Sacred Heart. She also shows how you can intentionally practice these virtues in order to get closer to
Jesus and strengthen the relationships that are most important to you.
Having Jesus at the center of family life isn't reserved for the pious; it's a form of practical spirituality that is open to
everyone. "Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus" has been a cornerstone of Jaminet's life bolstering the faith of four
generations of her family members. In this book she shares her own story as well as the real-life experiences of regular
Catholics whose families have been changed for the better by the love and virtue that came from devotion to the Sacred
Heart.
The habits and virtues include: Encounter the King (welcome Jesus into your home with the virtue of docility); Welcome
the Light (have courage to rid your heart of shame); Let Go of the Need to Control (rediscover the liberating virtue of
humility); Put Jesus at the Center of Relationships (experience the release of forgiveness); and Live in the Kingdom of
Peace (experience the transforming power of prudence).
Each chapter includes a prayer, reflection questions, and wisdom from St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (who began the Sacred
Heart devotion) and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Critique: Inspired and inspiring, "Holy Habits from the Sacred Heart: Ten Ways to Build Stronger, More Loving
Relationships" is especially and unreservedly recommended reading for clergy, seminary students, and all members of the
Roman Catholic community. It should be noted for personal reading lists of those with an interest in Catholic Christian
Devotionals, that "Holy Habits from the Sacred Heart" is also available in a a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: Emily Jaminet (https://www.emilyjaminet.com) is also the author of the "Secrets of the Sacred Heart" and
the co-author of "Divine Mercy for Moms", "The Friendship Project", "Pray Fully", and "Our Friend Faustina". She is the
co-host of Inspired by Faith on St. Gabriel Radio and the host of the Emily Jaminet Podcast. She is the director of adult
faith formation and coordinates RCIA for her parish. Jaminet has appeared on EWTN's Women of Grace, Bookmark, and
At Home with Jim and Joy. She is a monthly contributor on Spirit Catholic Radio, Relevant Radio, and Diocesan.com. She
also writes for CatholicMom.com
The Judaic Studies Shelf
The Jewish Journey Haggadah: Connecting the Generations
Rabbanit Adena Berkowitz, author
Shira Hecht-Koller, photographer
Gefen Publishing House
255 Central Ave #B-206, Lawrence, NY 11559
www.gefenpublishing.com
9789652299123, $29.95, HC, 248pp
https://www.amazon.com/Jewish-Journey-Haggadah-Connecting-Generations/dp/965229912X
Synopsis: "The Jewish Journey Haggadah: Connecting the Generations" by Rabbanit Adena Berkowitz has the full Hebrew
text accompanied by an easy-to-read English translation and transliteration showing the central role played by women in
the Passover story. The Haggadah adds meaningful commentary, stories, questions for discussion, fun holiday parody
songs, jokes, Seder recipes, and activities to delight both adults and children. When you use this Haggadah, your guests
will be so engaged that they will forget to ask When do we eat?
Why the need for a new Haggadah? Because this Haggadah has been designed to: Foster a deeper connection to Passover
to enable participants from all backgrounds, from generation to generation, to be comfortable using a Hebrew or
transliterated text, together with an inclusive English translation; Provide a user-friendly format with suggestions for
preparing for Passover and internalizing its messages afterwards; Show the central role played by women in the Passover
story; Spark discussion and sharing of insights, teachings, anecdotes, and stories This Haggadah includes:
Critique: Of special note is the color coding for the different features comprising the Hebrew/English edition of "The
Jewish Journey Haggadah: Connecting the Generations", along with fun songs, recipes and stories will liven up your seder.
Furthermore there is a Kid's corner, along with tidbits and points for everyone to share. Simply stated, "The Jewish Journey
Haggadah: Connecting the Generations" is a wonderfully extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to
personal, family, community, and synagogue library Judaic Studies collections.
Editorial Note: Rabbanit Dr. Adena K. Berkowitz ( is Scholar in Residence and co-founder of Kol HaNeshamah, NYC, an
organization dedicated to reenergizing the spiritual lives of both not-yet-affiliated and affiliated Jews. With a background
in law, Jewish studies, and psychotherapy. Rabbanit Berkowitz is the co-author, together with Rivka Haut, z l, of Shaarei
Simcha: Gates of Joy, a mini prayer book and the first liturgical work in the modern era written by Orthodox women. A
practicing therapist, she lives in New York with her husband Rabbi Zev Brenner and children Menachem Leib, Lizzy (and
husband Sam Zakay), Pammy, Aderet, and Jessica Brenner. Shira Hecht-Koller, Esq., is the Director of Education for 929
English and the Director of Communal Engagement at Drisha. She teaches Talmud and Jewish identity to a wide variety of
audiences, and writes and speaks on topics of education, creative living, and family life.
(https://www.jofa.org/rabbanit-dr-adena-berkowitz)
Wounds into Wisdom
Tirzah Firestone
Monkfish Book Publishing Company
22 East Market Street, Suite 304, Rhinebeck NY 12572
www.monkfishpublishing.com
9781948626828, $16.99, PB, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wounds-into-Wisdom-Intergenerational-Foreword/dp/1948626829
Synopsis: As members of the Jewish community, our past does not simply disappear. The painful history of our ancestors
and their rich cultural wisdom intertwine within us to create the patterns of our future. Even when past trauma remains
unspoken or has long been forgotten, it becomes part of us and our children -- a legacy of both strength and woundedness
that shapes our lives.
With the publication of "Wounds into Wisdom: Healing Intergenerational Jewish Trauma", Rabbi Tirzah Firestone brings
to life the profound impact of protracted historical trauma through the compelling narratives of Israeli terror victims,
Holocaust survivors, and those whose lives were marred by racial persecution and displacement.
The tragic story of Firestone's own family lays the groundwork for these revealing testimonies of recovery, forgiveness,
and moral leadership.
Throughout "Wounds into Wisdom", Rabbi Firestone interweaves their voices with neuroscientific and psychological
findings, as well as relevant and inspiring Jewish teachings. Seven principles emerge from these wise narratives --
powerful prescriptive tools that speak to anyone dealing with the effects of past injury. At the broadest level, these
principles are directives for staying morally awake in a world rife with terror.
Critique: Of especially relevant interest to readers concerned with coping with the physical, psychological, and cultural
impact of anti-Semitism in our contemporary times upon our selves, our families, and all members of the Jewish
community (especially in view of the current rise of fascist authoritarianism and increase in acts of hate crimes against
Jews), "Wounds into Wisdom: Healing Intergenerational Jewish Trauma" by Rabbi Tirzah Firestone deserves as wide a
readership as possible. Originally published in hardcover (2019), this new paperback edition from Monkfish Book
Publishing Company features a new Preface by the author, a new Foreword by Gabor Mate, and a Reading Group Study
Guide. While with the highest recommendation for personal, community, synagogue, college, and university library Judaic
Studies/Issues collections, it should be noted that "Wounds into Wisdom" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $12.99).
Editorial Note: Rabbi Tirzah Firestone (https://www.tirzahfirestone.com) is an author, Jungian psychotherapist, and a
leader in the international Jewish Renewal Movement. Ordained by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi in 1992, she is the
founding rabbi of Congregation Nevei Kodesh in Boulder, Colorado. Rabbi Firestone served on the board of directors and
as Co-Chair of T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights.
These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah
Alden Solovy
Reform Judaism Publishing
c/o CCAR Press
355 Lexington Avenue, 8th floor, New York, NY 10017
www.ccarpress.org
9780881236156, $19.95, PB, 196pp
https://www.amazon.com/These-Words-Poetic-Midrash-Language/dp/0881236152
Synopsis: With the publication of "These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah", liturgist Alden Solovy distills
the Torah into its very essence: the individual words it contains.
Echoing the midrash that the Torah has seventy faces, Solovy selects seventy of its Hebrew words that are pregnant with
meaning. For each word, he delves into the etymology, translation, and usage, providing deeper insights into familiar texts.
Then Solovy presents a beautiful poem (what he calls "poetic midrash") inspired by and interpreting each word.
From b'reishit ("in beginning") to shamayim ("heavens") to zachor ("remember"), "These Words" will change the way you
look at the language of the Torah.
Critique: As informative as it is inspirational, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "These Words: Poetic Midrash on the
Language of Torah" is a treasured addition to the growing body of Torah studies, as well as unreservedly recommended for
personal, community, synagogue, and academic library Judaic Studies collections and supplemental curriculum lists, iIt
should also be noted for rabbinical students, Rabbis, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the
subject that "These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$9.99).
Editorial Note: Alden Solovy (https://tobendlight.com/about-the-author/alden-solovy) is a liturgist, author, journalist, and
educator. He has written more than 700 pieces of new liturgy, offering a fresh new Jewish voice, challenging the
boundaries between poetry, meditation, personal growth, and prayer. Solovy's teaching spans from Hebrew Union
College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Jerusalem to Limmud and Leo Baeck College in the UK, and synagogues
throughout North America. Solovy is a three-time winner of the Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism. He made
aliyah to Israel in 2012.
The Buddhist Studies Shelf
Awakening Wisdom
Pema Wangyal
Shambhala Publications, Inc.
300 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02115-4544
www.shambhala.com
9781645471639, $21.95, PB, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Awakening-Wisdom-Fundamental-Practices-Vajrayana/dp/1645471632
Synopsis: For those new to Tibetan Buddhism, "Awakening Wisdom: Heart Advice on the Fundamental Practices of
Vajrayana Buddhism" by Pema Wangyal is a short work will help them to get started with their practice. For those who are
well steeped in these teachings, "Awakening Wisdom) will remind them of the essentials points. Framed as a commentary
on the Tersar Ngondro by Dudjom Rinpoche.
"Awakening Wisdom" is geared toward connecting people with practice.
Part I covers motivation, posture and breathing, mantra practice, and the four reflections that turn the mind toward
Buddhist practice.
Part II covers mantras and tonglen, the compassion practice that helps us connect to the suffering of others.
Part III provides guidance about the preliminary practices themselves: the practice of the threefold refuge; generating the
altruistic mind, or bodhichitta; purification practice; mandala offering; and Guru Yoga, explaining how each practice is the
antidote to a particular cause of suffering, or "poison". It also includes precious guidance about the Vajra Guru mantra and
the transference of consciousness at the moment of death.
While these may seem like technical subjects (and this is indeed a traditional presentation) Pema Wangyal's writing is
suffused with warmth and tenderness, making "Awakening Wisdom" quite accessible and inviting -- especially to
beginners.
Critique: Impressively well written, organized and thoroughly 'reader friendly in presentation, "Awakening Wisdom: Heart
Advice on the Fundamental Practices of Vajrayana Buddhism" is exceptionally informative and highly recommended for
personal, professional, community, and academic library Buddhism collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
It should be noted for students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in Buddhism that "Awakening
Wisdom" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).
Editorial Note: Pema Wangyal (b. 1945), the first son of Kangyur Rinpoche, is the main resident master of the three-year
Nyingmapa retreats in Dordogne, France, director of the Association du Centre d'Etudes de Chanteloube, and founder of
the Padmakara Translation Group. Under the guidance of Kyabje Kangyur Rinpoche, Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche,
Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche, and other great masters of Tibetan Buddhism, Pema Wangyal Rinpoche has studied
extensively, his learning confirmed by years of intensive practice. At the request of Dharma groups and institutions around
the world, Rinpoche has been active as a teacher since 1975, giving public talks, leading seminars, and providing
individual guidance. Since 1980, Rinpoche has personally supervised the traditional three-year retreat of intensive study
and practice in Dordogne, France. In 1999, he inaugurated a series of retreats in parallel with the three-year retreat, thus
enabling Buddhist practitioners with family responsibilities to engage in serious and sustained practice.
(https://buddhanature.tsadra.org/index.php/People/Wangyal,_Pema)
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Queen in Comics!
Sophia Blitman, et al.
NBM Publishing
160 Broadway, Ste. 700, East Wing, New York, NY 10038
www.nbmpub.com
9781681123110, $27.99, HC, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Queen-Comics-NBM-Biographies/dp/1681123118
Synopsis: Brian May, Roger Taylor, and Freddie Mercury form Queen, one of the greatest rock bands in the world. Under
the leadership of its charismatic singer, Queen became a planetary success for each hit with its decadent shows, inimitable
aesthetics, and style. "Bohemian Rhapsody," "We Are the Champions," "Don't Stop Me Now," or even "Crazy Little Thing
Called Love" are just some of the hits!
With the publication of "Queen in Comics!" fans will discover a wealth of great stories and little secrets surrounding the
band's legend!
Critique: The result of a team of collaborators including co-authors Sophia Blitman and Emanuel Marie, and contributions
by seventeen talented artist/illustrators, this graphic novel style biography, "Queen in Comics!", is a 'must' for the legions
of Queen fans. While highly recommended for community, college, and university library Composer/Musician and Pop
Music History collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Queen in Comics!" is also available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $16.99).
Editorial Note #1: First a French teacher then a journalist specializing in education, Sophie Blitman
(https://nbmpub.com/collections/artist-blitman-sophie) has always loved transmitting and sharing knowledge, information,
stories. Now based in Stockholm, she spends most of her time writing books, especially for children, but sometimes also
for adults with always the same concern: to arouse the curiosity of its readers thanks to a creative and playful approach,
and to take a citizen's look at the world with them.
Editorial Note #2: Emmanuel Marie (https://nbmpub.com/collections/artist-marie-emmanuel) has been a comics writer for
nearly 5 years, with several books published in a rather documentary style. A sociologist by training, he enjoys giving
humorous and romantic tints to stories rooted in social reality.
The Audiobook Shelf
Death in the Dark
Kitty Murphy, author
Ell Potter, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781799788614, $19.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours 30 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Death-Dark-Dublin-Drag-Mysteries/dp/179978861X
Synopsis: Sparkle McCavity is a young drag queen and employee of Miss Merkin -- and missing, presumed kidnapped or
even worse.
Naturally, Merkin turns to reluctant sleuth and friend to the community Fi for help, but clues and suspects are worryingly
thin on the ground -- and the drag king Stan the Man is proving somewhat distracting. When Merkin's niece is then found
murdered, spiked on a light pole in nightclub TRASH, it becomes clear that Fi's friends are in danger. Again.
With the ever-inept Detective O'Hara becoming convinced that the most likely suspect is Miss Merkin herself, tensions
begin to build among the friends. Could one of them really be responsible? Then after a strangely spooky seance, Fi's best
friend Robyn disappears. Guilt-ridden and distraught, Fi and her friends must double their efforts to save Robyn and
Sparkle before it's too late.
Just as long as her increasingly complicated and distracting love life doesn't get in the way!
Critique: With impressive vocal storytelling skills, Ell Potter does full justice into bringing to life author Kitty Murphy's
"Death in the Dark". With a special interest for fans of amateur sleuth murder mysteries and suspense thriller novels, this
complete and unabridged audio book edition of "Death in the Dark" is highly recommended for both personal and
communitylibrary Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note #1: Kitty Murphy (https://www.kittymurphywrites.com) is bi/queer. From a well-spent youth divided
equally between the library and the LGBTQ+ scene, it was only a matter of time until both worlds collided in a flurry of
fictional sequins. She can be followed on Instagram @kitty_murphy_writes
Editorial Note #2: Ell Potter (https://www.beeaudio.com/narrator/ell-potter) is an actor, writer, and award-winning
narrator. While training at LAMDA, she was named Audible's 'Breakout Star' and her debut audiobook was subsequently
nominated for an Audie. She has since recorded extensively with numerous publishers, winning multiple AudioFile
Earphones Awards in the process. Her narrator credits include Hamnet, the Winter series, Dark, Salt, Clear (BBC Radio 4
Book of the Week), In At The Deep End, and little scratch.
Heir of Uncertain Magic
Charlie N. Holmberg, author
Amanda Lee Cobb & Graham Halstead, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781978699441, $19.99, MP3-CD (9 Hours 54 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Heir-Uncertain-Magic-Whimbrel-House/dp/1978699441
Synopsis: Thanks to house tamer Hulda Larkin, the mischief infesting Whimbrel House has calmed. But if Hulda's job is
done, what does that mean for Merritt Fernsby, inheritor of the remote Narragansett Bay estate, who's only now coming to
terms with his enchanted place in the world?
Merritt has realized his own burgeoning powers, which draw the thoughts of every plant, insect, and dog. His nights are
sleepless, with an uncontrollable cacophony of voices that compel a long-overdue search into his uncanny bloodline. It's
not the only puzzle uniting Merritt and his ex-housekeeper, Hulda. Her friend and former employer at the Boston Institute
for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms has disappeared. Hulda herself is up for the now-vacant position of institute director,
and her rival for the role is a stranger who's suspiciously curious about Whimbrel House -- and could have connections to
an old foe.
As Merritt struggles to face his estranged family and Hulda dives into the institute's secrets, the two are brought intimately
closer than ever into the mysteries of wizardry, chaos, and love.
Critique: With a special appeal to fans of historical romance fantasy fiction, the narrative team of Amanda Leigh Cobb and
Grtaham Halstead presents novelist Cahrlie N. Homberg's "Heir of Uncertain Magic" in a kind of 'theatre of the mind'
experience that is a treasured and unreservedly recommended addition to both personal and community library Fantasy
Fiction collections.
Editorial Note #1: Charlie N. Holmberg (www.charlienholmberg.com) is an author of fantasy and romance fiction,
including the Paper Magician series, the Spellbreaker series, and the Whimbrel House series, as well as contemporary
romance under C. N. Holmberg. She is published in more than twenty languages, has been a finalist for a RITA Award and
multiple Whitney Awards, and won the 2020 Whitney Award for Novel of the Year: Adult Fiction.
Editorial Note #2: Amanda Lee Cobb (https://www.amandaleighcobb.com) is a multi-talented voice over actress and
coach. Graham Halstead (https://grahamhalstead.com/index.html) is an experienced actor and narrator with extensive
experience with carttons, commercials, and audio books.
House of Gold
C. T. Rwizi, author
Susan Dalian & James Lincoln Smith, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9798400105043, $19.99, MP3-CD (13 Hours 52 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/House-Gold-C-T-Rwizi/dp/B0B6XX88TQ
Synopsis: A corporate aristocracy descended from Africa rules a colony on a distant planet. Life there is easy -- for the
rarified and privileged few. The aristocrats enjoy a powerful cybernetic technology that extends their life spans and ensures
their prosperity. Those who serve them suffer under a heavy hand.
But within this ruthless society are agents of hope and change. In a secret underwater laboratory, a separatist cult has
created a threat to the aristocracy. The Primes are highly intelligent, manipulative products of genetic engineering,
designed to lead a rebellion. Enabling their mission are the Proxies, the Primes' bodyguards and lifelong companions
bound to their service.
When the cult's hideout is attacked, Proxies Nandipa and Hondo rush to the rescue. As they emerge with their Primes onto
the surface, however, everything they'd been led to believe about their world is shattered.
Nandipa and Hondo will risk it all to honor their oath of absolute loyalty. But when the very people they're tasked to
protect turn on each other, the Proxies must decide between those they were built to serve and the freedom to carve out
their own destinies. The fate of their planet rests in their choice.
Critique: Complete and unabridged, this audio book edition of C. T. Rwizi's science fiction novel, "House of Gold", is
vividly rendered by the vocal storytelling narrative talents of Susan Dalian and Jaime Lincoln Smith. Decidedly
entertaining from start to finish, this Brilliance Audio edition of "House of Gold" will prove to be an immediately welcome
and enduringly popular addition to personal and community library Science Fiction audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: C. T. Rwizi (https://ctrwizi.com) was born in Zimbabwe, grew up in Swaziland, finished high school in
Costa Rica, and received a BA in government from Dartmouth College in the United States. He currently lives in South
Africa with his family and enjoys playing video games, taking long runs, and spending way too much time lurking on
Reddit. He is a self-professed lover of synthwave.
Editorial Note #2: Susan Dalian (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Dalian) is an American actress who is primarily
known among anime fans as the voice of Haku in the first season of Naruto and the Screen Gems film The Brothers. Actor,
coach, narrator Jaime Lincoln Smith has an informative website at https://www.jaimelincolnsmith.com
Something Spectacular
Alexis Hall, author
Robyn Holdaway, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713681922, $19.99, MP3-CD (11 Hours 13 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Something-Spectacular-Fabulous-Alexis-Hall/dp/1713681927
Synopsis: Peggy Delancey's not at all ready to move on from her former flame, Arabella Tarleton. But Belle has her own
plans for a love match, and she needs Peggy's help to make those plans a reality. Still hung up on her feelings and unable to
deny Belle what she wants, Peggy reluctantly agrees to help her woo the famous and flamboyant opera singer Orfeo.
She certainly doesn't expect to find common ground with a celebrated soprano, but when Peggy and Orfeo meet, a whole
new flame is ignited that she can't ignore. Peggy finds an immediate kinship with Orfeo, who's just as nonconforming as
she is -- and just as affected by their instant connection.
They've never been able to find their place in the world, but as the pair walks the line between friendship, flirtation, and
something more, they may just find their place with each other.
Critique: Of particular appeal to the LGBTQ community, narrator Robyn Holdaway's storytelling skills are perfectly suited
to bringing "Something Spectacular" to life in an extended 'theatre of the mind' experience from start to finish. This
complete and unabridged edition of "Something Spectacular" from Brilliance Audio is a welcome and recommended
addition to personal and community library LGBTQ Historical Romance audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Alexis Hall (http://www.quicunquevult.com) writes with a particular flair and talent for humor and
thought-provoking fun.
Editorial Note #2: An experienced and talented narrator, Robyn Holdaway's audio book productions are listed on
https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Robyn+Holdaway
Beauty and the Baller: Strangers in Love
Ilsa Madden-Mills, author
Sebastian York & Savannah Peachwood, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713647515, $14.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours 11 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Baller-Ilsa-Madden-Mills/dp/1713647516
Synopsis: Attractive, talented, and brilliant, NFL quarterback Ronan Smith has the world in his hands. But after losing his
career and his fiancee in a car accident, he falls into a pit of grief and bad choices. When a mysterious girl shows up to his
party, he feels drawn to her and makes her his -- for one night.
Former beauty queen Nova Morgan is on a mission. Scantily clad as a princess from a galaxy far, far away, she sneaks into
a high-profile party to capture the attention of her favorite quarterback. But her hopes crash after an awful one-night
stand.
Fast-forward two years. Broke and desperate, Nova returns home to Blue Belle, Texas, where, by a cosmic twist of fate,
her broody neighbor is none other than Ronan, the shiny new football coach everyone adores. But he has no idea who she
is.
The booster club keeps shoving women at Ronan to keep him in town. His solution? He proposes fake dating to Nova. But
things heat up for real under these Friday-night lights when he realizes she's the one who slipped away. Has this jaded
beauty found her forever baller, or will his past keep them apart?
Critique: With a tremendous appeal to fans of Contemporary Romance Comedies, Isa Madden-Mills' new novel, "Beauty
and the Baller" is an impressively performed, complete and unabridged audio book by the narrative team of Sebastian York
and Savannah Peachwood. A fun listening experience from beginning to end, this Brilliance Audio edition of "Beauty and
the Baller" is a very special and recommended addition to personal and community library Romance Fiction audio book
collections.
Editorial Note #1: Ilsa Madden-Mills (www.ilsamaddenmills.com) pens angsty new adult and contemporary romances.
She can be followed on Facebook: @authorilsamaddenmills; you can join her private reader group on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/groups/ilsasunicorngirls; and on Instagram: @Ilsamaddenmills
Editorial Note #2: There is a listing of Sebastian York's narrated audio books at
https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Sebastian+York&page=2 There is a listing of Savannah Peachwood
narrated audio books at http://www.savannahpeachwood.com
Damaged Intentions
Mike Omer, author
Jesse Vilinsky & Fajer Al-Kaisi, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713612230, $19.99, MP3-CD (12 Hours 36 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Damaged-Intentions-Abby-Mullen-Thrillers/dp/1713612232
Synopsis: As a child, Abby Mullen escaped the insidious Wilcox cult when it literally went down in flames. Years later,
she's the NYPD's best hostage negotiator and a mother. She thought the worst part of her life was behind her. Until now.
Armed conspiracy theorists called the Watchers have attacked the local high school -- and taken her daughter hostage.
With the delusional Watchers holding her child at gunpoint, the unflappable Abby might be at her breaking point. But the
clock is ticking on her daughter's life, and she has no choice but to negotiate with the paranoid group and discover their
leader's secret before it's too late.
As Abby peels back the layers of mystery surrounding the Watchers, there's always another puzzle underneath. And it
seems to be leading back to the dark past she's spent her whole life trying to forget.
Critique: A riveting combination of suspense thriller and police procedural, "Damaged Intentions" by novelist Mike Omer
is effectively rendered by the combined vocal talents of co-narrators Jesse Vilinsky and Fajer Al-Kaisi. This simply
outstanding, complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio is highly recommended for both personal
and community library Crime Fiction audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Mike Omer (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Omer) has been a journalist, a game developer, and the
CEO of Loadingames, but he can currently be found penning his next thriller. Omer loves to write about two things: real
people who could be the perpetrators or victims of crimes -- and funny stuff. He mixes these two loves quite passionately
into his suspenseful and often-macabre mysteries.
Editorial Note #2: Jesse Vilinsky (http://www.jessevilinsky.com) is an award-winning audiobook narrator and voice actor,
and as a working narrator over the years she has honed workable and teachable techniques to not only get started in
audiobooks. She is also a coach who works with narrators, new and seasoned, to guide them in creating tangible systems
and solutions to optimize their current work, and to generate new work in their preferred areas.
Editorial Note #3: Fajer Al-Kaisi (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fajer_Al-Kaisi) is an Iraqi-Canadian actor, best known for
his recurring role as Osama bin Laden / OBL in the third season of Future Man, an atheist version of the real-life terrorist
from an alternate reality where he was prevented from becoming one.
Just One Wish
Carly Phillips, author
Mackensie Cartwright & Alexander Cendese, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713645214, $9.99, MP3-CD (2 Hours 26 Minutes)
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/just-one-wish-carly-phillips/1140195707
Synopsis: With the publication of "Just One Wish", author Carly Phillips returns to her sexy Kingston -- a world of rich
billionaire heroes in her new Kingston Family series '1001 Dark Nights'.
He was her first love. She was his. They broke up to follow their dreams. Axel Forrester became a world famous drummer.
Tara Stillman became a veterinarian. Years later, he's scrolling social media and sees they're both in East Hampton,
NY.
Fate? Or Coincidence?
What's a rockstar to do other than borrow his friend's dog as an excuse to see the good doctor.
And -- show up at her office after all this time. Axel wants a second chance with the one who got away. He's not going to
let Tara go this time.
Critique: Every 1001 Dark Nights novella by author Carly Phillips is a stand alone story. For new readers, it's an
introduction to an author's world. And for fans, it's a bonus book in the author's series. "Just One Wish" is an original and
fun story from start to finish. This complete and unabridged audio book edition from Brilliance Audio is deftly narrated by
the truly exceptional team of Mackenzie Cartwright and Alexander Cendese, making it an ideal and recommended addition
to personal and community library Contemporary Romance audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Carly Phillips (https://www.carlyphillips.com) gives her readers "Alphalicious" heroes to swoon for and
romance to set your heart on fire. The author of 50 romance novels Carly's book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa
as a romance club pick and was the first romance on a nationally televised bookclub. Carly loves social media and
interacting with her readers.
Editorial Note #2: Mackensie Cartwright (https://www.mackenziecartwright.com/about-me) was nominated for an Audie
Award in Erotica for her narration of Vi Keeland's The Baller (with Sean Crisden), She's narrated the novels by some of
the most talented authors in the business, among them Kristen Ashley, Evangeline Anderson, Tijan, Tessa Bailey and
Alessandra Torre.
Editorial Note #3: Alexander Cendese has a personal and professional biographical website at
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1778235/bio
The Oceanography of the Moon
Glendy Vanderah, author
Brittany Pressley & Zachary Johnson, narrators
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713651864, $24.99, MP3-CD (10 Hours 31 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Oceanography-Moon-Novel-Glendy-Vanderah/dp/1713651866
Synopsis: After the untimely deaths of her aunt and mother, young Riley Mays moved from Chicago to her cousins'
Wisconsin farm. Here she found solace in caring for her extraordinary adoptive brother, exploring the surrounding wild
nature, and gazing at the mystical moon -- a private refuge in which she hides from her most painful memories.
But ten years later, now twenty-one, Riley feels too confined by the protective walls she's erected around herself. When a
stranger enters her family's remote world, Riley senses something he's hiding, a desire to escape that she understands
well.
Suffering from writer's block, bestselling novelist Vaughn Orr has taken to the country roads when he happens upon the
accommodating, if somewhat unusual, Mays family. He's soon captivated by their eccentricities -- and especially by Riley
and her quiet tenacity. In her, he recognizes a shared need to keep heartbreaking secrets buried.
As the worst moments of their lives threaten to surface, Riley and Vaughn must find the courage to confront them if they're
to have any hope of a happy future. With the help of Riley's supportive family, a dash of everyday magic, and the healing
power of nature, can the pair let go of the troubled pasts they've clung to so tightly for so long?
Critique: Of special appeal to readers with an interest magical realism and domestic family fiction, author Glendy
Vanerah's novel "The Oceanography of the Moon" is also available in a complete and unabridged audio book that is
brought to life with the combined narrative talents of Brittany Pressley and Zachary Johnson. This outstanding production
from Brilliance Audio is especially recommended for both personal and community library Contemporary General Fiction
audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Glendy Vanderah (www.glendyvanderah.com) is also the author of Where the Forest Meets the Stars
and The Light Through the Leaves.
Editorial Note #2: There is a complete listing of Brittany Pressley's narrated audio books at
https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Brittany+Pressley
Editorial Note #3: There is a complete listing of Zachary Johnson's narrated audio book at
https://www.audible.com/search?searchNarrator=Zachary+Johnson
Sea Storm
Andrew Mayne, author
Susanna Jones, narrator
Brilliance Audio
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781713605317, $14.99, MP3-CD (8 Hours 2 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Storm-Underwater-Investigation-Unit/dp/1713605317
Synopsis: A distress call draws rescuers Sloan McPherson and the Underwater Investigation Unit to a cruise ship off the
coast of Fort Lauderdale that's sinking from a mysterious explosion. When it appears to be the work of an ecoterrorist and
other ships are threatened, it becomes a race against time. More clues are discovered, and evidence is in danger of being
washed away by a coming tropical storm. Sloan grows concerned that key details are being ignored, and a strange lack of
urgency by authorities sets off alarms.
As the troubling questions compound, Sloan is determined to chase down every lead she has. Her persistence is getting her
closer to the truth: that there's something far more troubling at play than the official explanation. It's also putting Sloan on a
collision course with an enemy more powerful than she realizes, in a case so complex and deadly it may be impossible to
prove. Now cracking the case is a matter of staying one step ahead of someone with every resource imaginable to bury
Sloan and everything she knows.
Critique: A riveting novel that will be of particular interest to fans of police procedurals and action/adventure suspense
thrillers, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of novelist Andrew Mayne's "Sea Strom" is brilliantly
performed by talented narrator Susannah Jones. Original, entertaining, flawless, this Brilliance Audio edition of "Sea
Storm" is a solid recommendation as an addition to personal and community library Mystery/Suspense audio book
collections.
Editorial Note: Andrew Mayne (www.AndrewMayne.com) is the author of The Naturalist, Looking Glass, Murder Theory,
Dark Pattern, and Angel Killer, as well as an Edgar Award nominee for Black Fall in his Jessica Blackwood series.
Editorial Note #2: Susannah Jones (https://www.beeaudio.com/narrator/susannah-jones) is an audiobook narrator, writer
and actress with over 150 books under her own name and her pseudonym.
A Cat on the Case
Clea Simon, author
Hillary Humber, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781662079825, $19.99, MP3-CD
https://www.amazon.com/Case-Witch-Cats-Cambridge-Mystery/dp/1662079826
Synopsis: When a panicked stranger shows up at Charm and Cherish, Becca Colwin feels compelled to help. But when that
stranger then disappears, leaving behind her heirloom violin, the aspiring witch detective is drawn further into a web of
deceit and intrigue complicated by a history only her three magical cats truly understand.
Critique: A master of the Cozy Mystery genre, this complete and unabridged audio book edition of Clea Simon's novel, "A
Cat on the Case" is vividly enacted by the impressive storytelling talents of experienced and award-winning narrator
Hillary Humber. With a deftly blending of occult fiction with a cozy animal murder mystery to be solved, this Dreamscape
Media audio book edition of "A Cat on the Case" is confidently recommended addition to personal and community library
Mystery/Suspense audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Clea Simon (https://www.cleasimon.com) was a journalist who starting as a rock critic, and ended up
writing about books and other arts. She is the author of three nonfiction books and seven mysteries.
Editorial Note #2: Hillary Huber (https://www.hillaryhuber.com) is a multiple Audie Award finalist, an Earphones Award
winner, and an AudioFile Best Voice. She has recorded over three hundred titles spanning many genres and holds a
bachelor's degree in English literature.
An Unreliable Magic
Rin Chupeco, author
Cassie Simone, narrator
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781666568769, $22.99, MP3-CD
https://www.amazon.com/Unreliable-Magic-Rin-Chupeco/dp/1666568767
Synopsis: Tala, Alex, and the rest of their friends are safe for now, but they know the Snow Queen is still out there. They
have to be prepared for when she eventually attacks? -- and they all decide to do so in their own way. When Ryker comes
out of the woodwork, showing himself when he starts attacking American detention facilities and freeing refugees, and the
Nameless Sword, a legendary weapon that, according to Avalon legend, will make its wielder the most powerful warrior of
their time, turns up with her name on it, Tala's life gets messier. But when the Snow Queen arrives with an unlikely ally,
the group will have to work together -- or perish!
Critique: The second title in author Rin Chupeco's 'A Hundred Names for Magic' series, "An Unreliable Magic" is expertly
narrated and brought to live in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience by Cassie Simone. With a very special appeal to fans
of action/adventure fantasy, this complete and unabridged audio book edition from Dreamscape Media of "An Unreliable
Magic" is specifically and especially recommended for personal and community library Fantasy Fiction audio book
collections.
Editorial Note: Rin Chupeco offers a newsletter to receive updates on new books, author events, and giveaways at
http://www.rinchupeco.com/newsletter. Rin Chupeco can also be followed on Twitter: @rinchupeco and on Instagram:
@rinchupeco
The Music CD Shelf
Of What Remains
Melissa Pipe Sextet
melissapipe.com
Odd Sound
oddsoundmusique.com
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1P9HRB9
Of What Remains is the debut release by the Melissa Pipe sextet: leader Melissa Pipe on baritone sax and bassoon; Lex
French on trumpet; Philippe Cote on tenor sax and bass clarinet; Geoff Lapp on piano; Solon McDade on bass; and Mili
Hong on drums, with special guest Michael Sundell on contrabassoon in three songs. The result is an extraordinary
showcase of original, instrumental jazz ensemble compositions, ranging from thoughtful pieces to minor blues. (Melissa
Pipe created all the songs except for the final track, which she arranged.) Most songs have a strong introspective bent,
making Of What Remains ideal for promoting reflection or quiet inspiration. Highly recommended! The tracks are
Complainte du vent; La part des anges; In due time; Ici, ainsi; Fragment No. 2; Apothecium; Complainte due vent
(reprise); Day; and Puudutus (Tonu Korvits, arranged by Melissa Pipe).
Resonants
The Artie Roth Quartet
artieroth.com
TPR Records
tprrecords.ca
$TBA CD / $9.49 digital
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C34QGSB6
Resonants is the third album by the Artie Roth Quartet (Artie Roth, Mike Filice, Sam Dickinson, and Anthony Michelli),
who transform their mastery of bass, flute, sax, guitar, drums and more into adventurous modern cross-boundary jazz, with
elements of rock funk, ambient and folk music. All compositions are the original creations of bandleader Artie Roth. The
album's title is a neologism combining "Resonance" and "Tenants", referring to the complexities of individuals inhabiting
a changing social venue. Resonants is an extraordinary musical creation, crafted with empathy and hope for building a
better future. Highly recommended. The tracks are Sound and Sky, Sky Blues, Circle Maker, Second Moment, Flies with
Butterflies, Refrain, Resonants - Chandelier Tears, Held, Out of the Abyss, and Resound and Ground.
Moonlighting - AstroJazz Vol. 1
Astrocolor
www.astrocolormusic.com
Amelia Recordings
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWSNM717
Grammy-winner Steve Christensen is the executive producer and mixer of Moonlighting - AstroJazz Vol. 1, an album that
fuses aspects of jazz, psychedelia, and electronica into an experimental new genre called "AstroJazz". A medley of music
artists on percussion, guitar, saxophone, bass, keyboards, synths, and flute combine their talents into this mind-expanding
tour that envisions exploration into deep space. Most songs are instrumental; three have vocals. Moonlighting - AstroJazz
Vol. 1 is beautiful in its cosmic serenity, inspired and inspiring, and highly recommended especially for connoisseurs of
musical invention. The tracks are Star Swing; Spacewalk; Singularity; Nightflight; Dimension Four; Folding Time; Sea of
Tranquility; Bender; Meteor Shower; and Coming Home.
Living in a Daydream
Miguel Espinoza Flamenco Fusion
miguelespinozafusion.com
Privately Published
$15.98 CD / $7.92 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/Living-Daydream-Miguel-Espinoza-Flamenco/dp/B0B1V13FMG
Living in a Daydream is the third full-length music album by Miguel Espinoza Flamenco Fusion, which consists of Miguel
Espinoza on guitar, Dianne Betkowski on cello, and Randy Hoepker on bass. Elements of flamenco, classical, jazz, and
world fusion (North African rhythms, Celtic inspiration, and Brazilian expressions) are woven into a creative soundscape
of original songs. In addition to guitar, harmonica, piano, vocals, and bass, Living in a Daydream also incorporates more
unusual instruments such as tabla, cajon, congas, timbales, and castanets. Living in a Daydream is unique, extraordinary,
and highly recommended. The tracks are Nagi Yate; Bubble; Division; Zelda the Caterpillar; Sunrise; Falling Snow;
Journey Home; and The Storm.
Commitment
Jae Sinnett's Zero to 60 Quartet
With special guest Randy Brecker
J-Nett Music
jaesinnett.com
$16.97 CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/Commitment-Jae-Sinnetts-Zero-Quartet/dp/B0C16WX17Q
Commitment is the 19th recording led by award-winning music artist Jae Sinnett. Jae Sinnett's Zero to 60 Quartet consists
of Jae Sinnett on drums; Allen Farnham on piano; Steve Wilson on alto and soprano saxophones; and Terry Burrell on
acoustic and electric bass. Special guest Randy Brecker also lends his talent on the trumpet and fluegelhorn for
Commitment, an extraordinary album of five original songs and five captivating arrangements. An emotional and
transformative work, Commitment is highly recommended especially to connoisseurs of quality jazz. The tracks are Takin
It There; Wait For Me; Morning; Simone; Skylark; Muhammara's Dance; Be It As It May; Everything Must Change;
Guise; and No More Blues (Chega De Saudade).
XYZ
Jeff Richman
Blue Canoe Records
$TBA CD / $8.91 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BX58V2SX
Fusion guitarist Jeff Richman presents XYZ, an album of nine original songs (most but not all are composed by Richman
himself), showcasing his guitar performances along with accompaniment on keyboards, drums, bass, and more by a variety
of talented music artists. Imaginative and adventurous, XYZ encourages the listener to open their mind to limitless
possibilities. Highly recommended! The tracks are XYZ; Be Cool; Optamystical; Ray Barretto; Left Right Here; Lost;
Likewise; Bar; and She's Got To Be Somewhere.
The DVD Shelf
Doc Martin Series 10
Starring Martin Clunes
Acorn TV
acorn.tv
$24.98 DVD
https://www.amazon.com/Doc-Martin-10-Clunes/dp/B0BRLB49Q4
Doc Martin Series 10 presents the final season (including the feature-length series finale special) of the drama-comedy
television series about a medical doctor and his family in a sleepy Cornish coastal town. In Series 10, a year has passed
since Doc Martin (played by Martin Clunes) resigned his medical license, and now his wife Louisa (played by Caroline
Catz) sees patients as a child counselor, while he takes care of their two young children. Mrs. Tishell (played by Selina
Cadell) remains fervently obsessed with the Doc; Ruth (played by Eileen Atkins) tries to help the Doc fully overcome his
fear of blood; and other residents tackle obstacles in their personal and professional lives. Then a prestigious opportunity
arises for Martin - will it entice him and his family to move away from the quirky small town? A priceless treasure for
connoisseurs of dry wit, Doc Martin Series 10 is a satisfying conclusion to a thoroughly engaging, long-running British
television series, highly recommended. It should be noted that Doc Martin Series 10 is recommended for mature audiences
due to some of its themes and subject matter. 9 episodes on 3 DVDs, 452 min., SDH subtitles.
The Business Shelf
Decision Sprint
Atif Rafiq
McGraw Hill
c/o McGraw Hill Professional
www.mhprofessional.com
9781264609598, $28.00, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Decision-Sprint-Innovate-Strategy-Action/dp/1264609590
Synopsis: It is well known that successfully operating a business has become dramatically more complex and uncertain in
our modern era. Constant exploration of new territory by teams is the name of the game. Yet most companies are stuck
with yesterday's approach to problem solving. Problem solving needs to be reinvented to meet today's challenges. The
future of business depends on it.
Having reached the highest levels of the Fortune 500, digital disrupter Atif Rafiq has written "Decision Sprint: The New
Way to Innovate into the Unknown and Move from Strategy to Action" to pull the curtain back on the hidden management
systems within your organization that impact how people think, collaborate, and make decisions.
Talent is vital to any company's advancement, but it's the collaboration and problem solving systems that separate industry
leaders from the rest. Systems designed to embrace unknowns are the quickest, most enduring way to foster growth,
continuous innovation, and results. Learn how teams begin with upstream work (the phase of a promising idea or initiative
where the unknowns predominate) to problem solve anything, thus unlocking downstream actions from alignment to
decision making to execution.
With Rafiq's guidance in "Decision Sprint", corporate executives and entrepreneurs can overtake their competitors by
moving upstream, embracing workflows that convert unknowns to clear recommendations, alignment, and action. In
addition to receiving direct advice from the CEOs/presidents of H&R Block, Volvo, Peacock, Restaurant Brands, Orange
Theory Fitness, among others -- and learn from in-depth case studies such as Amazon's disruption of publishing, the
massive digital transformation of McDonald's, the secret of launch of Apple Pay, Volvo's push for sustainability, and so
much more.
Critique: Impressively informative, insightful, and 'real world' practical, "Decision Sprint: The New Way to Innovate into
the Unknown and Move from Strategy to Action" by Atif Rafiq is thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and
presentation, making it an ideal and motivationally inspiring addition to personal, professional, community, corporate,
college, and university library Business Management & Entrepreneurship collections. It should be noted for MBA students,
academia, corporate managers, and entrepreneurs that "Decision Sprint" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$21.49).
Editorial Note: Atif Rafiq (https://twitter.com/atifatif) has blazed trails in Silicon Valley and the Fortune 500 for over 25
years. After rising through digital native companies like Amazon, Yahoo!, and AOL, Atif held C-suite roles at
McDonald's, Volvo, and MGM Resorts. Rafiq was the first Chief Digital Officer in the history of the Fortune 500, a
pioneering role he held at McDonalds, and he rose to the president level in the Fortune 300. Atif is passionate about
helping companies push boldly into the future. He accomplishes this through Ritual, a software app revolutionizing how
teams innovate and problem-solve, and through his work as keynote speaker, Board member, and CEO advisor.
Strategic Risk and Crisis Management
David Rubens, author
Simon Ruegger, author
Kogan Page Inc.
8 W 38th Street, Ste 902, New York, NY 10018
www.koganpage.com
9781398609778, $168.00, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Strategic-Risk-Crisis-Management-Modelling/dp/1398609773
Synopsis: All corporate senior risk and crisis managers face a similar challenge: maximizing their organization's ability to
prepare for a potential high-impact event. With the publication of "Strategic Risk and Crisis Management: A Handbook for
Modelling and Managing Complex Risks", co-authors David Rubens and Simon Ruegger shows how implementing the
right frameworks and capabilities means businesses will not only survive but respond and recover at a time of maximum
chaos and confusion.
"Strategic Risk and Crisis Management" covers the integration of multiple stakeholders and the importance of information
exchange and critical decision-making under pressure at strategic, tactical and operational levels. It also includes case
studies with detailed analysis of organizational failures and the lessons learned, including COVID-19, the WannaCry
Attack, the Texas Snowstorm, and the Gatwick Airport Drone Incident.
Blending rigorous research with practice, "Strategic Risk and Crisis Management" offers a range of realistic solutions for
any operational environment. Authored by a recognized global authority on the strategic management of complex events,
"Strategic Risk and Crisis Management" must be considered as an essential read for professionals working in risk, security
and crisis management and emergency response. It will also be a core textbook for university students taking modules on
risk, security, emergency and crisis management.
Critique: Also readily available for MBA students, academia, and corporate officers in a paperback edition
(9781398609754, $56.24) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $38.39), "Strategic Risk and Crisis Management: A
Handbook for Modelling and Managing Complex Risks" is a complete and comprehensive course in the art and science of
Risk Management and confidently recommended for personal, professional, corporate, college, and university library
Business Management collections and supplemental curriculum Business Systems & Planning studies lists.
Editorial Note: David Rubens is Executive Director of The Institute of Strategic Risk Management and the CEO of Deltar
Training Solutions Ltd, based in London, UK. He is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth and a Visiting
Lecturer on Strategic Leadership at Cranfield University. He is a recognised authority on the strategic management of
complex events. He is a member of the UK Critical Infrastructure Resilience Executive Steering Committee and has served
twice as a Main Board Director of the UK Security Institute.
Editorial Note #2: Simon Ruegger is Assistant Director at Ernst and Young (EY) and is based in Zurich, Switzerland. At
EY, he leads the corporate security functions for Switzerland and Austria and sits on the working groups for strategic
global resilience and security initiatives. He is also a member of the Europe West CBS Young Leadership Board.
The Deal Paradox
Michel Driessen, author
Anna Faelten, author
Scott Moeller, author
Kogan Page Inc.
8 W 38th Street, Ste 902, New York, NY 10018
www.koganpage.com
9781398608139, $154.00, HC, 240pp
https://www.amazon.com/Deal-Paradox-Mergers-Acquisitions-Transformation/dp/1398608130
Synopsis: Taking a dynamic storytelling approach, "The Deal Paradox: Mergers and Acquisitions Success in the Age of
Digital Transformation" by co-authors Michel Driessen, Anna Faelten, and Scott Moeller navigates the transition from
traditional and ingrained methods to new techniques, showing how AI, big data, and machine learning can be used to
generate new opportunities and how technology can be used to enable diversity.
The reader is taken through the attributes and skills needed in this new landscape and how M&A professionals can build
them into their approach, from finding and executing deals to making sure they deliver the desired outcomes.
"The Deal Paradox" draws on impressive industry knowledge: the three co-authors have more than 60 years' combined
experience of cutting-edge deal making, built on landmark deals ranging from Morgan Stanley's IPO at the height of the
1980s banking boom and Kraft's takeover of Cadbury to key tech deals including the œ1bn sale of financial data
intelligence company Acuris to ION.
Of special note is that each chapter comprising "The Deal Paradox" is richly illustrated throughout with real-world
examples featuring organizations such as Apple, Google, S&P Global and SoftBank Vision.
Critique: Expertly written, organized and presented, "The Deal Paradox: Mergers and Acquisitions Success in the Age of
Digital Transformation" is an ideal MBA curriculum textbook and well suited for DIY on-the-job in-service training
studies lists on the subject of corporate business/finance and consolidations/mergers, "The Deal Paradox" is unreservedly
recommended for personal, professional, corporate, college, and university library Business Management collections. It
should be noted for MBA students, academia, corporate training programs, entrepreneurs, and non-specialist general
readers with an interest inthe subject that "The Deal Paradox" is also available in a paperback edition (9781398608115,
$49.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $39.99).
Editorial Note #1: Anna Faelten (https://www.ey.com/en_uk/people/anna-faelten) is an experienced corporate finance
Partner at EY, based in London, UK. She leads EY's Technology, Media and Telecoms (TMT) Corporate Finance practice,
working with high-growth companies and investors. She has more than 10 years of corporate finance and consulting
experience, spanning public to private sector, private equity-backed, founder owned and corporate buy-side and sell-side
transactions. Anna holds a PhD degree from Tilburg University.
Editorial Note #2: Michel Driessen (www.koganpage.com/author/michel-driessen) is a Senior Partner in EY's Strategy and
Transactions group, based in London, UK, and focuses on complex transactions in the fast-moving technology and
consumer products and retail sectors. He has previously held senior executive positions at Accenture, Visa and Rabobank.
During his 15 years at EY he has worked on and led over 100 multi-billion pound transactions with the world's largest
corporations and private equity firms on some of the biggest and most complex cross-border engagements. He is an
Honorary Visiting Fellow at Bayes Business School in London.
Editorial Note #3: Scott Moeller is a Professor in the Practice of Finance at the Bayes Business School in London, UK, and
is the founder and Director of the M&A Research Centre. He teaches 'Mergers & Acquisitions' in the MBA and MSc
programmes. Prior to joining academia, he had a highly successful banking career with Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank
and JP Morgan. (https://www.bayes.city.ac.uk/faculties-and-research/experts/scott-moeller).
Real-Time Leadership
David Noble, author
Carol Kauffman, author
Harvard Business Review Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
http://hbr.org/books
9781647823931, $30.00, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Real-Time-Leadership-Winning-Moves-Stakes/dp/1647823935
Synopsis: The hardest part of corporate leadership is mastering the inevitable high-risk, high-stakes challenges you will
face. Whether you're making a split-second decision when your business is knocked sideways or you're finding the best
strategy to navigate business-critical long-term circumstances, how can you be in peak form in those most crucial
moments?
With the publication of "Real-Time Leadership: Find Your Winning Moves When the Stakes Are High", leadership
coaching legends David Noble and Carol Kauffman collaborate to show you how with their innovative new framework,
MOVE, which equips you with the tactics you need to slow down high-stakes situations before they speed you up.
You will learn to master the moment, generate response options, and quickly evaluate those options before acting. As you
get better and better at using the framework, you'll find you can recognize these moments as they arrive, like a great athlete
who can read the field as a play unfolds or a great conductor who anticipates what's needed to deliver a great
performance.
Noble and Kauffman bring decades of experience coaching thousands of leaders, along with a deep base of research, to
show why their unique two-on-one coaching method works and how it's done. The MOVE framework comes to life in
these pages through the personal stories of real leaders living through their own crucible moments.
"Real-Time Leadership" is a compelling and demystifying look at how the MOVE framework delivered positive results for
them -- and how it can for you, too.
Critique: Expertly written, organized and presented, "Real-Time Leadership: Find Your Winning Moves When the Stakes
Are High" is one of those critically important studies that will prove to be of enormous benefit to both novice and
experienced business managers, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs. Featuring twelve pages of Notes and a ten page
Index, "Real-Time Leadership" is unequivocally recommended for personal, professional, community, corporate, college,
and university library Leadership/Motivation, Business Mentoring/Coaching, and Decision-Making/Problem Solving
collections. It should be noted for MBA students, academia, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs that "Real-Time
Leadership" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.90).
Editorial Note #1: David Noble (https://davidnoble.org) is the founder of View Advisors, a consulting firm that works
globally with CEOs, their teams, select C-suite leaders, boards of directors, investors, and star athletes on leadership and
strategy. He also serves as a senior adviser to Egon Zehnder, the Institute of Coaching, and Oliver Wyman Group and was
previously on the management advisory board of TowerBrook Capital Partners, the first B Corp private equity fund. In
2021 Noble was named by Thinkers50 as one of the world's top coaches. He is also a member of the Marshall Goldsmith
100 Coaches community of leaders and coaches.
Editorial Note #2: Carol Kauffman (www.carolkauffman.com) is an international leader in the field of coaching and has
more than 40,000 hours of practice with C-level leaders and their teams, elite athletes, and creatives. She was short listed
by Thinkers50 as one of the top eight coaches in the world. She is a founding member of Marshall Goldsmith 100
Coaches, where she was ranked as the number one leadership coach in the world. Carol is an assistant professor at Harvard
Medical School, a visiting professor at Henley Business School, and a senior leadership adviser at Egon Zehnder. She is
founder of the Institute of Coaching.
Purposeful Empathy
Anita Nowak
Broadleaf Books
510 Marquette Avenue N, Minneapolis, MN 55402
www.broadleafbooks.com
9781506485058, $28.99, HC, 253pp
https://www.amazon.com/Purposeful-Empathy-Superpower-Personal-Organizational/dp/1506485057
Synopsis: Empathy has never been more important, yet we're living in an era of a massive empathy deficit. At the same
time, workplace culture has changed dramatically. Leaders, who have already been stretched to the limit, are now being
called on to create and nurture genuine connection, psychological safety, and well-being across their organizations -- all
while adapting to the values of a new generation that won't compromise on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
With the publication of "Purposeful Empathy: Tapping Our Hidden Superpower for Personal, Organizational, and Social
Change", author and educator Anita Nowak shows, human beings are wired to care, and we can become more empathic
with practice. Empathy increases dopamine, reduces stress, boosts self-esteem, heightens the immune system, and enriches
our relationships. Empathy also improves business key performance indicators. This means that leveraging empathy on
purpose can lead to better health, happier and more productive workplaces, and a more meaningful life. That's why
empathy is our superpower.
Through inspiring stories; interviews with experts, including business leaders, neuroscientists, activists, social
entrepreneurs, and spiritual leaders; a new model rooted in positive psychology and coaching; and self-development
exercises at the end of each chapter, "Purposeful Empathy" offers wisdom and practical advice to foster personal,
organizational, and social transformation.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Purposeful Empathy: Tapping Our Hidden Superpower for
Personal, Organizational, and Social Change" is a choice and unreservedly recommended addition to professional,
corporate, community, and academic library Business Management/Leadership/Motivation collections. It should be noted
for the personal reading lists of MBA students, academia, corporate executives, business managers, entrepreneurs, and
non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Purposeful Empathy" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $20.49).
Editorial Note: Anita Nowak (https://anitanowak.com) is an empathy expert, speaker, podcaster, award-winning educator,
certified coach, and founder of Purposeful Empathy by Design, a boutique global advisory firm that helps purpose-driven
organizations create cultures of empathy and social impact. Passionate about mentoring the next generation of
changemakers, she teaches leadership, ethics in management, and social entrepreneurship and innovation at McGill
University.
The Art Shelf
Art of the Lips
Vlada Haggerty
Smith Street Books
c/o Rizzoli
300 Park Avenue South, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10010
www.rizzoliusa.com
9781922754189, $29.95, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Art-Lips-Shimmering-liquified-bejeweled/dp/1922754188
Synopsis: From opulent to optical illusion, Haggerty's art is a blend of makeup and magic that transforms her lips into
canvases. Makeup artist royalty, her work is washed across the Internet, lips dripping and bedazzled, transformed by talent
and a vision that's helped shape the beauty industry.
Featuring over 200 photographs of Haggerty's work, "Art of the Lips" is a sumptuous tome to flip through one page at a
time and marvel at the minute painted details on her lips in each photo. Gloss, lipstick, sequins, and jewels transform
Haggerty's skin in hundreds of different images, with looks inspired by nature, jewelry, pop culture, and more.
Much more than just lipstick, Haggerty's art is a showcase of makeup's power and an artist's innovation.
Critique: Not since the opening scene of The Rocky Horror Picture Show" have a pair of lips been 'can't take your eyes off
of it' focus of an artist's work. With the use of lipstick as her medium, "Art of the Lips: Shimmering, Liquified, Bejeweled
and Adorned" by makeup artist and innovator Vlada Haggerty is a unique and ground-breaking art medium to be paged
through one full page, full color, image at a time. Highly recommended for personal, professional, community, and
academic library art and fashion photography, history, and design collections, with human lips ranging from the curious to
the grotesque, these are images that will imprint upon the mind of the observer for a long time to come.
Editorial Note: Vlada Haggerty (https://www.vladamua.com) is a Ukrainian cosmetic artist based in Los Angeles. She
works as a makeup artist, beauty and cosmetic photographer, and lip artist. Her makeup and photography have been
featured in publications internationally, including Harper's Bazaar Ukraine, Harper's Bazaar Kazakhstan, Vogue Mexico,
Vogue India, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29, Make-Up Artist Magazine, and many, many more. She has worked with
Smashbox Cosmetics as their Lip Editor in Chief and her worked has inspired makeup artists everywhere.
The Computer Shelf
Photoshop on the iPad
Rob De Winter
New Riders / Peachpit Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
www.newriders.com
www.peachpit.com
9780138084714, $39.99, PB, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Photoshop-iPad-Rob-Winter/dp/0138084718
Synopsis: Adobe Photoshop is arguably the world's most popular image-editing program, and it is now available on the
iPad. So, wherever you are, you can use familiar Photoshop tools to retouch photos, create compositions, work with layers,
add text and a whole lot more. Photoshop on the iPad helps you make the most of Photoshop's iPad-optimized interface, as
well as combine Photoshop with other familiar Adobe iPad apps, from Lightroom to Fresco.
Packed with practical exercises, "Photoshop on the iPad" is a guide that also offers inspiring interviews with four
world-renowned Photoshop artists, Ted Chin, Russell Brown, Frankie Cihi and Magdiel Lopez. You'll see how the pros
use Photoshop on the iPad in their workflows, so they can do great work anywhere. And you can too!
"Photoshop on the iPad" cover: How Photoshop's interface on the iPad works and how it differs from the desktop version
of Photoshop; What layers and adjustment layers are and how to use them; How to combine different types of images into
an imaginative composition; How to work with the various selection tools and use them to create masks, make color
corrections, select hair and remove backgrounds; How to remove blemishes and other distracting elements with
Photoshop's retouching tools; How to design an image for social media; How to add text and adjust text settings; How to
work with fi les, including how to use Adobe Creative; Cloud to share fi les between your iPad and desktop; How app
integration works and what workflows to use with other Adobe apps.
Critique: The ideal DIY textbook on how to photoshop images on the iPad, Robe de Winter's "Photoshop on the iPad" is
especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college and university library Computer
Software collections and supplemental curriculum, Adobe Photoshop, Mobile App Development, Software
Design/Testing/Engineering studies lists.
Editorial Note: Rob de Winter (https://www.robdewinter.com) is an Adobe Certified Instructor, author, designer and
photographer based in The Netherlands. Rob loves to share his passion for design and Adobe technology in energetic and
passionate training sessions and has trained thousands of graphic designers both with his training company DWM
Trainingen and on his YouTube channel. He's been a featured speaker at the world's largest design conferences, like Adobe
MAX and CreativePro Week.
The Self-Help Shelf
The Art of Calm
Roger Hutchinson
https://www.rogerhutchisonbooks.com
Morehouse Publishing
c/o Church Publishing Incorporated
www.churchpublishing.org
9781640656321, $24.95, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Art-Calm-Spiritual-Exercises-Anxious/dp/1640656324
Synopsis: With the publication of "The Art of Calm: Spiritual Exercises for the Anxious Soul". author Rogert Hutchinson
proves nn invaluable resource for anyone struggling with anxiety, fear, or depression. A lifesaving and inspiring guidebook
that empowers us to break free from the emotional bondage of mental illness, "The Art of Calm" is a compendium of deep
personal insights and uplifting practical guidance.
It's a kind of therapeutic journey beginning by charting Roger's own devastating psychological descent -- which included
panic attacks so severe they landed him in the emergency room. When the medical system proved unable to provide
sustained help, however, a floundering Roger Hutchison turned to his faith for guidance. The healing path God led him on
was nothing short of miraculous, offering not only authentic spiritual renewal but also a profound sense of belonging in a
world where he once only felt like a stranger.
Weaving these personal stories with thoughtful questions, journaling prompts, and a wide range of inspirational practices,
Hutchison has created a kind of self-help tapestry of compassion, vulnerability, and action. At the end of each chapter is a
colorful variety of reflections and creative exercises ranging from photography, music, and meditation to cooking, hiking,
and art that encourages the reader to get up and discover a more centered and peaceful life. The result is an essential tool
for finding tranquility in the midst of both inner and outer turmoil.
Critique: Exceptionally well written, exceptionally well organized and thoroughly 'reader friendly' presentation, "The Art
of Calm: Spiritual Exercises for the Anxious Soul" will be of special value for readers with an interest in a Christian
approach to therapy and relaxation in dealing with the inevitable stresses and strains of daily life in these troubled times.
Inspired and inspiring, "The Art of Calm" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.990 and is highly
recommended for personal, professional, and community library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections and reading
lists.
Editorial Note: Roger Hutchison (https://www.rogerhutchisonbooks.com) is the author and illustrator of nine books for
children and adults including, The Painting Table, My Favorite Color is Blue. Sometimes., Faces: A Love Story, and
Sparrow's Prayer. There is prayerful poetry woven through Roger's work, a gentle reverence in his tone and posture toward
the heartbroken. Roger's mission is to use art, color, and poetic language to communicate love and promote healing and
hope in today's hurting world. Roger serves as the Director of Christian Formation and Parish Life at Palmer Memorial
Episcopal Church in Houston, TX, and is a member of the National Alliance of Grieving Children and Society of
Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
The Inward Outlook: Conscious Choice as a Daily Practice
Laura Basha
She Writes Press
www.shewritespress.com
9781647424732, $16.95, PB, 152pp
https://www.amazon.com/Inward-Outlook-Conscious-Choice-Practice/dp/1647424739
Synopsis: Every day, we take in data from the world around us and store that data in our intellect. Then, without conscious
awareness, we listen to that data (a process we call "thinking") and use what it tells us to inform our decisions. But living
our lives this way means always living in the past, and it limits us more than we think.
With the publication of "The Inward Outlook: Conscious Choice as a Daily Practice", psychologist Laura Basha shares
how to discern this habitual way of thinking from the innate wisdom and common sense that we all have available to us at
all times. Once we can see this distinction between personal thinking from the past and in-the-moment, impersonal, diffuse
thinking, we are awakened to the conscious choice point, which allows us to make choices with awareness and to release
judgment of ourselves and of others. We then consciously create ourselves to be the best version of ourselves we can be:
our authentic, powerfully creative, compassionate selves.
A powerful guide to accessing one's own innate health, well-being, and wisdom, "The Inward Outlook" is a fully accessible
exploration of a principle-based paradigm that educates people in the role thought plays in creating their experience of
reality, as well as a road map to cultivating inspired focus, accomplishment, and peace of mind in one's life.
Critique: Of special appeal to readers with an interest in personal, psychological, and spiritual self-help, "The Inward
Outlook: Conscious Choice as a Daily Practice" is exceptionally well written, organized and presented. Inspired and
inspiring, "The Inward Outlook" is a very special life-enhancing, and unreservedly recommended addition to community
and academic library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The
Inward Outlook' is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).
Editorial Note: Laura Basha (https://www.whitebirdrising.com/laura-basha) is a published author, professional artist,
compelling and empowering speaker, and certified trainer. She holds a BA in Fine Arts, an MA in counseling psychology,
and a combined doctorate in clinical and organizational psychology. Through the years, the focus of her work has always
been personal and organizational transformation and leadership development, and she has been an international consultant,
educator, and personal coach for thousands of clients since 1978.
Success on Your Own Terms
James B. Rosseau, Sr.
https://jamesrosseausr.com
Career Press, Inc.
9781601633156, $15.99, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Success-Your-Own-Terms-Promises-ebook/dp/B07HVPJJRS
Synopsis: Passion comes from inside. Stoke it. Setbacks happen. Find your way around, over, and through them. Be
willing to receive, then give back. Pay it forward.
Many young people (perhaps four out of five or more) are dissatisfied with their jobs. Why bother to pursue a dream?
It's up to you to create your custom-tailored career and define success your way. How? Combine your burning passion with
drive, determination, strategy, and commitment to pay it forward; and find and nurture mentor support, stay steady on your
path, and see the fireworks. Success on Your Own Terms will show you exactly how to do it.
Living parallel lives as a business executive, Christian hip-hop media owner, and author, James Rosseau has merged the
streams of his three passions to make a difference in his own life and the lives of countless others.
Learning to make and keep six promises during his diverse career, with the publication of "Success on Your Own Terms: 6
Promises to Fire Up Your Passion, Ignite Your Career, and Create an Amazing Life" Rosseau now shows young people
how to develop a plan for themselves.
These stories, lessons, setbacks, and triumphs are drawn from the neighborhoods of North Philadelphia to executive
leadership, revealing new possibilities in an inspiring blend of smart strategy, hard work, and willingness to connect to
help others.
Critique: Impressively informed and informative, "Success on Your Own Terms: 6 Promises to Fire Up Your Passion,
Ignite Your Career, and Create an Amazing Life" is exceptionally well written and thoroughly 'user friendly' in
organization and presentation. While highly recommended for community, corporate, and academic library Jobs/Careers
collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of anyone with an interest in entrepreneurship, motivational
management, company leadership, and self-improvement that "Success on Your Own Terms: 6 Promises to Fire Up Your
Passion, Ignite Your Career, and Create an Amazing Life" is also readily available in a Kindle edition.
Editorial Note: James B. Rosseau, Sr. (https://jamesrosseausr.com/about) is a senior business leader, author, hip-hop artist,
producer, and media. He is also a team-builder, alliance-creator, mentor, teacher, coach, and master strategist. Rosseau
redefines achieving success with passion. A former executive with Allstate and JPMorgan (both Fortune 100 companies)
he is currently president of LegalShield Solutions, as well as co-owner of Christian Media Properties (HolyCulture.net)
and overseer of Corelinkradio.com, a 24/7 Christian urban music channel. He previously hosted one of the top five
Christian hip-hop radio programs.
The Travel Shelf
Perfect Day Chicago
Wendy Altschuler
Reedy Press
PO Box 5131, St. Louis, MO 63139
www.reedypress.com
9781681064352, $27.00, PB, 192pp
https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Day-Chicago-Wendy-Altschuler/dp/1681064359
Synopsis: Chicago is a city of neighborhoods renowned for its skyscrapers, Lake Michigan beaches, parks, museums,
sports teams, and live entertainment. And the food? Chicago is a non-stop buffet of gut-busting chow festivals celebrating
everything from barbecue to deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs (layered with mustard, never ketchup), and jibarito
sandwiches.
While it's easy to whittle away the day discovering the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier's Centennial Wheel, and Cloud
Gate at Millennium Park, it's also rewarding to experience the lesser-known charms, some that are completely free of
charge. But with so many incredible options, how could you possibly make the most of just one day in town?
Allow "Perfect Day Chicago" Grab-and-Go Itineraries for Everyone" by Wendy Altschler to add the ideal daily itineraries
to your next visit. Follow along for a day or string together a few for a well curated week in the Windy City. See
tucked-away gems like Oz Park, the Chicago Cultural Center's Tiffany dome, the Violet Hour speakeasy, or Humboldt
Park's 55-foot steel Puerto Rican flags. Hunt down the resting places of famous Chicagoans at Graceland or spend the day
marveling at the street art in the Wabash Arts Corridor.
With over two decades residing and exploring in Chicagoland, travel author Wendy Altschuler has delved deep into
Chicago's communities and laid it all out in "Perfect Day Chicago". Let her extensive knowledge of the city she loves be
your guide to a unique day in a city with limitless potential for adventure.
Critique: Cram packed with information about things to do, see and experience in the great and diverse metropolitan city of
Chicago, Illinois, "Perfect Day Chicago" is the perfect guide for memorable, enjoyable, and informative visits to the Windy
City. Ideal for on-site visitors and with a great deal to offer native born residents as well, "Perfect Day Chicago" is
especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, and community library American Travel Guide
reference collections.
Editorial Note: Wendy Altschuler (https://www.wendyaltschuler.org) is a seasoned travel writer, focusing on adventure
and the outdoors, with words published in print and web publications that include Forbes, TripSavvy, Fodor's Travel,
Modern Luxury, Parents, Matador Network, Real Simple, Yoga Magazine, SheKnows, The Daily Meal, Chicago
Sun-Times, and more. Her love of travel began with a year of volunteer service with Americorps, followed by study abroad
in India and a position as an itinerary writer for a luxury travel company. She can be followed on Instagram:
@wendyaltschuler
Islamic Cairo in Maps: Finding the Monuments
Yasser M. Ayad
American University in Cairo Press
200 Park Avenue, Suite 1700, New York, NY 10166
www.aucpress.com
9781649031112, $12.95, PB, 104pp
https://www.amazon.com/Islamic-Cairo-Maps-Finding-Monuments/dp/1649031114
Synopsis: With the publication of "Islamic Cairo in Maps: Finding the Monuments", Yasser M. Ayad provides on-site
visitors with a portable, easy-to-use map guide helps you locate over seven hundred Islamic-era monuments in Cairo's
historic core, stretching from the city's northern walls all the way southward to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun and the Citadel,
and beyond to Coptic Cairo, which includes monuments that pre-date Islamic rule
Clearly divided into six digestible main sections, the first five contain clusters of monuments, while the sixth covers
structures scattered all around the old Cairene urban fabric.
The clear, uncluttered cartographic style of "Islamic Cairo in Maps: Finding the Monuments" makes finding where you
want to go a pleasure, and the maps are accompanied by a comprehensive index of monuments that gives their dates where
known, their location referenced to their corresponding map pages, and a timeline of key periods and dynasties.
Attractively designed in full color and including over twenty photographs of key monuments, "Islamic Cairo in Maps:
Finding the Monuments" is guide that is conveniently packed into a slim 104 pages -- making it handy enough to take
anywhere and great for planning and remembering excursions. It is not only an ideal companion for the city's visitors and
residents but an invaluable resource for historians, writers, and students.
Critique: Easily portable, illustrated with beautiful full color photographs, and perfect for planning travel itineraries,
"Islamic Cairo in Maps: Finding the Monuments" is exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, making
it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Egyptian
Travel Guide collections.
Editorial Note: Yasser Ayad is a professor of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at Clarion University of
Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Egypt, he earned a BSc in architectural engineering and an MSc in environmental studies
from Alexandria University. He started building an interest in digital mapping and geographic information during his
studies in Egypt and continued this passion through his Environmental Planning Ph.D. work at University of Montreal,
Canada, and his professional and academic career at Clarion University.
The Music Shelf
Keep It Old-Time
Howard Wight Marshall
University of Missouri Press
113 Heinkel Bldg., 201 S. 7th Street, Columbia, MO 65211
https://upress.missouri.edu
9780826222695, $39.95, HC, 504pp
https://www.amazon.com/Keep-Old-Time-Missouri-Revival-Present/dp/0826222692
Synopsis: Together with "Play Me Something Quick and Devilish" (2013) and "Fiddler's Dream" (2017), "Keep It
Old-Time: Fiddle Music in Missouri from the 1960s Folk Music Revival to the Present" by Professor Howard Wight
Marshall is the third volume on Missouri fiddling and represents a lifelong fascination with the world of music.
As in the previous two volumes, Professor Marshall seeks out the people, stories, and communities that make informal,
traditional music for their own enjoyment, particularly folk-singing, bluegrass, old-time fiddling, and jazz.
While "Play Me Something Quick and Devilish" addressed what we know of fiddle and dance music from the early French
settlements in the mid-1700s colonial period into the World War I era and the Jazz Age, "Fiddler's Dream" recounted the
1920s and moved through the Great Depression and World War II years and stopped in the 1960s. Keep It Old-Time picks
up the saga in the complicated 1960s and winds down in the early twenty-first century.
Along the way, Professor Marshall presents historical and documentary discussions of music interwoven with ample
quotes from musicians and, at certain points, his own personal reflections and experiences in the music scene. Some of the
topics featured in this volume are the folk music revival of the 1960s, the emergence of folk and bluegrass festivals, the
continuation of fiddle contests, the evolving education of musicians, and many profiles of musicians, famous both locally
and nationally.
Of special note is the inclusion of oral history, archival photographs, and transcriptions of selected fiddle tunes
complementing the text -- as does the companion CD of selected songs.
Critique: A seminal work of exhaustive, detailed, and documents scholarship that includes fifty-eight pages of Notes, a
twenty-six page Selected Bibliography, a fourteen page Selected Discography, and a twenty-page Index, "Keep It
Old-Time: Fiddle Music in Missouri from the 1960s Folk Music Revival to the Present" is exceptionally well organized
and presented, making it an essential acquisition for personal, professional, community, and academic library American
Music History collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Howard Wight Marshall is Professor Emeritus and former chairman of Art History and Archaeology, and
former director of the Missouri Cultural Heritage Center at the University of Missouri-Columbia. After working as a
museum curator in Indiana and at the American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress, Marshall returned to Columbia
to establish the Missouri Cultural Heritage Center. While at Mizzou, he also taught material culture, vernacular
architecture, and historic preservation in the Department of Art History and Archaeology. He has written several books on
art and music, including Play Me Something Quick and Devilish: Old-Time Fiddlers in Missouri and Fiddler's Dream:
Old-Time, Swing, and Bluegrass Fiddling in Twentieth-Century Missouri, which won the Missouri Conference on
History's Best Book Award for 2018. Also in 2018, Marshall won the Missouri Humanities Council's 2018 Distinguished
Literary Award.
The Inner Ear of Don Zientara
Antonia Tricarico, editor
Akashic Books
232 Third Street, #A115, Brooklyn, NY 11215
www.akashicbooks.com
9781636140926, $35.00, HC, 164pp
https://www.amazon.com/Inner-Ear-Don-Zientara-Innovative/dp/1636140920
Synopsis: In the late 1970s, Don Zientara (a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War) founded Inner Ear Studio in the
basement of his home in Arlington, VA, using the electronics training he received from the army. Inner Ear remained in
Don's basement until its 1990 relocation to a larger space on South Oakland Street. Along the way, Inner Ear became best
known for recording iconic DC punk musicians including Bad Brains, Minor Threat, Bikini Kill, Rites of Spring, Mary
Timony, and Fugazi.
Compiled and edited by Antonia Tricarico, "The Inner Ear of Don Zientara: A Half Century of Recording in One of
America's Most Innovative Studios, through the Voices of Musicians" is an oral history of not just Inner Ear's recordings,
but the role that Don played in creating one of the most welcoming and nurturing recording studios the world over.
Alongside 250 photographs, the impressive volume includes testimonials from members of Fugazi, Scream, Fire Party,
Shudder to Think, Jawbox, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Dismemberment Plan, as well as musicians like Kathleen
Hanna, Henry Rollins, among other notables.
In addition to DC punk bands, Don also recorded many other styles and genres, including Celtic folk tunes, harp music,
Russian balalaika groups, political advertisers, and choral singers. The studio was also featured on Dave Grohl's Sonic
Highways television mini-series. The Inner Ear of Don Zientara pays tribute to this iconic studio, celebrating the man at
the heart of this remarkable space.
Critique: A unique and very special compendium of photos and commentaries, "The Inner Ear of Don Zientara: A Half
Century of Recording in One of America's Most Innovative Studios, through the Voices of Musicians" is a coffee-table
style (11.2 x 0.8 x 10.1 inches, 2.75 pounds) volume that will be a highly valued and enduringly appreciated contribution
to personal, professional, community, and academic library American Music History and American Photography
collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of anyone with an interest in music recording in general, and
Punk Music History in particular, that "The Inner Ear of Don Zientara" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$26.49).
Editorial Note: Antonia Tricarico (http://www.antoniatricarico.com) has been taking photos since 1997. She worked as a
photo archivist for Lucian Perkins (a Washington Post Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer) and has collaborated with
Tolotta Records, Dischord Records, Kill Rock Stars, and Youth Action Research Group. Her work can be found in private
collections, in the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, and in the permanent punk and go-go
music exhibit and archive of the Special Collections Division of the District of Columbia, Martin Luther King Jr.
Memorial Library. Her photos have appeared in Photo Review, Guitar World, Kerrang!, Razorcake, and Fretboard Journal.
She is the creator of two books, both published by Akashic Books: Frame of Mind: Punk Photos and Essay from
Washington, DC, and Beyond, 1997-2017.
The Parenting Shelf
Shut Up, Your Kid Is Not That Great
Jason Cole
Viva Editions
221 River Street, FL 9, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030
http://vivaeditions.com
9781632280831, $17.95, PB, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Shut-Your-Kid-That-Great/dp/1632280833
Synopsis: You love your kid. But, let's face it: no matter how much you praise them, your kid is most likely not the next
child prodigy. Be that as it may, it's a fair certainty that the neighbors are tired of hearing about how the fruit of your loins
got the lead in the school play or scored the most points in the last game when they are just trying to grab a burger at the
barbecue.
With the publication of "Shut Up, Your Kid Is Not That Great", Jason Cole writes a cautionary warning about every parent
who has ever tried to live vicariously through their child, or claim the title of "momager/dadager" at every possible
extracurricular activity. Including parents who are serial social media boasters.
Filled with brief banter and featuring an inspiring introduction with Tom Brady Sr., "Shut Up, Your Kid Is Not That Great"
is sure to add a much needed laugh or two to every parent's day!
Critique: Laced through with a sense of humor, of immense insightful value for parents (as well as beneficial to the
children they parent), and absolutely appreciated by the unwilling recipients of parental boasting, "Shut Up, Your Kid Is
Not That Great" is a unique, original, and highly recommended addition to community library Parenting collections. It
should be noted for the personal reading lists of all parents tempted to unrealistic assessments of their child that "Shut Up,
Your Kid Is Not That Great" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Jason Cole has covered or written about pro football since 1992 and has been a selector for the Pro Football
Hall of Fame since 2013. He has worked for publications such as Bleacher Report, Yahoo! Sports, The Miami Herald, and
the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. Cole has authored Elway: a Relentless Life and co-authored six books, including Giant
with Plaxico Burress, Heart for the Game with Simon Keith, and Ocho Cinco with Chad Johnson. Prior to covering the
NFL, Cole covered the NBA, Major League Baseball, and high school sports in the San Francisco Bay Area. Cole teaches
sports writing at the University of Florida and is the father of two Eagle Scouts.
The Dance Shelf
All Join Hands
Thomas S. Curren
Peter E. Randall Publisher
www.perpublisher.com
9781942155553, $25.00, PB, 202pp
https://www.amazon.com/All-Join-Hands-Thomas-Curren/dp/1942155557
Synopsis: "All Join Hands: Dudley Laufman & the New England Country Dance Tradition" by Thomas S. Curren is the
story of what happened when a ten-thousand-year-old musical tradition was put into the hands of a seventeen-year-old
Boston boy in 1947.
While in high school, Dudley Laufman apprenticed with fiddlers and callers throughout New England. Eventually, he
squired the old country dance traditions through to their revival in the 1960s at the Newport Folk Festival, the Club 47, and
Robert J. Lurtsema's Morning Pro Musica broadcasts. Decades of performances in famous venues and small villages led to
his receiving the National Heritage Fellowship Award in 2009.
Critique: Of special interest to readers with respect to the history of American folk music and country dance, "All Join
Hands: Dudley Laufman & the New England Country Dance Tradition" is as inherently fascinating a read as it is informed
and informative. Enhanced for the reader with the inclusion of a section of black/white historical photos, "All Join Hands"
is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library New
England Biography, Folk & Music, and Country Dance History collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Tom Curren (https://perpublisher.com/portfolio-item/all-join-hands) is a writer, farmer, conservationist,
and an historian who lives in New Hampshire with his wife, folklorist Kathy Neustadt. Since the 1970s, Tom has had an
extensive career writing and speaking about New England culture, life and landscape. He has written four local town
histories as well as the statewide account of Old Home Day. He gives presentations at local historical societies and similar
gatherings throughout the region.
The American History Shelf
This Place of Promise
Gary R. Kremer
University of Missouri Press
113 Heinkel Bldg., 201 S. 7th Street, Columbia, MO 65211
https://upress.missouri.edu
9780826222480, $40.00, HC, 328pp
https://www.amazon.com/This-Place-Promise-Historians-Perspective/dp/082622248X
Synopsis: Conceived of as a way to commemorate Missouri's bicentennial of statehood, "This Place of Promise: A
Historian's Perspective on 200 Years of Missouri History" is a unique work that presents the perspective of Professor Gary
Kremer (one of the Show-Me State's foremost historians), as he ponders why history played out as it did over the course of
the two centuries since Missouri's admittance to the Union.
In the writing of what is much more than a survey history, Professor Kremer, himself a fifth-generation Missourian, infuses
the narrative with his vast knowledge and personal experiences, even as he considers what being a Missourian has meant
across the many years and to this day, to all of the state's people, and how the forces of history (time, place, race, gender,
religion, and class) shaped people and determined their opportunities and choices, in turn creating collective experiences
that draw upon the past in an attempt to make sense of the present and plan for the future.
Key elements of "This Place of Promise: A Historian's Perspective on 200 Years of Missouri History" include the
centrality of race to the Missouri experience from the time Missourians began to seek statehood in 1817 all the way up to
the Black Lives Matter movement of the 21st century -- as well as ongoing tensions created by the urban-rural divide and
struggle to define the proper role of government in society.
Critique: A fascinating and informative history of the state, "This Place of Promise: A Historian's Perspective on 200 Years
of Missouri History" is an exceptionally well written, organized and presented study that is especially and unreservedly
recommended as a key acquisition for personal, professional, community, and academic library American History
collections in general and supplemental curriculum Missouri History studies lists in particular. It should be noted for
students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "This Place of Promise: A
Historian's Perspective on 200 Years of Missouri History" is also available in a paperback edition (9780826222879,
$27.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $20.99).
Editorial Note: Gary R. Kremer (https://shsmo.org/about/trustees/gary-kremer) is a fifth-generation Missourian, born and
raised in a small, homogenous German Catholic community in Osage County. Since 2004, he has served as the Executive
Director of the State Historical Society of Missouri and a Senior Fellow in the Society's Center for Missouri Studies.
Among his many publications are James Milton Turner and the Promise of America: The Public Life of a Post-Civil War
Black Leader; George Washington Carver: In His Own Words; Women in Missouri History: In Search of Power and
Influence; George Washington Carver: A Biography; and Race and Meaning: The African American Experience in
Missouri. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Missouri Historical Review.
Left in the Midwest
Amanda L. Izzo, editor
Benjamin Looker, editor
University of Missouri Press
113 Heinkel Bldg., 201 S. 7th Street, Columbia, MO 65211
https://upress.missouri.edu
9780826222688, $50.00, HC, 554pp
https://www.amazon.com/Left-Midwest-Louis-Progressive-Activism/dp/0826222684
Synopsis: Despite St. Louis's mid-twentieth-century reputation as a conservative and sleepy midwestern metropolis, the
city and its surrounding region have long played host to dynamic forms of social-movement organizing. This was
especially the case during the 1960s and 1970s, when a new generation of local activists lent their energies to the ongoing
struggles for Black freedom, lesbian and gay liberation, feminist social transformations, environmental protection, an end
to the Vietnam War, and more.
Collaboratively compiled and co-edited by Amanda Izzo and Benjamin Looker, "Left in the Midwest: St. Louis
Progressive Activism in the 1960s and 1970s" is a seminal and groundbreaking work that offers fifteen scholarly
contributions that together bring into focus the exceptional range of progressive activist projects that took shape in a single
midwestern city during these tumultuous decades.
In contrast to scholarship that seeks to interpret the era's social-movement initiatives in a primarily national context, the
works presented in this expansive collection emphasize the importance of locality, neighborhood, community institutions,
and rooted social networks. Documenting wrenching forces of metropolitan change as well as grassroots resilience,
"Left in the Midwest" also shows us how place powerfully shaped agendas, worldviews, and opportunities for the disparate
groups that dedicated themselves to progressive visions for their city. By revising our sense of the region's past, this
volume also expands our sense of the possibilities that the future may hold for activist movements seeking change in St.
Louis and beyond.
Critique: Informatively enhanced for the reader with a listing of the contributors and their credentials, seventy pages of
Notes, and a twenty page Index, "Left in the Midwest: St. Louis Progressive Activism in the 1960s and 1970s" is an
extraordinary contribution to 20th century American Political History collections and supplemental curriculum studies
lists. While unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and academic library Civil Rights, Gender
Studies, and LGBTA Demographic Studies collections, it should be note for students, academia, political activists, and
non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Left in the Midwest: St. Louis Progressive Activism in
the 1960s and 1970s" is also available in a paperback edition (9780826222862, $35.00) and in a digital book format
(Kindle, $35.00).
Editorial Note #1: Amanda L. Izzo is an associate professor of Women's and Gender Studies at Saint Louis University. A
scholar of US women's history, she received her PhD from the American Studies program of Yale University. She is the
author of Liberal Christianity and Women's Global Activism : The YWCA of the USA and the Maryknoll Sisters.
(https://www.slu.edu/arts-and-sciences/women-gender-studies/faculty/izzo-amanda.php)
Editorial Note #2: Benjamin Looker is an associate professor of American Studies at Saint Louis University, with a PhD in
American Studies from Yale University. His most recent book, A Nation of Neighborhoods: Imagining Cities,
Communities, and Democracy in Postwar America, was a recipient of "best-book" awards from organizations including the
American Studies (https://www.slu.edu/arts-and-sciences/american-studies/faculty/benjamin-looker.php) Association and
the Urban History Association.
The Needlecraft Shelf
Knitted Menagerie
Sarah Keen
GMC Publications
www.gmcbooks.com
9781784946166, $26.99, PB, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Knitted-Menagerie-Sarah-Keen/dp/1784946168
Synopsis: With the publication of "Knitted Menagerie", Sarah Keen provides 30 easy-to-follow knitting patterns for an
eclectic array of animals.
Within the pages of this bright and fun book, there are illustrated instructions for 30 adorable animals to knit, ranging from
sealife to birds, insects to mammals. You'll find everyone's favorites, including a lion, an elephant, blue whale, meerkats
and a llama.
The patterns vary in complexity, ensuring there's something for everyone. Complete beginners or more experienced
knitters can be reassured by the comprehensive illustrated techniques section provided.
Critique: Packed from cover to cover with fun, instructive, and inspiring photography that shows each of the projects from
different angles, "Knitted Menagerie" is a 'how to' manual that is certain to delight novice and experienced knitters -- as
well as the lucky receiver of these gorgeous, knitted creatures. Simply stated, "Knitted Menagerie" is an ideal and
unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library Needlecraft/Knitting instructional
reference collections.
Editorial Note: Sarah Keen (https://www.ravelry.com/designers/sarah-keen) lives in Ceredigion, Wales, UK, and works as
a freelance pattern designer. Finding calculating rows and stitches challenging, but fascinating, she is experienced in
designing knitted toys for children and also enjoys writing patterns for charity. This is Sarah's tenth book for GMC
Publications.
100 Essential Embroidery Stitches
Susie Johns
GMC Publications
www.gmcbooks.com
9781784946500, $24.99, PB, 136pp
https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Embroidery-Stitches-Susie-Johns/dp/1784946508
Synopsis: With the publication of "100 Essential Embroidery Stitches", needlecraft expert Susie Johns has created a handy
directory of 100 need-to-know freestyle embroidery stitches to refresh or add to the embroidery skills of novice and
experienced needlecrafters alike.
Embroidery is like 'painting' with thread and this combination of 'how to' manual and instructional guide, "100 Essential
Embroidery Stitches" gives you all the techniques you will need to create your own works of art.
Whether you are new to embroidery and want to widen your repertoire or just need a comprehensive reference guide to
look things up, you'll find everything you need to improve your embroidery skills and feel confident tackling a wide range
of projects.
Critique: As a coffee-table style (8.5 x 0.25 x 10.75 inches, 1.25 pounds) paperback volume, "100 Essential Embroidery
Stitches" is impressively 'user friendly' in both organization and presentation -- making it a prized and valued addition to
personal, professional, and community library DIY Needlecraft/Embroidery instructional reference collections.
Editorial Note: Susie Johns (https://www.youtube.com/@susiejohns8375/featured) is an artist and designer. She has
written dozens of instructional books on a range of different topics. She studied Fine Art at Ravensbourne College, went
on complete an MA at the prestigious Slade School in London, and later gained a post-graduate teaching qualification
(PGCE) at the University of Greenwich. As well as teaching drawing and painting at a local community college, Susie has
years of experience running life-drawing classes and leading workshops focussing on pen and ink, mixed media, artists'
sketchbooks, drawing for health and wellbeing, and family art. She also teaches classes online on various platforms
including YouTube.
The Crafts Shelf
Wreaths: 22 Festive Creations to Make
Sian Hamilton, author
Tansy Wilson, author
GMC Publications
www.gmcbooks.com
9781784946593, $14.99, PB, 96pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wreaths-22-Festive-Creations-Make/dp/1784946591
Synopsis: There is nothing quite like seeing a beautiful Christmas wreath hanging on a front door to set the magic of the
season alight! Whether you are a fan of the simple and modern style or love the more traditional and ornate look, there is a
wreath making project to suit everyone!
This beautiful DIY instructional guide includes 22 wreath making projects to make different styles of wreaths using a wide
range of materials ranging from a Christmas wreath made with wool and felt, through gorgeous white feathers adorned
with copper leaf to a ribbon Christmas tree. Whatever you decide, you'll find hours of relaxing creativity within these
pages!
Critique: Beautifully and profuse illustrated throughout, "Wreaths: 22 Festive Creations to Make" by co-authors Sian
Hamilton and Tansy Wilson is fun, informative, and amazingly 'user friendly' in organization and instructive presentation.
This coffee-table style (8.25 x 0.25 x 10.75 inches, 10.6 ounces) paperback volume is especially recommended for
personal, professional, and community library Folkcraft and Seasonal Handicraft collections.
Editorial Note #1: Sian Hamilton (https://www.craftcast.com/teachers/sian-hamilton) has been a designer for over twenty
years and has a BA (Hons) in 3D Design. Sian has always loved to sew. Introduced to sewing by her grandmother, who
was a seamstress, she started sewing clothes for herself in her teenage years and then progressed to making custom
wedding dresses for clients in her early career. These days, sewing is her hobby as she is the editor of Making Jewellery
magazine and the author of several books on jewelry making, including Flowers and Cats, available from GMC
Publications.
Editorial Note #2: Tansy Wilson (https://tansywilson.com) has been a designer and maker ever since graduating from a 3D
design mixed media degree course in Brighton, working on collaborative design projects as well as making for her own
customer base. She has written many magazine articles as well as producing several project books.
The Woodworking Shelf
The Art of Chip Carving
Tatiana Baldina
GMC Publications
www.gmcbooks.com
9781784946623, $29.99, PB, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Art-Chip-Carving-Tatiana-Baldina/dp/1784946621
Synopsis: Chip carving is that art of forming intricate geometric patterns by carefully cutting away small triangles of wood
to slowly create the full project. With the publication of "The Art of Chip Carving", woodworking specialist Tatiana
Baldina provides incredibly detailed DIY instructions, with photographs accompanying every step, thereby allowing even a
complete beginner to succeed in the process of recreating her patterns. More experienced carvers will truly relish the
opportunity to try out new designs.
These projects can be used to decorate all manner of objects, from boxes to plates and wall panels to furniture. "The Art of
Chip Carving" also contains a comprehensive introduction to the art, including choosing the appropriate tools and
materials and instructions for all the different cutting techniques you'll need.
Critique: A coffee-table style (0.8 x 0.5 x 8.2 inches, 1.56 pounds) illustrated paperback volume, "The Art of Chip
Carving" is exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, making it an ideal 'how to' manual and an
unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library Woodworking instructional
reference collections.
Editorial Note: Tatiana Baldina is a professional woodcarving artist who lives and works in Russia. She specializes in chip
carving and chose to study the subject as part of her Applied Fine Arts degree at the Volga Regional State University. After
graduating, Tatiana went on to create many of her own original pieces, she also worked for several companies producing
carved boxes and other items for the home. Tatiana is a Laureate of The International Association of the Creative
Professions, Vatikam, France. She has worked as a freelance woodcarver since 2014.
(https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBuFf3NvPJRsEzm1vKBQAQ)
The Gardening Shelf
A Northern Gardener's Guide to Native Plants and Pollinators
Lorraine Johnson & Sheila Colla, authors
Anne Sanderson, illustrator
Island Press
2000 M St NW Suite 650, Washington, DC 20036
www.islandpress.org
9781642832990, $32.00, PB, 264pp
https://www.amazon.com/Northern-Gardeners-Native-Plants-Pollinators/dp/1642832995
Synopsis: Few sights are as charming as a hummingbird hovering over cardinal flowers in your backyard or a butterfly
lighting on the black-eyed Susans potted on your balcony. Yet pollinators do more than beguile us: they are key to a
healthy environment. With many pollinators threatened and their habitats disappearing, gardeners can make a real
difference by planting native species that support these amazing creatures. The trick is knowing what species to plant and
how to help them thrive.
If you're a gardener (or an aspiring gardener) in the Northeast, Upper Midwest, or Great Lakes region, this beautiful 4-color
guide will become your go-to reference to the most beneficial plants in your area. It includes profiles of more than 300
native plants, featuring lovely illustrations and photos, information on blooming periods, exposure, soil moisture, and good
plant companions, as well as how each species supports specific pollinators.
You'll learn more about common plants you thought you knew and be introduced to species you may have never
encountered before. Blooming flowers, native grasses, trees, shrubs, vines, and plants for rain and pond gardens are all
included. White Baneberry, Woodland Strawberry, Boneset, Virginia Mountain Mint, Smooth Aster, and many others may
find their way from the pages of "A Northern Gardener's Guide to Native Plants and Pollinators" to your soil.
Critique: Informatively illustrated on every page, "A Northern Gardener's Guide to Native Plants and Pollinators" is an
ideal and comprehensive compendium that is throughly 'gardener friendly' in organization and presentation. An essential
horticultural and gardening reference for both novice and experienced gardeners alike, "A Northern Gardener's Guide to
Native Plants and Pollinators" must be considered a core and essential addition to personal, professional, community, and
academic library Gardening/Horticulture reference and identification collections.
Editorial Note #1: Lorraine Johnson has been researching and writing about environmental issues for three decades.
Johnson is the author or editor of fourteen books, including 100 Easy-to-Grow Native Plants for American Gardens in
Temperate Zones and Grow Wild!
Editorial Note #2: Sheila Colla is a Conservation Scientist working to conserve wildlife including native pollinators. She is
part of York University's Bee Research Organization BeeC, which aims to address pollinator health and sustainable
agriculture from an interdisciplinary perspective.
Editorial Note #3: Ann Sanderson has an undergraduate degree in zoology and biology from the University of Toronto and
attended the Science Illustration program at the University of California in Santa Cruz. She is now a freelance illustrator in
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
The Astrology Guide
Claudia Trivelas
Visible Ink Press
43311 Joy Rd., #414, Canton, MI 48187-2075
www.visibleinkpress.com
9781578598199, $54.95, HC, 400pp
https://www.amazon.com/Astrology-Guide-Understanding-Signs-Yourself/dp/1578598192
Synopsis: How does each planetary sign, each house, and the relationships between planetary bodies influence your life?
"The Astrology Guide: Understanding Your Signs, Your Gifts, and Yourself" by Claudia Trivelas is an essential guide that
lets you harness the energy of your unique astrological influences and gifts as it answers each of these questions and so
much more!
Building on the basics of traditional astrology with an in-depth understanding of the 12 signs, 12 houses, the planets, and
the planetary combinations, "The Astrology Guide" includes interpretations of the asteroid Chiron and the recently
discovered dwarf planets Ceres, Eris, and Sedna. Beginner and advanced practitioners will benefit from its mastery of chart
interpretation and its understanding of the gifts (and challenges) of planetary energies.
Rather than interpreting planetary influences as "good" or "bad," thereby putting the individual in a box, "The Astrology
Guide" looks at the "gift" and the corresponding "shadow" each planet, sign, house placement, and planetary combination
in the astrology chart offers. The "shadow" is a concept first coined by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung that describes those
aspects of the personality that we choose to reject or repress, and embracing the planetary shadow creates personal
empowerment.
The planets are not doing something to you; instead, you can learn to interact with them, dance with their energy, and exist
in harmony with them. "The Astrology Guide informative and instructive manual that aids in self-discovery and furthers
self-empowerment by helping you answer questions such as: Is there a story you are reflecting that is influenced by a
prominent planet, asteroid, or a newly discovered dwarf planet in your chart?; How do you relate to the Moon's Nodal
influences in your birth chart?; Is there an archetypal story that resonates with you?; How do the minor aspects to your
Personal Planets enrich your understanding of your talents and abilities? -- and, much, much more!
"The Astrology Guide" will develop your resilience to life's cycles and outer influences and show you the unconscious
parts of yourself that subtly influence your behavior. Numerous photographs and illustrations, a helpful bibliography, and
an extensive index add to its usefulness. Learn about your innate, unique gifts and gain satisfaction, fulfillment, and
confidence!
Critique: A comprehensive and exceptionally well organized and presented compendium of information that will be of
special interest to readers with respect to Astrology, "The Astrology Guide: Understanding Your Signs, Your Gifts, and
Yourself" is highly recommended as a core addition to personal, professional, and community library collections. It should
be noted for students and practitioners that "The Astrology Guide: Understanding Your Signs, Your Gifts, and Yourself" is
also available in a paperback edition (9781578597383, $24.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: Claudia Trivelas (https://astrorebalancing.com) graduated from Boston University with a degree in
psychology and mathematics, which prepared her well to become an astrologer. She was mentored by astrology luminaries
including Isabel Hickey and Charles Emerson, a cosmobiologist and founder of the Uranian Society. You can find her New
Moon and Full Moon updates on social media and online at www.DiscoverYourImprint.com. Her monthly predictions, an
eclectic synthesis of spiritual, esoteric, and metaphysical traditions, can be found on the High Road to Humanity
channel.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
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