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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Armed
Bruce N. Eimer
Gun Digest Books
c/o F+W Media
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236
www.fwmedia.com/catalog
9781440230004, $24.99, www.amazon.com
In 2012 Wisconsin's state legislature passed into law, and Wisconsin's governor signed into law,
a bill allowing Wisconsin citizens to carry guns concealed upon their person from public view.
That's the principle reason why it is no hyperbolic statement that "Armed: The Essential Guide to
Concealed Carry" by Bruce N. Eimer should be a part of every Wisconsin community and
university library reference collection, as well as mandatory reading for every Wisconsin citizen
exercising their legal right to carry a concealed hand gun. From an informative explanation as to
the advisability of carrying a concealed weapon for personal safety; to the psychological
perspectives of anti-gun forces; to rules of engagement for the justifiable use of force; to dealing
with trauma arising from a shooting incident; to firing drills; weapon retention; avoiding the
'Hero Syndrome'; comprehensive overview of weapons gear; and common sense based solution
to common personal security issues, "Armed" is exceptionally informed, informative, practical,
thoughtful, and thought-provoking from beginning to end.
Unlearn, Rewild
Miles Olson
New Society Publishers
PO Box 189
Gabriola Island, BC, Canada, V0R 1X0
9780865717213, $15.95, www.newsociety.com
For some, a better society combines the knowledge of today with the harmony of the past.
"Unlearn, Rewild" is a future primitive ideal guide from Miles Olson as he discusses these ideals
and how they could work for our future of sustainability, and building skills that could make such
things possible on many levels. "Unlearn, Rewild" is an intriguing twist with plenty to ponder for
our future, very much recommended reading. Also from New Society Publishers is "Life Rules:
Nature's Blueprint for Surviving Economic and Environmental Collapse" (9780865717268,
$18.95), exploring the ideas of self-reliance and the natural laws that humans can adapt for
survival even if the world around them collapses.
Echoes From Home
Jim Carey
Orange Hat Publishing
6204 Cart Path Road, Sheboygan, WI 53081
9781937165062, $12.99, www.orangehatpublishing.com
Youths were often conscripted before they were even fully grown in the age of the Civil War.
"Echoes From Home" is a coming of age tale of the Civil War, in which Joshua Miller and his
friend Monte join an Alabaman cavalry unit during the height of the conflict. War forces him to
grow up quickly, and he starts to wonder if he will ever see his sweetheart when he gets back
home. "Echoes from Home" is a fine pick for those who enjoy historical fiction based on the
American Civil War.
The Political Science Shelf
Billionaires & Ballot Bandits
Greg Palast
With comics by Ted Rall
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street, New York, NY 10013
www.ballotbandits.org
9781609804787 $14.95 www.sevenstories.com
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. provides the introduction ("A Hostile Takeover of Our Country") to
Billionaires & Ballot Bandits: How to Steal and Election in 9 Easy Steps, a reader-friendly and
nastily funny indictment of recent and ongoing ballot tampering and election fraud in the United
States. Despite the humor - accentuated by the 48-page insert of black-and-white cartoons by Ted
Rall summarizing the hard-hitting highlights - Billionaires & Ballot Bandits is a meticulously
researched and thoroughly grounded laundry list of horrendous crimes against American
democracy. Author and journalist Greg Palast berates Democrats as well as Republicans for
documented instances of vote theft. Dirty tricks range from purely computerized voting systems
with no paper trail (manipulating these is as easy as unplugging the computer), to secretly
striking citizens from voter rolls for "no address" when their homes are foreclosed upon,
disenfranchising innocent voters who happen to have a similar name to a convicted felon, not
letting ex-cons know that it is legal for them to vote after their sentences have been fully served
(in the majority of cases and nearly all states), the Orwellian-named, ballot-obstructing
abomination that is the "Help America Vote Act", and much more. Who is behind this fraud?
Mostly big money individuals and interests, looking to make their money even bigger; prime
offenders include Karl Rove, the Koch brothers, Harold "Ice Man" Simmons, and Paul "Vulture"
Singer. How can ordinary Americans fight back? Recommendations include "don't go postal"
(i.e. don't mail an absentee ballot if possible - last election, half a million of them were never
counted, often on flimsy excuses), vote early (this will give you more time to respond if you have
been unjustly purged from the voter rolls), and resisting provisional ballots. "...don't accept a
provisional ballot that likely won't get counted... Demand adjudication on the spot of your right
to a real no-BS ballot from poll judges. Or demand a call to the supervisor of elections; or return
with acceptable ID if that's the problem. And be a champ; defend the rights of others. If you've
taken Step 1 above and voted early, you have Election Day free to be a poll watcher." Worthy of
the highest recommendation, Billionaires & Ballot Bandits could not be more timely, and
deserves to be required reading for every American citizen!
We Are Many
Kate Khatib, Margaret Killjoy, and Mike McGuire, editors
AK Press
3500 Parkdale Avenue, Building 1, #A28
Baltimore, MD 21211
9781849351164, $21.00, www.akpress.org
Oppression cannot last forever when the oppressed know the truth and are willing to fight back.
"We Are Many: Reflections on Movement Strategy From Occupation to Liberation" is a
collection of essays from many individuals who have come together to discuss the Occupy
movement and other recent social movements that are presenting their own brand of revolution
against the status quo. "We Are Many" is strongly recommended for political science and social
issues collections and for those who want more perspective on these controversial
movements.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Palmetto Blood
Reed Bunzel
Ingalls Publishing Group, Inc.
PO Box 2500, Banner Elk, NC 28604
9781932158441, $16.95, www.ingallspublishinggroup.com
What can invoke murder upon someone? "Palmetto Blood" is a novel from Reed Bunzel
following Jack Connor, an officer with connections to the recently deceased TV reporter.
Wondering on how an old love could have invoked such a response, Connor seeks the truth and
finds roots deep in the South Carolina underground. "Palmetto Blood" is well worth considering
for those seeking a mystery with a bit of southern flavor.
The Fiction Shelf
Coleman Springs
Glenn Dromgoole
Abilene Christian University Press
1626 Campus Court, Abilene, TX 79601
9780891123194, $12.99, www.acupressbooks.com
The small towns of America hold a flavor unlike anywhere else. "Coleman Springs" is a novel
from Glenn Dromgoole set in the idyllic small town of Coleman Springs, telling the story of an
upcoming Ice Cream Festival, and the events surrounding it that bring their own taste of
Americana. "Coleman Springs" is worth considering for those looking for tales of small town
life, recommended.
Curiosity Killed the Sphinx and Other Stories
Katherine L. Holmes
The Institute for the Study of American Popular Culture
7095-1240 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028
9780982955833, $15.00, www.americanpopularculture.com
Everyone always has questions for themselves, and the search for answers is never ending.
"Curiosity Killed the Sphinx and Other Stories" is a collection of short fiction from Katherine L.
Holmes, winner of Prize Americana, who explores that concept of people who face questions and
come to answers that are not always desirable. "Curiosity Killed the Sphinx" is a fine collection
that gives readers much to think about.
The Big Exit
David Carnoy
The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
9781590205150, $25.95, www.overlookpress.com
One bad move and you suddenly have a murder wrap on your shoulders. "The Big Exit" is a
novel from David Carnoy following confused Richie Forman, a man trying to put his life back
together after a stay in prison. As his life gets back on track, a friend is murdered and he's left as
the main suspect. On the run now, he has to absolve himself in a novel that draws on its Silicon
Valley setting strongly. "The Big Exit" is a riveting read that should prove hard to put down for
those seeking a modern read, highly recommended.
The Immanence of God in the Tropics
George Rosen
Leapfrog Press
PO Box 2110
Teaticket, MA 02536
9781935248316, $15.95, www.leapfrogpress.com
Far from our safety nets, we discover whole new things we never knew existed. "The Immanence
of God in the Tropics" is a collection of short fiction from George Rosen, as he presents people
far from home faced with questions about their lives, the questions of life, what's important to
them, and of faith. "The Immanence of God in the Tropics" is an intriguing and riveting
assortment, very much recommended reading.
The Memory Jar
Tricia Goyer
Zondervan Publishing House
5300 Patterson Avenue, S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI 49530
9780310335108, $14.99, www.zondervan.com
Tragedy can make us lock ourselves away, but occasionally someone shows up with the key.
"The Memory Jar: Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors" is an Amish romance surrounding Sarah
Shelter, a woman plagued by the loss of her best friend, and about to write off the chance of ever
finding love. But when this season's bout of hunters comes in, she may find someone to finally
free her from her rut. "The Memory Jar" is a charming and faith-driven romance, a treasure not to
be overlooked.
Accidentally Amish
Olivia Newport
Barbour Publishing
P.O. Box 719
Uhrichsville, OH 44683
9781616267124, $14.99, www.barbourbooks.com
Into the deep end of Amish culture, Annie will learn much of faith and love. "Accidentally
Amish" is the first entry into Olivia Newport's Valley of Choice series, in which Annie flees the
pressures of the workplace to an Amish community in the San Luis Valley. Finding an attraction
with the man who takes her under his wing in the community, she finds herself split between her
successful career and the man she may love. "Accidentally Amish" is a strong pick for those
seeking Christian romance, highly recommended.
Under the Mound
Cynthia Heinrichs
Simply Read Books
501-5525 West Boulevard
Vancouver, BC Canada V6M 3W6
9781897476628, $17.95, www.simplyreadbooks.com
In a darker era, uncertainty was the only thing that was certain. "Under the Mound" is a historical
novel from Cynthia Heinrichs, a dramatization of the Orneyinga Saga where a snowstorm leads
to madness and tragedy. Setting the story behind Malcolm, an unwarlike individual in a time of
war, sees much of the world in this oft forgotten era. "Under the Mountain" is a choice pick for
fans of historical fiction, highly recommended.
The Celestial Sea
Marina De Nadous
Matador
c/o Troubadour
9781780882116, $17.95, www.troubadour.co.uk
We may be satisfied by our life, but something may shake what we think is the good life. "The
Celestial Sea: A Sacred Romance and Moral Quest" is a novel about an English housewife who
finds herself uplifted and changed forever as she meets a Kiwi man and their life spills over into
something between reality and fantasy. "The Celestial Sea" is a literary romance that explores the
reality of life and what we seek it to be, and how love can ultimately change it all, highly
recommended.
The Visionary
Pamela S. Thibodeaux
Gale
c/o Cengage Learning, Inc.
200 First Stamford Place
Stamford, CT 06902
9781432825492, $25.95, www.cengage.com
With unique talents, Taylor Forrestier is challenged with using them. "The Visionary" is a novel
from Pamela S. Thibodeaux, following the unusually gifted Taylor as she turns to faith in what to
do with her abilities, and healing God's call to heal, Taylor must face not only her own darkness,
but the darkness of those around her. "The Visionary" is a riveting work of literary fiction, and a
core addition to any contemporary collection.
Godsent
Richard Burton
Arcade Publishing
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
307 West 36th Street, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10018
9781611457063, $24.95, www.skyhorsepublishing.com
The power to help also comes with the power to harm. "Godsent" is a religious thriller, as Kate
Skylar, a seventeen year old virgin, becomes pregnant with what many believe may be the second
coming...and others believe may be the Antichrist. Ethan, her son, grows up in a world where his
true nature is unknown. As he learns of it, and those out to end him, the decisions he make hold
the fate of the world in his hands. "Godsent" is a riveting read that will prove hard to put down,
highly recommended.
The Hunting/Fishing Shelf
Records Of North American Whitetail Deer
Boone and Crockett Club Collection
250 Station Drive, Missoula, MT 59801
www.booneandcrockettclub.com
9780940864849, $34.95, www.amazon.com
The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), also known as the Virginia deer or simply as the
whitetail, is a medium-sized deer native to the United States (all but five of the states), Canada,
Mexico, Central America, and South America as far south as Peru. In North America, the species
is most common east of the Rocky Mountains, and is absent from much of the western United
States, including Nevada, Utah, California, Hawaii, and Alaska (though its close relatives, the
black-tailed or mule deer Odocoileus hemionus, can be found there). It is also found in aspen
parklands and deciduous river bottomlands within the central and northern Great Plains, and in
mixed deciduous riparian corridors, river valley bottomlands, and lower foothills of the northern
Rocky Mountain regions from South Dakota and Wyoming to southeastern British Columbia,
including the Montana Valley and Foothill grasslands. The conversion of land adjacent to the
northern Rockies into agriculture use and partial clear-cutting of coniferous trees (resulting in
widespread deciduous vegetation) has been favorable to the white-tailed deer and has pushed its
distribution to as far north as Prince George, British Columbia. Populations of deer around the
Great Lakes have also expanded their range northwards, due to conversion of land to agricultural
uses favoring more deciduous vegetation, and local caribou and moose populations. The
white-tailed deer is well-suited for its environment and is a prized prey each autumn for some 13
million hunters throughout North America. A 384 page compendium, "Records of North
American Whitetail Deer: Decades of Trophy Listings for Wild, Free-Ranging Whitetails" is
authoritatively compiled by the Boone and Crockett Club and offers a detailed tabular listing of
12,254 whitetail trophics ranked according to their all-time Boone and Crocket scores.
Comprised of 4,692 entries, "Records of North American Whitetail Deer: Decades of Trophy
Listings for Wild, Free-Ranging Whitetails" is informed, informative, definitive, comprehensive,
illustrated, clearly delineated, and a core addition to professional and academic library reference
collections.
Pacific Salmon Flies
Cecilia "Pudge" Kleinkauf
Frank Amato Publications
PO Box 82113, Portland, OR 97282
9781571884893, $19.95, www.amatobooks.com
The Pacific Salmon is the staple of any northwestern fisherman. "Pacific Salmon Flies: New Ties
& Old Standbys" is a guide to capturing the attention of the salmon to help fly fishers catch
bigger and more fish as they wade out into the lake. Discussing many fly designs and how to get
the most out of them, each entry is accompanied by many full color photos. "Pacific Salmon
Flies" not to be missed by any enthusiastic fly fisher.
The Gun Book for Boys
Silvio Calabi, Steve Helsley, & Roger Sanger
Shooting Sportsman Book
c/o Down East Books
PO Box 679
Camden, ME 04843
9781608931996, $24.95, www.downeastbooks.com
For some, hunting is a rite of passage. "The Gun Book for Boys" is a hunting guide for those who
embrace the sport of hunting, outlining the game and the tools of their destruction. With a bit of
history surrounding the creation of guns through history, their advancement, the essential gear of
history, and much more. "The Gun Book for Boys" is a fun and practical read with plenty of
references and black and white photography throughout, highly recommended.
The LGBT Shelf
Coming Around
Anne Dohrenwend, PhD
New Horizon Press
PO Box 669
Far Hills, NJ 07931
9780882823935, $14.95, www.newhorizonpressbooks.com
A child's revelation of sexuality can be devastating to many parents. "Coming Around: Parenting
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Kids" is a guide for parents who have experienced this
revelation, and how to be a better parent in what may be a tough time for both parent and child.
From dealing with religious prejudices, homophobia, and remembering to still be a parent
through it all, "Coming Around" is a strongly recommended pick for parents who are struggling
to cope during tough times.
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
50 Monologues for Student Actors
Mary Depner
Meriwether Publishing
PO Box 7710
Colorado Springs, CO 80933-7710
9781566081887, $16.95, www.meriwether.com
Monologues are excellent practice for aspiring actors. "50 Monologues for Student Actors II: 100
More Monologues for Guys and Girls" is an expanded collection of theatrical practice
monologues from Mary Depner and Meriwether Publishing, presenting scenes to act out alone
and in front of the class to help their furthered education. "50 Monologues for Student Actors II"
is an excellent pick for theatre and acting collections, not to be missed.
The Christian Studies Shelf
The Revelation To John
Stephen S. Smalley
InterVarsity Press
Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 605151426
www.ivpress.com
9780830829248, $40.00, www.amazon.com
'Apocalypse' translated literally from Greek refers to a revelation of something hidden, although
this sense did not enter English until the 14th century. In the contexts of Christian Theology,
Apocalypse is a prophecy of hidden meaning found in the Revelation of John, the last book of the
New Testament. This apocalyptic revelation which John received describes the ultimate victory
of good over evil and the end of the present age. Today, it is commonly used in reference to any
prophetic revelation or so-called End Time scenario, or to the end of the world in general. "The
Revelation to John: A Commentary on the Greek Text of the Apocalypse" by Stephen S. Smalley
(Johannine scholar and Dean Emeritus of Chester Cathedral, England) is a 651 page
compendium offering a detailed commentary on the imagery and historical context of the
Johannine community which gave rise to the Gospel of John, several of the New Testament
Epistles, and the Book of Revelation. An erudite and comprehensive work of truly impressive
biblical scholarship, "The Revelation to John: A Commentary on the Greek Text of the
Apocalypse" is a highly recommended core addition to personal, academic, and seminarian New
Testament Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
Jonathan Edwards And The Gospel Of Love
Ronald Story
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
www.umass.edu/umpress
9781558499836, $22.95, www.amazon.com
Jonathan Edwards (October 5, 1703 - March 22, 1758) was a Christian preacher and theologian
who is widely acknowledged to be America's most important and original philosophical
theologian. Edwards's theological work is broad in scope, but he is often associated with
Reformed theology, the metaphysics of theological determinism, and the Puritan heritage. Recent
studies have emphasized how thoroughly Edwards grounded his life's work on conceptions of
beauty, harmony, and ethical fittingness, and how central The Enlightenment was to his mindset.
Edwards played a critical role in shaping the First Great Awakening, and oversaw some of the
first revivals in 1733 - 35 at his church in Northampton, Massachusetts. One of the latest of these
studies is "Jonathan Edwards And The Gospel Of Love" by Ronald Story (Professor of History
Emeritus, University of Massachusetts - Amherst), a 176 page compendium drawing upon
Edwards' sermons and personal notebooks that showcases him as a profoundly social minister
who preached a Christian gospel of charity and a Christian community bound by love. Deftly
written and superbly presented, enhanced with a list of abbreviations, notations, an index of
Edward's writings, and a comprehensive general index, "Jonathan Edwards And The Gospel Of
Love" is a seminal work of outstanding scholarship and a highly recommended addition to
seminary, church, and academic library Christian Studies reference collections and supplemental
reading lists.
Peaceful Meditations
Rev. Warren J. Sacage & Mary Ann McSweeny
Liguori
1 Liguori Drive, Liguori, MO 63057-9999
9780764821424, $8.99, www.liguori.org
A time of peace can clear much in one's soul. "Peaceful Meditations for Every Day in Ordinary
Time" is a collection of musings on spirituality and life from Warren J. Sacage & Mary Ann
McSweeny as they present their collection of scripture driven thoughts on meditation and better
becoming the bringer of God's joy and peace through their lives "Peaceful Meditations for Every
Day in Ordinary Time" is a strong addition to Christian and spirituality collections.
The Way Opened Up By Jesus
Jose A. Pagola
Convivium Press
7661 N. W. 68th Street, Suite 108, Miami, FL 33166
9781934996287, $36.99, www.conviviumpress.com
Jesus cared little for the established religion, and instead sought to encourage people to follow
his path. "The Way Opened Up by Jesus: A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew" discusses
the tale of Christ's life, and Matthew's Chronicle of Christ's journey and the people he inspired
and led throughout this tumultuous period. With much to ponder from Christian thinkers, "The
Way Opened Up by Jesus" is a must for Christian studies collections, a core addition to those
focusing on commentary and new opinions.
Bless These Lips
Sharla Fritz
Concordia Publishing House
3558 South Jefferson Avenue
Saint Louis, MO 63118-3968
9780758638083, $12.99, www.cph.org
Our biggest sinner is often the same thing we use to praise the lord. "Bless These Lips: 40 Days
of Spiritual Renewal" is a guide to improving our interpersonal relationships, designed for study
among a small women's Bible study group. Drawing much on faith, Sharla Fitz advises readers to
take scripture into mind and keep it there. "Bless These Lips" is a strong addition to spirituality
and Christian studies collections, much recommended.
Dust & Breath
Kendra G. Hotz
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
2140 Oak Industrial Drive, NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802867797, $14.99, www.eerdmans.com
A healthy body needs a healthy mind. "Dust & Breath: Faith, Health, and Why the Church
Should Care About Both" is a guide to Christian ministry from Kendra G. Hotz as she advises
pastors on how to embrace good health and wellness as part of their church's doctrine, exploring
the concept of the faith based health organization. Exploring real life examples of ministers who
have taken the initiative, "Dust & Breath" is well worth considering for ministers who want to
take another step for improving their community, highly recommended.
Unabashedly Episcopalian
Andrew Doyle
Morehouse Publishing
c/o Church Publishing Incorporated
1637 Beechwood Ave #1
Louisville KY 40204
9780819228086, $16.00, www.churchpublishing.org
Faith should be something you love, not dread. "Unabashedly Episcopalian: Proclaiming the
Good News of the Episcopal Church" is an advocacy and call to love for Episcopalians to further
embrace the faith of their lives with love, and spread that love to others, embracing the Church's
gifts, its story, and how to share it all. "Unabashedly Episcopalian" has a strong message that is
strongly recommended and not to be overlooked for Christian readers.
Loving Work
Mike Hayes
Orbis Books
PO Box 308
Maryknoll, NY 10545-0308
9781570759888, $16.00, www.orbisbooks.com
Happiness in life is rarely found when you despise eight hours of each day. "Loving Work: A
Spiritual Guide to Finding the Work We Love and Bringing Love to the Work We Do" is an
inspirational guide from Mike Hayes as he brings faith to the workplace, and encourages readers
to remember God when their looking for purpose in their daily work, and using that knowledge
to find their meaning in what they may think is a dreadful career. "Loving Work" is a strong
addition to spirituality and Christian faith collections, not to be overlooked.
Which Bible Translation Should I Use?
Andreas J. Kostenberger & David A. Croteau
B&H Publishing Group
127 Ninth Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37234-0143
9781433676488, $14.99, www.bhpublishinggroup.com
Translation isn't a perfect science by any interpretation. "Which Bible Translation Should I Use?:
A Comparison of 4 Major Recent Versions" is a study of recent translations of the two thousand
year old originally in Aramaic book, as four individuals make their cases for four recent
translations, their uses, accuracy, and their applications to faith and Bible studies in general.
How to Deal with Difficult Relationships
June Hunt
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736928168, $14.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com
There are many things that divide us, and breaking those divisions can lead to more harmonious
relationships. "How to Deal with Difficult Relationships: Bridging the Gaps That Separate
People" is a Christian self-help guide as June Hunt advises readers on how to best piece together
their lives when faced with tough times in their family, friendships, and other interpersonal
issues. With much to consider driven from faith and spirituality, "How to Deal with Difficult
Relationships" shouldn't be overlooked for those who want to keep that bond strong.
How to Pray the Dominican Way
Angelo Stagnaro
Paraclete Press
PO Box 1568
Orleans, MA 02653
9781612611655, $16.99, www.paracletepress.com
We seek faith in many ways, but there are teachings to help us find our way. "How to Pray the
Dominican Way: Ten Postures, Prayers, & Practices That Lead Us to God" is a Catholic faith
guide to following the ways of St. Dominic, and taking his cues of spiritual tradition to bring
oneself closer to God's mercy. "How to Pray the Dominican Way" is a strong addition to any
Christian spirituality collection with a focusing on Catholic ritual.
24/6
Matthew Sleeth
Tyndale House Publishers
351 Executive Drive
Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781414372280, $12.99, www.tyndale.com
Rest is this strange concept where one doesn't do anything and lets their body and mind recover.
"24/6: A Prescription for a Happier, Healthier Life" is an inspirational Christian read as Matthew
Sleeth, MD, suggests people once again achieve rest by fully embracing the Sabbath, and
allowing themselves some down time instead of going full force 24/7. "24/6" is a wise and
recommended read for Christian and inspirational collections, not to be missed.
Growing Into God
John R. Marby
Quest Books
c/o The Theosophical Publishing House
PO Box 270
Wheaton, IL 60189-0270
9780835609012, $17.95, www.questbooks.net
Their is a mysticism to Christianity that is often unstated. "Growing Into God: A Beginner's
Guide to Christian Mysticism" is an introduction to Christian mysticism and how to better
understand this rarely discussed topic. From the long standing traditions, understanding them, as
well as thoughts from followers of modern mysticism, "Growing Into God" is a strong pick for
those who want to study further into the Christian traditions, very much recommended.
Angels All Around Us
Anthony DeStefano
Image
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780385522229, $14.99, www.randomhouse.com
For one to fully believe in Christ, you must also believe the denizens of the heavens and the
hells. "Angels All Around Us: A Sightseeing Guide to the Invisible World" is an exploration of
the angels and demons throughout Christian canon as Anthony DeStefano presents an intriguing
breakdown of these aspects of faith usually forgotten. "Angels All Around Us" is well worth
considering for Christian Studies collections, not to be overlooked for those who want to learn
more about the angels.
Lessons Learned
John M. Duffey
Wipf and Stock Publishers
199 West 8th Avenue, Suite 3, Eugene, OR 97401
9781608996643, $27.00, www.wipfandstock.com
Exorcism has faded into ridicule for some, but for others it is a very real memory. "Lessons
Learned: The Anneliese Michel Exorcism" delves into the recent history surrounding this 1976
true story of a troubled girl with mental and physical illness as two priests tried to use faith to
heal her condition, a black mark on modern Christianity. An intriguing study of the modern
implications of exorcism and the reflections of history, Revered Father John Duffey offers an
educated look at this ethical issue. "Lessons Learned" is a strong addition to any Christian
Studies collection, highly recommended.
Trophy Child
Ted Cunningham
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9780781407632, $14.95, www.davidccook.com
A child's life is there own, and too many parents tend to try to live vicariously through others. In
"Trophy Child", author Ted Cunningham advises parents on how to avoid the sin of vanity
parent, and offers Christian parenting advice on how to overcome the impulse to try to force their
child into their image instead of God's image for them. With sage advice on being a leader for
your children without trying to turn them into you, "Trophy Child" is a strong pick for parenting
and Christian life collections.
2013: A Book of Grace-Filled Days
Elizabeth M. Briel
Loyola Press
3441 North Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
9780829436259, $11.95, www.LoyolaBooks.org
Everyday, a bit of thought can clear the mind. "2013: A Book of Grace-Filled Days" is a daily
devotional calendar book, as Elizabeth M. Briel compiles scripture passages as well as a bit of
thought to ponder along with the passage. Geared towards Catholics, there is something to
consider for anyone who calls themselves a Christian. "2013" is a strong pick for Christian
devotional collections, highly recommended.
The Islamic Studies Shelf
The Triumph Of Mercy
Mohammed Rustom
State University of New York Press
State University Plaza, Albany, NY 12246-0001
www.sunypress.edu
9781438443416, $80.00, www.amazon.com
S.adr ad-Di-n Muh.ammad Shi-ra-zi-, also called Mulla Sadra (c. 1572 - 1640), was an Iranian
Shia Islamic philosopher, theologian and 'A-lim who led the Iranian cultural renaissance in the
17th century. According to Oliver Leaman, Mulla Sadra is arguably the single most important
and influential philosopher in the Muslim world in the last four hundred years. Though not its
founder, he is considered the master of the Illuminationist, or (Ishraghi or Ishraqi) school of
Philosophy, a seminal figure who synthesized the many tracts of the Islamic Golden Age, and
Andalusian, philosophies into what he called the Transcendent Theosophy or al-hikmah
al-muta'liyah. Mulla Sadra brought "a new philosophical insight in dealing with the nature of
reality" and created "a major transition from essentialism to existentialism" in Islamic
philosophy,[3] although his existentialism should not be too readily compared to Western
existentialism. His was a question of existentialist cosmology as it pertained to Allah, and thus
differs considerably from the individual, moral, and/or social, questions at the heart of Russian,
French, German, or American Existentialism. "The Triumph of Mercy: Philosophy and Scripture
in Mulla Sadra" by Mohammed Rustom (Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies, Carleton
University, Ottawa, Canada) is a 243 page compendium focusing upon Mulla Sadra's philosophy,
scriptural exegesis, and mysticism which ultimately posited the salvation of all men and women
in the afterlife. Informed, informative, and a superb example of seminal scholarship, "The
Triumph Of Mercy" is a highly recommended and core addition to academic library Islamic
Studies and Philosophy Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
The Heart-Mind Matrix
Joseph Chilton Pearce
Park Street Press
c/o Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street
Rochester, VT 05767
9781594774881, $16.95, www.innertraditions.com
We can live by our minds, and our hearts. "The Heart-Mind Matrix: How the Heart Can Teach
the Mind New Ways to Think" is a spirituality guide from Joseph Chilton Pearce as he presents a
new age spiritual guide to living our lives and finding greater understanding of ourselves. Key
concepts include exploring where we came from, and discerning a better place for ourselves and
our descendants in the future. "The Heart-Mind Matrix" shows plenty to ponder on spiritual
evolution, highly recommended.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Impossible Realities
Maureen Caudill
Hampton Roads Publishing Company
65 Parker St., Ste. 7
Newburyport, MA 01950
9781571746634, $18.95, www.hrpub.com
What may be unbelievable may be truer than we think. "Impossible Realities: The Science
Behind Energy Healing, Telepathy, Reincarnation, Precognition, and Other Phenomena" is
Maureen Caudill's personal evidence on the realities of paranormal topics, and what she believes
is evidence of their existence, discussing many events, and why she holds them to be true events.
"Impossible Realities" is a worthy consideration for those who want to believe there is something
more to the world than simply the mundane.
American Vampires
Dr. Bob Curran
New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
220 West Parkway, Unit 12
Pompton Plains, NJ 07444
9781601632296, $15.99, www.newpagebooks.com
The legend of vampires fascinates us like no other, of monsters that are people, until the truth of
their atrocity comes to light. "American Vampires: Their True Bloody History from New York to
California" is an exploration of American supernatural folklore, as Dr. Bob Curran presents a
picture of American vampire mythology, showing the many shapes and sizes of vampires that
exist throughout the country, be they in reality or simply imagination. A riveting read, "American
Vampires" is not to be overlooked and is much recommended.
Beyond the Source
Guy Steven Needler
Ozark Mountain Publishing, Inc.
PO Box 754
Huntsville, AR 72740
9781886940338, $17.00, www.ozarkmt.com 1-800-935-0045
To some, there are many more things to our world than simply science and God. "Beyond the
Source" is a deeply metaphysical read from Guy Steven Needler as he presents his own takes on
the new age spirituality, exploring God and the multiverse and trying to bring it all together for
ourselves to have a better understanding through it all. With plenty to ponder on the nature of the
universe and energy and what lies beyond our sight, "Beyond the Source" is worth considering
for metaphysical individuals, recommended.
The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf
Vintage Football Cards
Krause Publications
c/o F+W Media
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236
9781440232893, $27.99, www.krausebooks.com
Collectibles and history often go together well. "Standard Catalog of Vintage Football Cards:
The World's Biggest and Best Price Guide" is a comprehensive guide to the legendary football
cards throughout the game's history from 1894 up to 1991, covering each entry with values for
most cards throughout the history, with black and white photography for easier identification of
each card. A choice reference for those who enjoy collecting, "Standard Catalog of Vintage
Football Cards" is an excellent pick that should not be overlooked.
Collectible Movie Posters
Jim Halperin & Hector Cantu, editors
Whitman Publishing, LLC
3101 Clairmont Road, Suite C, Atlanta, GA 30329
9780794831424, $19.95, www.whitmanbooks.com
The pulpy movie posters of the past are ideal collectors pieces. "Collectible Move Posters"
delves into the hobby of movie poster collecting, as Jim Halperin & Hector Cantu compile a
collection of the rarest posters throughout the 30s, 40s, and 50s in particular, showing the unique
art of the many posters of the era, ranked in rarity, discussing their prices and what they were
auctioned off for in recent history, be they from classic horror films, the animated features of the
era, or otherwise. "Collectible Movie Posters" is presented in full color and is highly
recommended for the driven collector.
The Criminology Shelf
Dear Dawn
Lisa Kester & Daphne Gottlieb
Soft Skull Press
1919 - 5th Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1916
www.softskull.com
9781593762902, $16.95, www.amazon.com
Aileen Carol Wuornos (February 29, 1956 - October 9, 2002) was an American serial killer who
killed seven men in Florida in 1989 and 1990. Wuornos claimed that her victims had either raped
or attempted to rape her while she was working as a prostitute, and that all of the killings were
committed in self-defense. She was convicted and sentenced to death for seven of the murders
and was executed by the State of Florida by lethal injection on October 9, 2002. A movie was
made of her life and death. "Dear Dawn" is her autobiography largely in the form of personal
correspondence with her childhood friend Dawn Botkins. Now published by Soft Skull Press
with the editorial assistance of Lisa Kester and Daphne Gottlieb, "Dear Dawn" is a compelling
and informative read which is highly recommended for the personal reading lists of anyone with
an interest in the life story of Aileen Carol Wuornos, and a unique contribution to academic
library 20th Century American Criminology reference collections.
The Photography Shelf
The Jungle At The Door
Joan Myers
George F. Thompson Publishing
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781938086069, $45.00, www.amazon.com
Send a master photographer like Joan Myers into the jungles of the Indian subcontinent and you
will be treated to superbly crafted images of a vanishing wilderness and the wealth of live it gave
support to. Enhanced with an informative essay by William deBuys, "The Jungle At The Door" is
a 96 page, hardcover, coffee table book showcasing full color photographs of wild places that
will be forever lost when the jungle is no more due to the encroachments of human activity --
including climate change -- upon wildlife habitats. A beautifully composed and superbly
presented collection, "The Jungle At The Door" is a highly recommended addition to personal,
community, and academic library photography reference collections.
Imagining Winnipeg
Esyllt W. Jones
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College
Winnipeg, MB, Canada, R3T 2M5
www.uofmpress.ca
9780887557354, $44.95, www.amazon.com
Lewis Benjamin Foote (February 6, 1873 - April 22, 1957) was a Canadian photographer, best
known for his black-and-white photographs of early Winnipeg, including royal visits, the
Winnipeg General Strike, and slums. He was born in 1873 in Foote's Cove, Newfoundland and
worked on the Summerside Journal where he first became a photographer. He moved to
Winnipeg in 1902, where he became the city's best known commercial photographer. For more
half a century his photographs chronicled the development of the city. He is most well known for
his photographs of the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike and was active until 1947. "Imagining
Winnipeg: History through the Photographs of L.B. Foote" by Esyllt W. Jones (a history teacher
at the University of Manitoba) is 168 page compendium showcasing the historical photos Lewis
Foote took of the citizenry of early twentieth century Winnipeg. Enhanced with an extensively
informed and informative introduction by Esyllt Jones, "Imagining Winnipeg" is an impressive
collection of Foote's photography and highly recommended for personal and academic library
20th Century Canadian Photography reference collections.
Shooting in Sh*tty Light
Linsay Adler & Erik Valind
Peachpit Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780321862693, $34.99, www.peachpit.com
Perfect situations for photography rarely exist, more often, you're left with chances for everything
to go wrong. "Shooting in Sh*tty Light: The Top Ten Worst Photography Lighting Situations and
How to Conquer Them" is a photography instructional guide as Lindsay Adler and Erik Valind
advise readers on how to best piece together the best out of bad photography situations, from
almost no light, inconsistent lighting, choosing the right equipment, and using the lighting you do
have to its best effect. "Shooting in Sh*tty Light" is a full color manual, and a must for anyone
who wants to get more involved with the field of photography, highly recommended.
Georgia Unforgettable
Robb Helfrick & James Randklev
Farcountry Press
PO Box 5630
Helena, MT 59604
9781560375418, $32.95, www.farcountrypress.com
The beauty of Georgia is all too often understated by many. "Georgia Unforgettable" is a
collection of high quality photography in coffee table book form from Robb Helfrick and James
Randklev as they seek to share well over one hundred photographs of Georgia's beauty both
natural and man made, including its forests, historic sights, modern cities, and much more. In
brilliant full color, each entry is described by a note on the nature of the photo. For anyone who
enjoys Georgia as a patriot, or simply enjoys excellent landscape photography, "Georgia
Unforgettable" is a must, enthusiastically recommended.
The Automotive Shelf
Chevelle Performance Projects
Cole Quinnell
CarTech
39966 Grand Avenue, North Branch, MN 55056
9781934709795, $29.95, www.cartechbooks.com
Keeping a classic car going requires a bit of expertise. "Chevelle Performance Projects:
1964-1972" is an auto care project guide from Cole Quinnell as he advises readers on improving
the performance of the classic muscle car in order to keep it running as it passes its fortieth
birthday. With plenty of technical know how to help readers push themselves and their vehicle
further, "Chevelle Performance Projects" is presented in full color, and shouldn't be overlooked
by those who love their Chevelle.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Smithers' Mammals Of Southern Africa, updated edition
Petter Apps
Struik Nature
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781770079137, $31.00, www.amazon.com
Southern Africa is home to a wide and profuse diversity of animal life. Now in a newly updated
and expanded edition by Peter Apps, "Smithers' Mammals of Southern Africa: A Field Guide" is
a 364 page, superbly illustrated compendium showcasing more than 220 land and nine marine
mammal species. In addition to full color and line drawings for each species, "Smithers'
Mammals of Southern Africa: A Field Guide" also features a full description of each animal that
includes not only its physical characteristics and life history, but also behavior, field signs and
even its conservation status. Of special note is the inclusion of up-to-date animal distribution
maps, spoor illustrations. Enhanced with symbols showing conservation status, time of activity,
and other significant data, the text commentary is thoroughly accessible by the non-specialist
general reader and ideal as an identification reference for tourists, wildlife enthusiasts, and
sportsmen.
The Human Half of Dog Training
Rise Vanfleet
Dogwise Publishing
403 South Mission Street
Wenatchee WA 98801
9781617811036, $17.95, www.dogwisepublishing.com
It takes a certain type of person to be a successful dog trainer, especially when you bring business
into it. "The Human Half of Dog Training: Collaborating with Clients to Get Results" analyzes
how to better communicate with dog trainers and vice versa. From forming a better
understanding of what you want out of a trainer, dealing with conflicting opinions, and much
more, "The Human Half of Dog Trainer" is a must for anyone who wants to hire a dog trainer and
get more effective results.
The Truth About Wolves & Dogs
Toni Shelbourne
Hubble & Hattie
9781845844271, $24.95, www.hubbleandhattie.com
The same methods of learning don't work on every human, so why do we expect as such for the
canine world? "The Truth About Wolves & Dogs: Dispelling the Myths of Dog Training" is a
dog training guide from Toni Shelbourne, who argues that the traditional method of training dogs
is outdated and founded on ancient research that has been superseded by modern studies of
canine psychology. Presenting ideas about wolves and dogs, their differences, and how this
applies to modern dog training and realizing that not every dog desires to be an alpha, "The Truth
About Wolves & Dogs" is a strong addition to pet training collections, complete with full color
photography all throughout.
Heaven Bound
Paraclete Press
P.O. Box 1568, Orleans, MA 02653
9781612612447 $15.99 www.paracletepress.com
"Heaven Bound: Creating a Funeral or Memorial Service for Your Pet" is a gentle guidebook for
those who mourn a deceased beloved pet. Filled with quiet suggestions for ways to honor your
pet, share memories, create a meaningful ritual, and express feelings. Relevant quotations, a
simple order of service, and encouraging quotations from Bible scriptures are included, along
with practical suggestions for the bereaved. "Heaven Bound" is meant for compassionate animal
owners who seek to deal with their grief over the loss of a beloved animal companion. It will
leave the reader with a feeling of calm and a sense of restored order, without negating the deep
pain of breaking the life bond with a beloved pet.
The Technology Shelf
The Vacuum Cleaner
Caroll Gantz
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786465521, $45.00, www.mcfarlandpub.com
When cleaning became easier, the world changed ever so slightly. "The Vacuum Cleaner: A
History" explores this quiet revolution of the household, as Caroll Gantz tells the story of how
the physical labor of house cleaner was improved by technology, following the progression of
technology from the broom to the top of the line vacuum cleaners of the modern day. An
intriguing look into the cultural changes with this device, "The Vacuum Cleaner: A History" is
complete with black and white photography throughout, very much recommended reading.
The Memoir Shelf
The Knock At The Door
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert
Beaufort Books
27 West 20th Street, Suite 1102
New York, NY 10011
9780825306839, $15.95, www.beaufortbooks.com
Genocide is terrifying, to be marked for death for who you are above all else. "The Knock At the
Door: A Mother's Story of Surviving the Armenian Genocide" is a memoir from Margaret
Ajemian Ahnert's story of her own mother facing the terror of the genocide in Turkey in 1915,
and how it steeled her for the rest of her life and her flight from the Middle East to America. A
poignant take on this tragic tale, "The Knock At the Door" is a strong addition to historical
memoir collections.
One Day I Will Write About This Place
Binyavanga Wainaina
Graywolf Press
250 Third Avenue North, Suite 600
Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781555976248, $15.00, www.graywolfpress.org
We remember our youths, be it fondly or with dread, we remember them. "One Day I Will Write
About This Place" is a memoir from Kenyan writer Binyavanga Wainaina, as he shares his
memories of his youth and of his life throughout Africa, bringing light to the modernized African
upbringing, he also speaks on serious issues that the Kenyan nation faces and its future. "One
Day I Will Write About This Place" has plenty to ponder the world international, highly
recommended reading.
The Travel Shelf
Mexico
Lonely Planet Publications
150 Linden Street
Oakland CA 94607
9781742200163, $26.99, www.lonelyplanet.com
Mexico is rich with culture and sights, one would be overwhelmed trying to find the best of it
alone. "Mexico" is a Lonely Planet travel guide, an up-to-date edition of the best selling series for
those who want to see anything and everything throughout the country, from its history to its
modern culture, and embracing the true tastes of Mexico. With a pull out map of Mexico City,
"Mexico" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to get the most out of their south of the border
visit.
The Poetry Shelf
Charms Against Lightning
James Arthur
Copper Canyon Press
PO Box 271
Port Townsend, WA 98368
9781556593871, $16.00, www.coppercanyonpress.org
What we don't understand often frightens us, but just as may entice us. "Charms Against
Lightning" is a collection of poetry from James Arthur as he seeks the spirit of the world through
his own experiences and ponders the many topics that unite us all in our searches for knowledge.
"Charms Against Lightning" is an excellent work to add to any contemporary poetry collection.
"Oysterville": Beside your trinket house/the garden gathered rain./I pulled pears/from the pear
tree, and saw a few things/grow (the wise, dumb pumpkins/engorged below the gate...)./I split a
stump, wrote letters, gathered/oysters, ate the rain.
Down in the Bottom of the Bottom of the Box
Jonarno Lawson
The Porcupine's Quill
68 Main St., PO Box 160
Erin, ON Canada N0B 1T0
9780889843547, $16.95, www.porcupinesquill.ca
By throwing everything out of whack, everything can be much easier to understand. "Down in
the Bottom of the Bottom of the Box" is a collection of offbeat poetry from Jonarno Lawson,
who presents his own take on the world, skewing life as we know it, and shoving it out under a
different lens of the world. "Down in the Bottom of the Bottom of the Box" is an excellent work
of poetry to consider, and is not to be missed. "The Human Being": Bombard its brain with
cosmic rays./redden its eyes with Mars --/set its tiny heart ablaze/upon a heap of stars.
Blokelore & Blokesongs
Robert Conquest
The Wayweiser Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781904130482, $18.95, www.dufoureditions.com
We share a conversation with our elders, and what comes may as well be poetry. "Blokelore &
Blokesongs" is a collection of poetry from Robert Conquest as he explores the ideas of life and
learning he picked up from his conversations with 'Old Fred', as he explores the ancient battle of
the sexes with new perspectives. "Blokelore & Blokesongs" is an enticing addition to any
international poetry collection. "Fred for the Defence": My wife's a bourgeois philistine,"/A lefty
said to Fred,/Fred stopped him: chaps who take this line/Make him see fairly red.//This was a girl
it chanced he knew/No lowbrow Tory but/Bohemian, intellectual too,/ and merely not a slut.
The Malarkey
Helen Dunmore
Bloodaxe Books
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781852249403, $21.95, www.dufoureditions.com
Our mistakes haunt us, even if they aren't truly there. "The Malarkey" is a collection of poetry
from Helen Dunmore who presents a collection of poetry that explores the ideas of the past, our
memories, and how they impact us, with a unique and captivating style that makes it hard to put
down. "The Malarkey" is a strong addition to any contemporary poetry collection, recommended.
"Pianist, 103,": looks at the morning/where she will play/from nine to one/and says how
beautiful/each note, each sun.//Such scales of suffering -/no one can weigh them,/she says how
beautiful each smile, each footfall/each startled face/in the heat of love--
Song & Spectacle
Rachel Rose
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175851, $18.95, www.harbourpublishing.com
We live, we love, with lose, we look for something to live for once more. "Song & Spectacle" is
a collection of poetry from Rachel Rose as she ponders this aspect of life, and how to piece it all
together and make life all the more worth living and enjoying. With plenty to ponder and seek to
love, "Song & Spectacle" is a much recommended addition to modern poetry collections. "What
the Universe Perhaps Heard": Beluga banter, tongue of stars/white noise: wonder what we
are.//No atmosphere, clouds undone,/the fire-pop plasma of newborn suns.//Silent vacuum, blush
of snow/hush now, thrum light undertow.
Tremolo
Alice Derry
Red Hen Press
PO Box 3537
Granada Hills, CA 91394
9781597092326, $17.95, www.redhen.org
We are but one aspect of the portrait of life, and understanding beauty is understanding it all.
"Tremolo" is a collection of poetry from Alice Derry, who explores her own life, as well as the
lives of others to gain a greater picture of the human condition with her work. "Tremolo" is a fine
collection, a top pick for modern poetry collections. "Nootka": I'm learning to balance/on the
roadside bank,/teetering at the edge/where the bramble sprawls,/and the full force/of the roses'
scent/can reach me.//After I'm quiet enough,/the swallows -- gray, blue, gold --/resume their
swoop and dive for insects.//One petal near me loosens to fall: in the thick of bloom, one bud
unfolds.//I'm suspended/as neither bird nor flower/seems to be.
The Marriage Shelf
Catholic & Newly Married
Kathy and Steve Beirne
ACTA Publications
4848 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60640
9780879464936, $6.95, www.actapublications.com
New marriage is the start of the rest of your life if you wish it to be. "Catholic & Newly Married:
5 Challenges & 5 Opportunities" is a guide to forging a marriage of a lifetime between couples,
Catholics in particular, as Kathy and Steve Beirne draw from their own experiences in life and
how to create a more effective partnership and family, by realizing what's in your way and what's
there to help you along. "Catholic & Newly Married" is a fine addition for newlywed Catholic
couples who want their faith to carry them to decades of happiness.
The Self-Help Shelf
Get What You Want
Tony Burroughs
Viva Editions
2246 Sixth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710-2219
9781936740208, $16.95, www.vivaeditions.com
Knowing what you want is harder than most really understand. "Get What You Want: The Art of
Making and Manifesting Your Intentions" discusses how to personally find one's own intentions,
as Tony Burroughs provides a motivational guide to find one's direction, realizing it, and
understanding that pursuing that goal freely brings one closer to the idea of good. "Get What You
Want" is a strong addition to inspirational and personal growth collections, for those who want
help in finding what will truly bring them happiness.
The Business Shelf
Think Like a Furturist
Cecily Sommers
Jossey-Bass/Wiley
989 Market Street, 5th floor
San Francisco, CA 94103-1741
978118147825, $27.95, www.josseybass.com
A good business person doesn't just follow the crowd, they anticipate it, and potentially forget the
whole thing. "Think Like A Futurist: Know What Changes, What Doesn't, and What's Next" is a
business advisory from Cecily Sommers advises how futurist ideas and philosophy can be wisely
applied to the business world. With ideas to revolutionize the approach to business, break the
boom and bust cycle, establish a permanent present, and much more, "Think Like a Futurist" is
an insightful and scholarly take on the advancement of business management and why it may be
different than anything else before it, much recommended.
No More Pointless Meetings
Martin Murphy
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
9780814431689, $17.95, www.amacombooks.org
No one likes meetings. So why do we have them? "No More Pointless Meetings: Breakthrough
Sessions That Will Revolutionize the Way You Work" is a business management advisory from
Martin Murphy who advises how to improve business communication without employing the
dreaded meeting that kills productivity and no one truly enjoys. Murphy outlines the purpose of
meetings and suggests solutions that improve relations within the office as well as organization.
"No More Pointless Meetings" is an important addition to general business management
collections, highly recommended.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Believable Hope
Michael Cartwright
Health Communications, Inc.
3201 S.W. 15th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442-8190
9780757317309, $14.95, www.hcibooks.com
Addiction is most firmly rooted in the mind. "Believable Hope: Five Essential Elements to beat
Any Addiction" is an inspirational guide for greater health as Michael Cartwright and Ken
Abraham advise readers on how to battle their addictions through his five step program that is
approaching almost two decades of success. With plenty of resources to help one pull themselves
out of life's hole, "Believable Hope" is a strong addition to general health and wellness
collections, especially those with a focus on addiction and related ailments.
The Cure for Alcoholism
Roy Eskapa
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781937856137, $16.95, www.benbellabooks.com
Alcoholism is a serious problem that destroys families. "The Cure for Alcoholism: The
Medically Proven Way to Eliminate Alcohol Addiction" is an advisory guide for those who want
to better control the problems surrounding this plague on many people. Dr. Roy Eskapa
elaborates on this method which has a high success rate in helping people conquer their addiction
on many levels, rewiring the brain and enabling people to reclaim their lives. "The Cure for
Alcoholism" is very much recommended for those who want to purge the poison from their
life.
The Hobby Shelf
Modeling Airliners
Aaron Skinner
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle
Waukesha, WI 53186
9780890248447, $19.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com
Airplanes have soared across the sky for the past century, and many have looked on with wonder
for the whole time. "Modeling Airlines" is a guide for model plane hobby enthusiasts as Aaron
Skinner walks readers through on how to embrace the latest happenings in the field and how to
embrace it, and create things beyond simply what is contained a prebought kit. From construction
to painting to making models last a life time, "Modeling Airlines" is presented in full color, a
strong pick for those who want to take their model aircraft further.
The Fashion Shelf
The King of Style
Michael Bush
Insight Editions
PO Box 3088
San Rafael, CA 94912
9781608871513, $45.00, www.insighteditions.com
Michael Jackson was never one for subtlety. "The King of Style: Dressing Michael Jackson" is a
fashion chronicle of Michael Bush as he tells the story of he and partner Dennis Tompkins as
they were charged with helping the King of Pop put together his eye-catching outfits for his
videos and live performances across the world. The styles took many common outfits and
elaborated on them exponentially, turning simple leather jackets into stunning things that only
Jackson could pull off. With full color photography of Jackson's many outfits throughout, "The
King of Style" is a choice pick for fans of Michael Jackson's music and coffee table fashion
collections in general.
The Relationship Shelf
Dating and the Single Parent
Ron L. Deal
Bethany House
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 E Fulton
Ada, MI 49301
9780764206979, $15.99, www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
If a relationship doesn't work, or worse, tragedy strikes, one is sentenced to life alone with their
kids. "Dating and the Single Parent" is a guide for those single parents who want to restore their
family to a more complete state, facing the fears behind dating while being a parent and how to
adapt to the looming threat of a stepfamily. With advice for those dating single parents as well,
"Dating and the Single Parent" is a strong pick for relationship collections, highly
recommended.
The Sports Shelf
Jaw Dropping Hockey Trivia
Don Weekes
Greystone Books
c/o Douglas & McIntyre Publishing Group
2323 Quebec Street, Suite 201
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V5T 4S7
9781926812984, $12.95, www.douglas-mcintyre.com
Ice, punching, and loss of teeth are only some of the aspects of the beloved sport of Hockey. "Jaw
Dropping Hockey Trivia" is an activity and trivia book aimed at those who love hockey and
everything else surrounding the game. Fuel for fun for any dedicated hockey enthusiast and their
peers, the trivia is reinforced with game ideas and much more. "Jaw Dropping Hockey Trivia" is
a must for sports enthusiasts, highly recommended.
The Biography Shelf
The Reverend Jacob Bailey
James S. Leamon
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429, Amherst, MA 01004
www.umass.edu/umpress
9781558499423, $27.95, www.amazon.com
Jacob Bailey, (16 April 1731 - 26 July 1808), a Church of England clergyman and author, was
born in the United States and was married with at least six children. He started his career in the
ministry as a Congregational preacher in New Hampshire but converted and became an Anglican
clergyman in 1760. Bailey moved to Nova Scotia in 1779 because the political unrest in the
colonies was spilling over to the Church of England. He served in the parish of Cornwallis for a
period and then moved to Annapolis Royal where he remained for the rest of his life. It is
through his writings that Bailey's place in Canadian history was assured. His poetry was widely
known and his verse satire was considered to be styled like that of the English poet, Samuel
Butler. He wrote a considerable amount of prose as well and much of this can contribute to
historians studies of those times. "The Reverend Jacob Bailey, Maine Loyalist: For God, King,
Country, and for Self" by academician and historian James S. Leamon (Professor of History
Emeritus, Bates College), is a 296 page study of Reverend Jacob Bailey as an example of the
complex and complicated nature of political loyalty and personal sacrifice in the Revolutionary
War era from a Tory perspective. "The Reverend Jacob Bailey, Maine Loyalist: For God, King,
Country, and for Self" is an impressive work of seminal scholarship and a very highly
recommended addition to academic library American Revolutionary Studies reference collections
and supplemental reading lists.
The Boy Governor
Don Faber
University of Michigan Press
839 Greene Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3209
9780472051588 $26.95 www.press.umich.edu
Don Faber, winner of the 2009 Michigan Notable Book Award, presents The Boy Governor:
Stevens T. Mason and the Birth of Michigan Politics, a thoughtful biography of the youngest
chief executive in any American state's history. Stevens T. Mason was appointed Secretary of the
Michigan Territory at the tender age of 19, two years before he could vote, and did everything in
his ability to advance his territory's case for statehood, even without congressional authorization.
He also strongly supported the Michigan Territory's expansion via its annexation of the Upper
Peninsula, prior his official election as Michigan's first governor at age 24. The Boy Governor
reveals Mason's upbringing, his identity and strong sense of patriotism, his desires, and his role
in Jackson-era political wrangling. Notes and an index round out this excellent addition to
American political biography shelves.
Antony Bashir: Metropolitan & Missionary
Constantine Nasr
St. Vladimir's Seminary Press
575 Scarsdale, Road
Crestwood, NY 10707-1699
www.svspress.com
9780881414066, $20.00, www.amazon.com
American Orthodox bishops are men serving as bishops in some capacity, whether with dioceses
or exercising authority of some kind in the United States and Canada. Antony Bashir was a
devout man of action and vision with the Orthodox Christian community who, in addition to
opening churches, was a primary force in establishing the framework for the expansion and
growth of today's Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese. "Antony Bashir: Metropolitan &
Missionary" by Constantine Nasr is a 210 page biography providing interested readers with an
informed and informative 'window' into an critically important period of history in the
establishment of the Orthodox faith in America. Beginning with a brief overview of early Arab
Christians in America, this superbly written biography covers Bashir's early life, arrival in the
United States, becoming a parish priest, his election to a metropolitan bishopric, his career within
the Orthodox Christian Church, and his unexpected and untimely demise. Of special note is the
concluding section of personal remembrances by those who knew him best and commentary on
his enduring legacy. Enhanced with the inclusion of a selected bibliography, "Antony Bashir:
Metropolitan & Missionary" is an impressive and highly recommended reading for any and all
members of the Orthodox Christian community.
The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Siri & Me: A Modern Love Story
David Milgrim
Blue Rider Press
c/o The Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
sirianddave.com
9780399161599 $15.95 http://us.penguingroup.com
Siri & Me: A Modern Love Story is a graphic novel featuring alternating pages of brief text
followed by minimalist cartoons to tell a most atypical love story for the twenty-first century.
Dave is a fairly ordinary man, perhaps a little obsessed with technology and awkward around the
opposite sex. But when he meets the smartphone Siri, he falls head over heels in love - with the
AI of his own mobile device! "'All that stuff on your blog about being in love with your phone is
really funny. It's so deadpan!' 'No, not anymore. I don't love her anymore - not for 6 hours and 14
minutes....'" At times whimsical, at times heartrendingly sympathetic to the lovelorn ("...what is
up with Valentine's Day? Whose brilliant idea was it to make a special day just to mock those of
us who don't have a sweetheart?") Siri & Me perfectly the technology-driven postmodern era, but
also offers a ray of hope that perhaps humans everywhere aren't destined to forsake other humans
for devices and gadgets, at least in the long term. At times so funny it hurts, Siri & Me is highly
recommended especially as a giftbook for technology-savvy friends with a keen sense of
humor!
The Audiobook Shelf
Riders Of The Silences
Max Brand
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887 Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781441804570, $19.99, www.amazon.com
Along with Zane Grey and Louis Lamour, Max Brand continues to be one of the most popular
authors of western adventure novels. Superbly narrated by Dick Hill, "Riders Of The Silences" is
a complete and unabridged audio book production from Brilliance Corporation that enjoys
flawless technical production values. This is the story of Red Pierre, a man dedicated to avenging
the death of his outlaw father. Circumstances find him riding with an outlaw gang for six years
while seeking the target of his vengeance. Both blessed and cursed by a cross he wears around
his neck, Pierre's draw is lightening fast. There is an outlaw's daughter and an honest woman
involved in and complicating his life. The action is fast, the complications unexpected, and the
conclusion a real cliff hanger. "Riders Of The Silences" is classic Max Brand and highly
entertaining listening for anyone who enjoys a great western action/adventure yarn.
Ruby Nine
ZBS Foundation
174 North River Road, Fort Edward, NJ 12828
www.zbs.org
1931654557, $22.50, www.amazon.com
Ruby the 'Intergalactic Detective' is back in "Ruby Nine: Masque Of The Red Moon". A two CD
disk, 2.5 hour, audio book that offers the listener a fabulous 'theatre of the mind' science fiction
adventure experience. Superbly enhanced with music and special sound effects, the story finds
Ruby hired out to investigate a plague inflicted upon the city of Aberdeen Dundee on Victoria
Moon. She rounds up the usual crew of Teru, Rodant Kappor, and other family voices to follow a
complex story of surprises and extraordinary adventure. "Ruby Nine: Masque Of The Red Moon"
is a 'must' for the legions of Ruby fans who will welcome still another unique adventure brought
to life by truly talented vocal actors and the fertile imagination of author Meatball Fulton!
The Dive Bomber
L. Ron Hubbard
Galaxy Press
7051 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 200
Hollywood, CA 90028
www.galaxypress.com
9781592122301, $9.95, www.amazon.com
"The Dive Bomber" by that master storyteller L. Ron Hubbard first saw print in the July 1937
issue of pulp magazine 'Five-Novels Monthly'. Now it has been brought to life as a complete and
unabridged, 2 CD, 2 hour audio book production by Galaxy Press. This technically flawless
production includes a superb multicast performance enhanced with music and sound effects
throughout. The story is an action/adventure yarn set in the early days of aviation when Lucky
Martin, a daredevil test pilot, finds himself struggling to build a new and improved dive bomber
plane. His foe is a man intending to sell Martin's dive bomber to foreign powers in direct
violation of U. S. law and determined to kill anyone, including Martin's fiancee, who gets in the
way of his nefarious plans. With thrills a plenty, "The Dive Bomber" is a riveting 'theater of the
mind' experience that does full justice to the literary skills of L. Ron Hubbard and is whole
heartedly recommended to anyone who enjoys action/adventure stories at their very best.
Dream More
Dolly Parton
Penguin Audio
c/o The Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
9781611761542 $19.95 http://us.penguingroup.com
Legendary celebrity and philanthropist Dolly Parton presents Dream More, the unabridged
audiobook version of her uplifting self-help guide. Drawing upon her own life from her
childhood in the hills of Tennessee to her work as a singer, songwriter, and performer today in
order to generate examples, Dream More focuses upon the importance of expanding one's
boundaries and reaching for the stars. The central tenet is to dream more, care more, learn more,
and be more. A work of inspiration enlivened with original music, Dream More is an excellent
and motivational read especially recommended for fans of Dolly Parton's work and legacy. 2
CDs, 1 1/2 hours.
Return of the Thin Man
Dashiell Hammett, author
Peter Ganim, Nicola Barber, Scott Brick, et. al, performers
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781611749090 $34.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com
Return of the Thin Man is the unabridged audiobook rendition of two never-before-published
"Thin Man" novellas from hard-boiled mystery master Dashiell Hammett. Both novellas were
originally written as screen stories for the popular sequel films "After the Thin Man" and
"Another Thin Man". Return of the Then Man brings back the lush ex-detective Nick Charles
and his ex-debutante wife Nora, in a gritty world filled with crime, punishment, thugs and con
artists. Caustic dialogue, shocking plot twists, and edge-of-one's-seat suspense characterize these
masterpieces of crime fiction, brought vividly to life with a stellar full-cast performance. Return
of the Thin Man is an absolute "must-have" for fans of Hammett's work. 6 CDs, 7 1/4 hours.
Hidden
P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast, authors
Caitlin Davies, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427226433 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com
Award-winning author P.C Cast and her daughter Kristin Cast team up to present Hidden, the
unabridged audiobook adaptation of a tense installment in chilling and sultry House of Night
dark fantasy series. Set in world haunted by a vampire society, Hidden follows the consequences
of Zoey's quest to expose the evil of Neferet. The High Council no longer support Neferet, but a
fire of unknown origins devastates the stables, and Neferet still has a deadly card to play. Zoey
and her friends' efforts to contain the spread of Darkness strains their friendships as never before,
in this taut saga of disguised machinations and power struggles under a pale moon. Highly
recommended especially for fans of vampire stories! 9 CDs, 11 1/2 hours.
Hand Me Down World
Lloyd Jones, author
Humphrey Bower, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd
Jackson, ME 04921
9781742149264 $93.95 www.bolinda.com
Hand Me Down World is the unabridged audiobook rendition of a North African woman's
determined search for her son, whose father spirited him away to Berlin when he was just an
infant. Upon reaching Sicily, she proceeds her search with the aid of strangers - some kind and
generous, some manipulative and exploitive. Each has their own perspective to tell of the
mysterious, quiet woman in a blue coat, with little more than a maid's uniform and a stashed
knife to her name. Not all of the narrators are fully reliable; the truth can have a hundred shades,
but the overall story of a mother's resolute courage shines strongly through. Brought to life by the
narrative performance Audie Award-winning actor Humphrey Bower (who is especially talented
at speaking in a wide variety of accents), Hand Me Down World is highly recommended. 9 CDs,
10 hours 20 min, bookmarking tracks every 3 min.
Live by Night
Dennis Lehane, author
Jim Frangione, narrator
HarperCollins Publishers
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
9780062204790 $39.99 www.harpercollins.com
Set in Boston during the roaring 20's, when Prohibition fueled immense corruption through gang
alcohol sales, Live by Night is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of Dennis Lehane's novel
about a police captain's son gone down a criminal path. From childhood petty theft to an adult
mob career, Joe Coughlin makes the most of being an outlaw - but for all his power and
notoriety, he is still subject to betrayal, the pains of love, and the brutality of revenge. An
exciting saga of one man's willful determination to blaze his own path, laws and consequences be
damned, Live by Night is thrilling to the very end. 12 CDs, 14 3/4 hours.
Call for the Dead
John le Carre, author
Michael Jayston, narrator
Penguin Audio
c/o The Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
9781611760972 $29.95 http://us.penguingroup.com
The internationally renowned author of "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy" John le Carre presents Call
for the Dead: A George Smiley Novel, now as an unabridged audiobook featuring actor Michael
Jayston's enthralling performance. Call for the Dead follows the innocuous George Smiley's
investigation of a man from the Foreign Office who appears to have shot himself in the head,
only hours after a routine security interview. Set amid a tense interplay of cold tensions between
hardened human beings, Call for the Dead is a keenly suspenseful masterwork to the very end. 4
CDs, 5 hours.
The Cocktail Waitress
James M. Cain, author
Amy Rubinate, narrator
Harper Audio
10 East 53rd Street
New York, NY 10022-5299
9780062209061 $39.99 www.harpercollins.com
The Cocktail Waitress is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of the late James M. Cain's
long-lost final novel. Joan Medford has the misfortune of becoming a widow all too soon, and
must work as a cocktail waitress to support herself and her child. A beautiful and passionate
woman, Joan becomes romantically entangled with two enormously different men - a handsome
yet duplicitous young man whose touch excites her, and a wealthy older man whose touch she
can barely endure (yet the lure of being comfortable for life nonetheless makes him a tempting
catch). As the lustful love triangle deepens, the power of human emotions unleashed threaten
bloodshed - but will the guilty or the innocent suffer the most? Highly recommended for fans of
erotically charged suspense! 8 CDs, 9 hours.
Blackberry Winter
Sarah Jio, author
Tara Sands, narrator
Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781469217352 $19.99 www.brillianceaudio.com
Blackberry Winter is the unabridged audiobook version of an emotionally moving novel by Sarah
Jio. In 1933, Vera Ray struggles to make ends meet by working the night shift. While she is away
at her job, her three-year old son Daniel disappears during a freak "blackberry winter" snowstorm
- all she has left of him is his teddy bear left face down in the snow. The police conclude that he
ran away. Decades later, in present-day Seattle, reporter Claire Aldridge is assigned to cover
another freak "blackberry winter" snowstorm; as she researches the previous storm, she learns of
Daniel's unsolved abduction, and discovers that she has an uncanny connection to Vera. At times
heartbreaking, at times involved and intriguing, Blackberry Winter is a poignant and
unforgettable testimony to a mother's love. 9 CDs, 10 hours 6 min.
Founders: A Novel of the Coming Collapse
James Wesley Rawles, author
Phil Gigante, narrator
Brilliance Audio
PO Box 887
Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781455847082 $29.99 www.brillianceaudio.com
Former U.S. Army intelligence officer James Wesley Rawles presents Founders: A Novel of the
Coming Collapse, unabridged audiobook adaptation of a near-future dystopia in which
hyperinflation, government corruption, and crumbling infrastructure bring about the end of
America as we know it. Following nonlinear threads of time, Founders reveals not only the seeds
of the darkness, but also the machinations of a silent coup leaving America run by a false
government, and the struggles of brave individuals caught in the middle. Only a few of stout
heart and strong spirit dare to fight back, attempting to return America to a land its founders
could once again be proud of. Superbly performed by Phil Gigante, Founders is an excellent
addition to Rawles' all too real and all too chilling series, highly recommended. 8 CDs, 8 hours
52 min.
The Music CD Shelf
Smile
Andrea Marcovicci
Andreasong Recordings
c/o Miller Wright & Associates (publicity)
1650 Broadway, Suite 1210
New York, NY 10019
www.millerwright.com
$19.99 www.marcovicci.com www.cdbaby.com
Andrea Marcovicci, acclaimed as "The Queen of Cabaret", presents Smile, her first CD of new
material in five years. A captivating, easy-on-the-ears album in which Marcovicci's melodious
voice is supported by a medley of guest performers' masterful talent with the guitar, cello,
saxophones, and much more, Smile lives up to its title by prompting strong feelings of warmth
and joy in the listener. Smile is "must-have" for fans of cabaret music, highly recommended. The
tracks are "It's Only A Paper Moon" (2:37), "Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries Are You Havin'
Any Fun?" (3:15), "Ain't We Got Fun" (2:56), "12th Street Rag" (1:56), "Umbrella Man" (2:40),
"Isn't This A Lovely Day? Pick Yourself Up" (3:20), "Zing A Little Zong Mairzy Doats" (3:22),
"Beyond Compare" (2:57), "If I Had You It Had To Be You" (5:11), "(I Asked) The Moon
Sometimes I'm Happy It All Depends On You" (5:04), "Shakespeare Lied" (2:59), "Look At
Those Eyes" (2:50), "Glitter In The Air" (3:38), "You Make Me Feel So Young" (2:50), and
"Smile" (3:13).
Seinn
Mary Jane Lamond & Wendy MacIsaac
Privately Published
c/o Hearth Music (publicity)
maryjaneandwendy.com
$15.99 CD / $8.99 MP3 www.amazon.com
Gaelic vocalist Mary Jane Lamond and expert fiddle player Wendy MacIsaac present Seinn, an
album reflecting their love of Celtic music, Nova Scotia tradition, and Cape Breton's cultural
legacy. The rich and wondrous traditions of Highland art are given a new and original vibrancy in
this superb two-woman performance that revels in the beauty of Gaelic lyrics and the high
emotion of the fiddle. Highly recommended. The tracks are "Yellow Coat" (4:24), "It Is The Lad
That I Love" (4:57), "The Soldier's Song" (4:28), "Keeping Up With Calum" (2:59), "I Travelled
More Than Nine Miles" (3:23), "Angus Blaise" (5:57), "Hoireann o Rathill iu o" (4:26), "Jewels
Of The Ocean" (5:27), "The Thief's Song" (4:37), "Boise Monsters" (3:14), "The Blue
Mountain's Lullaby" (6:20), and "If You Were Mine" (3:27).
The DVD Shelf
Bringing Up Bobby
Written & directed by Famke Janssen
Monterey Media Inc.
566 St. Charles Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360-3901
www.bringingupbobbyfilm.com
$26.95 www.montereymedia.com
Bringing Up Bobby is a thought-provoking movie about parenting, with a twist - single mother
Olive (played by Milla Jovovich) has a felonious past as a European con artist, but now she is
simply trying to be a good mother to her 10-year-old American-born son Bobby (Spencer List) in
a conservative Oklahoma neighborhood. But Bobby acts out in ways that prompt her concern,
and after he has a bad encounter with local wealthy businessman Kent (Bill Pullman), Olive can
no longer hide from her own criminal past. A dramatic movie of hard choices and life-changing
consequences, Bringing Up Bobby is an excellent choice for both personal and public library
movie collections. 95 minutes, rated PG-13.
Creating Still Lifes
Peggy Flores
Crystal Productions
PO Box 2159
Glenview, IL 60025-6159
9781562906894 $29.95 www.crystalproductions.com
Creating Still Lifes is a user-friendly DVD guide to drawing striking still life pictures, and
transforming pencil sketches into vibrant displays through the use of watercolor, tempera,
markers, or colored pencils. Flores demonstrates basic still life drawing techniques with a variety
of subjects, including a coffee pot, tea pot, vases, candlesticks, bottles, and fruit, with tips on
displaying ordinary items for optimal perspective. An excellent "hands-on" how-to guide,
Creating Still Lifes is a choice pick especially for aspiring artists. Also highly recommended is
Flores' instructional DVD "Creating Circular Art" (9781562906887, $29.95), which walks the
viewer through creating a circle with a protractor, and applying paper arrow templates for
distinctive results; mandala art and intertwined circles in the style of Celtic design are also
covered.
Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy
Acacia
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 650
Silver Spring, MD 20910
$16.99 www.acacialifestyle.com
Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy is the second fitness DVD from the award-winning
resort of Canyon Ranch, offering two 20-minute yoga routines designed to promote muscle tone
and flexibility. Led by a professional Canyon Ranch instructor, these user-friendly workouts are
an excellent way to burn calories, boost muscle conditioning, release tension, and invigorate the
body as a whole. Three bonus segments hosted by Canyon Ranch health experts suggest healthier
ways to prepare the foods of one's diet, tips and techniques for more restful sleep habits, and
more. Canyon Ranch: Yoga for Strength & Energy lives up to its title and is a choice pick for
fitness DVD collections; either of its 20-minute routines can also double as a solid warm-up or
cool-down for an aerobic workout. 57 min. plus bonus, widescreen.
Sparkpeople Total Body Sculpting with Coach Nicole
c/o Acacia
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 650
Silver Spring, MD 20910
www.acacialifestyle.com
9781598287653 $16.99 SparkPeople.com
Sparkpeople Total Body Sculpting with Coach Nicole is a well-rounded DVD workout,
performed by three trainers who demonstrate beginner, intermediate, and advanced versions. A
high-aerobic experience, Total Body Sculpting includes a ballet-inspired barre routine (done with
an ordinary chair), an energetic cardio blast, and an invigorating dumbbell workout. The only
equipment needed to fully enjoy the entire experience are light hand weights, a mat, and a simple
chair. Bonus features include leg toning exercises one can do anytime (even at work!), select
recipes from The SparkPeople Cookbook, and more. An excellent pick for fitness enthusiasts! 69
min., widescreen.
Dance Off the Inches Latin Cardio Party
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 200
Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98 www.anchorbayentertainment.com
Dance Off the Inches Latin Cardio Party is a user-friendly DVD that helps make getting fit into
pure fun. Anyone can follow the "Dance Off the Inches Step Guide", which breaks down the ten
different steps and mini combinations needed to enjoy the entire program. Samba, Cumbia and
Reggaeton rhythms make Latin Cardio Party live up to its title and then some! The result is an
invigorating, high-energy workout, enthusiastically recommended especially for anyone who
loves Latin music. 44 min. workout program plus 21 min. step guide, closed captioned,
widescreen.
Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners
Paul Katami, instructor
Acacia
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 650
Silver Spring, MD 20910
9781598289497 $16.99 www.acacialifestyle.com
Veteran fitness professional Paul Katami (certified by the American Council on Exercise and
other organizations) hosts Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners, a fitness DVD that lives
up to its title. Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners features three 25-minute workouts,
which require one fitness kettlebell as their only equipment. The first workout has a tutorial
emphasizing the proper technique for performing a kettlebell workout; the second is packed with
easy-to-follow drills and combinations; and the third focuses upon core strength. A solid blend of
muscle strength and aerobic endurance training accessible to fitness buffs of all experience
levels, Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Beginners is a great choice for learning firsthand the
benefits of this excellent and inexpensive fitness tool. 79 min., widescreen.
10 Minute Solution series
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 200
Troy, MI 48084-3304
www.anchorbayentertainment.com
Two new fitness DVDs in the "10 Minute Solution" series are perfect picks for women (and
men!) who need to fit exercise into their busy schedules. "10 Minute Solution Tighten & Tone
Pilates" (57 min., $16.98) includes a resistance band along with five complete, ten-minute
workouts that can be rearranged to one's tastes. Instructor and Pilates Method Alliance
Gold-Certified Pilates expert Lara Hudson guides the viewer through these mix-and-match
segments: "Tightened & Toned Core", "Defined Arms & Shoulders", "Trim & Slim Lower
Body", "Total Body Toner", and "Long & Lean Stretch". For those seeking a schedule-friendly
workout that concentrates on vigorous cardio, "10 Minute Solution Cardio Hip Hop" (55 min.,
$14.98) delivers the punch! Professional dancer Heather Graham leads the viewer through five
different and solidly fun segments: "Hip Hop 101", "House Party", "Signature Moves", "Hip Hop
Jam", and "Street Style". Both DVDs come with the ability to program their five segments in any
desired order, and both are excellent choices for keeping fit no matter how hectic one's day has
been. Closed captioned, widescreen.
inControl Pelvic Exercise for Women, revised edition
Karen Armstrong
Cricket Productions
c/o 411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
www.incontrolworkout.com
www.collegevideo.com
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com
Created and developed by Karen Armstrong, inControl Pelvic Exercise for Women is a women's
DVD guide to strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. Pilates routines and therapeutic exercise
form the core of these simple routines ideal for enhancing muscle strength, as well as the
physical control to isolate specific muscles as needed. A seven-minute introduction with graphics
followed by two different exercise routines with verbal and visual instructions make this resource
easy to follow. inControl Pelvic Exercise for Women is indispensable for women who are
pregnant or contemplating having a child, but women who do not plan to have children in the
near future can also benefit greatly from improved pelvic health, which is solidly linked to
greater sexual health and enjoyment. Highly recommended. 30 min.
Qigong for Women
Lisa B. O'Shea
YMAA Publications
PO Box 480
Wolfeboro, NH 03894-0480
9781594392566 $29.95 www.ymaa.com
Certified qigong master, qigong therapist, reiki practitioner and hypnotherapist Lisa B. O'Shea
presents Qigong for Women, a DVD guide designed to help women engage in the healthful
Chinese practice of qigong ("energy work"). It should be noted that Qigong for Women is not an
aerobic workout; the program can be practiced while seated, as its emphasis is upon energy flow
rather than vigorous exercise. Part one covers the five elements theory of traditional Chinese
Medicine; part two guides the viewer through basic energy cultivation, with particular emphases
on health issues pertaining to women (PMS and menopause, sex drive, bone density, etc.), and
part three covers yin essence meditation for longevity and improved well-being. Thoroughly
accessible to women of all ages and backgrounds, Qigong for Women is an excellent way to
become acquainted with this centuries-old practice for improving one's health. 217 minutes.
The Parenting Shelf
Straight Talk With Your Kids About Sex
Josh & Dottie McDowell
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736949927 $11.99 www.harvesthousepublishers.com
Straight Talk With Your Kids About Sex is a Christian parenting guide offering practical,
level-headed advice for teaching children what they need to know about human sexuality. In
congruence with Christian practices, Straight Talk With Your Kids About Sex emphasizes the
importance of teaching young people that sex is a gift from God, meant to be shared within a
loving marital relationship. Topics covered include "Doesn't Talking About It Encourage It?" (the
authors stress that real-world experience proves that no, it doesn't), "How Often Should I Talk to
My Kids About Sex?", "What Sexual Rules or Boundaries Do I Set for My Child?", "What
About 'Sexting,' and What Can I Do About It?", "How Does a Sexually Active Young Person
Find a Clean Heart for a New Start?", "Most Kids Don't Believe Oral Sex Is Having Sex. How
Do I Correct Their Misconception?", and much more. "...the truth is kids who feel their parents
speak openly about sex and listen to them carefully are less likely to engage in high-risk
behaviors. So it really comes down to your kids getting the right information about sex from you
or misinformation from others." Although Straight Talk With Your Kids About Sex is written
especially for Christian parents, its practical wisdom about a difficult subject can prove valuable
to parents of all faiths; just about the only subject not significantly covered is homosexuality.
Highly recommended.
Top Drawer Dads
Dr. Thomas F. Mahan and Marjie Aldom Smith
Westbow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
www.topdrawerdads.com
9781449743147 $29.95 www.westbowpress.com
Although Top Drawer Dads may appear to be a picturebook at first glance, it is actually an
all-ages celebration of the positive side of fatherhood, emphasizing the joys, rewards,
accomplishments and generational legacy of loving and dedicated fathers. Full color photographs
on practically every page illustrate anecdotes about fathers as protectors, teachers, and role
models. Parents and children may enjoy sharing Top Drawer Dads; it also makes an excellent
giftbook for brand new dads or anxious fathers-to-be! Highly recommended.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Tolkien's World
Gareth Hanrahan and Peter McKinstry
Insight Editions
PO Box 3088
San Rafael, CA 94912
9781608871803 $24.99 www.insighteditions.com
Tolkien's World: A Guide to the People and Places of Middle-earth is an unofficial and
unauthorized yet spectacularly beautiful coffee table book filled with artistic imagining of the
wondrous creatures, mortals, and civilizations of Tolkien's Middle-earth fantasy world. Every
two-page spread features captivating original art, some in black and white but most in vivid
color, accompanied by brief captions placing the image in Middle-earth's narrative context. Any
fan of Tolkien's fantasy novels will find Tolkien's World an immersive and captivating visual
reminder of the highlights from his classic stories. Highly recommended, especially as a giftbook
for Tolkien fans.
The Humor Shelf
Scribbles at an Exhibition
Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott
Andrews & McMeel
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
9781449409722 $12.99 www.andrewsmcmeel.com
The twenty-ninth "scrapbook" of the widely popular Baby Blues cartoon strip, Scribbles at an
Exhibition continues the series' tradition of laugh-out-loud funny humor based on the joys, trials,
and tribulations of raising young children. Two harried parents have their hands full with a
daughter who thinks she knows everything, a rambunctious boy, and infant baby girl. "'Please,
Mom? Please?' 'No! We are not shopping for flesh-eating garden gnomes, if there even were such
things! Honestly! That's the most disgusting thing I've ever heard!' 'Really? I guess you haven't
spent much time on elementary school playgrounds, have you?'" Reproduced in black-and-white
with color Sunday strips, Scribbles at an Exhibition is exuberantly funny from cover to cover,
and an excellent giftbook to brighten any beleaguered parent's day.
The Cookbook Shelf
Super Snacks for Super Kids
Sarah Fox MD and Julie Stephenson, authors
Lesley Stephenson, illustrator
Little Creek Press
5341 Sunny Ridge Road, Mineral Point, WI 53565
9780984924554 $18.95 www.littlecreekpress.com
"Super Snacks for Super Kids" is an enlightened cookbook for making healthy snacks for kids, to
help them learn, grow and enjoy living. Filled with easy to prepare snacks that can be made by
children age 6 and up (with minimal supervision), "Super Snacks for Super Kids" teaches that the
best foods are unprocessed, fresh foods, presented in six color photo-illustrated chapters,
including super snacks for focus, after school, play, after play, and for a crowd. Ending with a
chapter titled Super Staples, this fine collection of healthy snacks suggestions for kids is a sure
crowd pleaser appealing to both young and mature audiences. Some tasty snack preparation
suggestions and recipes include Maple Nut Granola, Fruit Salsa, Asian Peanut Dip, Hummus,
Extra Special Egg Salad, Banana Strawberry Freezies, Apple Oat Bars, Kohlrabi Rounds,
Creamy Fruit salad, Peanut Butter Pita Pockets and more. Recipes begin with a short list of
ingredients followed by simple, easy to understand instructions for preparation. In addition,
information about food allergies, recipe modifications, and special diets is included at the end of
the book. 100% of the profits from "Super Snacks for Super Kids" will be donated to fund
wellness projects in the Mineral Point School District. To maximize children's learning abilities
and increase their overall health profile, invest in "Super Snacks for Super Kids" and learn how
easy it can be to encourage healthy snacking.
The Lazy Gourmet
Robin Donovan & Juliana Gallin
Viva Editions
2246 Sixth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710-2219
9781573446532 $15.95 www.vivaeditions.com
The Lazy Gourmet: Magnificent Meals Made Easy is exactly what its title suggests - a resource
packed with recipes to satisfy a connoisseur's palate, yet which require a minimum of preparation
time. An introductory section filled with practical cooking advice for aspiring time-strapped
gourmets enhances this user-friendly culinary resource. "...you don't need to follow any recipe
(except when you're baking) precisely as written. If a recipe calls for three dried herbs and you've
only got two of them, you don't need to run out to the market for those you don't have on hand.
Just use what you have, increasing their quantities to make up for the missing flavors. You can
even swap one dried herb for another - just sniff around your spice rack until your nose finds a
good substitute." Written to appeal to busy cooks of all skill and experience levels, The Lazy
Gourmet is highly recommended, especially for anyone newly tasked with cooking duties
(whether for themselves, for roommates, or for family).
The Picky Palate Cookbook
Jenny Flake
Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
picky-palate.com
9781118095126 $24.99 www.wiley.com
A spiral-bound hardcover designed to lay flay for easy reference, The Picky Palate Cookbook
lives up to its title as a one-stop-shop reference and resource for busy moms (and dads!) trying to
get their families to eat nutritious meals. Grounded in the popular "Picky Palate" blog by busy
mother Jenny Flake, all the dishes are family-tested for approval! Full color photographs pepper
the simple, easy-to-follow recipes for delicious creations such as Crispy Buttermilk Parmesan
Chicken Tenders, Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps, Shrimp Linguini in Tomato Cream Sauce, Black
Bean Guacamole Burgers, Cinnamon Swirl Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce, and much more.
Highly recommended.
Tomatoes
Hatherleigh Press
c/o The Hatherleigh Foundation
5-22 46th Ave, Ste 200
Long Island City, NY 11101
www.hatherleighpress.com
9781578264117, $5.95, www.amazon.com
The tomato has become a staple of both American and European cuisines since the original
explorers first discovered them in the New World and brought them back as culinary curiosities
to the Old World kingdoms. Part of the simply outstanding 'Farmstand Favorites" cookbook
series from Hatherleigh Press, "Tomatoes: Over 75 Farm Fresh Recipes" showcase a wonderfully
delicious variety of 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes for healthy dishes that are guaranteed to please
any palate and satisfy any appetite. These tomato-centric recipes range from Tomato, Cheddar,
and Mushroom Breakfast Squares; Fire-Roasted Mussels with Fresh Tomato Salsa; and Best
Chicken Salad Stuffed Tomato Crowns; to Pasta with Tomato Meat Sauce; Summer Tomato Pie;
and Warm Roasted Tomato Bruschetta. "Tomatoes" is an ideal and strongly recommended
addition to any and all personal, family, and community library cookbook collections. Also very
highly recommended from the Hatherleigh Press 'Farmstand Favorites' cook collections is "The
Complete Home Guide to Canning & Preserving" (9781578264155, $5.95) which features more
than seventy-five simple and easy recipes for home-made jams, jellies, pickles, sauces and
more!
Chaga: King of the Medicinal Mushrooms
David Wolfe
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
9781583944998 $15.95 www.northatlanticbooks.com
Chaga: King of the Medicinal Mushrooms features a range of tasty recipes using these healthful
edible mushrooms, as well as a wealth of information about their history, their uses, how to
properly prepare and store them, and their nourishing benefits. Herbalist David Wolfe touts this
value of this wonderful "superfood" that can be used in teas, tortes, or even exfoliating body
scrubs! A handful of color illustrations pepper this excellent guide. Although Chaga: King of the
Medicinal Mushrooms is more devoted to spreading the good word about chaga than listing
recipes, anyone who wants to add this nutritious food to their diet will find it absolutely
invaluable for its cooking advice.
Healing Foods
Margaret Roberts
Briza Publications
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
www.internationalpubmarket.com
9781875093861, $39.95, www.amazon.com
Throughout the history of the human race, plants have been a source of preventative and applied
medicinal treatments for illnesses and injuries. Drawing upon her many years of experience and
expertise, South African organic farmer, physiotherapist, herbalist, and author Margaret Roberts,
has written "Healing Foods", profusely and superbly illustrated, 272 page compendium
showcasing more than 150 common and lesser-known vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices, and other
food plants that are especially beneficial for human health and well-being. Each plant's origin and
history is covered, including instructions on growing the plant, its medicinal uses and major
nutrients, suggestions on including the plant in our diet (including recipes), as well as ancillary
uses such as cosmetics and household cleaning. Informed, informative, and thoroughly 'user
friendly' from beginning to end, "Healing Foods" is strongly recommended for personal,
professional, community, and academic library Holistic Health & Medicine Studies reference
collections and supplemental reading lists.
The American History Shelf
The Early Resorts Of Minnesota
Ren Holland
Beaver's Pond Press
7108 Ohms Lane, Edina, MN 55439
www.BeaversPondPress.com
9781592984374, $34.95, www.amazon.com
From the days of the French fur trappers down to the present day, Minnesota reputation as a land
of ten thousand lakes has drawn visitor seeking to enjoy the simple outdoor pleasures and
adventures that are offered. Superbly illustrated with historic photography throughout, "The Early
Resorts of Minnesota: Tourism in the Land of 10,000 Lakes" by Minnesota native son Ren
Holland is a 480 page compendium showcasing the history of Minnesota's famed resorts
including the earliest family resorts that were the beginnings of a robust tourist industry for the
state. Of special note is the inclusion of a web site that will enable the reader to explore in even
more comprehensive detail the history of what Minnesota has offered in the past -- and continues
to afford today's visitors. Informed, informative, and enhanced with the inclusion of two
appendices ('Minnesota's Scenic Byways' and 'Hospitality Hall of Fame and Resorter of the Year
Awards'); an Index of Web Maps; and a comprehensive index, "The Early Resorts of Minnesota -
Tourism in the Land of 10,000 Lakes" is a seminal work that should not only be a part of every
Minnesota community and university library collection, but would also serve as an admirable
template or example of what could be done to create similar resort histories for other states.
Killing Kennedy
Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
Henry Holt & Company
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 400
New York, NY 10010-7725
9780805096668 $28.00 www.henryholt.com
Celebrated pundit of "The O'Reilly Factor" Bill O'Reilly and bestselling author Martin Dugard
present Killing Kennedy: The End of Camelot, a reader-friendly tell-all of the shocking events,
aftermath, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy's assassination. Black-and-white photographs
illustrate this meticulous account that is firmly grounded in historical fact, yet flows as fluidly as
a novel. An index allows for quick and easy cross-referencing. Written primarily in the present
tense (which heightens its strong sense of immediacy), Killing Kennedy makes a dark moment in
America's history accessible to readers of all backgrounds, and is an excellent pick especially for
public library collections. Also highly recommended is O'Reilly's previous nonfiction narrative,
"Killing Lincoln" (9780805093070, $28.00).
The World History Shelf
Wartime In West Suffolk
Robert Malcolmson & Peter Searby, eds.
Suffolk Records Society
c/o Boydell & Brewer Inc
668 Mount Hope Avenue
Rochester, NY 14620-2731
www.boydellandbrewer.com
9781843837022, $60.00, www.amazon.com
Winifred Challis (1896-1990) was active during the early years of World War II (1942-1943)
with the bury St. Edmunds for the Public Assistance Committee and kept a daily dairy for Mass
Observation, a social research organization. Her entries produced descriptive and perceptive
observations of daily life around her. The result is an informed, informative, absorbing, and often
insightful record. The collaborative editorial work of Robert Malcolmson (Professor Emeritus of
History, queen's University, Kingston, Ontario) and Peter Searby (Former Fellow at Fitzwilliam
College, Cambridge), "Wartime in West Suffolk: The Diary of Winifred Challis, 1942" is a 256
page compendium of Winifred Challis' two year diary. Enhanced with footnotes, an Afterword,
three appendices, a People & Places index, and a Subjects index, "Wartime in West Suffolk" is a
very highly recommended addition to mid-20th Century English History reference collections
and supplemental reading lists.
The Music Shelf
The Disney Song Encyclopedia
Thomas S. Hischak & Mark A. Robinson
Taylor Trade Publishing
c/o Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
www.rowman.com
9781589797130, $18.95, www.amazon.com
From Walt Disney's first animated production 'Steamboat Willie", to today's Disney Studios
productions both live action and animated, original music has been a hallmark of every theatrical
work however large or small. The collaborative work of Thomas S. Hischak and Mark A.
Robinson, "The Disney Song Encyclopedia" is a 400 page encyclopedic compendium
showcasing succinct descriptions of more than 900 Disney film associated songs -- many of
which made significant popular cultural impacts in their day. Enhanced with an introduction
offering a brief history of Disney music; as well as appendices comprised of a list of alternate
song titles; a songwriters directory; a guide to recordings, videos, and DVDs; academy awards
for Disney songs and scores; a glossary of song terms; a bibliography, and a comprehensive
index, "The Disney Song Encyclopedia" is a unique and highly recommended addition to
personal, professional, and academic library Music History and Disney Studies reference
collections.
Not Only Women Bleed
Dick Wagner
Desert Dreams Productions
10645 North Tatum Boulevard, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85028
www.desertdreamsllc.com
9780985684303, $29.95, www.amazon.com
Dick Wagner (born December 14, 1942, in Oelwein, Iowa) is an American rock music guitarist,
songwriter and author best known for his work with Alice Cooper, Lou Reed and KISS. "Not
Only Women Bleed: Vignettes from the Heart of a Rock Musician" is a 281 page compendium of
Dick Wagner's often colorful life experiences as a working musician and performer. Readers will
learn of his encounters with such music legends as Little Richard, Roy Orbison, BB King, Les
Hall, and a great many others. Informed, informative, entertaining, and candid, "Not Only
Women Bleed" is highly recommended for personal and community library collections in
general, and a 'must read' to the legions of Dick Wagner fans with an interest in his life and
times!
The Jewelry Shelf
Push Jewelry
Arthur Hash
Lark Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
www.larkcrafts.com
9781454703686, $24.95, www.amazon.com
The 'Push' series from Lark Books is unique as they showcase works from cutting-edge artists
from around the world. One of the newest titles in this outstanding and elegant series is PUSH
Jewelry: 30 Artists Explore the Boundaries of Jewelry" by Arthur Hash. This superbly illustrated,
176-page provides a full color photograph of each distinctive work of jewelry, along with
informative commentary by the artist of the work. Also very highly recommended for personal,
community, and academic library reference collections are "PUSH Print: 30+ Artists Explore the
Boundaries of Printmaking" (9781454703280, $19.95) by Jamie Berger; "PUSH Paper: 30
Artists Explore the Boundaries of Paper Art" (9781600597886, $19.95) and "PUSH Stitchery: 30
Artists Explore the Boundaries of Stitched Art" (9781600597879, $19.95) by Jamie
Chalmers.
The Philosophy Shelf
Jeopardy! and Philosophy
Shaun P. Young, editor
Open Court Publishing Company
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60601
9780812697995, $19.95, www.opencourtbooks.com
The quiz show has allowed knowledge its own pedestal in popular culture. "Jeopardy! and
Philosophy" is a philosophical analysis of the famed decades long running game show, taking
note of the show's staying power, the place of the quiz show in American culture, and the
questions it asks us beyond finding the answer for the Potpourri Question for $400. "Jeopardy!
and Philosophy" is well worth considering for modern philosophy collections, a fine addition to
Open Court's long running Pop Culture and Philosophy Series.
The Civil War Shelf
Louis Trezevant Wigfall
Edward S. Cooper
Fairleigh Dickinson University Press
The Gatehouse M010C
285 Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ 07940
www.rowman.com
9781611475647, $70.00, www.amazon.com
Louis Trezevant Wigfall (April 21, 1816 - February 18, 1874) was an American politician from
Texas who served as a member of the Texas Legislature, United States Senate, and Confederate
Senate. Wigfall was among a group of leading secessionists known as Fire-Eaters, advocating the
preservation and expansion of an aristocratic agricultural society based on slave labor. He briefly
served as a Confederate Brigadier General of the Texas Brigade at the outset of the American
Civil War before taking his seat in the Confederate Senate. Wigfall's reputation for oratory and
hard-drinking, along with a combative nature and high-minded sense of personal honor, made
him one of the more imposing political figures of his time. "Louis Trezevant Wigfall: The
Disintegration of the Union and Collapse of the Confederacy" by independent scholar and
biographer Edward S. Cooper is a detailed, 212 page biography showcasing the colorful life of a
man who was instrumental in the eventual collapse of the Confederacy. A masterful work of
seminal scholarship, "Louis Trezevant Wigfall: The Disintegration of the Union and Collapse of
the Confederacy" is enhanced with the inclusion of an extensive bibliography and a
comprehensive index making it a very highly recommended contribution to academic library
Civil War Studies and 19th Century American History reference collections and supplemental
reading lists.
The Untried Life
James T. Fritsch
Swallow Press
c/o Ohio University Press
The Ridges, Building 19, Athens, OH 45701
www.ohioswallow.com
9780804011396, $34.95, www.amazon.com
With the onset of the American Civil War, the Twenty-Ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry was
founded by radical abolitionist Congressman J. R. Giddings. The enlisted men were picked to
especially ensure each solider of the 29th OVI strongly held anti-slavery beliefs. "The Untried
Life: The Twenty-Ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War" by James T. Fritsch is the
cumulative result of some fifteen years of research. The result is a 512 page, detailed history of
what it was like to live and fight as a member of the 29th OVI. Replete with vividly described
individuals and events, "The Untried Life" is an impressive work of considerable scholarship.
Enhanced with the inclusion of an extensive bibliography, a profusion of footnote
documentation, an index roster of the 29th OVI, and a comprehensive general index, "The
Untried Life: The Twenty-Ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War" is a welcome and
seminal addition to the growing library of Civil War literature. Highly recommended for
academic library Civil War Studies" reference collections and Civil War enthusiasts
supplemental reading lists.
The Woodworking Shelf
Turning Modified Slimline Pens
Don Ward
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764341694, $19.99, www.amazon.com
Turned wooden pens have been available to the general public for decades and are especially
valued in calligraphy and other forms of creative art work. Currently these pens are available in a
wide diversity of technological forms from simple pencils, to ballpoints, roller balls, and fountain
pens. In "Turning Modified Slimline Pens: Beyond the Basics", Don Ward draws upon his many
years of experience and expertise to create a superbly illustrated, 96 page, step-by-step
instructional compendium on how to make beautiful, functional, elegant pens. Of special note is
the informed and informative introduction, as well as the pictorial gallery of pens. Thoroughly
'user friendly' and superbly presented, "Turning Modified Slimline Pens: Beyond the Basics" is a
very highly recommended instructional reference.
The Literary Studies Shelf
Ink Trails
Dave Dempsey & Jack Dempsey
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
www.msupress.msu.edu
9781611860603, $19.95, www.amazon.com
The state of Michigan has long been home to an impressive roster of nationally prominent
novelists, poets, essayists, and writers. The collaborative work of Dave and Jack Dempsey, "Ink
Trails: Michigan's Famous and Forgotten Authors" is a 200 page compendium showcasing an
imposing list of seventeen writers deftly organized regionally within the states and range from
Southeast Michigan's George Matthew Adams (Today's Talk); to Central/South Central
Michigan's William McKendree Carleton (Verse Virtuoso); to Southwest Michigan's Liberty
Hyde Bailey (A Bountiful Life); to Southern Lower Michigan's Charles Bruce Catton
(American's Civil War Storyteller); to the Upper Peninsula's Caroll Walker Rankin (Northern
Lights). Of special note is the chapter dedicated to Carl Sandburg (Sandman). Highly
recommended for personal, community, and academic library American Literary Studies
reference collections and supplemental reading lists, "Ink Trails" would also serve quite well as a
model for other state-wide collections honoring native sons and daughters of significant literary
accomplishment.
The Gaming Shelf
Internet Hold'em Poker
Avery Cardoza
Cardoza Publishing
5473 South Eastern Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89119
www.cardozapub.com
9781580422161, $9.95, www.amazon.com
The growth and expansion of online poker has been nothing short of phenomenal. "Internet
Hold'em Poker: Plus 7-Card Stud, Omaha, and Other Games" by poker expert, author, and
publisher Avery Cardoza is a 176 page instructional compendium of on-line poker oriented
strategies that will enable even the most novice of players to get started and play smarter. Deftly
organized into six major sections, aspiring players are provided at the beginning with an
overview of online poker that includes security issues and choosing the right site. The next two
sections provide basic instruction on playing different types of on-line poker as well as
tournament play. The fourth section is devoted game play strategies for both Limit and No-Limit
Texas Hold'em, Seven-Card Stud and Five-Card Stud, Omaha Hig Low 8-or-Better. Also
included are strategies for Sit-and-Go games and for Multi-Table Tournaments. The fifth section
showcases twenty-five on-line poker tells and strategies. Of special note is the final section of
'Extras' which includes money management, bankrolling, a poker glossary, and internet poker
acronyms. Informed, informative, thoroughly 'user friendly', and replete with seasoned,
professional insights, "Internet Hold'em Poker: Plus 7-Card Stud, Omaha, and Other Games"
should be considered absolutely mandatory reading for beginners, and will prove an enduringly
valuable reference for even the more experienced online poker players.
Street Fighter x Tekken Artworks
UDON Entertainment Corp.
118 Tower Hill Road, C1, PO Box 20008
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada L4K 0K0
9781926778518 $39.99 www.UDONentertainment.com
Street Fighter x Tekken Artworks continues UDON Entertainment's glorious tradition of
bringing high-quality, full-color, superbly translated Japanese video game artbooks to American
shores. In addition to striking water-themed character portraits capturing dynamic moments of
intense action, Street Fighter x Tekken Artworks is filled with comments and interviews with the
designers, animators, and artists who helped bring this dream-crossover fighting game to life.
The artworks prominently feature every Street Fighter x Tekken character (except for DLC-only
characters), including pictures from the prologues and ending sequences of each, costume swap
art, and early concept art! It should be noted that Street Fighter x Tekken Artworks is not a
gameplay or strategy guide, but rather a collector's showcase and behind-the-scenes look, sure to
delight fans of the characters from both the Street Fighter and the Tekken fighting game series.
Also highly recommended for video game (and comic book!) art connoisseurs is UDON's
"Marvel vs. Capcom: Official Complete Works" (9781926778495, $44.99), a gigantic collection
of art by the creators of the immensely popular Marvel vs. Capcom series and related video
games.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com
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