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Internet Bookwatch

Volume 22, Number 5 May 2012 Home | IBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Women's Studies Shelf Photography Shelf
Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf Military Shelf Music Shelf
Self-Help Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf
Poetry Shelf Humor Shelf Memoir Shelf
Metaphysical Studies Shelf Cookbook Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Botany Shelf Archaeology Shelf Computer Shelf
Education Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Travel Shelf
American History Shelf World History Shelf Architecture Shelf
Fiction Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf Sports Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Beer/Wine Shelf Buddhist Studies Shelf
Biography Shelf Relationship Shelf Civil War Shelf
Business Shelf Writing/Publishing Shelf Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Criminology Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf Human Sexuality Shelf
Philosophy Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Gardening Shelf
Graphic Novel Shelf Audiobook Shelf Library CD Shelf
Library DVD Shelf Crafts Shelf Parenting Shelf
Gaming Shelf Interior Design Shelf Political Science Shelf
Fashion Shelf Art Shelf Psychology Shelf
Social Issues Shelf Library Science Shelf Genealogy Shelf
Science Shelf Nautical Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf
Economic Studies Shelf Large Print Shelf Real Estate Shelf
Autism Shelf Literary Studies Shelf Holocaust Studies Shelf
Anthropology Shelf Language Studies Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

The World War I Memoirs of Robert P. Patterson
J. Garry Clifford, editor
The University of Tennessee Press
293 Communications Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-0325
9781572338470 $32.00 www.utpress.org

Part of the "Legacies of War" series, The World War I Memoirs of Robert P. Patterson: A Captain in the Great War collects the firsthand testimony Robert P. Patterson, who was destined to play a major role in World War II. His formative military years and experience took place during World War I, and his own words reveal just how shocking the realities of war were to fresh recruits like himself. The World War I Memoirs of Robert P. Patterson does not focus solely upon the horrors of war, but also touches upon savoring rare luxuries such as an honest-to-goodness hot meal and the powerful bond between officers and soldiers of the 77th Division, despite their diverse ethnic and class background. Extensive, helpful notes and an index round out this superb addition to military memoir collections, highly recommended.

A Mad, Crazy River
Clyde L. Eddy
University of New Mexico Press
1312 Basehart Road SE
Albuquerque NM 87106-4363
9780826351555 $19.95 www.unmpress.com

First published in 1929 and out of print for decades, A Mad, Crazy River: Running the Grand Canyon in 1927 reprints the classic travelogue of the leader of the first expedition to successfully navigate the entire length of the Colorado River, including its treacherous Grand Canyon rapids. Author Clyde L. Eddy had no experience outside of studying the accounts of those who had tried and failed when he recruited "11 college boys, a hobo, a mongrel dog, and a cub bear" to make the eight hundred-mile journey from Green River, Utah to Needles, California. He dared to bring a motion picture camera to film parts of the voyage, and led his group to a safe arrival at their destination forty-two days later. Eddy's expedition was the first to successfully brave Colorado River through the Grand Canyon during its annual high-water phase. His book of the historic journey is a classic travelogue of taking bold (and perhaps foolhardy) risks to make history. Highly recommended.

In the Words of Frederick Douglass
John R. McKivigan & Heather L. Kaufman
Cornell University Press
512 East State Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
9780801447907, $22.95, www.cornellpress.cornell.edu

Frederick Douglass made his mark on history by defying all expectation, breaking himself out from being a slave to being one of the greatest thinkers of his era. "In the Words of Frederick Douglass: Quotations from Liberty's Champion" delves into the many words of the nineteenth century intellectual and fighter for civil rights. With his vast world experience, he speaks from his heart and education. Well compiled by historians of the era, "In the Words of Frederick Douglass" is a must for community library history and biography collections focusing on the progression of civil rights.

The Five Keys to Mindful Communication
Susan Gillis Chapman
Shambhala Publications, Inc.
300 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02115-4544
9781590309414, $15.95, www.shambhala.com

Understanding only can come through communication. "The Five Keys to Mindful Communication: Using Deep Listening and Mindful Speech to Strengthen Relations, Heal Conflicts, & Accomplish Your Goals" is a guide to establishing stronger communication within one's family, as psychologist Susan Gillis Chapman uses her professional experience as well as Buddhist experience to create a stronger and more comprehensive understanding of one another and create better relationships. "The Five Keys to Mindful Communication" is a strongly recommended read, not to be overlooked.

Lake Superior Profiles, People on the Big Lake
John Gagnon
Wayne State University Press
The Leonard N. Simons Building
4809 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201-1309
9780814336281, $24.95, http://wsupress.wayne.edu

Between many states, between two countries, Lake Superior is the meeting place of many people. "Lake Superior Profiles, People on the Big Lake" discusses the cultures that surround the Big Lake, as it is dubbed, touching on the culture and personal folklore that surrounds the lake. Touching on the ecosystem of the region as well and exploring it further, "Lake Superior Profiles, People on the Big Lake" is a strong addition to any collection focusing on cultural studies and the Great Lakes Region of the United States and Canada.

For the Duration
Felicity Ashbee
Syracuse University Press
621 Skytop Road, Suite 110
Syracuse, NY 13244-5290
9780815609711, $19.95, www.SyracuseUniversityPress.syr.edu

With war on the horizon, everyone does their part, even those in the more unknown parts of the military. "For the Duration: A Lighthearted WAAF Memoir" is a memoir from Felicity Ashbee as she recounts her time with the Britain's Women's Auxiliary Air Force, or the WAAF. Joining up after war was declared, she recounts her work and struggles of intelligence management and an overseeing of male leaders who didn't know how to deal with women. "For the Duration" is a strongly recommended read for those who want a perspective on women's military roles in early World War II.

Mista
John J. Kaminski
Crispin Books
3147 S. Pennsylvania Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53207
9781883953423, $19.95, www.crispinbooks.com

Trying to make a difference in some schools is an uphill battle, but many will take that challenge gladly. "Mista: A Year of Teaching English at an Alternative Urban High School" discusses the teaching journey of John J. Kaminski, as he went into an inner city school and taught English. Trying to bring respect in both directions, "Mista" is a unique memoir of a teacher's drive to make a difference, no matter what they called for him to do.

Why Rattlesnakes Rattle
Valeri R. Helterbran
Taylor Trade Publishing
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200
Lanham, MD 20706
9781589796485, $16.95, www.rowman.com

The world is filled with questions and not a lot of answers. "Why Rattlesnakes Rattle:... and 250 Other Things You Should Know" is a trivia book and follow up to "Why Flamingos are Pink", in a series of questions and answers abut random things about the world, on topics of nature, humanity, language, and much more. For those curious about a little bit of everything in the world, "Why Rattlesnakes Rattle" is a choice reference and trivia book, not to be overlooked.

Language: The Cultural Tool
Daniel L. Everett
Pantheon
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780307378538, $27.95, www.pantheonbooks.com

LANGUAGE: THE CULTURAL TOOL provides a study that presents language not as a part of the brain, but as a tool unique to each culture around the world. For years it's been postulated that science is part of our genetics and is an instinct: linguist Daniel Everett argues that in fact language was invented by humans and can be changed, can evolve, or can be lost. Grammar reflects how language is influenced by human societies and offers keys to understanding how language works. Languages around the world are used as examples to explain how speakers of all languages omit things that all members of the culture understand. Any linguistics or literary collection at the high school to college levels need this!

Gandhi and the Unspeakable
James W. Douglass
Orbis Books
Price Bldg, Box 302, Maryknoll NY 10545
9781570759635, $24.00, www.orbisbooks.com

GANDHI AND THE UNSPEAKABLE: HIS FINAL EXPERIMENT WITH TRUTH is a 'must' for any collection strong in Gandhi's life and works. It blends biography with political history and religion and examines Gandhi's efforts to reconcile Hindus and Muslims in his country: an endeavor that came up against elements of the new Indian state he'd created. James Douglass provided a previous study of the JFK assassination and employs similar analysis and methods in showing how Gandhi's murderers hoped to destroy his vision of peace, exploring how Gandhi's early 'experiments with truth' lead to his convictions and what his life and thoughts mean today.

How to Become a Really Good Pain in the Ass
Christopher DiCarlo
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616143978, $19.00, www.prometheusbooks.com

How to Become a Really Good Pain in the Ass: A Critical Thinker's Guide to Asking the Right Questions offers a fun yet specific approach to developing critical thinking processes and provides tools that allow readers to identify and question assumptions and belief systems. Chapters allow an opportunity to organize thoughts and spot faulty reasoning, providing assessments of behavior and attitudes and underlying motives and logic. A fine pick for any general collection interested in a user-friendly guide to developing critical thinking.

The Psychology of Wealth
Dr. Charles Richards
McGraw-Hill
c/o The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071789295, $26.00, www.mcgraw-hill.com

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WEALTH: UNDERSTAND YOUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH MONEY AND ACHIEVE PROSPERITY offers a balanced look at the emotional nature of money and wealth, considering teachings on how we've been taught to consider, acquire and manage it, and examining our psychological relationship with money and finances. Underlying attitudes toward happiness and abundance are probed in a survey that links values to prosperity and makes for a fine recommendation for business and consumer collections alike.

Going Solo
Eric Klienenberg
Penguin Press
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson St., New York NY 10014-3658
9781594203220, $27.95, www.penguin.com

GOING SOLO: THE EXTRAORDINARY RISE AND SURPRISING APPEAL OF LIVING ALONE explores the rise of solo living and examines its impact on our society and politics. Singles now represent a larger demographic and political and business forces in society are changing their target markets and approaches accordingly. From housing and economics to the personal effects of living alone, this is based on over 300 interviews the author conducted with singles of all ages and economic status, and makes for a fine survey for social issues and general lending libraries alike.

Food & The City
Jennifer Cockrall-King
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781616144586, $21.00, www.prometheusbooks.com

FOOD AND THE CITY: URBAN AGRICULTURE AND THE NEW FOOD REVOLUTION offers a fine choice for any who would analyze food systems in cities around the world. This considers those urban areas growing their own food within the city limits and comes from a food journalist who sought out leaders and visited cities successfully dealing with food issues. She uncovered a global movement that cuts across class, culture and beliefs and describes this global movement, which offers an alternative to the supermarket model of food distribution. A fine survey of community efforts and urban programs designed to produce better foods.


The Women's Studies Shelf

Sex & World Peace
Valerie M. Hudson, Bonnie Ballif-Spanvill, Mary Caprioli, & Chad F. Emmett
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street
New York, NY 10023-7015
9780231131827 $26.50 http://cup.columbia.edu

Sex & World Peace is a groundbreaking, scholarly study of the correlations between the security and liberties of women, and the likelihood of societies or states to be embroiled in violent conflict. The authors have engaged in an extensive study of data concerning laws protecting women, to the extent of ranking nations of the world according to how they treat women on multiple different axes: likelihood of direct violence against women and their legal protections from violence; "son preference" and cultural tendencies to abort female fetuses (which can lead to abnormal population sex ratios); the practice of polygamy; the relative equity of inheritance or divorce laws; maternal mortality rates; and more. Examining this data reveals that cultures and nations that subject women to the worst treatment tend to be the most violent and warlike. What is the connection? The authors examine the formation of patriarchal allegiances - in which men of the same kin-group or perceived as an in-group form (often highly hierarchical) alliances to control women for their own reproductive benefit, at the expense of both the women and anyone outside of their in-group. The well-being of women is inextricably linked to the well-being of the world, and Sex and World Peace goes on to promote ways in which both can be improved - from a simple "No Toilet, No Bride" meme that encourages the spread of sanitation in India, to China's outreach to paternal grandmothers (who were often the ones who pushed hardest for a male child) to help end sex-selective abortions, to an anti-domestic violence approach that involved all the women in the village going to the abuser's house to stop the abuse and demand that he leave temporarily for a "cooling-off" period. "We are not suggesting that sex is the only root of societal and inter-societal conflict... we are also not suggesting that positive change for women will immediately result in a peaceful world. What we are suggesting, and attempting to show empirically, is that we can no longer speak of achieving national and international security without speaking, in the same breath, about the security of women." Exhaustively researched, with extensive notes, Sex & World Peace is a strong voice not just for women's rights, but also for a better world for all human beings, and is worthy of the highest recommendation.


The Photography Shelf

Art and Photography
David Campany
Phaidon Press
180 Varick Street, 14th floor
New York, NY 10014
9781714863924, $19.95, www.phaidon.com

Photography in its invention was not considered art, but the creative mind has changed all that. "Art and Photography" discusses the recent history of photography and its many styles that have made its own way by capturing the art that is innate in nature, in people, and everything in between. With countless works from many photographers throughout, for anyone fascinated with artistic photography, with color where applicable, "Art and Photography" is a fine pick and much recommended choice for coffee table collections.

The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 Book
Martin Evening
Adobe
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300
Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780321819598, $54.99, www.mcp.com

Post-production has become key in the getting the most out of one's photographs. "The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 Book" is a guide for those working with Adobe Photoshop or similar programs to get the most out of their art. Martin Evening, renown fashion photographer offers advice on working with less than optimal sources, optimizing the photo, and managing one's extensive piles of work. For anyone trying to get the most out of Lightroom 4, "The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 Book" is not to be missed. Also from Peachpit, "The Digital Photography Book, Part 4" (9780321773029, $24.99) is a guide to making sure that the photo you work with is something of quality to begin with.

A Girl and Her Room
Rania Matar
Umbrage Editions
111 Front Street, Suite 208
Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167768, $40.00, www.umbragebooks.com

A room is more than simply a place to keep one's things. "A Girl and Her Room" is a collection of photography from Rania Matar, who presents a delve into the lives and personal sanctuaries of teenaged girls from all over the world, offering glimpses of women in transition from childhood to adulthood, and the rooms that reflect this. With a reflection of their lives and their worlds from many of the girls, "A Girl and Her Room" is a profound look at the similarities and differences that go on all around the worlds.

Nikon Speedlight Handbook
Stephanie Zettl
Amherst Media
Box 586, Buffalo NY 14226
9781608954513, $34.95, www.amherstmedia.com

Nikon Speedlight Handbook: Flash Techniques for Digital Photographers teaches how to take control of lighting in the studio or on location and shows how to use a range of techniques based on on-flash approaches, multiple flashes, and modifiers. From the basics of light and exposure to how settings affect ambient light and flash exposure levels, this teaches the basics of selecting shooting modes, using sync, and using various Speedlights options.

Rocky Nook
802 East Cota Street, 3rd Floor
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
www.rockynook.com

Michael Diechtierow's MASTERING THE FUJI X100 (9781933952987, $29.95) provides photographers with everything needed to learn to operate the camera and is a pick for owners who want to get the most of the camera's compact size and technical features. Many photographers consider this the ideal take-along tote for travel and snaps, but it's got many sophisticated features that would be lost were it not for this manual. All the basics are covered in chapters that consider the Fuji X100's controls, both automatic and manual. Color photo examples pair with specific step-by-step directions in a recommendation for all levels of user. Brian Matsumoto and Carol F. Roullard's THE PANASONIC LUMIX DMC-GH2: THE UNOFFICIAL QUINTESSENTIAL GUIDE (9781933952895, $29.95) packs in information and professional insights for owners of the HD camera which is capable of recording professional still images and HD video alike, and is a recommended basic manual for any owner of the camera. All the features and capabilities of the GH2 camera are covered in detail in chapters that move from basic camera operations to more advanced features. Color photo examples, screen shots, and information makes for a fine, in-depth guide.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

The Fairy Tale and Anime
Dani Cavallaro
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786459469 $35.00 www.mcfarlandpub.com

Author Dani Cavallaro presents The Fairy Tale and Anime: Traditional Themes, Images and Symbols at Play on Screen, a scholarly study of how elements of traditional fairy tales have become narratively and cinematographically embedded in anime (Japanese animation). Chapters speak of different modes of storytelling, allegorical comments on cultural and historical matters, and even the portrayals of dystopia in anime as drawn from ancient fables. A filmography, bibliography, and index round out this measured, intellectual cross-examination of the interplay between old and new storytelling traditions. "...the fairy tale tradition has manifested itself practically across the entire globe in terms of recurrent, plausibly archetypal, images and themes. This realization encourages an evaluation both of that tradition per se and the particular forms it permeates and shapes in the guise of dialogues engaging diverse societies at different points in history." The Fairy Tale and Anime is an especially welcome addition to college library literary and media studies shelves. Also highly recommended is Cavallaro's meticulous pop culture analysis "Art in Anime: The Creative Quest as Theme and Metaphor" (9780786465613, $35.00).

Master Shots, second edition
Christopher Kenworthy
Michael Wiese Productions
12400 Ventura Blvd., #1111
Studio City, CA 91604
9781615930876, $26.95, www.mwp.com

The angle of a shot can impart emotion, tell a story all its own, and grant a truly professional look to any film. "Master Shots: 100 Advanced Camera Techniques to Get an Expensive Look on Your Low Budget Movie" advises readers and aspiring filmmakers to get that next level of quality into their films, discussing each of the shots in depth and how to use it effectively. With black and white demonstrations of each shot with notes from selected feature films, "Master Shots" is a strong resource for any future filmmaker.

Planet Hong Kong, second edition
David Bordwell
Irvington Way Institute Press
c/o 20th Century Books
1421 South Park, #200, Madison, WI 53715
www.southparkbooks.com
9780983244011, $59.95, www.amazon.com

There is far more to the Hong Kong film industry than Bruce Lee movies. Now in a fully revised and expanded second edition, "Planet Hong Kong: Popular Cinema and the Art of Entertainment" by David Bordwell is a superbly illustrated throughout with full color photography. This 292-page compendium provides an informed and informative descriptive history of Hong Kong's cinematic productions in all genres of film making. Of special note is the chapter on Chinese 'Avant-Pop Cinema'. Enhanced with a bibliography of English language books on sources for further study drawn from the work of the Hong Kong International Film Festival and published jointly with the Hong Kong urban Council or the Hong Kong film Archive, "Planet Hong Kong: Popular Cinema and the Art of Entertainment" also features twenty-two pages of extensive notes. A seminal work of impressive scholarship, "Planet Hong Kong: Popular Cinema and the Art of Entertainment" is strongly recommended for personal, academic, and community library Cinematic History & Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Sci-Fi Movie Freak
Robert C. Ring
Krause Publications
c/o F+W Media
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236
9781440228629, $21.99, www.krausebooks.com

A gaze into a future that just might be. "Sci-Fi Movie Freak" is a collection of the best of the best in science fiction movies that have been produced over the past century, presenting hundreds of photos of stills and posters throughout. With Top Ten lists, notes on lesser known films, and a special focus on the delightfully terrible, Robert C. Ring shows his love for the genre clearly. With a free DVD containing legendary bomb 'Plan 9 From Outer Space', "Sci-Fi Movie Freak" is worth considering for fans of any level of science fiction.

Cowboys & Aliens
Insight Editions
PO Box 3088, San Rafael, CA 94912
9781608870257, $18.95, www.insighteditions.com

Hatred becomes meaningless in the name of survival. "Cowboys & Aliens" is the screen play from the major motion picture detailing a clash in 1875 between the New Mexican town of Absolution and visitors from the sky. Bound by the drive for survival, former foes align and turn their sights on their attackers to drive them back. "Cowboys & Aliens" comes with plenty of full color movie stills as well storyboard style illustrations throughout, a choice pick for fans of the film.

Film Noir
Alain Silver & James Ursini, editors
Limelight Editions
c/o Hal Leonard Corporation
PO Box 13819
Milwaukee, WI 53213
9780879103941, $24.99, www.limelighteditions.com

Noir got to the gritty nature of a hopeless world. "Film Noir: The Directors" discusses the directors of the heyday of this genre, presenting a compilation of black and white photographs of great directors throughout the twentieth century, with pieces on their careers and more, including the famed Alfred Hitchcock & Orson Welles. For those fascinated with these classic stories of murder, scandal, and sexuality, "Film Noir" is a strong pick for any film reference collection.

Conversations with Clint
Kevin Avery, editor
Continuum International Publishing Group
80 Maiden Lane, Suite 704
New York, NY 10038
9781441165862, $19.95, www.continuumbooks.com

Clint Eastwood's legend has spread off of the silver screen. "Conversations with Clint: Paul Nelson's Lost Interviews with Clint Eastwood 1979-1983" is a collection of interviews with the legend of the screen, as Paul Nelson brings out an in depth interview that picks Eastwood's mind well, and brings out a new perspective and side of Eastwood that few other interviews manage to acquire. "Conversations with Clint" is a fine addition to any collection focusing on film, very much recommended reading.

Cloud 9
Theatre Communications Group
TCG Books
520 Eighth Avenue, 24th Floor, New York, NY 10018-4156
1559360992, $11.95, www.tcg.org

Where we search for joy we may find it but we may find countless other things as well. "Cloud 9" is a printing of a play of many people searching for their lives joy and where they may be finding it. Relationships, and more importantly sex dominates the lives of people who ponder their lives, and their parts in more important issues. In play format, "Cloud 9" is a fine read with plenty to entice readers, very much recommended reading.

Media Composer 6: Part 1 - Editing Essentials
Mary Plummer
Course Technology
c/o Cengage Learning, Inc.
200 First Stamford Place
Stamford, CT 06902
www.cengage.com
9781133727989, $59.99, www.courseptr.com

Media Composer 6: Part 1 - Editing Essentials is the first step in working with Avid Media Composer 6, the film/video editing application used in most movie and television productions. This book is the key to obtaining a foundation in Media Composer User Certification, offering discussions of the interface and basic editing techniques, fine-tuning the production, adjusting camera and audio settings, and more. Real-world projects serve as step-by-step examples that apply and teach basics in a powerful pick recommended for any owner and newcomer to Avid Media Composer. The textbook arrangement comes complete with color screen shots and packs in lessons that lend to this book's use as a classroom text.

Apocalypse on the Set
Ben Taylor
Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street, New York NY 10012
9781590201886, $27.95, www.overlookpress.com

Apocalypse on the Set: Nine Disastrous Film Productions documents disaster on the movie set, providing nine legendary catastrophes that affected Waterworld, The Crow, and others. From a kidnapped director and a staged shooting turned fatal to financial ruin, chapters show how actors and directors persevered under different circumstances and tapped the energy of conflict to ultimately produce a hit. Details on each film's evolution make for a fine analysis recommended for any college-level film analysis course.

Zona
Geoff Dyer
Pantheon
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780307377388, $24.00, www.pantheonbooks.com

ZONA: A BOOK ABOUT A FILM ABOUT A JOURNEY TO A ROOM attempts to reveal insights about a film that has haunted the author for over thirty years. It goes far beyond a critical film assessment to consider how art and lasting images can shape how we see the world and the choices made in a lifetime, with chapters discussing everything from the use of quotation within film to images of the film which universally resonate. ZONA is a powerful testimony to the lasting impact of art - and a recommendation for any film or drama collection.

Creating Blockbusters!
Gene Del Vecchio
Pelican Publishing
1000 Burmaster St., Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455615292, $26.95, www.pelicanpub.com

CREATING BLOCKBUSTERS! HOW TO GENERATE AND MARKET HIT ENTERTAINMENT FOR TV, MOVIES, VIDEO GAMES, AND BOOKS offers a basic coverage of the principles that lead to lasting blockbuster productions, and is a pick for any writer or producer who would move beyond flash-in-the-pan productions. Chapters tell how to create lasting characters and plots and how to satisfy audience needs by incorporating both pop culture trends and long-term interests and drama. Tips accompany research and facts in this specific survey of what makes a blockbuster production and sets it apart from everyday genre. Film and media collections, in particular, need this!


The Military Shelf

Front Burner: Al Qaeda's Attack on the USS Cole
Commander Kirk S. Lippold, USN (Ret.)
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, #1321
New York, NY 10107
9781610391245 $27.99 www.publicaffairsbooks.com

Written bye USS Cole's former commander Kirk S. Lippold, Front Burner: Al Qaeda's Attack on the USS Cole is the true story of al Qaeda's murderous bombing. Lippold testifies in first person about the assault and his efforts as leader to save as many lives as he could; seventeen sailors died in the explosion, and thirty-seven were wounded, but due to the crew's heroic efforts, the USS Cole itself was ultimately saved. The attack on the USS Cole was a vivid warning of al Qaeda's murderous intentions, yet the United States government neglected to retaliate; politicians played the blame game, passing off the responsibility for incident until the September 11th attacks ultimately changed everything. Could 9/11 have been prevented had America recognized the true meaning of the USS Cole, and prioritized the threat of al Qaeda? Front Burner is both a gripping personal testimony of military history experienced firsthand, and a warning against the deleterious effects of complacency. Highly recommended, especially for public and college library American military history collections.

General Lewis B. Hershey and Conscientious Objection During World War II
Nicholas A. Krehbiel
University of Missouri Press
2910 LeMone Boulevard
Columbia, MO 65201
9780826219411 $40.00 www.umsystem.edu/upress

Nicholas A. Krehbiel (Instructor of History, Kansas State University) presents General Lewis B. Hershey and Conscientious Objection During World War II, a close examination of the director of Selective Service from 1941 to 1970 and his program to assign duties to those who were conscientious objectors, particularly the 12,000 who objected to noncombatant military service. These 12,000 served their country in Hershey's Civilian Public Service program, the successes of which were overshadowed by Hershey's role in the draft during the Vietnam War. Hershey's accomplishments are even more laudable given that there was no single, unified American system to deal with conscientious objectors prior to World War II; Hershey's efforts sprang from his heartfelt belief in the American right to religious freedom, and the duty to protect religious minorities. Notes, a bibliography, and an index round out this extensively researched, thoughtfully presented, and highly recommended contribution to public and college library American military history shelves.

Electronic Warfare Target Location Methods, second edition
Richard A. Poisel
Artech House
685 Canton Street
Norwood, MA 02062
9781608075232, $139.00, www.artechhouse.com

Technology is the future of warfare, and that technology must be used skillfully. "Electronic Warfare Target Location Methods" discusses the modern military technology and the high mathematics that go into these electronic targeting systems that are more and more used by militaries around the world. Chapters within discuss the basics and advancements in the formulas, the terminology used in this hastily advancing science, dealing with outside modifiers, the 'MUSIC' algorithm, identifying likelihood of errors, position fixing methods, and countless other elements that are constantly considered and revised within the field. Composed by former chief scientist of U.S. Army Research, Richard Poisel presents a comprehensive study of the science, complete with glossary and indexes all throughout. Not meant for light reading, "Electronic Warfare Target Location Methods" is a strongly recommended addition to collegiate library collections focused on applied mathematics, engineering, and military technology.

The Sniper Anthology
Lt. Col. Tom C. McKenney
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street
Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455616824, $29.95, www.pelicanpub.com

A solid aim has always been deadly throughout history, be it bow, musket, or rifle. "The Sniper Anthology: Snipers of the Second World War" discusses the misunderstood art of sniping as Lieutenant Colonel Tom C. McKenney offers insight of the major marksman of the second world war, who often received no fame for their efforts, written off as cowardly for killing from a distance. McKenney brings their stories to light, giving them the heroic treatment they deserve as snipers sought to end conflicts early or take out enemy snipers before they took out their allies. "The Sniper Anthology" tells the story of World War II snipers from the eyes of a veteran sniper in his own right.

Into the Breach at Pusan
Kenneth W. Estes
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive
Norman, OK 73069
9780806142548 $29.95 www.oupress.com

Former marine lieutenant colonel Kenneth W. Estes presents Into the Breach at Pusan: The 1st Provisional Marine Brigade in the Korean War, an exhaustively detailed account of the respected marine brigade's efforts to turn back the 1950 North Korean invasion of the Republic of Korea. Cross-examining previous histories of the campaign, Into the Breach at Pusan makes every effort to place details of the undertaking into historical context, at times contesting discrepancies in earlier accounts. Research drawn from combat records, command reports, biographical materials and more supports this highly accessible study. Into the Breach at Pusan is a welcome addition to college and public library military history shelves.

Military Register of Custer's Last Command
Roger L. Williams
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive
Norman, OK 73069
9780806142746, $39.95, www.oupress.com

Custer has been regarded as both hero and villain in history, but the men with him deserve their notice in history as well. "Military Register of Custer's Last Command" is a comprehensive military reference, covering the documents of the men with Custer during the infamous conflict at Little Big Horn. Well documented, it provides a complete and comprehensive coverage of the 7th Calvary, their history of service, names and descriptions. "Military Register of Custer's Last Command" is a strong addition to any history collection focused on the American military in the nineteenth century.

The Lee-Enfield Rifle
Martin Pegler
Osprey Publishing
4402 - 23rd Street, Suite 219
Long Island City, NY 11101-5058
9781849087889, $17.95, www.ospreypublishing.com

THE LEE-ENFIELD RIFLE is one of the 20th century's longest-serving military rifles, adopted by the British Army in 1895 and only replaced in 1957. A sniper variant was used until 1989 and the rifle saw much combat during its century of use. In-depth photos and illustrations accompany a history of its technical features and use, with first-hand accounts accompanying new color art and close-up photos to document the life and development of a rifle that equipped British and other forces through both world wars. A fine pick for military and collectibles libraries alike!


The Music Shelf

Letters to Kurt
Eric Erlandson
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456
New York, NY 10009
9781617750830, $17.95, www.akashicbooks.com

There are many who create to find purpose, and all too often, they find nothing. "Letters to Kurt" is a collection of thought with prose poetry from Eric Erlandson, lead guitarist and cofounder of the alternative rock band Hole, known for its lead singer Courtney Love, the wife of grunge and alternative music legend Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. Discussing the grind of music and the era of Cobain in music, Erlandson brings a thoughtful view to the period and the lessons learned by the survivors. "Letters to Kurt" is a thoughtful retrospective on music and the artist.

Dance All Night
Jean A. Boyd
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037
Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
9780896727373, $39.95, www.ttupress.org

With a powerful energy, swing is a genre hard to ignore. "Dance All Night: Those Other Southwestern Swing Bands, Past and Present" is a guide to the Western flavor of Swing, with a focus on its golden age in the 1930s and 1940s, where throughout Texas to California, may musicians made their name with the style. And even today, the style lives on, with many revivals taking hold. "Dance All Night" is a comprehensive history, complete with photography and music tablature, making it an ideal pick for American music history collections or simply enthusiasts of this energetic and fun musical styling.

Don Kirshner: Man with the Golden Ear
Rich Podolsky
Hal Leonard Corp
7777 W. Bluemound Rd.
Milwaukee, WI 53213-3400
9781458416704, $24.99, www.halleonard.com

Don Kirshner: Man with the Golden Ear is a 'must' for any collection strong in rock and roll music biography and offers a strong survey recounting Don Kirshner's influence on the evolution of early rock 'n roll. Chapters begin in 1958, long before he created and hosted the popular TV show Don Kirshner's Rock Concert, and provide a riveting story of how Kirshner built Aldon Music, which become a powerful song writing powerhouse churning out rock hits and making names for such as Carole King, Neil Sedaka, and more. Any rock 'n roll history collection must have this!


The Self-Help Shelf

Healing Through Illness, Living Through Dying
Candice C. Courtney
Danton Press
7904 Chaparral Road #A110-428
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
9780985052225, $18.00, www.dantonpress.com

What doesn't kill us makes us stronger is only true if we find the strength to carry on. "Healing Through Illness, Living Through Dying: Guidance and Rituals for Patients, Families, and Friends" is an inspirational read from Candice C. Courtney as she advises readers who are caregivers on how to best face the tragedies that often come with their duty, the struggles as a loved one faces illness, and how to not let grief destroy one's life. "Healing Through Illness, Living Through Dying" is a highly recommended pick for self-help and inspirational collections.

Making Yourself Indispensable
Mark Samuel
Portfolio
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson Street, 4th floor
New York, NY 10014
9781591844693, $25.95, www.penguin.com

You're the most important individual in your own life, and one needs to make sure it all works. "Making Yourself Indispensable: The Power of Personal Accountability" is a career empowerment guide from Mark Samuel who advises readers to realize their flaws in the workplace, cure them, and do their best to the top of their realms. "Making Yourself Indispensable" comes with many tips for finding one's weaknesses and how to cure them, making for a powerful and inspirational read, highly recommended.

My Own Worst Enemy
Janet Davis
Bethany House Publishers
c/o Baker Publishing Group
11400 Hampshire Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55438
9780765209505, $12.99, www.bethanyhouse.com

When you get over yourself, a whole new world opens up. "My Own Worst Enemy: How to Stop Holding Yourself Back" is an inspirational guide from Janet Davis as she advises women to find their own way through inspiration and life on many fronts, to find one's own ideals and push themselves forward to something greater in life, and stop doubting themselves and creating roadblocks that only get in the way. "My Own Worst Enemy" is a strong pick for self-help and inspirational collections, not to be overlooked.

Why Do I Keep Doing This!!?
Judith E. Pearson
Crown House Publishing
6 Trowbridge Drive Suite 5
Bethel, CT 06801
9781845907327, $24.95, www.CHPUS.com

Bad habits can quickly consume one's life. "Why Do I Keep Doing This!!?: End Bad Habits, Negativity and Stress with Self-Hypnosis and NLP" is a guide to conquering the life-destroying habits that all too many of us fall into in our lives. Judith Pearson advises readers on how to face these habits through self-hypnosis and Neuro-Linguistic programming, attacking dilemmas such as addiction, health issues, and simply finding more energy and drive throughout the day. "Why Do I Keep Doing This!!?" is a highly recommended addition to any self-help reference collection.

Creating Personal Presence
Dianna Booher
Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc.
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781609940119, $15.95, www.bkconnection.com

Taking charge of one's life is taking charge of the world around you. "Creating Personal Presence: Look, Talk, Think, and Act Like a Leader" is a motivational and inspirational read from Dianna Booher as she advises readers to take control and be a leader in their lives, how to carry oneself like a leader, and have people listen and respond to your lead. "Creating Personal Presence" is a powerful read for anyone who wants to take the lead in their life and make a difference.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Ministry with Persons with Mental Illness and Their Families
Robert H. Albers, William H. Meller, and Steven D. Thurber
Fortress Press
P.O. Box 1209
Minneapolis, MN 55440-1209
9780800698744, $29.00, http://fortresspress.com

Mental illness brings new challenges to the table for those of faith. "Ministry with Persons with Mental Illness and Their Families" discusses the challenges that ministers face when dealing with mental illness and how to best approach the situation as a concerned individual, a counselor, and as a pastor. For those with congregations that may face these problems, the contributors of faithful scholars in "Ministry with Persons with Mental Illness and Their Families" is a strong pick for those pastors who want to approach the issue with grace and care, very much recommended reading.

Belief
Miguel A. De La Torre
Westminister John Knox Press
100 Witherspoon Street
Louisville, KY 40202-1396
9780664232528, $35.00, www.wjkbooks.com

The stories of Genesis may ring most true in the Christian psyche. "Belief: A Theological Commentary on the Bible: Genesis" discusses the book of Genesis and how it speaks to us on many fronts in the Christian ideal. These stories discuss very human issues that still have not been answered in the modern day. Discussing the many stories in detail with thought on how they apply today, Miguel A. De La Torre provides a scholarly guide for the modern era, making "Belief" a strong addition to any Christian studies collection.

How to Be Happy Where You Are
Michelle McKinney Hammond
Harvest House Publishers
990 Owen Loop North
Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736937924, $11.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com

Contentment doesn't have be some nigh impossible to attain goal. "How to Be Happy Where You Are: Finding Fulfillment" is an inspirational read aimed at Christian women. Author Michelle McKinney Hammond writes about how to find contentment in modern life, use God's faith to point yourself to a better direction, and using worship to find meaning. "How to Be Happy Where You Are" is a strong pick to inspirational and Christian books collection.

Man, the Saint
J. Urteaga Loidi
Roman Catholic Books
PO Box 2286, Fort Collins, CO 80522
978192991502, $22.95, www.booksforcatholics.com

Man holds the power of great deeds and great sin. "Man, the Saint" is a Catholic Christian delve into the potential of man to be a paragon of Christ's virtue, and avoiding the pitfalls that lead us to be false leaders. Discussing generosity, charity, being a soldier of God, and working towards greater joy for the world, "Man, the Saint" is a deeply spiritual and religious book to be considered for those who want to become worthy of personal sainthood in the eyes of God.

The Top Then Leadership Commandments
Hans Finzel
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9780781404884, $14.99, www.davidccook.com

All throughout history, leaders have been needed. "The Top Ten Leadership Commandments" draws on the parables of leadership found in scripture and faith, presenting the ten ideals of Biblical leaders that can be applied to any point in one's life. Thoughtful, intriguing, and most importantly practical, "The Top Ten Leadership Commandments" is a strong addition to any Christian Studies and business leadership collection, very much recommended.

The Treasure Seeker
Teena Stewart
Winepress Publishing Group
1730 Railroad Street
Enumclaw, WA 98022
9781414120485, $17.99, www.winepressgroup.com

As we search for something of value from life, we're bombarded with what others seek. "The Treasure Seeker: Finding Love and Value in the Arms of Your Loving Heavenly Father" is a Christian aspiration book. Author Teena Stewart advises readers to find greater worth in themselves as a person and reach out and become something so much more, appreciating the treasures God wishes upon us. "The Treasure Seeker" is a strong pick for Christian self-help collections.

The Future of the Global Church
Patrick Johnstone
Biblica
1820 Jet Stream Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
c/o InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400
Downers Grove, IL 605151426
9780830856596, $40.00, www.ivpress.com

The world grows smaller, but faith grows larger. "The Future of the Global Church: History, Trends, and Possibilities" discusses the future of the Church and the approaches to evangelical Christianity all over the world, and its spread to the indigenous people throughout. Packed cover to cover with charts and graphs, and the possibilities for evangelical growth in many of these countries. For those curious about the potential of spreading the gospel, "The Future of the Global Church" is a strong pick for history, international issues, and Christian Studies collections.

Scripture in the Church
James Chukwuma Okoye
The Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500
Collegeville, MN 56321-7500
9780814657614, $24.95, www.litpress.org

The Bible was once only for the clergy. "Scripture in the Church: The Synod on the Word of God" discusses the meeting of the Catholic Church in 2008 to discuss the scripture and its interpretation how the Church views the masses and how much the Scripture should be driving the Church's thoughts and mission. A scholarly discussion of Catholicism and its direction, "Scripture in the Church" is a strongly recommended addition to any Catholic and Christian studies collection, community or college.

The True Icon
Paul Badde
Ignatius Press
PO Box 1339
Fort Collins, CO 80522
9781586175917, $22.95, www.ignatius.com

With potentially two thousand years of history, the shroud of Turin holds much history. "The True Icon: From the Shroud of Turin to the Veil of Manoppello" discusses the history behind the shroud and the debates that rage from both sides behind the authenticity that it was the death shroud of Jesus of Nazareth. It also discusses the less known yet still debated Veil of Manoppello, bearing the face of Christ as well. With much history, with artwork and photographs all throughout presented in full color, "The True Icon" is a strong addition to any Christian studies collection as well as history collection.

Your Guide to Yellowstone
Master Books
c/o New Leaf Publishing Group
PO Box 726
Green Forest, AR 72638
9780890516409, $15.99, www.masterbooks.net

The National parks have been established to demonstrate nature at its most pure. "Your Guide to Yellowstone: And Grand Teton National Parks" offers a strong Christian perspective on the sights and sounds of these parks that surround the Rocky Mountains, with countless plants and animals that occupy the region. Packed cover to cover with full color photographs all throughout, "Your Guide to Yellowstone" is a spiral-bound book for those who want nature pictures and a Creationism driven theme and take on the Grand Canyon region.

The Selfless Way of Christ
Henri Nouwen
Orbis Books
Price Bldg., Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545
9781570759437, $18.00, www.orbisbooks.com

The Selfless Way of Christ: Downward Mobility and the Spiritual Life provides a fine survey illustrated with drawings by van Gogh and providing a fine survey of religious vocation and ministry with a focus on hunger, discipleship and downward mobility. Simple chapters and text chart relationships between spirituality and downward mobility and include many Biblical quotes exploring the entire process in this pick for any Christian studies collection.

Revelations
Elaine Pagels
Viking Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9780670023349, $27.95, www.penguin.com

REVELATIONS: VISIONS, PROPHECY, & POLITICS IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION offers an analysis of a New Testament text holding a powerful apocalyptic vision of the world's end and is a pick for any spirituality collection. It provides a fine interpretation of Revelations as John of Patmos' attack on the decadence of Rome, considers its evolution and controversy through the years, and describes other alternate books of revelations which offered more optimism but were ultimately left out. Christian collections will appreciate this strong survey of how the Book of Revelations evolved in the New Testament - and what alternatives were initially offered.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Contemporary Halakhic Problems
J. David Bleich
KTAV Publishing House
930 Newark Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07306-6316
9781602801943, $26.95, www.ktav.com

The laws of Judaism grow more complicated to apply to the modern era. "Contemporary Halakhic Problems" is the sixth volume of Rabbi J. David Bleich's discussion of these vital Jewish questions for those trying to stay true to the laws of the ancestors. Touching on the topics of torture, medical malpractice, water cleanliness, modern medicine, dietary issues, and death issues, Bleich offers a scholarly and thoughtful ideal on many of these issues. "Contemporary Halakhic Problems" is a strong addition to any modern Judaic studies collection, highly recommended.

The Illuminated Kaddish
Hyla Bolsta
KTAV Publishing House
930 Newark Avenue
Jersey City, NJ 07306-6316
9781602801902, $27.50, www.ktav.com

The Kaddish is a prayer that every devote Jew recites as part of mourning the loss of a loved one. Never has the Kaddish been so beautifully illustrated as within the pages of "The Illuminated Kaddish" Interpretations Of The Mourner's Prayer". Infusing an understanding of a centuries old tradition with contemporary contemplative insight expressed in lavish artwork combined with poetic text and illuminated calligraphy, "The Illuminated Kaddish" is strongly recommended reading and will prove to be a highly prized and appreciated addition to personal, synagogue, academic, and community library Judaic Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists.


The Poetry Shelf

Through Sun-glinting Particles
Allegra Jostad Silberstein
Parallel Press
372 Memorial Library
728 State Street
Madison, WI 53575
9781934795385 $10.00 http://parallelpress.library.wisc.edu

Poet Laureate Allegra Jostad Silberstein presents Through Sun-glinting Particles, a chapbook of poetry, some rhyming, some free-verse, that reflects her love of the outdoors as well as the bond of family ties, and the warm comfort of fond memories. A beautiful and moving experience, Through Sun-glinting Particles deserves to be taken in slowly, the better to absorb its expressions of wonder. Highly recommended. "Notes from Aunt Lil": I'm feeling old and tired and lost / and think of days gone by and cry / about the young folks going by / without a thought of miseries cost / or how the apple trees will bloom / and lilacs come to scent the air / without the shop windows for compare / to dress our wishes with aplomb. // I sit and rock and take my rest / remembering poems learned by heart. / Then singing songs of long-gone days / consider how my hours are blest / by touch that's kept in memory's cart- / the votive and the migrant strays.

Calamity Joe
Brendan Constantine
Red Hen Press
PO Box 3537
Granada Hills, CA 91394
9781597091763, $17.95, www.redhen.org

There are many stories that craft our lives. "Calamity Joe" is an anthology of poetry from Brendan Constantine who uses his own creative use of language to make for original and thoughtful takes on the art of poetry and its unique way of reflecting life. "Calamity Joe" is a fine pick for general poetry collections, much recommended. "Consider the Spiders": The spider above you/and all her rationed dead,/the spider before her/deported in a water glass/to the front yard.//She didn't make it back./Consider her children,/her belongings, her dry/body reconsidered/by air: flower skeleton,/umbrella seed.

Two-Headed Nightingale
Shara Lessley
New Issues
c/o Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5463
9781936970070, $15.00, www.wmich.edu

Even among what has always been there, there are still surprises waiting. "Two-Headed Nightingale" is a collection of poetry from Shara Lessley who uses her experience and expertise with the medium to explore the world around us, discussing nature and humanity as two parts of a greater puzzle. "Two-Headed Nightingale" is a good addition to any general poetry collection, much recommended. "After Reading Chu Shu-Chen, I Cube a D'Anjou": All of the fruit trees --/cut back and disappearing./The world in/my parents' yard is'/small and bare. As long as I am flesh/and bone,/the kingfishers mating near the streambed/will cause embarrassment./I am tired of pinning up my hair./The pear is not to blame./The rain is not to blame./The grass pushes up/each blade/sharper than the next./Into a pewter dish, I set/aside the piebald flesh,/its perfume/so spare - how long/will I sit at my father's table?

The Hello Delay
Julie Choffel
Fordham University Press
2546 Belmont Avenue
University Box L
Bronx, NY 10458-5172
9780823242306, $18.00, www.fordhampress.com

We are driven by what is familiar. "The Hello Delay" is a collection of poetry from Julie Choffel, a student of many topics and presents her knowledge creatively with her verse. Exploring the concepts of familiarity and its force in our lives, "The Hello Delay" is not a read to overlook. "Serenade, or After Others": Here, from a fake rose/I've made you a real one//my poetry has no camera//The holes between the stars and the holes the stars/will leave in the sky.

The Mountains of Norfolk
Kevin Crossley-Holland
Enitharmon
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781907587108, $24.95, www.dufoureditions.com

The world will always go on, as we gaze through it all. "The Mountains of Norfolk" is a collection of poetry from Kevin Crossley-Holland, who uses his vast experience with a poetry and writing to offer a dedicated read to classic literature and the life around him. "The Mountains of Norfolk" is a thoughtful and much recommended pick for poetry collections. "Limoges": All I knew of Limoges was my mother's china:/teacups transparent as raised communion wafers,/with knuckled twig-handles, their gilt-half worn./Shining bone miracles tough as old boots.//When the night train pulled in, quacking,/it was damp and chill. One frail old woman,/coiffed and frilled, peered out from her kiosk./Hooded eyes. Top lip stitched. Time to kill.

Creatures Who Smell the Wind
Linda C. Levitz
Fithian Press
PO Box 2790, McKinleyville, CA 95519
9781564745217, $14.00, www.danielpublishing.com

Through anything and everything in our lives, we try to keep a bond with it all. "Creatures Who Smell the Wind" is a collection of poetry from poet and teacher Linda Levitz who speaks with a profound tone in connecting with the world around her. "Creatures Who Smell the Wind" is a strong addition to any poetry collection, recommended. "I Never Told": I never told anybody I lied/to my father when he waited/in the car after school dances, smiling, happy to come for me/He asked who I'd danced with, "Who were your partners?"/Philip, I told him, and Don//But I was really standing on the side, waiting to be asked//I couldn't hurt his feelings,/see his face crumple to sadness/I protected him/I was his parent.

Keeping Even
Sheila Sanderson
Stephen F. Austin State University Press
PO Box 13007, SFA Station
Nacogdoches, TX 75962-3007
9781936205424, $15.95, www.prescott.edu

There is a certain grace in cutting to the point of it all. "Keeping Even" is a collection of poetry from Sheila Sanderson as she presents an honest and direct collection of poetry, seeking to enjoy the vital simplicity of life, with a touch on faith. "Keeping Even" is a fine assortment, not to be overlooked. "Lazarus Hearing His Name Called": Before, like a moment/in weather to the ear://the last tantrum of winter running out of pearls/to throw at the daffodils,//wind leaving off its shuffle through wheat;/Then, like a granite boulder rocked//into the thunder of pilgrimage/from the resting place//it imagined/it had been promised.

Wells
Jenna Butler
University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2E1
9780888646064, $19.95, www.uap.ualberta.ca

From our ancestors we take knowledge and prepare our own lives. "Wells" is a book of poetry from Jenna Butler, a prolific English-Canadian writer as she speaks on rural life as well as the family life that we all share, with a unique free verse style that seeks message and idea over all else. "Wells" is a charming read, not to be overlooked.

Imperfect Prayers
Richard Carr
Steel Toe Books
c/o Western Kentucky University
1906 College Heights Blvd. #11086
Bowling Green, KY 42101-1086
9780982416969 $12.00 http://www.wku.edu/~tom.hunley/steeltoebooks

No matter our faith, we have many moments of doubt. "Imperfect Prayers" is a collection of poetry from award winning poet Richard Carr, who presents 101 works of contemplating the spiritual and the mundane as we look for bits of truth in our lives. "Imperfect Prayers" is a strong addition to any poetry assortment. "58": I disappoint God,/completing my errand too literally/by coming home with milk, bread, lettuce, olive loaf//and summer-day hopes/for an afternoon free of needy mail/and flip calls//or any thoughts outside the white fence of eyesight,/green lawn,/happy with myself, weight, hair,//freckles.

Walking Here
Jessie Lendennie
Salmon Poetry
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781907056840, $21.95, www.salmonpoetry.com

Poetry captures the essence of a feeling where words alone would fail. "Walking Here" is a poetry book from Jessie Lendennie who continues her love of poetry in this volume, pondering spirituality and philosophy and what keeps us going through life in spite of growing adversity. "Walking Here" is a thoughtful and recommended collection to any general poetry collections. "London 1972": I thought that we/Were probably/In New York/And that I had just/Run up five flights/Of Stairs/To See you/And we were talking/of living/Somewhere else.

Well Then There Now
Juliana Spahr
David R. Godine, Publisher
PO Box 450
Jaffrey, NH 03452
9781574232172, $17.95, www.godine.com

Across mountains and oceans, Juliana Spahr spins her original upbringing into a fine assortment of poetry. "Well Then There Now" is a collection of poetry from award-winning poetry writer and editor Juliana Spahr, who uses her experiences in Hawaii on the continental country and much more for a more complete understanding of America and the rest of the world, blending an epic flavored poetry along with prose poems. "Well Then There Now" is a fine assortment of poetry, a strong addition to any general collection.


The Humor Shelf

Hot Chocolate for Seniors
Jan Fowler
Balboa Press
1663 Liberty Dr. Suite #300
Bloomington, IN 47403
9781452539454, $21.99, www.janfowler.com

Sometimes we need a bit of comfort in our lives to gain a better appreciation for the world around us. "Hot Chocolate for Seniors: More Than 100 Heartwarming, Humorous, Inspiring Stories Written by Seniors, for Seniors, and About Seniors" is a collection of short stories from Jan Fowler as she crafts a collection of thought and inspiration about the world in the eyes of seniors, with a message to help them through those stressful encounters that we all encounter. "Hot Chocolate for Seniors" is a fine assortment of thought, not to be overlooked for self-help and senior collections.

The Fry Chronicles
Stephen Fry
Overlook Press
141 Wooster St., New York NY 10012
9781590207147, $29.95, www.overlookpress.com

THE FRY CHRONICLES: AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY is a particularly strong recommendation for any collection seeing popularity and familiarity with British comedians and provides a memoir of an actor best known for his comedic TV roles. Fry has become famous for his wit and humor, but for most of his life he's struggled with depression and low self-esteem. From his childhood confusion over his homosexuality to his addictions and long road to success, THE FRY CHRONICLES is a top pick for any familiar with his comedy.

The Itty-Bitty Knitty Committee
Scott Hilburn
Andrews McMeel Publishing
1130 Walnut Street
Kansas City MO 64106-2109
9781449410216, $12.99, www.andrewsandmcmeel.com

The Itty-Bitty Knitty Committee provides a fine new argyle Sweater comic collection featuring strips and panels in full color - and if you're a newcomer, suffice it to say that any fan of Gary Larson will love the similar sense of fun Scott Hilburn imparts to his panels. From dinosaurs and talking plants to a life raft inhabited by fingers with nail clipper sharks swimming around, these comics are hilarious and fun additions to any cartoon strip collection.

Best Editorial Cartoons of the Year 2012
Charles Brooks, Editor
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street
Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455616152, $14.95, www.pelicanpub.com

Best Editorial Cartoons of the Year 2012 provides a lovely collection of black and white cartoon 'bests' from 2011 from leading editorial cartoonists and requires only a knowledge of the issues to prove satisfying. It charts different points of view in over 400 of the year's best cartoons and also is the last to be edited by Charles Brooks, who passed away as this book as in preparation. His work on all 40 volumes in this annual series will be fondly remembered and this addition to any general or political studies collection will prove popular and fun.


The Memoir Shelf

No One's Son
Tewodros Fekadu
Leapfrog Press
PO Box 2110
Teaticket, MA 02536
9781935248262, $19.95, www.leapfrogpress.com

The most terrifying thing as a child is to feel unwanted. "No One's Son: The Story of a Defiant Ethiopian Boy and His Bold Quest for Freedom" is the memoir of Tewodros Fekadu, or simply Teddy, who shares his rough path through life, a child of war and famine. Searching for a place to belong, he touched on many countries on many continents before finally gaining peace of mind and a life worth living on Australia's Gold Coast. "No One's Son" is a remarkable memoir for any international autobiography and memoir collection.

Look, Mom - I Can Fly!
Robert "Smoky" Vrilakas
Amethyst Moon Publishing
PO Box 87885
Tucson, AZ 85754
9781935354475 $16.95 www.ampubbooks.com

Look, Mom - I Can Fly! Memoirs of a World War II P-38 Fighter Pilot is the true story of a man drafted into the army six months prior to the Pearl Harbor attack. Author Robert "Smoky" Vrilakas tells of his grueling basic training, followed by his Army Air Corp flight training. He learned to fly the Army's best fighter of the time: the P-38 "Lightning". As a member of the famous "Hat in the Ring" squadron, he flew in 51 combat missions in the Mediterranean Theatre; German Luftwaffe and Italian Air Force nearly killed him more than once. Look, Mom - I Can Fly! is a captivating true story of determination, courage, camaraderie, and do-or-die air warfare, highly recommended.

Win Some, Lose Some
Mark N. Stageberg
Beaver's Pond Press
7108 Ohms Lane
Edina, MN 55439
9781592982998, $25.00, www.BeaversPondPress.com

The challenge of a trial lawyer often can come off as a competition, but one must always remember real lives hang in the balance. "Win Some, Lose Some: The Trials and Tribulations in the Career of a Trial Lawyer" is the memoir of career civil trial lawyer Mark N. Stageberg, as he reflects on what faces you as a lawyer both as a lone practitioner and as part of a firm. He speaks on representing smaller people as well bigger interests, and much more. Pulling no punches, "Win Some, Lose Some" is a fine delve into law and those who practice it, very much recommended.

I Hardly Ever Wash My Hands
J. J. Keeler
Paragon House
1925 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 7
St. Paul, MN 55113-2619
9781557788924, $16.95, www.paragonhouse.com

Living with OCD can be being irrational while knowing you're being irrational. "I Hardly Ever Wash My Hands: The Other Side of OCD" is a memoir from J. J. Keeler as she shares her story of facing the disorder and the weight that comes with the plight. Written with an honest humor and to the heart story of her fears and what life is like being crushed by them, "I Hardly Ever Wash My Hands" is a strong addition to psychology and self-help collections, highly recommended.

The Chicken Chronicles
Alice Walker
The New Press
38 Green Street, 4th floor
New York, NY 10013
9781595587749, $16.95, www.thenewpress.com

Even creatures as dumb as chickens have wisdom to pass on to us all. "The Chicken Chronicles" is a memoir from Alice Walker as she reflects on her unique set of challenges raising a flock of chickens and how her experiences with these chickens as well as traveling the world itself, gained her insight onto the world and strength to life her life in the way she always sought to. "The Chicken Chronicles" is a fine read and very much recommended reading.

Blown Away
Kelly Gordon
Westbow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
9781449736736, $11.99 www.westbowpress.com

Even when all is lost, one must never lose the faith. "Blown Away" is a memoir of religious endeavor, as Kelly Gordon shares her story of facing tragedy with her husband. Stating that God helped them through the devastation of nature, their weakest moments of losing their hopeful child, and the woes of their adoptive endeavor, "Blown Away" is an inspirational read for any collection of faith-driven memoir.

Adventures of a Book Collector
Philip Murray
Currach Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7
Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
9781856077330, $26.95, www.dufoureditions.com

When a boy becomes a man, not much really changes except the means to pursue one's interests. "Adventures of a Book Collector" is a memoir from Philip Murray as he shares his story of pursuing the more intriguing aspects of book collecting, meeting authors and getting those priceless treasures to call your own. With humor and an optimism about it all, "Adventures of a Book Collector" is a strong pick for fans of books who want to share an adventure with one of their own.

Mirror Mirror
Stephanie Hart
Simon and Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl.
New York, NY 10020
9780615498089, $12.00, www.simonandschuster.com

As life happens to us quickly, it can be hard to digest it as it comes. "Mirror Mirror: A Collection of Memoirs and Stories" is a memoir assortment from Stephanie Hart, as she shares her journeys around the world and what she has learned in trying to put her own life together while trying to gain an understanding of everyone else's. "Mirror Mirror" is a thoughtful and direct read for memoir collections, not to be overlooked.

Trespasses
Lacy M. Johnson
University of Iowa Press
100 Kuhl House
119 West Park Road
Iowa City, IA 52242-1000
9781609380786, $19.95, www.uiowapress.org

The middle of nowhere is somewhere to someone. "Trespasses" is a memoir from Lacy M. Johnson as she shares stories of herself and those around here over three generations in the Great Plains of the American Midwest. Presenting a struggle of sameness, tradition and the desire and inability to break from it, and much more, "Trespasses" is a poignant read with plenty to consider, very much recommended reading.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim
Scott Alan Roberts
New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
PO Box 687
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601631978, $16.99, www.newpagebooks.com

Angels captivate our imagination, but could they their place in reality? "The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim: The Untold Story of Fallen Angels, Giants on the Earth, and Their Extraterrestrial Origins" is Scott Alan Roberts metaphysical exploration of divine beings and their place in mythology, legend, and lore, discussing not only angels, but fae, old gods, aliens, and other creatures that dwell in our mind. "The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim" is a captivating exploration of these ancient ideals, much recommended. "The Rise and Fall of the Nephilim" is a strong addition to any metaphysical studies collection.

Lost Civilizations & Secrets of the Past
Michael Pye & Kristen Dalley, Editors
New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781601631961, $15.99, www.newpagebooks.com

Lost Civilizations & Secrets of the Past offers original essays by Erich von Daniken and many others and provides the latest book in a series that is encouraging debate on the nature of history. From the ancient Egyptian pyramids and their astronomical implications to the Celtic network of roads that may be connected to Atlantis, this offers articles that explore what ancient civilizations knew and how evidence of ancient mysteries is everywhere. An excellent survey, this is a pick for any new age collection strong in alternative history models.

New Page Books
c/o Career Press Inc.
PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
www.newpagebooks.com

Dr. Kirby Surprise's SYNCHRONICITY: THE ART OF COINCIDENCE, CHOICE, AND UNLOCKING YOUR MIND (9781601631831, $16.99) is a pick for new age and science holdings alike, offering an analysis of the personal, scientific and spiritual meaning of synchronicity and the purpose of 'meaningful coincidences' in life. It advocates learning how to create such synchronistic events, how to use the mind and brain's powers to connect synchronicity with creativity, and how to change from living as a separate being to living in a connected universe. Case histories of synchronistic events accompany scientific observations and keys to using these events to create a more purposeful life. Scott Alan Roberts' THE RISE AND FALL OF THE NEPHILIM (9781601631978, $16.99) is a special pick for any new age collection strong in ancient mythology and mysteries and considers one of the old mysteries of Genesis, the Nephilim: the giants whose offspring mated with the offspring of Adam and Eve. This links Biblical history with discussions of UFOs, angels, extraterrestrials, and more, and offers up a serious survey of possibilities based around possible truths of the old religions and theology. Science, new age ideas and Bible studies mix in an intriguing survey of all the possibilities.


The Cookbook Shelf

Cooking Vegan
Vesanto Melina, MS RD
Joseph Forest, Professional Chef
Book Publishing Co.
415 Farm Road, Summertown, TN 38483
9781570672675, $19.95, www.BookPubCo.com

"Cooking Vegan" is so much more than just another excellent vegan cookbook with plenty of delicious, healthy recipes. It is an empowering. sensible guidebook to aid in choosing and incorporating more vegan alternatives in a healthy lifestyle. Fueled with specific dietary guidelines and information that pertains especially to vegans, as well as a variety of creative and delicious vegan recipes, "Cooking Vegan" is divided into two main parts. The first four chapters are informational, covering vegan nutrition, ingredients, cooking, and menus and food guide. The second part contains a wide assortment of delectable vegan recipes for breakfast, snacks, soups, salads, dressings, entrees, sauces, side dishes, and desserts. Each recipe has complete dietary analysis information including percentage of calories from protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Printed in gentle tricolor soy-based inks, each recipe is clearly presented with ingredients and amounts listed in persimmon color ink on the left and recipe procedure instructions written in paragraph form on the right in olive green ink. Introductory notes and suggestions are highlighted at the top and the dietary information regarding nutritional content is listed at the bottom. Wonderful recipes are enclosed, including African Chickpea Stew, Cranberry Pecan Muffins, Scrambled Tofu, Lemon-Tahini Dressing, Lima Beans, Corn, and Chipotle Chile, Aloo Gobi, Coconut Saffron Rice with Cardamom and Lime, and Blueberry-Mince Tarts or Pies. Both the novice and the experienced vegan chef can find a delightful assortment of healthful, delicious, soul and body nourishing foods to prepare, tempting the palate and the mind to grow.

The James Beard Foundation's Best of the Best
Kit Wohl
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
www.chroniclebooks.com
9780811874663, $60.00, www.amazon.com

The James Beard Foundation is a New York-based national professional non-profit organization named in honor of James Beard that serves to promote the culinary arts by honoring chefs, wine professionals, journalists, and cookbook authors at annual award ceremonies and providing scholarships and educational opportunities to cooking hopefuls. The Foundation was started in 1986 by Peter Kump, a former student of James Beard and founder of the Institute of Culinary Education. At Julia Child's suggestion, Kump purchased Beard's New York brownstone at 167 West 12th Street in Greenwich Village and preserved it as a gathering place where the general public and press can appreciate the talents of established and emerging chefs. Now in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the James Beard Foundation, culinary author Kit Wohl has compiled a beautifully produced and illustrated coffee table style cookbook showcasing each of the winners of the annual James Beard Foundation 'Outstanding Chef' award. The reader is provided with an informed and informative professional biography, a page of four color photographs featuring that particular chef, and a selection of that chef's signatory recipes. Whether for a simple entertaining browse or in search of truly elegant recipes, "The James Beard Foundation's Best of the Best: A 25th Anniversary Celebration of America's Outstanding Chefs" is highly recommended for personal and community library cookbook collections. As the James Beard Foundation celebrates their 25th anniversary, this lush volume compiles the recipients of the prestigious Outstanding Chef Award, featuring a profile of each winner by author Kit Wohl, along with sumptuous recipes, photography and a foreword by Martha Stewart. From Wolfgang Puck to Tom Colicchio, discover the culinary philosophy and passion behind each prizewinner s path to the kitchen, all contained in a beautiful collector's piece. An inspiration for a generation of chefs, James Beard set the standard through his cooking, teaching, consulting, writing, and media appearances. In honor of Beard s unrivaled legacy as the father of the gourmet movement, the James Beard Foundation established the annual James Beard Awards, which recognize excellence in food, beverage, and other culinary industries.

Don't Panic -- Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals for Your Family
Susie Martinez, Vanda Howell, Bonnie Garcia
Revell
c/o Baker Publishing Group
Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287
www.bakerbooks.com
9780800719944, $14.99, www.amazon.com

Even the busiest and time-constrained family will tire of fast-food restaurant fare. That's where "Don't Panic--Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals for Your Family", deftly compiled by the culinary team of Susie Martinez, Vanda Howell, and Bonnie Garcia, will prove to be an invaluable addition to the family cookbook shelf. From quick stove top meals to nutritious crockpot dishes, "Don't Panic -- Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals for Your Family" is a 288-page compendium of timely, kitchen cook friendly meals that are as palate pleasing as they appetite satisfying. From Mini Turkey Focacia Sandwiches; Chilled Strawberry Soup; Spinach Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing; and Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta; to Easy Oven Barbecued Chicken; Grilled Rib Eye Steaks with Java Rub; Spicy Shrimp Asparagus Stir-Fry; and Sour Cream Cookies, "Don't Panic -- Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals for Your Family" has a recipe for every dining occasion making it enthusiastically recommended for personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

101 Cozy Casseroles
Gooseberry Patch
2500 Farmers Drive, #110
Columbus, OH 43235
www.gooseberrypatch.com
9781612810553, $14.95, www.amazon.com

The casserole is a classic American meal and a traditional component of church dinners and family gatherings. In "101 Cozy Casseroles", Gooseberry Patch has published a spiral bound compendium of colorfully illustrated and 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes drawn from contributing family chefs willing to share their most cherished and delicious recipes for palate pleasing and appetite satisfying casseroles. From an Easy Chicken Pot Pie; Mom's Texas Hash; and a Green Bean, Ham & Potato Bake'; to a Hearty Tortilla Casserole; Turkey & Wild Rice Quiche; and a Chile Relleno Casserole, here is a culinary wealth of easy to make dishes that come complete with ingredient lists and step-by-step cooking instructions. It should be especially noted that each unique and diverse dish has its contributor identified along with a one sentence description -- along with a fabulous and mouth-watering photograph. Also very highly recommended for both personal and community library collections are two other spiral bound cookbook compendiums from Gooseberry Patch: "The Harvest Table" (9781612810539, $16.95) and "The Christmas Table" (9781612810546, $16.95).

Parents Quick & Easy Kid-Friendly Meals
Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118173602 $19.99 www.wiley.com

Illustrated with full-color, full-page photographs throughout, Parents Quick & Easy Kid-Friendly Meals is packed cover to cover with 125 easy-to-prepare dishes designed to appeal to the whole family. From "Beef & Bean Taco Salad" to "Tilapia Piccata", "Rainbow Coleslaw", "Cheesy Linguine with Clams", "Princess Tea Sandwiches", "Fruit & Cheese Kabobs", and much more, the dishes combine visual appeal with nutritional value and step-by-step preparation instructions accessible to cooks of all skill and experience levels. Highly recommended especially for busy parents seeking to fit the preparation of wholesome, appealing meals into their busy schedules!

The Big Book of Weeknight Dinners
Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118133262 $19.99 www.wiley.com www.bettycrocker.com

Part of the BettyCrocker line of top-quality recipe books, The Big Book of Weeknight Dinners lives up to its title with over 200 easy-to-make recipes including soups, stews, skillet meals, salads, pizzas, sandwiches, casseroles, and more. Cooking tips, shopping guidelines, and meal planning suggestions, as well as icons that highlight meals that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, round out the recipes themselves. Full color photographs are interspersed throughout this practical and user-friendly compendium of delectable, nutritious meals.

Hall of Fame Southern Recipes
Gwen McKee and Barbara Moseley
Quail Ridge Press
PO Box 123
Brandon, MS 39043
9781934193228, $24.95, www.quailridge.com

Good southern cooking is something special. "Hall of Fame Southern Recipes" explores the best of the recipes of the south. With to the point recipes for any meal and how to make the most of them all, the authors provide easy to follow instructions with full color photographs of many of the recipes within. For those who want to bring the Southern flavor to their tables in its many forms, "Hall of Fame Southern Recipes" is a strong pick for cookbook collections, highly recommended.

Quinoa Cuisine
Jessica Harlan & Kelley Sparwasser
Ulysses Press
PO Box 3440
Berkeley CA 94703-3440
9781612430201, $16.95, www.ulyssespress.com

Nutrition doesn't have to stand aside for taste. "Quinoa Cuisine: 150 Creative Recipes for Super-Nutritious, Amazingly Delicious Dishes" is a collection of recipes focused around the quinoa, a grain that can be used to create many delicious meals from burgers to sweet cafes, to breakfast foods, and much more. "Quinoa Cuisine" is a great reference for anyone, with tips to match any dietary discipline or concern.

Danish Cooking and Baking Traditions
Arthur L. Meyer
Hippocrene Books
171 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
9780781812627, $32.00, www.hippocrenebooks.com

Good bread can be the foundation of any meal, and the Danes have perfected this ideal. "Danish Cooking and Baking Traditions" is a cookbook filled with the best of the best traditional Danish recipes for sumptuous breads, pastries, meat dishes, rice dishes, and much more. "Danish Cooking and Baking Traditions" is strongly recommended for any international cookbook collection.

Push-Up Pops
Courtney Dial Whitmore, author
Kyle Dreier, photographer
Gibbs Smith
P.O. Box 667, Layton, Utah 84041
9781423625315, $19.99, www.gibbs-smith.com

"Push-Up Pops" is a fun-filled, fantastic collection of recipe ideas for festive push-up pops for special parties or events. Using clear plastic push-up molds available through shop.pizzazzerie.com, here are presented over 40 different push-up pops creations, complete with recipe instructions and color photographs. For example, there is Key Lime Pie, Oreo Cheesecake, Minty Chocolate Cream Pie, Snickers Caramel Pie, and Sweet 'n' Salty Caramel Cookie, as well as Frozen Peach Bellini and Pumpkin Pie, all in push-up pop form. Every recipe is clearly presented with ingredients listed on the left and paragraph instructions on the right. Recipes are included for cake, pie, frozen, and special cookies, candy, and more push-up pops. For a festive new approach to party menus with flair and themes, "Push-Up Pops" is a chef's best friend.

Gluten-Free Vegan Comfort Food
Susan O'Brien
DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
44 Farnsworth St., 3rd Floor
Boston MA 02210
9780738214900, $18.00, www.dacapopress.com

Gluten-Free Vegan Comfort Food: 125 Simple and Satisfying Recipes from "Mac n' Cheese" to Chocolate Cupcakes presents fine adaptations of traditional comfort food that those on a gluten-free diet often struggle with, from pot pies and mac n' cheese to lasagnas. From Pumpkin Waffles and Savory Spinach Pie to Chocolate Tapioca Pudding and Pineapple Upside Down Cake, this breaks down gluten-free special ingredients and surveys how they affect a recipe's texture and flavor. Any gluten-free cookbook collection will find this a winner.

My Baking Journal
Editors of Hamlyn
Spruce
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781846013942, $14.99, www.octopusbooks.co.uk

MY BAKING JOURNAL is divided into chapters for different types of baking, each color coded and featuring classic recipes from basic Flaky Pastry Dough to Chocolate Chip Cookies and Berry Crisp. There's space to jot down notes and reference recipes, to write one's own recipes, and to organize recipes from friends and family. The nature of this journal doesn't lend to library lending - too many fill-in places - but the organizational structure and overall arrangement makes this a 'must' for any cook's home collection.

New Complete Cookbook
Weight Watchers
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9780470614518, $29.95, www.wiley.com

NEW COMPLETE COOKBOOK: OVER 500 DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR THE HEALTHY COOK'S KITCHEN packs in recipes filled with meats, fruits, vegetables and more and adds 60 color photos and instructions to assure their success. Packaged in hardcover lay-flat binding for both ease of use and shelving, NEW COMPLETE COOKBOOK packs in basics and healthy tips on serving good foods, providing a kitchen companion that goes beyond slimmed recipes to address the basics of weight control, healthier choices, and substitutions. Highly recommended for any following the Weight Watches diet!

Norwegian Cakes and Cookies
Chef Sverre Saetre
Skyhorse Publishing
307 West 36th St., 11th Floor
New York NY 10018
9781616085568, $19.95, www.skyhorsepublishing.com

Norwegian Cakes and Cookies is co-authored by Hanne Hay Saetre and offers a fun set of creative ways to make basic desserts. It comes from an acclaimed Norwegian pastry chef and teaches how to master cakes, puddings and more using his easy recipes, and it presents classic Norwegian dishes and gives them a new spin. Add color photos by Christian Brun and a fine chapter of basic master recipes and you have a powerful, fun collection perfect for any home cook who seeks a modern twist on traditional Norwegian dishes!

The Vegetarian Imperative
Anand M. Saxena
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 N. Charles St., Baltimore MD 21218
9781421402420, $24.95, www.press.jhu.edu

The Vegetarian Imperative comes from a scientist and lifelong vegetarian who explains why we need to make better food choices for better health and to save the planet. Animal-based foods contribute to high rates of chronic diseases and also depletes natural resources. Add an expanding world population that demands meat as a basic protein and you have a formula for disaster. THE VEGETARIAN IMPERATIVE belongs in any culinary and social issues collection and offers assessments of the moral and ethical implications of dietary choices.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible
James C. VanderKam
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
2140 Oak Industrial Drive, NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
9780802866790, $25.00, www.eerdmans.com

Bringing new light of context to the Bible, the Dead Sea Scrolls have been a constantly debated theological topic. "The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible" discusses the recent discoveries surrounding the scrolls, their applications to Biblical studies and more, James C. VanderKam, a professor of Hebrew Scriptures presents a strong and scholarly addition to the modern debates. "The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Bible" is a strong pick for general religious studies collection and anyone fascinated with the Dead Seas Scrolls.

Forgiveness
Joan Mueller
New City Press
202 Cardinal Rd.
Hyde Park, NY 12538
9781565484269, $7.95, www.newcitypress.com

A moment to think can buy our lives much more success. "Forgiveness: Three Minute Reflections on Redeeming Life's Most Difficult Moments" is a collection of thoughts and inspiration from Joan Mueller who advises readers how to ponder their world, when life hits them hard. From life changing events that push us to power us through our lives, "Forgiveness" is a strongly recommended pick for those looking for brief, yet powerful moments of faith to carry us through life's hardest struggles, with spirituality for Christians and non-Christians alike.

Reading the Bible After Christendom
Lloyd Pietersen
Herald Press
616 Walnut Avenue
Scottsdale, PA 15683-1999
9780836196177, $19.99, www.heraldpress.com

For nearly two thousand years, the Holy Bible has dominated tradition in the Western world. "Reading the Bible After Christendom" invites readers to try to look at the scripture from the perspective of a world where Christianity didn't dominate the world in culture, to gain an understanding of the faith free from the influences of the world. Offering many intriguing ideas about faith and the holy word, "Reading the Bible After Christendom" is a strong pick for any student of the Bible.

12 Miracles of Spiritual Growth
E. Kent Rogers
Swedenborg Publishers
320 North Church Street
West Chester, PA 19380
9780877853435, $15.95, www.swedenborg.com

We seek man ways to be at greater peace with ourselves. "12 Miracles of Spiritual Growth: A Path of Healing from the Gospels" is a guide to faith and spirituality from E. Kent Rogers as he uses his expertise with mental health to advise and inspire readers to find their souls and live a more fluid and complete life on many levels. "12 Miracles of Spiritual Growth" is a strong choice for Christian spirituality collections, very much recommended reading.

7 Keys to Spiritual Wellness
Joe Paprocki
Loyola Press
3441 North Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
9780829436891, $12.95, www.LoyolaBooks.org

If the mind and soul suffer, the body will suffer as well. "7 Keys to Spiritual Wellness: Enriching Your Faith by Strengthening the Health of Your Soul" is a positive read from Joe Paprocki as he advises readers with his expertise as a minister on how to maintain a spiritual health to enhance their life and push themselves forward for better life. "7 Keys to Spiritual Wellness" is a very much recommended read for those who have lost sight of their spirit and want to find it once more.


The Botany Shelf

Woody Plants of Utah
Renee Van Buren, Janet G. Cooper, Leila M. Shultz, & Kimball T. Harper
Utah State University Press
7800 Old Main Hill
Logan, Utah 84322
9780874218244, $39.95, www.USUPress.org

Utah has a vibrant ecosystem, and it can be quite overwhelming at first sight. "Woody Plants of Utah" is a nature and environmental exploration from Utah State University, offering a complete and comprehensive study of the many species of plants throughout the state, presented in full color with detailed descriptions all throughout, complete with maps and glossaries. For anyone who wants an informative nature walk through Utah or for community and college library nature studies collections, "Woody Plants of Utah" is a choice and much recommended pick.


The Archaeology Shelf

Making Archeology Happen
Martin Carver
Left Coast Press
1630 North Main Street #400, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
9781611320251, $29.95, www.Lcoastpress.com

Archeology tells us much about our past. "Making Archeology Happen: Design Versus Dogma" discusses the ideals of archeology as a topic between many communities. An art form, a science, and a social science, the field often argues amongst itself, and professor of Archeology Martin Carver argues that commercial procedures into the field may be sabotaging the greater goals of the science as well as the creative aspect. "Making Archeology Happen" is a strong addition to any collection focusing on the topic or history in general.

Montana Before History
Douglas H. MacDonald
Mountain Press Publishing Company
PO Box 2399
Missoula, MT 59806
9780878425853, $20.00, www.mountain-press.com

Montana existed far before Europeans claimed it as their own. "Montana Before History: 11,000 Years of Hunter-Gatherers in the Rockies and Plains" discusses the archeological prehistory of the Mountain state, telling of the tribes who called Montana home, their struggles and push for a better life. Offering a history both natural and human, Douglas H. MacDonald offers a few intriguing surprises and twists such as history's never often heard about miners. "Montana Before History" is a strong addition to any history collection focusing on the Native American domain in the United States.


The Computer Shelf

3D Game Programming with DirectX 11
Frank D. Luna
Mercury Books
c/o International Publishers Marketing
22841 Quicksilver Drive
Dulles, VA 20166
9781936420223, $49.95, www.internationalpubmarket.com

With the latest developmental tools, one can create wonderful and vivid worlds. "3D Game Programming with DirectX 11" elaborates on how to get the most out the DirectX tools, the processes used by many recent 3D game developers. Frank D. Luna explores the newest developments that come with this edition of DirectX, how to make the most of 3D lighting, texturing, reflections, animation, and other vital elements. With exercises to practice with the ideas within, and a DVD with further resources and lessons, "3D Game Programming with DirectX 11" is a strong pick for anyone seeking to further their skills, be it for their career or as a hobby.

Arduino Cookbook, second edition
Michael Margolis
O'Reilly
c/o O'Reilly & Associates, Inc.
1005 Gravenstein, Hwy N.
Sebastopol, CA 95472-2811
9781449313876, $44.99, www.oreilly.com

The second updated edition of Arduino Cookbook covers Arduino 1.0 and provides recipes to begin and expand projects in a collection recommended for any software engineering holding strong in robotics. From the basic Arduino software concepts to techniques for reading digital and analog signals, this teaches the basics of interacting with robotics and also remote devices from TVs and appliances to stereos. Chapters teach the basics of handling time delays and time measurement and show how to apply advanced coding and memory handling techniques.

jQuery Novice to Ninja, second edition
Earle Castledine and Craig Sharkie
Sitepoint
1829 Market Street, Suite 202
San Francisco CA 94103
9780987153012, $39.95, www.sitepoint.com

The second updated edition of jQuery Novice to Ninja: New Kicks and Tricks includes source code for download and provides a basic guide to mastering jQuery, the JavaScript framework used by over half the world's top 10,000 websites. This second edition teaches all the basics of adding animation and interactivity to a website, surveys advanced features such as plug-ins, and shows how to handle jQuery selectors to control page elements. Build a complete working application using StarTrackr and learn the new jQuery Mobile for mobile apps in this latest updated edition!

WordPress Web Design for Dummies
Lisa Sabin-Wilson
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street
Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9780470935033, $29.99, www.wiley.com

WordPress Web Design for Dummies teaches the basics of web design with WordPress and tells how to link it to social media and more. WordPress began as a blogger's tool but can do so much more, and this book covers all the basics, from choosing a theme using different templates to display different content to picking plugins, working with supplemental programs and links, and more. Black and white charts and step-by-step instructions accompany color screen shots and more, making this a top WordPress title highly recommended for any newcomer to the program.

Practical Malware Analysis
Michael Sikorski and Andrew Honig
No Starch Press
38 Ringold Street
San Francisco, CO 94103-4403
9781593272906, $59.95, www.nostarch.com

Practical Malware Analysis provides the definitive guide to disabling malicious software and provides any who would battle it with the tools to identifying and disabling spyware, worms, Trojan horses, rootkits and more. It comes packed with tutorials and technical insights and teaches how the professionals analyze malware, debug it, and fix its damage. The emphasis on disabling self-replicating portions that keep many malware pieces returning makes for a fine, definitive guide that teaches all the basics of malware analysis. Hundreds of pages offer hands-on labs enabling readers to practice their skills as they disable real malware samples, making for a 'must' for any computer collection.

Web Application Security: A Beginner's Guide
Bryan Sullivan and Vincent Liu
McGraw-Hill
c/o The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071776165, $40.00, www.mhprofessional.com

Web Application Security: A Beginner's Guide is for the IT professional in networking security who wants to create, stock, and learn about basic security and common hacks and attacks. It covers all the basics of authentication, authorization and session management and presents best practices for vulnerability detection, using templates and examples to help the IT professional get started in the networking security area. Chapters discuss plans, practices, and teach the basics of how hackers attack web applications in a fine pick for any computer or business collection.

Pro jQuery
Adam Freeman
Apress, Inc.
233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013
9781430240952, $39.99, www.apress.com

Pro jQuery is a master guide for professionals by professionals and shows how to get the most from jQuery for website and application development alike. It teaches jQuery's basics, how to use jQuery to enrich HTML, and co vers all kinds of interactions and models for creating better interfaces for mobile and stationary devices alike. PRO JQUERY is packed with the basics needed to be effective with jQuery, and is a fine pick for any professional programmer's reference library.


The Education Shelf

The School Leader's Guide to Social Media
Ronald Williamson & J. Howard Johnston
Eye On Education
6 Depot Way West
Larchmont, NY 10538
9781596672185, $39.95, www.eyeoneducation.com

Social media is becoming all encompassing for all ages. "The School Leader's Guide to Social media" is a school teacher and educational administrator's guide to social media and how to deal with the school problems that may arise from its use, how to embrace it, and accept it isn't going away. With plenty of wise ideas on using it as a boon instead of a curse, "The School Leader's Guide to Social Media" is a strongly recommended pick for teachers and educational professionals.

The Journey From Child to Scientist
Sharon M. Carver & Jeff Shrager, editors
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
9781433811388, $79.95, www.apa.org/books

A curiosity in science is something to be nurtured. "The Journey From Child to Scientist: Integrating Cognitive Development and the Education Sciences" explores how to spark interest in scientific curiosity and reasoning using the natural curiosity of youth to encourage an interest in scientific topics for years to come. With the new approach explained and how it works, as well as the benefits for science and other topics alike, "The Journey From Child to Scientist" is a strong addition to any educational collection focusing on science and how to encourage it, highly recommended.

Strategies for Writing
Kathleen Kopp
Maupin House Publishing
PO Box 90148
Gainesville, FL 32607
9781936700493, $19.95, www.maupinhouse.com

Writing is a skill needed not just for the Language Arts, but for any topic. "Strategies for Writing in the Social Studies Classroom" is a guide for teachers of late elementary and junior high school students on how to emphasize the art of writing in Social studies and history classes. Kathleen Kopp, an experienced teacher, encourages development of critical thinking skills and how to better assess their progress. "Strategies for Writing in the Social Studies Classroom" is a fine and strongly recommended pick for general educational studies collections and for teachers resource collections.

A Framework for K-12 Science Education
National Research Council
c/o National Academies Press
500 Fifth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
9780309217422, $39.95, www.nap.edu

Science only grows more and more important by the day. "A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas" discusses how to better teach the concepts of science as they will be needed for the real world as well as science careers all throughout the educational experience. As the needed skills to succeed in the workplace increase, knowledge in engineering and other scientific disciplines will allow for greater success for our children's future. "A Framework for K-12" is a strong addition to any collection focusing on science education or science in general, highly recommended.

Small Steps, Big Changes
Chris Confer & Marco Ramirez
Stenhouse Publishers
477 Congress Street, Suite 4B
Portland, ME 04101-3451
9781571108135, $21.00, www.stenhouse.com

Good mathematics is the foundation for good learning. "Small Steps, Big Changes: Eight Essential Practices for Transforming Schools Through Mathematics" discusses the importance of mathematics in education. Focusing on how to better teach it in curriculum so it may form a foundation for learning science and other topics, mathematics educators Chris Confer & Marco Ramirez come together to present a straight forward guide to teaching mathematics to elementary and middle school students. "Small Steps, Big Changes" is a strong addition to any educational reference collection, and for any teacher charged with teaching arithmetic in its many forms.

Speaking of Apraxia
Leslie A. Lindsay
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Road
Bethesda, MD 20817
9781606130612, $24.95, www.woodbinehouse.com

Listening and speech are different things, and some children may understand things they cannot say in response. "Speaking of Apraxia: A Parents' Guide to Childhood Apraxia of Speech" discusses this disorder where a child can comprehend speech at a far higher level than they can speak it. To help children who are unable to master the oral movements of speech, Leslie A. Lindsay offers her expertise as a speech pathologist, with tips, tricks, and techniques to overcome the disability and succeed in school. "Speaking of Apraxia" is a vital addition to any childhood educational research collection, highly recommended.

Free Resources for Elementary Teachers
Colleen Kessler
Prufrock Press
PO Box 8813
Waco, TX 76714-8813
9781593638634, $12.95, www.prufrock.com

Teachers can often face the challenge of their ambition outweighing their pocketbooks. "Free Resources for Elementary Teachers" is a guide for the teacher whose budget is running empty, who still wants to improve on their students success. Colleen Kessler advises readers on how to extend their budgets further with free or nearly free lesson plans and ideas for their students future. "Free Resources for Elementary Teachers" is a strong pick for any teacher who cares far more than their pocketbook will allow them to.

PSAT/NMSQT Premier
Kaplan Publishing
1 Liberty Plaza, 24th floor
New York, NY 10006
9781609781118, $13.99, www.kaplanpublishing.com

A first chance at scholarship opportunities, the PSAT is not a test to be taken lightly. "PSAT/NMSQT Premier: Everything You Need to Score Higher" is the 2012 edition of the series, explaining the most up to date parameters expected of those taking the test in the coming testing season. With advice for parents on top of the immense amount of information for students to prepare, the resources are enhanced with practice tests, and companion YouTube videos for each topic. "PSAT/NMSQT" is a strong addition to general education collections.

Let Them Play
Jeff A. Johnson & Denita Dinger
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court
St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
9781605540535, $34.95, www.redleafpress.org

Early childhood playing is taking a lesson from the classroom of the world. "Let Them Play: An Early Learning (un)Curriculum" is a guide to encouraging learning through free will and curiosity of young children, as Jeff A. Johnson & Denita Dinger walk readers through how to inspire learning in the very young. From social skills to language and other elements of young education, "Let Them Play" is a strong pick for parents and early childhood educators, and should have a spot in any early childhood education collection in community libraries.

College Essays That Made a Difference, fourth edition
Staff of The Princeton Review
Princeton Review
c/o Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780375427855, $13.99, www.princetonreview.com

College Essays That Made a Difference appears in a fourth updated edition profiling over a hundred actual student essays, discussing the students who wrote them, and providing advice from admissions officers at 13 major schools about what impressed them the most and least about the applicants' essays. Many books for college-bound students discuss test results, but essays are key to admission, and this book displays facts about what makes some 'winners' over others. From topics students choose that put off admission officers to those that resonate, College Essays That Made a Difference is outstanding for any college-bound student collection.

Reading and Writing Genre with Purpose
Nell K. Duke, et.al.
Heinemann
PO Box 6926, Portsmouth, NH 03802-6926
0325037345, $27.50, www.heinemann.com

Reading and Writing Genre with Purpose in K-8 Classrooms offers a compelling context for reading and writing, and is designed to help teachers, literacy coaches and reading professionals question the usual ways of working with language. It combines theory and research with classroom applications to explore how students learn better when that process is contextualized and motivated, and outlines five basic approaches for teaching genre. Writing projects are used as examples in a guide that offers planning sheets and tips to make genre-based instruction part of any classroom's reading approach.

Barron's IELTS Superpack
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard
Hauppauge, NY 11788
9781438069470, $45.00, www.barronseduc.com

Three Barron's workbooks accompanied by audio CDs are packed in one box to provide three instruction guides with audio material designed to build vocabulary and boost scores on the IELTS exam. The inclusion of three-in-one saves nearly twenty dollars over buying the books individually and packs in extensive reviews of all IELTS question types, full-length exams with all questions answered and explained, CDs for the tests, and more. It's simply the 'bible' of IELTS references.

Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwin.com

How to Use Value-Added Analysis to Improve Student Learning: A Field Guide for School and District Leaders by Kate Kennedy, et. al. (9781412996334, $31.95) introduces the topic of value-added assessment for educators and tells how to use the process to measure and quantify classroom results. Kate Kennedy leads professional development workshops for educators on how to use value-added analysis: her book is key to introducing teachers to the entire value-added classroom approach. 95 Strategies for Remodeling Instruction: Ideas for Incorporating CCSS by Laura E. Pinto, et.al. (9781452218755, $31.95) offers a series of fast, easy lessons for classroom implementation and offers a host of practical ideas to support modern thinking and classroom approaches. It's packed with resources for adjusting and getting the most out of lesson plans and is a fine set of approaches for blending CCSS into a classroom agenda. Donald B. Bartalo's Closing the Teaching Gap: Coaching for Instructional Leaders (9781452217093, $36.95) uses the author's experience as a teacher and administrator to help teachers move beyond a school's limitations and structure. It comes packed with coaching directions and creates a method that encourages educators to become self-directed leaders. The Graphic Novel Classroom: Powerful Teaching and Learning With Images by Maureen W. Bakis (9781412936842, $31.95) comes from a secondary language teacher who focuses on the opportunities present in popular graphic novels. Chapters show how to use graphic novels as foundations for instruction, showing how to use them to promote reading and literacy beyond the graphic novel format. Graphic novels definitely have a place in English language classes, and this guide shows how to use them to get students to critically think about what they read. Motivating Defiant and Disruptive Students to Learn: Positive Classroom Management Strategies by Richard D. Korb (9781452205786, $31.95) offers a collection of behavior management strategies based on over thirty years of the author's classroom experience working with difficult students. Chapters are filled with case history examples of how to effectively motivate and manage such students in the classroom, and provides a fine survey highly recommended for any educator's collection.

Stenhouse Publishing
Box 11020, Portland, ME 04104-7020
www.steinhouse.com

10 THINGS EVERY WRITER NEEDS TO KNOW by Jeff Anderson (9781571108104, $24.00) outlines ten aspects of solid writing skills, from focus and form to details, words and more and supports its analysis with model text examples perfect for any writer studying the basics of superior writing. These are strategies professional writers use, and are covered in detail through examples and instruction perfect for high school to college-level writers. Writing teachers will appreciate models that clearly outline the process and help hone the difference between mundane and sterling results. ACADEMIC CONVERSATIONS: CLASSROOM TALK THAT FOSTERS CRITICAL THINKING AND CONTENT UNDERSTANDINGS by Jeff Zwiers and Marie Crawford (9781571108845, $23.50) offers insights on a rare classroom phenomenon: academic debates and conversations. These are identified as back-and-forth dialogues in which students cooperatively discuss and build ideas. Usually classrooms are dominated either by the teacher or a few students. Academic conversations seek to engage all in discussions and debates, and here the authors identify five core communication skills that will help students hold productive academic conversations no matter what the subject. From critical thinking and literacy skills to building a respectful professional classroom environment, this is packed with basic ideas perfect for any high school to college-level educator.

Corwin Press
2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwin.com

Harry Dickens and Andrew Churches's APPS FOR LEARNING: 40 BEST IPAD, IPOD TOUCH, IPHONE APPS FOR HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOMS (9781452225326, $24.95) provides a three-book series covering the best choices for learning apps in the classroom and covers everything from specialty items to mobility apps categories for utilities. Each book covers a different educational level: this focuses on high school and considers web browsers, reading apps, and fun apps such as iMovie or Whiteboard HD. Readers learn how to create learning adventures using the apps and show teachers and students how to get the most out of them. Edward S. Ebert II, Christine Ebert and Michael L. Bentley's THE EDUCATOR'S FIELD GUIDE FROM ORGANIZATION TO ASSESSMENT (AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN) (9781412969499, $35.95) helps teachers to better classrooms by discussing four key components of teaching; organization, classroom management, instruction and assessment, and pairs practical real-world examples with step-by-step discussions of the entire process. The latest information covering diversity and special needs accompanies teacher testimonials and examples in a fine guide for any practicing teacher. Bruce Joyce and Emily Calhoun's REALIZING THE PROMISE OF 20TH CENTURY EDUCATION: AN OWNER'S MANUAL (9781412988247, $34.95) offers keys to providing technology access to all students and shows how teachers can develop courses that prepare them for the 21st century. From rethinking the entire secondary education platform to developing global awareness and involving parents, business and responsible community entities in all facets of a student's education, this is a winning pick for any education collection. Ivannia Soto's ELL SHADOWING AS A CATALYST FOR CHANGE (9781412992060, $31.95) helps teachers understand the classroom experience from an English language learner's viewpoint and offers strategies for incorporating instruction techniques to engage ELLs based on increased sensitivity. A detailed case study of shadowing an English language learner is accompanied by tips for classroom instruction and applications, with charts, student profiles and forms, and sample worksheets helping teachers develop and hone the shadowing process. A fine guide for any ELL teacher! Allan R. Odden's IMPROVING STUDENT LEARNING WHEN BUDGETS ARE TIGHT (9781452217086, $36.95) provides a fine how-to manual for handling budget cuts while maintaining quality educational processes. It comes from a school reform expert who provides school improvement actions based on student learning and teaches how to target resources to complement strategies. From using data to support student performance goals to allocating resources and developing priorities to handle budget cuts, this is a packed with clear direction. Lyn Sharratt and Michael Fullan's PUTTING FACES ON THE DATA (9781452202587, $36.95) tells how to develop a common language for sharing student progress with teachers and leaders, and is based on worldwide research from over 500 educators. It covers the basics of personalizing data for maximum student involvement, and teaches how to set goals, adjust lessons, and more. Chapters link data results with student progress and make for a powerful survey linking data collection to better teaching skills. Jolene Borgese, Dick Heyler and Stephanie Romano's REVISION STRATEGIES FOR ADOLESCENT WRITERS (9781412994255, $33.95) provides review of critical literacy skills needed for college - revision in particular. From planning a writing piece and handling peer conferencing to using technology to write and collaborate and revise, this is packed with strategies, explanations, examples of 'before and after' student revisions, worksheets and much more, and is a pick for any secondary teacher's collection.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Lovely Knits for Little Girls
Vibe Ulrik Sondegaard
The Taunton Press
63 South Main St., PO Box 5506, Newtown, CT 06470
9781600855030, $22.95, www.taunton.com

"Lovely Knits for Little Girls: 20 Just-Right Patterns Just For Girls" is a fantastic collection of 20 just-right patterns just for girls, ages toddler to 7. Here is an assortment of fanciful, decorated, knitted sweaters, cardigans, dresses and tops, skirts and wraps, and hats, scarves and accessories, all designed to appeal to little girls. Color photos illustrate each pattern, and pattern shapes can be easily sized up or down. Designed to appeal to both beginning and experienced knitters, "Lovely Knits for Little Girls" is just the ticket for grandparents and special friends and relatives of little girls with knitting aspirations.

The Encyclopedia of Teddy Bear Making Techniques
Alicia Merrett & Ann Stephens
Search Press
1338 Ross Street
Petaluma, CA 94954-1117
9781844488094, $19.95, www.searchpress.com

A teddy bear is more than a toy, it can be a longtime companion. "The Encyclopedia of Teddy Bear Making Techniques" is a guide to those with needleworking knowledge and want to create a truly marvelous bear for a young loved one or for simply the love of the hobby. Alicia Merrett & Ann Stephens present a full color photographic guide for learning how to make the most of the bear making hobby. "The Encyclopedia of Teddy Bear Making Techniques" is a strong pick for teddy bear lovers or sewing lovers looking to make something different.

Fast and Fun First Quilts
Sara Diepersloot
Martingale & Company
19021 - 120th Ave. N.E. #102
Bothell, WA 98011-9511
9781604680645, $24.99, www.martingale-pub.com

Fast and Fun First Quilts: 18 Projects for Instant Gratification provides 18 new patterns in a project guide that offers easy projects for beginners. From using theme or novelty fabrics to producing vibrant colors in large-sized blocks easy to reproduce, this offers newcomers a fast way of producing polished, professional-appearing quilting results. There are many quilter's guides on the market but few offer quilting projects that appeal to beginners yet display the eye-catching colors and techniques more commonly associated with advanced users. The focus on speed and polished results will encourage any beginner to move forward.

T-Shirt Quilts Made Easy
Martha Deleonardis
American Quilter's Society
Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-3290
9781604600148, $19.95, www.americanquilter.com

T-Shirt Quilts Made Easy packs in patterns and guidelines for making T-shirt designs a quilting process, and teaches how to adjust any size T-shirt design to fit a quilt. From block charts and set guides to planning guides, this packs in 10 projects plus holds a gallery of finished T-shirt quilts for added inspiration. Patterns, color photos, and discussions of what makes a good T-shirt quilt makes this a fine addition to any quilter's library.

20 Twenty to Make Crocheted Flowers
Jan Ollis
Search Press USA
1338 Ross Street
Petaluma, CA 94954-1117
978184487066, $9.95, www.searchpress.com

20 Twenty to Make Crocheted Flowers offers projects for all abilities and teaches how to make crochet flowers out of yarn, fabrics, and combinations of materials. Gorgeous color photos on every page, both large-size and smaller, accompany step-by-step instructions perfect for those who already know a minimum amount of basic crochet. This is a lovely little book expanding the skills and applications of crochet and is a pick for any needlework collection.

Mastering the Art of Fabric Printing and Design
Laurie Wisbrun
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
9781452101156, $30.00, www.chroniclebooks.com

Mastering the Art of Fabric Printing and Design offers a lovely and definitive guide covering everything needed to design and print fabrics. From step-by-step tutorials for designing patterns either digitally or by hand to a detailed section on different printing options from digital to screen printing and stenciling, this packs in how-to specifics along with swatches of fabrics and interviews with established fabric designers for an outstanding resource recommended for needlework and crafts holdings alike.


The Travel Shelf

Le Road Trip
Vivian Swift
Bloomsbury Press
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781608195329, $24.00, www.bloomsbury.com

To get the vitals and grizzly nature of travel, one must hit the road with no plan and maybe a rough idea of destination. "Le Road Trip: A Traveler's Journal of Love and France" is an original take on travel from Vivian Swift, as she brings a unique humor and frankness to the journey, as she reflects on the sights and sounds that lie throughout the country that most travelers only see a small part of. "Le Road Trip" is an enticing read for those pondering there own trip all through the French countryside.

Scotland's Highlands & Islands, second edition
Neil Wilson
Lonely Planet Publications
150 Linden Street, Oakland CA 94607
9781740595377, $20.99, www.lonelyplanet.com

The second updated edition of Scotland's Highlands & Islands pairs easy maps with detailed listings to explore Scotland's highlands and islands, which offer rare nature and solitude in crowded Europe. Independent travelers - particularly those interested in outdoors opportunities - receive a guide that is packed with details on places to stay, visit, and eat, making this a top take-along tote updated with the latest details.


The American History Shelf

Zebulon Pike, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West
Matthew L. Harris and Jay H. Buckley
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive
Norman, OK 73069
9780806142432 $29.95 www.oupress.com

Zebulon Pike, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West is an anthology of scholarly essays by learned authors discussing the explorations, discoveries, and life of Zebulon Montgomery Pike (1779-1813), a military officer and explorer whose achievements were destined to be overshadowed by those of Lewis & Clark. Pike's efforts as a mapmaker and as a soldier during the War of 1812 were further darkened by allegations that he was connected to Aaron Burr's conspiracy to divide the trans-Appalachian region from the United States. Historians have questioned whether Pike was truly and explorer or a spay, and whether he knew about the Burr conspiracy or was just a faithful, ordinary soldier. Zebulon Pike, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West moves beyond the retreaded arguments to examine Pike's extraordinary accomplishments, including his contributions to science and cartography; his numerous writings (especially his 1810 journals and maps) that would ultimately affect America's view of the Southwest for decades; his relationships with Native peoples and Spanish officials; and much more. Zebulon Pike, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West is an absolutely invaluable scrutiny filled with cross-perspectives of an oft-overlooked explorer, and highly recommended especially for public and college library American History collections.

Buried Lives
Michele Lise Tarter & Richard Bell
University of Georgia Press
330 Research Drive
Athens, GA, 30602-4901
9780820341200, $24.95, www.ugapress.org

The path from the dungeon to the modern prison system is a long one. "Buried Lives: Incarcerated in Early America" discusses imprisonment in early America, looking at the conditions faced by prisoners up until the civil war, using many sources to gain a comprehensive view. A time with no sympathy for those who broke the law, these jails were torturous, and it is especially horrifying where many of these jails were used unjustly by corruption. "Buried Lives" is a strong addition to any collection dedicated to crime and punishment throughout history.

The War of 1812 in the Old Northwest
Alec R. Gilpin
Michigan State University Press
1405 South Harrison Road, Suite 25
East Lansing, MI 48823-5245
9781611860382, $24.95, www.msupress.msu.edu

America was invaded, and the fight spread all throughout its orders. "The War of 1812 in the Old Northwest" discusses the role played with the modern Midwest, where in 1812 they were the Northwestern borders. Bordering Canada, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan had their own fronts in the war, and Alec R. Gilpin hopes to capture the spirit of the era, the patriotism that remained there, and the battles that occurred. "The War of 1812 in the Old Northwest" is a strong addition to American history collections focusing on War in the Midwest.

They Called It the War Effort, second edition
Louis Fairchild
Texas State Historical Association
1155 Union Circle #311580
Denton, TX 76203-5017
9780876112502 $39.95 www.TSHAonline.org

Now in an updated second edition with more content and more interviews, They Called It the War Effort gathers personal testimonies of people who lived in the small town of Orange, Texas before and during World War II. Prior to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Orange was a tiny agricultural community of 7,500 prideful men and women, struggling with high unemployment that had persisted throughout the Great Depression. The sudden need for Navy ships transformed Orange into more than 60,000 shipyard workers and their families, working feverishly to support the war effort. Almost in the blink of an eye, Orange's sleepy, small-town way of life was gone forever. Packed cover-to-cover with true stories from the people who witnessed the transformation firsthand, as well as a scattering of vintage black-and-white photographs, They Called It the War Effort is an extraordinarily detailed and involving primary source of one example of how Word War II forever transformed America. Highly recommended.

Hope and Tears
Gwenyth Swain
Calkins Creek
c/o Boyds Mills Press
815 Church Street
Honesdale, PA 18431
9781590787656, $17.95, www.boydsmillspress.com

Coming from halfway around the world, they threw in their lot with America for a better chance. "Hope and Tears: Ellis Island Voices" chronicles the story of many individuals who passed through that island in hopes of coming into the country for another chance. Sharing stories of individuals from all over Europe and otherwise, they bring forth what skills they have, their families, and their dreams of success. "Hope and Tears" is a powerful read with photography throughout, very much recommended reading.

The Great Taos Bank Robbery
Tony Hillerman
University of New Mexico Press
1312 Basehart Road SE
Albuquerque NM 87106-4363
9780826451920, $15.95, www.unmpress.com

New Mexico has a rich history unique to itself. "The Great Taos Bank Robbery: And Other True Stories" chronicles unique stories of New Mexico's history. Stories touch on Native American legends, train robbery, wartime plots, and other oddities of history. Compiled from many state historians who bring the flavor of New Mexico out strongly, "The Great Taos Bank Robbery" is a strong addition to any history or culture collection focusing on New Mexico and Americana in general.

The First Frontier
Scott Weidensaul
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
215 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10003
9780151015153, $30.00, www.hmhbooks.com

THE FIRST FRONTIER: THE FORGOTTEN HISTORY OF STRUGGLE, SAVAGERY, & ENDURANCE IN EARLY AMERICA covers the period of history between North America's initial settlement and the Thirteen Colonies - an era often skipped over - and offers an analysis of both native cultures and European colonizers. Two and a half centuries of history are provided through source material personal stories from different angles, from a Harvard-educated Indian caught in 17th century warfare to land scams, an Indian kidnapping gone awry, and much more. Frontier history comes to life in these series of vignettes, perfect for any American history holding.

Montana Before History
Douglas H. MacDonald
Mountain Press
PO Box 2399, Missoula, MT 59806
9780878425853, $20.00, www.mountain-press.com

MONTANA BEFORE HISTORY examines Montana's geology and culture - some 11,000 years of it - and blends archaeological evidence with Native American history to consider the state's best archaeological sites. Black and white and color photos of relics and sites accompany specifics on sites, findings, and how discoveries have contributed to prehistoric history overall. This is a pick for Montana, American history, Native American, archaeology and science holdings alike, and will intrigue any who want to either travel to Montana to view sites, or understand the history of specific sites.


The World History Shelf

Raincoast Chronicles Fourth Five
Howard White, editor
Harbour Publishing
PO Box 219
Madeira Park, BC, Canada, V0N 2H0
9781550175943, $29.95, www.harbourpublishing.com

The coasts of British Columbia are home to many. "Raincoast Chronicles Fourth Five: Stories and History of the BC Coast" is a collection of history's stories and endeavors surrounding the people who call the area home, being true to the mixture of cultures that have created a truly unique blend. Taking notes from countless writers who offer a very real view of the region, "Raincoast Chronicles Fourth Five" is a strong addition to any community library history collection.

The Lost History of 1914
Jack Beatty
Walker & Company
175 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10010
9780802778116, $30.00, www.walkerbooks.com

The Lost History of 1914: Reconsidering the Year the Great War Began offers a contrarian history of 1914 and offers five paths that lead away from war. It uses new scholarship on World War I and provides a new take on the war, detailing largely forgotten events faced by each country involved in the months before the war began and showing how each country might have derailed the war or chosen a different path. From decisions by leaders to influences of the fears of Europe's ruling classes, this provides a different perspective on the war and returns lost history to print in a 'must' for any World War I history collection.

Tutankhamen: The Search for an Egyptian King
Joyce Tyldesley
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465020201, $29.99, www.basicbooks.com

Tutankhamen: The Search for an Egyptian King comes from an Egyptologist and archaeologist who searches past legend to consider the evidence of Tutankhamen and his impact on Egypt's history. She considers the development of a 'second history that has surrounded the king - one that revolves around different interpretations - and explains how his tomb was lost, rediscovered, and excavated. Evidence from the tomb is used to reconstruct his family life and Egyptian history as a whole, making this a lively presentation for any collection strong in ancient Egyptian history and culture.


The Architecture Shelf

Graceland Cemetery
Christopher Vernon
University of Massachusetts Press
PO Box 429
Amherst, MA 01004
9781558499263, $39.95, www.umass.edu/umpress

Even the resting grounds of the dead should have their beauty. "Graceland Cemetery: A Design History" looks into the famed Chicago cemetery, which was a monument to modern design during its construction. With photos all throughout, Graceland Cemetery provides a comprehensive insight into the creations of the cemetery, its unique structures, its planning, and history. For those with a curiosity of the long line of history and thought that goes into cemeteries, "Graceland Cemetery" is an excellent and very much recommended pick, not to be overlooked.

No Nails, No Lumber
Jeffrey Head
Princeton Architectural Press
37 East 7th St., New York NY 10003
9781616890247, $24.95, www.papress.com

NO NAILS, NO LUMBER: THE BUBBLE HOUSES OF WALLACE NEFF recounts a house constructed in less than 48 hours, without using lumber or nails that is more resistant to fire, earthquakes and hurricanes than any traditionally built structure. The design isn't brand new, though: it dates back to 1941 when architect Wallace Neff developed Airform construction. Neff held a personal fascination with dome-shaped 'bubble houses' and this book gathers and presents them all, exploring Neff's designs and providing with modern and vintage photography capturing them. Previously unpublished illustrations and archival material makes this a top pick for any holding strong in architectural history.


The Fiction Shelf

Secrets of the Swamp
Penelope Delta
Peter E. Randall Publisher
5 Greenleaf Woods Drive, Suite 102
PO Box 4726, Portsmouth, NH 03802-4726
9781931807876, $18.95, www.perpublisher.com

The struggle for independence for the Greek people was not a one on one battle. "Secrets of the Swamp" is a novel of turn of the century warfare from Penelope Delta as she crafts a story surrounding the Greek rebellion against the waning Ottoman Empire, and their clash with their neighboring Bulgarians, which teeters between a common enemy and a war of its own. Following the union of Jovan and Apostolis, Delta's novel proves to be a riveting novel of a historical conflict not often seen to western readers. Ruth Bobick translates Delta's novel from the original Greek well, ensuring "Secrets of the Swamp" is a fine addition to international fiction collections.

The Magic of Turquoise
Mai Khaled
American University in Cairo Press
420 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10018-2729
9789774165047, $19.95, www.aucpress.com

The whys of the world make us ask more and more questions. "The Magic of Turquoise" is a novel from Egyptian writer Mai Khaled as she presents a tale of an Aunt and niece trying to understand how a near-death accident at sea has changed both of their lives. As her Aunt Nirvana sits in a coma, Leila tries to understand if the accident was intentional and what could be eating her aunt, as well as her role in her family in 1980s Egypt. "The Magic of Turquoise" is a thoughtful piece of historical fiction, very much recommended reading.

Malakut
Bahram Sadeqi
IBEX Publishers
PO Box 30087
Bethesda, MD 20824
9781588140845, $32.00, www.ibexpublishers.com

A touch of the absurd can quickly turn to looking in the mirror. "Malakut and Other Stories" is a collection of short fiction from Iranian author Bahram Sadeqi, who has traveled the world with his own love of the classics, crafting stories both at first absurd but quickly proving all too real. Fine reading with a style inspired by Poe, Kafka, and others but with its own tinge, "Malakut and Other Stories" is an excellent addition to community library literary short fiction collections.

Black Chokeberry
Martha Nelson
Brown Books Publishing Group
16250 Knoll Trail Drive, Suite 205
Dallas, Texas 75248
9781612540436 $17.99 www.BrownBooks.com

Black Chokeberry is a heartwarming novel about the bonds three women share through thick and thin. Ellen, Ruby, and Frances are neighbors in the humble town of Oswego, New York; together, they support one another through such difficulties as divorce, sickness, loss of loved ones, dangerous mishaps and more. The values of friendship, community, and love shine through this soulful story, highly recommended for public library general fiction collections.

Rachel's Secret
Shelly Sanders
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Suite 401
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2M5
9781926920375, $12.95, www.secondstorypress.ca

Hate causes untold damage to a society. "Rachel's Secret" follows young Russian Jew Rachel in turn of the century Russia. When a close friend is murdered, Rachel finds herself forced to keep quiet despite knowing the truth, but oppression soon falls on the Jew so of her home town. Trying to find some way to stop it, she works with a Christian ashamed of what his people have done to find the goodness in people. "Rachel's Secret" is a strong and recommended pick for historical fiction collections.

Not Myself Without You
Lourdes Vazquez
Bilingual Review Press
c/o Arizona State University
PO Box 875303, Tempe, AZ 85287-5303
9781931010689, $14.00, www.asu.edu

A strong connection to the supernatural makes life all the more unusual. "Not Myself Without You" is a novel from Lourdes Vazquez as she creates a story of a working class family in Puerto Rico who use their living room as a connection to the spirit world. Drawing from her own experiences, Vazquez creates a unique blend of memoir and fiction, creating a highly readable novel. "Not Myself Without You" is a fine and much recommended pick for general fiction collections, highly recommended.

I Don't Want the Rest of Your Life
Daisy Jordan
Llumina Press
7915 W. McNab Road
Tamarac, FL 33321
9781605947655, $19.95, www.llumina.com

Who we love and what we do does strange things to our world. "I Don't Want the Rest of Your Life" follows the struggles that Lorylyn faces as a married woman in love with someone who is not her husband, and how that one person has an engagement of his own. A web of marriage, cheating, deception, and the search for happiness for many figures in the loop, "I Don't Want the Rest of Your Life" is a charming romance that should prove hard to put down.

Landing Place
Marina Snow
Lost Coast Press
155 Cypress Street
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781935448068, $19.95, www.cypresshouse.com

As one figure in our life disappears, we search for their return, or possibly their replacement. "Landing Place" is a novel from Marina Snow, following Celeste Castle, whose husband seems to vanish during a flight to a Las Vegas airport. Traveling through New Mexico, she finds new things that will change her life and grant her new understanding on what it is to be a mother and a woman. "Landing Place" is a strong pick for general fiction collections, very much recommended.

Cavafy's Stone
Harry Mark Petrakis
Wicker Park Press
PO Box 5318, River Forest, IL 60305
9780978967659, $24.95, www.wickerparkpressbooks.com

History is made up of many smaller stories that make up the larger flow of it all. "Cavafy's Stone: And Other Village Tales" is a collection of short historical fiction from Harry Mark Petrakis as he brings forth stories of many periods throughout history, with stories that are wholly human, stories that speak through time and of life's struggles. "Cavafy's Stone" is a great addition to any collection of short fiction, enthusiastically recommended.

A Wedding Transpires
Cara C. Putman
Barbour Publishing
P.O. Box 719
Uhrichsville, OH 44683
9781616265359, $12.99, www.barbourbooks.com

Home holds many memories - and not all of them good. "A Wedding Transpires: On Mackinac Island" follows the plight of Attorney Alanna Stone, who wants to leave her old home far behind. But a high profile case brings her back and brushes her against an old flame who she wanted to leave behind. Looking for the truth behind the case, she finds the truth behind her old love may be more enticing. "A Wedding Transpires" is a Christian romance that should ring true with many seekers of a love worth keeping.

Combat Infantryman Badge
Bill Rambow
Aperture Press
201 Washington St., Suite 533
Reading, PA 19601
9780983687887, $19.99, www.aperturepress.net

In the thick of it is a deadly place to be. "Combat Infantryman Badge" follows Philip Lawson as he finds himself unwillingly dragged back into the Vietnam war in a mechanized infantry unit, dashing his dreams of being in a helicopter unit. Working to gain the respect of his comrades, he soon realizes that making it through the war should prove a very difficult task. "Combat Infantryman Badge" is a gritty read of the Vietnam war, a choice pick for those seeking novels related to the conflict.

The Sound of Red Returning
Sue Duffy
Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9780825425745, $14.99, www.kregelpublications.com

One tragedy may bring her another. "The Sound of Red Returning" is a novel from Sue Duffy, following Liesl Bower, who lost her mentor to the crossed goals of the CIA and Russian goals. Fifteen years later, she finds herself fleeing once more from both sides, believing she holds the secret that could lead to a resurgence of the Soviet Union. With only her faith to guide her, "The Sound of Red Returning" is a riveting bit of suspense, very much recommended to Christian fiction collections.

Need You Now
Beth Wiseman
Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000
Nashville, TN 37214
9781595548870, $15.99, www.thomasnelson.com

As life's circumstance builds up, a shining light to guide us through it all is more needed than ever. "Need You Now" follows Darlene Henderson as she tries to make through her tumultuous life in the small town of Round Top Texas. Working with special needs children, she finds she has to reach out and make a difference in their lives to make a difference in hers, in a search for God's love. "Need You Now" is a driven Christian novel that shouldn't be missed.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Fun and Games for Cats!
Denise Seidl, author
Hubble & Hattie
Veloce House
Parkway Farm Business Park
Middle Farm Way, Poundbury
Dorchester, DT1 3AR, England
9781845843878, $29.95, www.hubbleandhattie.com

"Fun and Games for Cats!" is a physical and mental health improvement game book for cat owners everywhere. Is yours an indoor cat? It is even more important for indoor cats to have daily play with fun exercise games. Here are a variety of approaches and ideas to use for your cat or cats, whether indoor short hair older adult or outdoor "moggie" kitten. Filled with charming color photos of cats happily engaged in play and learning activities, "Fun and Games for Cats" explains just why it is so important for your cat's physical and mental health to create or allow safe play opportunities for stimulation. Included are chapters on captivating games, home alone cat, playmates and best buddies, play with me!, play ideas from everyday life, intelligence games, playful training, and useful things, which includes further reading and websites. Written by a well-known Austrian expert on cat behavior and animal psychology, "Fun and Games for Cats!" is a cat owner's trusted guide to enhancing the relationship between cat and owner with healthy games. As another plus, the photos are definitely irresistible.

A Dog is a Dog
Clarice Rutherford
Alpine Publications, Inc.
38262 Linman Road
Crawford, CO 81415
9781577791034, $14.95, www.alpinepub.com

Our bond with the canine-kind is truly something special. "A Dog is a Dog: And That's Why He's So Special" is a guide to the canine species and their special nature in relation to humans, with tips on caring for and understanding the wishes of canines on many levels. With full color photography all throughout, Clarice Rutherford gives a charming and very useful guide on many levels for readers. "A Dog is a Dog" is a fine read that shouldn't be overlooked by pets and wildlife collections.

Tortoises
E. J. Pirog
T.F.H. Publications
1 TFH Plaza, Third & Union Avenue
Neptune City, NJ 07753
9780793828630, $16.95, www.tfh.com

With a docile nature, tortoises have been kept as pets throughout history. "Tortoises" is a pet-keeping guide for those who want to keep their shelled friends happy. From creating a maintainable habitat, diet, breeding, health care, and details for nearly twenty species, "Tortoises" is a useful and practical full color read for anyone who loves tortoises and wants to keep one healthy and happy for both of their long lives.

Emergency First Aid for Dogs
Martin Bucksch
Hubble & Hattie
Veloce House
Parkway Farm Business Park
Middle Farm Way, Poundbury
Dorchester, DT1 3AR, England
9781845843861 $9.95 www.hubbleandhattie.com

Veterinarian Martin Bucksch presents Emergency First Aid for Dogs, a postcard-sized paperback that lives up to its title with practical guidelines for dog owners. Full color photographs on almost every page illustrate the accessible, step-by-step instructions on both how to prevent injuries (for example, one must never allow one's dog to swim in winter, in order to prevent hypothermia, or to swim in a pool that is not completely full, since the dog will not be able to get out) and how to give basic care in an emergency while waiting for a professional to arrive. "The most effective and safest way to control bleeding is to apply direct pressure on the wound with several sterile gauze pads, or a folded clean towel. Apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. Do not keep lifting the gauze to see if the bleeding has stopped as this disrupts the clot that may have formed. Similarly, if the gauze is soaked with blood, do not remove it since it contains important clotting factors. Instead, keep adding more gauze or towels on top of the soaked ones." Absolutely every dog owner owes it to their beloved pooch to read Emergency First Aid for Dogs cover to cover, and keep it on hand for quick reference!

Plenty in Life is Free
Kathy Sdao
Dogwise Publishing
403 South Mission Street
Wenatchee WA 98801
9781617810640, $12.95, www.dogwisepublishing.com

A pet can be a great source of strength in our lives. "Plenty in Life is Free: Reflections on Dogs, Training, and Finding Grace" is a guide to training one's dog through granting a dog leadership, through reinforcing good behavior instead of trying to force the dogs behavior. Kathy Sdao, an expert in animal behavior presents her training knowledge and what she has learned in her pursuits about the human dog relationship. "Plenty in Life is Free" is a unique read for those who want to try a different hand at guiding their dogs.

Complementary Medicine for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses
Nancy Scanlan
Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
9780813818627, $52.99, www.wiley-com/wiley-blackwell

Complementary Medicine for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses provides a fine resource on holistic veterinary care and is written for vet techs and collections appealing to them. It's arranged by treatment and provides practical information on each type of complementary holistic practice, pairing holistic details on the role of technicians and vets in the treatment plan. From physical therapy and holistic nutrition to Chinese, Western and Ayurvedic herbal medicine, this covers both common and lesser-known holistic modalities and provides definitions, charts, references, and in-depth details perfect for any vet's collection.

Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
www.wiley-com/wiley-blackwell

Andrea J. Fascetti and Sean J. Delaney edit APPLIED VETERINARY CLINICAL NUTRITION (9780813806570, $99.99) emphasizes solutions for integrating nutrition into clinical practice and provides chapters covering the science behind clinical nutrition. College-level collections strong in veterinary science will find this gathers authoritative details from the leading veterinary nutritionists, offering strategies for blending nutritional basics into daily clinical practices and covering the basics of nutrition for both weight management and disease management. The second updated edition of P.J. Quinn, et.al.'s VETERINARY MICROBIOLOGY AND MICROBIAL DISEASE (9781405158237, $99.99) has been updated with twelve new chapters, numerous new illustrations, and extensive re-write of every chapter in the book. The entire production has been re-designed in full color and offers veterinary students a powerful reference written by an academic team with many years of teaching background. The features of pathogenic microorganisms and the international and health importance of these pathogens makes for a weighty college-level reference perfect for any veterinary collection. Barbara Cooper, et.al., Editors' BSAVA TEXTBOOK OF VETERINARY NURSING, 5TH EDITION (9781905319268, $93.99) packs in a wealth of detail in a new edition of the classic text, updated to reflect changes in the RCVS Veterinary Nursing syllabus. It covers all of vet nursing in a small animal practice and includes equine considerations. All chapters have been revised or completely rewritten and include new content on anatomy, a new chapter on nursing models and professional responsibilities under both regulation and ethics, new drawings, and more. The easy format, color photos and diagrams, and at-a-glance sidebars make this a key vet nurse's ongoing reference. Linda Caveney and Barbara Jones with Kimberly Ellis edit VETERINARY INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL (9780813815343, $59.99), a collection of guidelines for veterinary management covering infection surveillance and control. Keys to designing and implementing an infection control plan provide insights on both nosocomial and zoonotic diseases and is directed to the vet team in private practice and hospital settings. From details on pathogens and bacteria to specific infection prevention techniques, this is packed with a focus on building better infection control processes for all kinds of offices, and includes a companion website with review questions and answers, making for a fine pick for a vet student, as well.


The Sports Shelf

The Art of Running Faster
Julian Goater & Don Melvin
Human Kinetics
PO Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
9780736095501, $19.95, www.humankinetics.com

Speed is sometimes all some runners care about. "The Art of Running Faster: Improve Technique, Training, and Performance" discusses how to improve that aspect of speed in one's life, and how to best improve one's techniques. Taking the expertise of world class runner Julian Goater and running enthusiast and writer Don Melvin, the pair provides good knowledge for enhancing one's skills and being the best one can be at running. "The Art of Running Faster" is a strong pick for athletics and sports collection.

Northern Dancer: King of the Racetrack
Gare Joyce
Fitzhenry & Whiteside
311 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135
9781554551637, $22.95, www.fitzhenry.ca

"Northern Dancer: King of the Racetrack" is the story of an unusual Canadian horse from Oshawa, Ontario, who, despite his plain, chunky appearance, became one of the most accomplished, successful racehorses in Canadian history. Famously known as the "Adam" of today's Kentucky Derby race, Northern Dancer not only won the 1964 Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Queen's Plate, but also went on to sire the lineage of 18 out of 19 racehorse starters in the 2011 Kentucky Derby. An astonishing story, complete with historical photos and sidebars of special biographical information and anecdotes, "Northern Dancer" lives up to its subject's immense spirit and contribution as a tribute to the champion racehorse sire of this century.

Sportuality
Jeanne Hess
Balboa Press
c/o Hay House
1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200
Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
9781452543819, $17.99, www.balboapress.com

Why does humanity so embrace sport? "Sportuality: Finding Joy in the Games" discusses the strong attraction we have to sports, and the parallels it has for all the other elements of our lives. As Jeanne Hess advises readers on how to better embrace sport and its elements into every aspect of their lives. "Sportuality" is a fine read that should prove very hard to put down, highly recommended.

The Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide
Andrew Skurka
National Geographic Society
1145 - 17th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036-4688
9781426209208, $19.95, www.nationalgeographic.com

The Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide: Tools & Techniques to Hit the Trail comes from an outdoorsman well versed in long-distance hiking and recounts what he's learned from over 30,000 miles of long-distance hikes from across the continental U.S. into Canada. But this gear guide isn't just for avid hikers: it's for any who would don a backpack, even for the first time or for a limited sojourn, and provides a show-and-tell of clothing, footwear, backpacks and shelter systems for the outdoors person. Any interested in tools and techniques for hiking will find this packed with the latest details.

Classic
Ivor Wilkins
Godwit
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9781869621629, $49.00, www.randomhouse.com

CLASSIC: THE REVIVAL OF CLASSIC BOATING IN NEW ZEALAND is a top recommendation for any collection strong in sailing and provides a weighty, oversize volume discussing the nation's classic boat fleet and the rescue and restoration of classic sailboats. It celebrates the craftsmen who influenced early New Zealand maritime traditions and provides designs and building techniques years ahead of their time. The classic yacht revival movement in New Zealand first began to snowball in the turn of the new century, and this book captures the history, profiles the modern and historic influences on the New Zealand yacht, and packs in full-page color photos in an oversized celebration recommended for any collection strong in sports or nautical history.

Golf Rules Illustrated 2012-2015
United States Golf Association
Hamlyn
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9780600623434, $19.95, www.octopuspublishing.co.uk

Golf Rules Illustrated 2012-2015 is published in association with the U.S. Gold Association and contains every rule in one of the world's most popular games, including all the new and revised Rules that came into play as of January 2012. This compendium last appeared in 2008, so this new updated edition is a 'must' for any avid golfer's library, including over 100 illustrations for reference. All-new incidents, images and descriptions makes this revision a fine recommendation for any sports library.

Advanced Sports Nutrition, second edition
Dan Benardot
Human Kinetics
Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
9781450401616, $23.95, www.humankinetics.com

The second updated edition of Advanced Sports Nutrition comes from the national team nutritionist and a founding member of the Athlete Wellness Program for USA Gymnastics who worked with gold-medal teams in several Olympics competitions, and is a fine survey for any college-level collection strong in advanced sports nutrition for athletes. This is much more than just a dietary regimen: it offers the author's own advanced research backed by scientific claims, and creates a different approach to nutrition for avid athletes. The pairing of science with practical applications makes the second updated edition of Advanced Sports Nutrition a winner!

Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery, second edition
Eric Franklin
Human Kinetics
Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61825-5076
9780736067898, $32.95, www.humankinetics.com

The second updated edition of Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery offers a fine survey of how to use imagery techniques and movement exercises to improve coordination and alignment for all readers, whether it be dancers or sports enthusiasts or everyday readers seeking exercises to relieve tension and prevent injury. This expanded new edition includes over 600 exercises and 500 illustrations to help the visualization process, accompanies a set of online audio files for dynamic imagery exercises set to music, and updates all chapters to include the latest research and new material on integrated dynamic alignment exercises. An outstanding addition to any sports or general health collection.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Why Calories Count
Marion Nestle and Malden Nesheim
University of California Press
2120 Berkeley Way
Berkeley, CA 94720
9780520262881 $29.95 www.ucpress.edu

Intended for nutrition-conscious readers of all backgrounds, Why Calories Count: From Science to Politics is a straightforward explanation of just what calories in food are, how to effectively interpret food labels, the root causes of the modern obesity, and much more. Why Calories Count warns how aggressive food marketing trends, increased portion sizes, and even outright lies (such as the false concept of "negative calories") combine to increase pressure upon modern American waistlines. "If there is one message to take home from this book, it is this: larger portions have more calories... They are most often a problem when eating out, especially because the goal of restaurants is to get you to eat more, not less... You can insist on ordering an appetizer instead of an entree, immediately cut your entree in half and save the rest to take home, share the entree with friends, or order half portions when available." Why Calories Count is an absolute "must-read" especially for anyone trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy figure.

Johns Hopkins HIV Guide
Joel E. Gallant & Paul A. Pham, editors
Jones & Bartlett Publishers
40 Tall Pine Drive, Sudbury, MA 01776
www.jbpub.com
9780763785482, $34.95, www.amazon.com

HIV continues to be a major health issue in the United States and the subject of intensive medical research. Knowledgeably compiled and deftly edited by the team of Dr. Joel E. Gallant and pharmacist Paul A. Pham, "Johns Hopkins HIV Guide: Management Of HIV Infection And Its Complications: 2012 Edition" is a compact, 644-page compendium covering every aspect of HIV antibody testing, genotype resistant patterns, musculosketetal and neurologic complications, HIV infection and pregnancy, drug resistance mutations in HIV, and so much more. Thoroughly 'user friendly' and up-to-date, the "Johns Hopkins HIV Guide" is strongly recommended for professional, community, and academic library "Health & Medicine" reference collections.

The Future of Health-Care Delivery
Stephen C. Schimpff
Potomac Books
PO Box 960, Herndon, VA 20172-0960
9781612341569, $27.50, www.patomacbooksinc.com

Error is a killer, and one that must be brought under control. "The Future of Health-Care Delivery: Why It Must Change and How It Will Affect You" discusses the failures of the health care delivery systems that are bankrupting America and leading to deaths, stating that the corruption of the insurance companies and government systems has deteriorated care, and offers his own solution for a more effective health care system. "The Future of Health-Care Delivery" is an intriguing addition tot he modern health care debate.

What Nurses Know... HIV/AIDS
Rose Farnan & Maithe Enriquez, RNs
Demos Medical Publishing
11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10036
9781936303199, $16.95, www.demosmedpub.com

Although a cure is not yet possible, HIV and AIDS is more fight-able than ever. "What Nurses Know... HIV/AIDS: The Answers You Need from the People You Trust" is a collection of thought and wisdom from medical professionals and registered nurses Rose Farnan and Maithe Enriquez advise patients with the disorders and those who care for them in how to best deal with the condition and do what they can to live fuller and healthier lives. "What Nurses Know... HIV/AIDS" is a strong addition to any health reference collection.

Essential Nourishment
Beth McCall Whitley
Balboa Press
c/o Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100
Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
9781452540375, $11.95 www.hayhouse.com

Health is more than diet and exercise. "Essential Nourishment: A Basic Guide to Optimal Health and Wellness" is a guide to the many tenets of greater health from Beth McCall Whitley who explores what's needed to attain peak health, advising readers on the foods they eat, the exercises they do, and the happiness they seek. "Essential Nourishment" is a fine addition to any health and spirituality collection.

Scales to Scalpels
Lisa Wong, M.D.
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street,5th Floor
New York, NY 10004
9781605981772, $27.95, www.pegasusbooks.com

Being multi-talented is a wonderful thing, especially when your talents meet in unexpected way. "Scales to Scalpels: Doctors Who Practice The Healing Arts of Music and Medicine" discusses the connections between medicine and music, and how the bridge between the two is more clear than one would think. Dr. Lisa Wong explores this idea, and shows how understanding the music can lead to an understanding of the mind and what empowers us. A fascinating read of understanding the mind and soul in medicine, "Scales to Scalpels" is a strong addition to any health and medicinal studies collection.

Asthma Sourcebook, third edition
Sandra J. Judd, Editor
Omnigraphics
155 W. Congress Suite 200, Detroit MI 48226
9780780812246, $95.00, www.omnigraphics.com

The third updated edition of Asthma Sourcebook provides basic consumer information about different types of asthma and how they are diagnosed and treated. Details on common triggers accompany tips for managing asthma in school and at home and also includes details on asthma for older adults and athletes. From medications and their side effects to asthma in special populations, this is a powerful resource for any health library.

The Wisdom to Know the Difference
Kelly G. Wilson, PhD and Troy DuFrene
New Harbinger Publications
5674 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
9781572249288, $21.95, www.newharbinger.com

The Wisdom to Know the Difference: An Acceptance & Commitment Therapy Workbook for Overcoming Substance Abuse is a pick for any collection strong in addiction recovery and provides a workbook based in ACT therapy. ACT is a treatment for all kinds of addictions and issues, and can be used on its own or along with a 12-step program. Chapters tell how to overcome addiction through focus on other values and concerns, and is a fine pick for any psychological counseling or self-help collection.

The Alzheimer's Family
Robert B. Santulli, MD
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
0393705773, $29.95, www.wwnorton.com

THE ALZHEIMER'S FAMILY: HELPING CAREGIVERS COPE advises on how a mental health practitioner can assist caregivers dealing with Alzheimer's family members, and discusses how family members, relatives and friends are impacted by the diagnosis and its relentless march. THE ALZHEIMER'S FAMILY comes from a clinician who has worked with patients and their families for over twenty years and is packed with practical advice on everything from the processes of memory clinics designed to help the sufferer and family to safety issues ranging from driving to getting lost. It's a powerful, top pick for any Alzheimer's family and their friends, filled with keys to the assessment process and keys to coping both long- and short-term.

The Concussion Crisis
Linda Carroll and David Rosner
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
9781451627459, $16.00, www.simonandschuster.com

THE CONCUSSION CRISIS: ANATOMY OF A SILENT EPIDEMIC offers new research that shows emergency room visits for concussions among eight-to-thirteen-year-olds has doubled, while visits for older teens has more than tripled. This survey offers the latest brain science research and considers how minor head bumps can result in major life-changing threats. The authors provide a history of how we came to underestimate the damage caused by concussions and how an epidemic of brain injuries exceeds hospital treatments for strokes, heart attacks, cancers or Alzheimer's. The latest research shows concussions are serious injuries - and explore how concussion damage can remain hidden for years, only to surface as early-onset dementia. Threats to adults and kids are surveyed in a title recommended for any general or health library.

The Herbal Lore of Wise Women and Wortcunners
Wolf D. Storl
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
9781583943588, $27.95, www.northatlanticbooks.com

The Herbal Lore of Wise Women and Wortcunners: The Healing Power of Medicinal Plants offers a survey of the healing art of ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans and contrasts these early practices with herbal medicine today from Chinese, Indian and Native American medicine. Author Wolf D. Storl explains how to collect plants, distill, and administer medicines from them and includes old-world 'women's plants' and their other uses as well. It's a holistic assessment of plant uses and is a fine acquisition for any interested in herbalism and botany.

Confronting Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Sue Friedman, DVM, et. al.
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 N. Charles St., Baltimore MD 21218
9781421404080, $18.95, www.press.jhu.edu

Confronting Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer: Identify Your Risk, Understand Your Options, Change Your Destiny is a pick for any general or health collection and provides an assessment of the difficult choices faced by those with cancer in the family. Plenty of resources cover breast and ovarian cancer, but this book stands alone and comes from the nation's only non-profit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by hereditary cancer. It comes from advocates who are themselves breast cancer survivors and provides a fine resource discussing the challenges of living in a high-risk body.


The Beer/Wine Shelf

North Carolina Craft Beer & Breweries
Erik Lars Myers
John F. Blair
1406 Plaza Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
9780895875716, $16.95, www.blairpub.com

Beer is more than an entertaining way to spend a weekend; it's an art form. "North Carolina Craft Beer & Breweries" discusses how a revision in a 2005 law allows North Carolina to break into new brews and beers. Author Erik Lars Myers guides artisan beer enthusiasts through forty five breweries that are looking to be the best of the best of the state's beer. With additional information for those who want to better understand the world of artisan beer, "North Carolina Craft Beer & Breweries" is a strong pick for any collection focusing on beer and wine.


The Buddhist Studies Shelf

365 Dalai Lama Daily Advice from the Heart
Matthieu Ricard, editor
Hampton Roads Publishing Company
65 Parker St., Ste. 7
Newburyport, MA 01950
9781571746818, $16.95, www.hrpub.com

The wisdom of Buddhism goes beyond those who follow it as faith. "365 Dalai Lama Daily Advice from the Heart" is a book of spiritual wisdom to consider day to day and how to better establish one's life and push themselves forward and clear, drawing thoughtful teachings and ideals from many applications of life. With much to ponder and consider through the world, "365 Dalai Lama Advice from the Heart" is a strong pick for anyone with a strong spiritual attitude, very much recommended.

The Buddha Walks Into a Bar...
Lodro Rinzler
Shambhala Publications, Inc.
300 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02115-4544
9781590309377, $14.95, www.shambhala.com

The Buddha Walks Into a Bar... A Guide to Life for a new Generation provides a lively survey from a meditation practitioner and teacher and provides an assessment of Tibetan Buddhism's teachings. It considers tools of compassion, teaches contemplating practices on death and kindness, and offers opportunities and insights on family dynamics and applying discipline, and relates Buddhist thinking and exercises to life's daily challenges. The result is a top pick for any spirituality and new age collection, pairing Buddhist thought with insights into how to use the teachings to navigate modern living.


The Biography Shelf

Jacqueline Cochran
Rhonda Smith-Daugherty
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786462759 $45.00 www.mcfarlandpub.com

Jacqueline Cochran: Biography of a Pioneer Aviator is an in-depth biography of aviation pioneer Jacqueline Cochran, whose accomplishments in her field arguably surpass those of the better-known trailblazer Amelia Earhart. Cochran was the first woman to win the Bendix Air Race; fly a bomber; break the speed of sound; and participate in astronaut training. She also played a significant role in creating and leading the WASPs during World War II, as well as participating in the postwar NASA space program, and even made an unsuccessful bid for Congress in 1956. Jacqueline Cochran: Biography of a Pioneer Aviator is an in-depth profile, from Cochran's early childhood in a desperately poor Florida mill town to her career as a pilot, to her unusual reluctance to promote the advancement of women's rights. An excellent addition to biography and aviation shelves. Jacqueline Cochran: Biography of a Pioneer Aviator is especially recommended for public and college library collections.

Giant in the Shadows
Jason Emerson
Southern Illinois University Press
1915 University Press Drive
SIUC Mail Code 6806
Carbondale, IL 62901
9780809330553 $39.95 www.siupress.com

Giant in the Shadows: The Life of Robert T. Lincoln is the first scholarly biography in over forty years of Robert T. Lincoln, the oldest surviving son of President Abraham Lincoln and his wife. Robert Lincoln made his mark on history as far more than a President's son; he served as a Union soldier, was a minister to Great Britain, held the post of U.S. secretary of war, and founded a successful law practice in Chicago, among other accomplishments. Famed for his legal, business, and diplomatic expertise, Robert T. Lincoln earned recognition and acclaim in his day; Giant in the Shadows chronicles his life story in great depth, supplemented with a bibliography, an index, and exhaustive notes. Highly recommended especially for public and college library biography shelves.

Barnum Brown
Lowell Dingus & Mark A. Norell
University of California Press
2120 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA 94720
www.ucpress.edu
9780520272613, $24.95, www.amazon.com

A man named Barnum Brown was the 'Indiana Jones' of palenotology. In "Barnum Brown: The Man Who Discovered Tyrannosaurus rex", Lowel Dingus (Research Associate in Vertebrate Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History, New York) and Mark A. Norell (Chair of Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History) have co-authored an amazing biography of one of paleontology's most colorful characters. The life of Barnum Brown (1873-1963) could well serve as material for a Hollywood movie. In addition to his amazing discover of a Tyrannosaurus rex a hundred years ago, as well as his subsequent discoveries of numerous new dinosaur species, Brown's personal life was an especially colorful one beginning with his upbringing on the western frontier, his life style penchant for fine clothes and agreeable women, and even spying for the American government using the cover of his expeditions abroad. Superbly written, "Barnum Brown: The Man Who Discovered Tyrannosaurus rex" does full credit to a remarkable man who lived a remarkable life and is highly recommended reading, and a worthwhile contribution to community and academic library American Biography collections.

The Escape of Sigmund Freud
David Cohen
The Overlook Press
141 Wooster Street
New York, NY 10012
9781590206737, $27.95, www.overlookpress.com

The wisest of us know when evil is on the rise. "The Escape of Sigmund Freud" tells the story of the elder Freud, who in 1938 at the age of 82, was faced with the march of Hitler's Nazi Germany into his home country of Austria. His fame and wealth made him and his family a target, and with a small tip off, he began his flight in the last years of his life. Presenting a lesser known chapter in the psychoanalyst's life, "The Escape of Sigmund Freud" is a strong addition to any World War II history collection, highly recommended.

Keeper of the Nuclear Conscience
Andrew Brown
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016-4314
9780199586585, $29.95, www.oup.com/us

It's too much power to be entrusted with anyone. "Keeper of the Nuclear Conscience: The Life and Works of Joseph Rotblat", a man who had seen the potential of the weapons before they were ever used on Japan in 1945. Turning his focus to world peace to kill the temptation of mass destruction, "Keeper of the Nuclear Conscience" looks into the scientist's work on many fronts, from a man who made the Manhattan Project so very possible, a very much recommended addition to any international biography collection.

General Abner M. Perrin, C.S.A.: A Biography
Ron V. Killian
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611
Jefferson NC 28640
9780786469802, $25.95, www.mcfarlandpub.com

The Civil War has many stories, many which were ended by the conflict. "General Abner M. Perrin, C. S. A.: A Biography" seeks to tell the story of a man who wasn't a legend of history, but played a major part in this historic conflict as a Brigadier General of the Confederate Army. From the heroics that gained him his rank, to his role in many conflicts, Ron V. Killian hopes to give the man his due in history. "General Abner M. Perrin" is a fine pick and very much recommended pick for Civil War biography collections.

Xavier Montsalvatge
Roger Evans
Pendragon Press
PO Box 190
Hillsdale, NY 12529
9781576472019, $42.00, www.pendragonpress.com

Journalists too have a role in advancing musical thought. "Xavier Montsalvatge: A Musical Life in Eventful Times" discusses the place of the musical journalist who showed pride in his Catalan heritage even in the face of the Francisco Franco's anti-Catalan Spaniard's stances. Throughout the twentieth century, his work in musical journalism offers insight into the world's music, making for a fascinating insight. "Xavier Montsalvatge" is a strong addition to international biography collections as well as musical journalism collections.

Thomas Hart Benton
Justin Wolff
Farrar, Straus, and Giroux
18 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
9780374199876, $40.00, www.fsgbooks.com

With a wide array of styles and answered the changes in the time, Thomas Hart Benton has become a legend of artistry. "Thomas Hart Benton: A Life" is a biography from Justin Wolff who covers Benton's works, telling of his upbringing, his study of arts and how he quickly gained a name for himself with murals that gained much attention. But praise was not all he received, and he would often fire back and forth with critics. A storied life enhanced with a color insert of his work, "Thomas Hart Benton" is a strong addition to any biography and art history collection.

The Kings' Mistresses
Elizabeth C. Goldsmith
Public Affairs Books
250 West 57th Street, #1321
New York, NY 10107
9781586488895, $26.99, www.publicaffairsbooks.com

In the days of Kings, a single woman wasn't enough to express your wealth. "The Kings' Mistresses: The Liberated Lives of Marie Mancini, Princess Colonna, and Her Sister Hortense, Duchess Mazarin" discusses the mistresses of Louis XIV, the French King known for his extravagance. Their lives, through this privilege, gained a certain degree of freedom that was rare to women of the era. Marie and Hortense, sisters, embarked on a life of interesting times, making for a fascinating read of history and the excesses of high class life. "The Kings' Mistresses" is a strong pick for any history collection focusing on history and biographies of Louis XIV's France.

The Story Of A Life
Anna Pavlovna Vygodskaia, author
Northern Illinois University Press
2280 Bethany Road, DeKalb, IL 60115
www.niupress.niu.edu
9780875806716, $22.95, www.amazon.com

Born in a small market town in the Russian 'Pale of Settlement' for Jews in 1868, Anna Pavlovna Vygodskaia aspired to achieve an independent life through education by attending the Higher Women's Courses in St. Petersburg. Even though it was a time of political turmoil, calls for social reforms, and increasing rates of emigration by Russia's oppressed Jewish minority, Anna Pavlovna Vygodskaia focused on her own personal and professional advancement and working for 'the greater good'. Hers was a life lived in 'interesting times', and "The Story of a Life: Memoirs of a Young Jewish Woman in the Russian Empire" is her personal 202-page autobiography which was original published in 1938. Now for the first time thanks to the translation and editing skills of Eugene M. Avrutin and Robert H. Greene, the life story of Anna Pavlovna Vygodskaia is available in English for the first time. ""The Story of a Life: Memoirs of a Young Jewish Woman in the Russian Empire" is informative, deftly written, superbly translated, and highly recommended reading, a work that should be in every academic library's "Judaic Studies", "Russian History Studies", and Biography collections.

Infinity Net
Yayoi Kusama
University of Chicago Press
1427 East 60th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
9780226464985, $35.00, www.press.uchicago.edu

Our walks through life place us against many questions of life and how to best understand it all. "Infinity Net: The Autobiography of Yayoi Kusama" discusses the life's work of the author, an artist who Japanese in origin came to America and rubbed elbows with many famous artists of the 1950s and 1960s, before returning to Japan and admitting herself to a psychiatric hospital. Offering insight into her thoughts, deftly translated by Ralph McCarthy, "Infinity Net" is a highly artistic and very much recommended biography.

Triumph & Tragedy
Emil Henry
Matador
c/o Troubadour
9781848765788, $17.99, www.troubadour.co.uk/matador

The biggest mountains in the world present an extreme endeavor that only few dare take on. "Triumph & Tragedy" is a biography of mountain climbing legend Edward Whymper, who throughout the 19th century was a pioneer, claiming firsts at Matterhorn among other accomplishments of extremes. Dedicating his life to exploration as well, "Triumph & Tragedy" is a fine addition to any biography collections focusing on remarkable people of the 19th century.

One Hundred Names for Love
Diane Ackerman
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393341744, $15.95, www.wwnorton.com

ONE HUNDRED NAMES FOR LOVE: A MEMOIR comes from the author of The Zookeeper's Wife and tells of the evolution of a new relationship when her husband lost the ability to speak or write. For the word-focussed couple it was potentially devastating - but the two rebuilt new methods of communication and an entire new language of playful and meaningful communication, and ONE HUNDRED NAMES FOR LOVE reflects this journey. It helped that Diane Ackerman was a science and nature writer who had written on the brain and knew its processes - and who well knew how her husband's mind worked. This memoir will appeal to many collections, from general lending libraries to science and health holdings.


The Relationship Shelf

What Philosophy Can Tell You About Your Lover
Sharon M. Kaye
Open Court Publishing Company
70 East Lake Street, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60601
9780812697636, $19.95, www.opencourtbooks.com

Philosophy discusses the many aspects of human nature, and the bedroom is no exception. "What Philosophy Can Tell You About Your Lover" discusses the mental and the ideal about the lover's relationship, as Sharon M. Kaye compiles a collection of writings from many thinkers, offering some clarity in understand the habits of our significant other as well as ourselves. With plenty to ponder in the ideas of love, "What Philosophy Can Tell You About Your Lover" is a strong addition to any community library philosophy collection. Also from Open Court and their philosophy collections is "Chuck Klosterman and Philosophy: The Real and the Cereal" (978081269769, $19.95), looking into the works of writer Chuck Klosterman and his views of the world.


The Civil War Shelf

War Upon the Land
Lisa M. Brady
University of Georgia Press
330 Research Drive
Athens, GA, 30602-4901
www.ugapress.org
9780820342498 $24.95 pbk
9780820343839 $24.95 ebook
9780820329857 $59.95 hc

War Upon the Land: Military Strategy and the Transformation of Southern Landscapes During the American Civil War breaks ground as the first book-length environmental history of the American Civil War. Lisa M. Brady (associate professor of history, Boise State University) examines how both sides of the war battled the forces of nature as surely as one another, and how the North increasingly extended the war to the very landscape of the south. From digging canals to slaughtering livestock to altering the course of the Mississippi river, to wholesale agricultural destruction such as what was perpetrated during the siege of Vicksburg, the Shenandoah Valley campaign, and marches through Georgia and the Carolinas, the North's military strategy had a devastating effect upon the land. Notes, a bibliography, and an index round out this thoughtful, scholarly, and heavily researched analysis, highly recommended especially for public and college library Civil War shelves.

A Civil War Scrapbook
History Colorado
Fulcrum Publishing
4690 Table Mountain Drive, Suite 100
Golden, Colorado 80403
9781555916688, $14.95, www.fulcrum-books.com

The civil war ravaged many lives in many ways. "A Civil War Scrapbook: I Was There Too!" delves into the many stories of the civil war, of the slaves who don't know what the next day will bring, of the soldiers fearing the next conflict, of the families seeing their home fall apart, and even of the people far from the war, calling the shots of what they believe is best. A vivid discussion with photos touching on the many conflicts and lives of the period, "A Civil War Scrapbook" is a strong addition to community library Civil War History collections.


The Business Shelf

Traction
Gino Wickman
BenBella Books
10300 N. Central Expressway, STE 400
Dallas, TX 75204
9781936661831, $16.95, www.benbellabooks.com

Getting going and staying going is often the hardest part of successful business. "Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business" is a guide to pushing one's business forward and how to avoid the common problem of letting the business drive the person instead of the person drive the business. Gino Wickman advises readers on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and how to implement it in one's own business. For those who want good and general advice for business success, "Traction" is not to be overlooked for community library business collections.

Positive Intelligence
Shirzad Chamine
Greenleaf Book Group Press
PO Box 91869, Austin, TX 78709
9781608322787, $23.95, www.greenleafbookgroup.com

Potential is a topic that can often prove difficult to completely understand. "Positive Intelligence: Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential and How You Can Achieve Yours" is a guide from business leader Shirzad Chamine as he discusses PQ, Positive Intelligence, and how to realize one's own potential and get the most out of partners and employees. With exercises to be embraced for those who want to improve their own PQ, and meet potentials more effectively, "Positive Intelligence" is a must for managers and leaders who want more out of their investments.

The B2B Social Media Book
Kipp Bodnar and Jeffrey L. Cohen
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9781118167762, $24.95, www.wiley.com

The B2B Social Media Book: Become a Marketing Superstar teaches the basics of generating leads with links to blogging, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and other online social media, and is a 'must' for any who would understand the basics of business, marketing, and social media opportunities. Examples and case studies are featured along with proven methodologies to provide new methods to connect with customers and increase online leads. The many examples and specifics are a 'must' for any online retailer.

The Advantage
Patrick Lencioni
Jossey Bass
989 Market Street, 5th floor
San Francisco, CA 94103-1741
978047041522, $27.95, www.josseybass.com

THE ADVANTAGE: WHY ORGANIZATIONAL HEALTH TRUMPS EVERYTHING ELSE IN BUSINESS considers modern opportunity in business and maintains that organizational advancement can only be made by attacking the causes of dysfunction, politics and confusion. Too many businesses focus on marketing, strategy and technology when they should be focusing on becoming healthier overall. This blends twenty years of writing, field research and executive consulting to blend stories and anecdotes with practical advice on how to revamp an organizational structure, and is a top pick for any business collection catering to managers.

Local Dollars, Local Sense
Michael Shuman
Chelsea Green
85 North Main Street, Suite 120
White River Junction VT 05001
9781603583435, $17.95, www.chelseagreen.com

Local Dollars, Local Sense: How to Shift Your Money from Wall Street to Main Street and Achieve Real Prosperity provides a community guide to taking control of money. Author Michael Shuman maintains that if Americans transferred just a fraction of the, $26 trillion they invest in stocks, bonds and funds to local small businesses in search of funding, their return on investments would improve and communities would strengthen. What thwarts this idea is that SEC regulations prohibit most Americans from investing directly in local businesses - and this book explains options, obstacles, and how to get around limitations. People can engage in different lending and investment club networks and practices: this book tells how, and is an inspiration for any who would rethink the investment process as a whole.

Running Lean, second edition
Ash Maurya
O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein, Hwy N.
Sebastopol, CA 95472-2811
9781449305178, $24.99, www.oreilly.com

RUNNING LEAN: ITERATE FROM PLAN A TO A PLAN THAT WORKS appears in its second updated edition, is edited by series editor Eric Ries, and offers a specific approach to vetting product ideas and running lean. Ideas from several innovative methods including the Lean Startup and bootstrapping ideas are incorporated into an overall tool for business managers and small business owners, and teaches the basics of problem-solving, customer engagement, and building measurements of customer response that point out new or alternative directions. Any business collection interested in lean productivity will find this a fine
addition!

Berrett-Koehler
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
www.bkconnection.com

Brian Tracy & Christina Tracy Stein's KISS THAT FROG! 12 GREAT WAYS TO TURN NEGATIVES INTO POSITIVES IN YOUR LIFE AND WORK (9781609942809, $22.95) offers a step-by-step plan that addresses the root causes of negativity and helps uncover blocks and mental obstacles to business success. It synthesizes over 5,000 talks given by Brian Tracy with over five million people in fifty-eight countries and provides techniques and exercises that confront challenging situations and show how to make them better. A top pick for any business collection! Ken Blanchard & Mark Miller's GREAT LEADERS GROW: BECOMING A LEADER FOR LIFE (9781609943035, $22.95) is a special recommendation for any collection seeing popularity with their prior best-seller THE SECRET: WHAT GREAT LEADERS KNOW AND DO, and continues with the development of one Debbie Brewster, a protagonist who has now become a leader and guides her former mentor's son Blake through his own leadership growth. This reads alike a novel with drama and action but couches its lively tone in practical business advice, teaching that leadership is an ongoing growth process, not a finite goal. Any business collection will find this appealing.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Get Published Today!
Penny C. Sansevieri
Wheatmark
c/o Author Marketing Experts, Inc.
PO Box 421156, San Diego, CA 92142
www.amarketingexpert.com
9781604945591, $25.95, www.amazon.com

Penny Sansevieri is a commercially successful author, social media marketer, media relations professional, book marketing expert, a book blogger on the Huffington Post, and CEO of Author Marketing Experts. In the Spring of 2010 Penny Sansevieri taught the first ever, a six-week self-publishing class on self-publishing. She draws from her many years of experience and expertise in "Get Published Today!: An Insider's Guide to Publishing Success", a 366-page deftly written and superbly organized compendium covering every aspect of the publishing industry with respect to what aspiring authors have to do to get themselves published. A 'real world', practical, step-by-step instructional guide, "Get Published Today!" deals with everything from how to get published in 90 days (or less!), getting digitally published (ebooks), selling into overseas book markets, finding a suitable publisher, self-publishing options, traditional publishing models, and so much more. Of special note are the chapters focusing on copyright, the importance of editing, book distribution channels, and the fundamental necessity of budgeting as part of the publishing and marketing process. "Get Published Today!" should be considered mandatory reading for anyone seeking to become a successfully published author in today's every changing and volatile publishing industry.

52 Ways To Sell More Books!
Penny C. Sansevieri
Wheatmark
c/o Author Marketing Experts, Inc.
PO Box 421156, San Diego, CA 92142
www.amarketingexpert.com
9781604947182, $10.95, www.amazon.com

In "52 Ways to Sell More Books!", book marketing expert has compiled a wealth of specific tips, tricks, techniques, strategies, and ideas for successfully competing for attention in today's highly competitive book selling marketplace. "52 Ways to Sell More Books!" covers using all manner of media to raise the awareness of the reading public with respect to a new book including online promotions, radio and television, book reviews, publicizing on Amazon (the single largest on-line bookseller), book signings, building book marketing websites, ebook editions, utilizing social media tools including blogs and e-zines, and a great deal more. A 182-page compendium of thoroughly 'user friendly' and deftly presented information, "52 Ways to Sell More Books!" is enthusiastically recommended the next best thing to attending one of Penny Sansevieri's
workshops and will prove to be an invaluable and enduring resource for aspiring authors and novice publishers.

The Fast-Track Course On How To Write A Nonfiction Book Proposal
Stephen Blake Mettee
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
www.quilldriverbooks.com
9781610350501, $14.95, www.amazon.com

In only 140 pages, Stephen Blake Mettee (founder of Quill Driver Books and editor for 150 books and innumerable articles including a chapter in the 2004 Writer's Market) draws upon his many years of experience and expertise to methodically lay out a complete course of instruction that will enable any aspiring author to prepare an effective and successful nonfiction book proposal to a prospective publisher in "The Fast-Track Course On How To Write A Nonfiction Book Proposal". Thorough, 'user friendly', informed and informative, this newly updated and expanded, step-by-step instruction manual is enhanced with useful examples of an 'industry standard' book proposal, query letter, publishing contract, and more. Of special note are the critical mistakes commonly made and to be avoided, tips for making a manuscript stand out from the inevitable slush pile, persuading prospective publishers of your ability to market books, the role of copyrights, advances, royalties, literary agents, digital publishing, etc. Every aspiring author of nonfiction should give Stephen Mettee's "The Fast-Track Course On How To Write A Nonfiction Book Proposal" a close and careful reading -- and a permanent place on their personal reference shelf.

Imagining Ancient Women
Annabel Lyon
University of Alberta Press
Ring House 2
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6G 2E1
www.uap.ualberta.ca
9780888646293, $10.95, www.amazon.com

Especially recommended reading for any author aspiring to write historical fiction, "Imagining Ancient Women" by Annabel Lyon is clearly a 'must read'. The welcome addition to the Henry Kreisel Lecture Series published by the University of Alberta Press, this slender, 64-page lecture lays out the processes of researching historical sources for useable material in creating believable characters, backgrounds, scenarios, and stories that contemporary readers can readily relate to. Informed, informative, insightful, scholarly, 'reader friendly', of immense and immediate practical value, "Imagining Ancient Women" is highly recommended for personal, professional, academic, and community library Literary Studies and Writer Reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

The Mindful Writer
Dinty W. Moore
Wisdom Publications
199 Elm Street
Somerville, MA 02144
9781614290070, $12.95, www.wisdompubs.org

What keeps us writing in our life? "The Mindful Writer: Noble Truths of the Writing Life" discusses the soul of writing and what keeps people coming back to their desks. The search for peace of mind is what writers often seek, and Dinty W. Moore advises writers on how to better embrace this to produce higher quality work. "The Mindful Writer" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to make sure they are writing with their heart in it, very much recommended.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Plunder
Mary Anna Evans
Poisoned Pen Press
6962 E. First Ae., Ste. 103
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
9781590589311, $14.95, www.maryannaevans.com

When a murder begets greed instead of tragedy, the puzzles only become more confusing. "Plunder" follows Faye Longchamp and her husband Joe Wolf as they continue their archeological work, but quickly brush up against a grandmother and uncle's murder, a family feud comes to their attention and legends of old pirate treasure become well known. "Plunder" is a strong pick for fans of mystery with a twist of adventure, highly recommended.

The Fitting
Joseph Zaitchik
Florida Academic Press, Inc.
PO Box 357425, Gainesville, FL
9781890357283, $39.95, www.amazon.com

A new chance at life can quickly be destroyed. "The Fitting" follows an aging Russian tailor who finds his way to America. When assisting an American detective to help him get to the bottom of a crime, the tailor faces the cruelties of violence and hatred from a land that was supposed to embrace all peoples. A thoughtful read written by a lover of literature and the humanities in Joseph Zaitchik, "The Fitting" is an excellent and much recommended read for general fiction collections.

The Mistake
Bruce Castle
Cambridge Books
c/o Write Words, Inc.
2934 Old Route 50, Cambridge, MD 21613
9781613860311, $24.95, www.cambridgebooks.us

We make mistakes in our lives, but they don't often end with murder. "The Mistake" is a mystery with paranormal elements from Bruce Castle, exploring a series of murders through Pittsburgh and Baltimore County. Two detectives, Aubrey McKensie & Joshua Greenberg from both of these locations are on the path, and if they continue making mistakes in their hunt, the body count will slowly increase. "The Mistake" is a riveting read that should prove very hard to put down, highly recommended.

Cat's Claw
Susan Wittig Albert
Berkeley Prime Crime
375 Hudson St., New York NY 10014
9780425245279, $25.95, www.penguin.com

CAT'S CLAW provides a new Pecan Springs novel revolving around Police Chief Sheila Dawson, who is investigating the death of a computer guru. What initially seems a suicide in fact turns into a murder investigation based on another crime, who demands her attention almost as much as the politics involved in being a female in a male-dominated police force. It's up to Sheila to solve the case and prevent further murders in this powerful mystery, recommended for any murder mystery fan and for public libraries catering to them.

Clawback
Mike Cooper
Viking
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson St., New York NY 10014
9780670023205, $26.95, www.penguin.com

CLAWBACK provides a financial thriller filled with action and tells of Silas, a black ops vet and consultant who becomes an independent businessman after a stint in Iraq, where he becomes popular with hedge fund managers and investors who need to get things done quickly and quietly. His last job is ending and involves demanding a sanctioned payback from an investor - but when things go wrong, murder is the result and Silas learns someone is killing investment bankers around the city. His struggle to stop the murder brings him into a puzzle in this powerful survey recommended for any mystery collection.


The Criminology Shelf

A Silence of Mockingbirds
Karen Spears Zacharias
MacAdam Cage Publishing
155 Sansome Street, Suite 550
San Francisco, CA 94104
9781596923751, $25.00, www.macadamcage.com

It is chilling to investigate a crime that has struck close to one's heart. "A Silence of Mockingbirds: The Memoir of a Murder" follows investigative journalist and author Karen Spears Zacharias as she looks for the truth in what happened to her friend's daughter, Karly. Pushing through the red tape of the legal battle and police investigation, she delves into something close to her and brings the emotion with it all. "A Silence of Mockingbirds" is a fine read that should prove difficult to put down, highly recommended.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Fans
Donald Bull & Rodolphe Roger
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road
Atglen, PA 19310
9780764340024, $79.99, www.schifferbooks.com

Once simply a simple cooling implement, fans have turned into a collectible all their own. "Fans: Advertising & Souvenir" is a full color guide to the fans throughout recent history. Advertising fans, campaign fans, souvenir fans, and much more, these fans are presented with prices and notes of rarity. With additional information on the basics of fan collecting, and notes of those behind the fans, "Fans" is a strongly recommended pick for those seeking advisories on making the most of their personal collections, and also worth considering as a coffee table book.

Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles, 28th edition
Eric Bradley, Editor
Krause Publications
c/o F+W Media
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236
1440216959, $21.99, www.krausebooks.com

The 2012 price guide to Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles provides a fine survey and is packed with expert advice, values, and over 4,000 color photos accompanying the latest valuations. This is a fine survey that outlines comics, glass, art, jewelry, furniture and more. The good-quality color photos are what sets this price guide apart from competitors: that and the 'generalist' feel of the listings, which lend to take-along reference for garage sale shopping.


The Human Sexuality Shelf

New Directions In Sex Therapy, second edition
Peggy J. Kleinplatz
Routledge
270 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10016
www.routledge.com
9780415887526, $44.95, www.amazon.com

Our understanding of human sexuality has been significantly enhanced through medical and psychology research. In "New Directions in Sex Therapy: Innovations and Alternatives", clinical psychologist and certified sex therapist Peggy K. Kleinplatz has compiled twenty significant essays and papers by leaders in the field. These contributions are organized into two major sections: 'Critiques of Conventional Models of Sex Therapy' and 'New Alternatives/Innovations in Sex Therapy'. Now in an updated and expanded second edition, "New Directions In Sex Therapy", an impressive 404-page work of solid scholarship is strongly recommended reading for students, practitioners, and researchers in the area of therapeutic approaches to problems and issues involving human sexuality and a core addition to professional and academic library Human Sexuality and Psychology reference collections.


The Philosophy Shelf

The Mobius Strip of Ifs
Mathias B. Freese
Wheatmark
610 East Delano Street, Suite 104
Tucson, AZ 85705
9781604947236, $10.95, www.wheatmark.com

We often live in lives of regret and unfulfilled dreams. "The Mobius Strip of Ifs" is a collection of essays from Mathias B. Freese as he discusses American culture and how we determine our goals and dreams, as well as our doubts. Speaking clearly on this history and offering much pondering on the nature of the truths of the world, "The Mobius Strip of Ifs" is a thoughtful and inspirational collection essays on psychology, philosophy, and thought, very much recommended.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Architect of Fate
Christian Dunn, editor
The Black Library
c/o BL Publishing
1525 Hulse Road, Unit 1
Pt. Pleasant, NJ 08742
9781849701532, $12.99,www.blacklibrary.com

The battles that the Space Marines fight does not have an end in sight, but there are things that know when they will end, and how they will end. "Architect of Fate" is a collection of four parts of one novel as acclaimed Warhammer writers Sarah Cawkwell, Ben Counter, Darius Hinks, and John French come together to present a series of battles for the Space Marines with an overlying story tying the four conflicts together. A treat for fans of the Warhammer 40,000 novels and universe, "Architect of Fate" is a strong pick for fantasy and science fiction collections.

Thunder In The Void
Henry Kuttner, author
Stephen Haffner, editor
Haffner Press
5005 Crooks Road, Suite 35
Royal Oak, MI 48073-1239
9781893887534, $40.00, www.amazon.com

An award winning author who inspired whole generations of writers, Henry Kuttner was well established as one of the most popular and successful science fiction word smiths beginning with the genre's 'Golden Age' of pulp magazines in the 1930s through the halcyon era of 1950s SciFi. Now sixteen of his best yarns have been rescued from literary obscurity through the deft editorship of Stephen Haffner and made available to an appreciative readership as a 612-page, hardbound compendium. Ranging from 'Raider of the Spaceways'; 'The Time Trap'; and 'War-Gods of the Void'; to 'Soldiers of Space'; 'Crypt-City of the Deathless One', and 'The Eyes of Thar', "Thunder In The Void is a science fiction fan's delight. Of special note is the inclusion of a recently recovered short story 'The Interplanetary Limited', which was written during the author's teenage years. Enhanced with the inclusion of a complete Henry Kuttner bibliography (which includes books which he co-authored with C. L. Moore, and another one co-authored with Arthur K. Barnes), "Thunder In The Void" is highly recommended reading for Henry Kuttner's legions of fans and a welcome addition to personal, academic, and community library science fiction collections.

The Library of America
14 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022
www.loa.org

The Library of America is a non-profit publisher dedicated to bringing into print classics of English literature and the complete works by significant authors that are so well produced and so well bound as to be ideal for personal, community, school, and academic library collections. Now they are launching a new category for an appreciative audience. One that is dedicated into publishing works that have had important impact on popular culture. To establish this new group they have selected the first two novels written by Edgar Rice Burroughs. "A Princess Of Mars" (9781598531657, $20.00) was Burroughs' original foray in 1912 as a novelist and found modest success with an appreciative public. A bit later that same year Burroughs wrote "Tarzan Of The Apes" (9781598531640, $20.00) which was to become a popular culture icon that continues to this very day. Both of these debut titles were commercial successes that led to a series of books set in the same 'worlds' and with the same protagonists. Both "A Princess Of Mars" and "Tarzan Of The Apes" have inspired movies, television shows, comic books, and legions of imitators. Of special note with both volumes is the inclusion of chronologies of the characters' cultural careers, a biographical note of the author, and brief essays on the genesis of the first editions. As with all books published by "The Library Of America", the evidence superb production values making them very highly recommended reading for the legions of Burroughs fans and ideal for introducing new generations of readers to the imaginative storytelling talents of Edgar Rice Burroughs.


The Gardening Shelf

Homegrown Harvest
Rita Pelczar, editor
American Horticultural Society
c/o Hachette Book Group
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017-0010
9781845336837, $19.99, www.hbgusa.com

A garden can do much for the world as well as the keeper of the garden. "Homegrown Harvest: A Season-by-Season Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen Garden" discusses how one can more effectively set up one's own personal garden, from setting up a lot, making sure one's fruits and vegetables grow in the best possible way, keeping it sustainable, and a seasonal guide to the freshest possible living. With full color photos and detailed tips throughout, "Homegrown Harvest" is a strong pick for gardening collections focusing on edible fruits and vegetables.

Medicinal Herbs
Rosemary Gladstar
Storey Publishing
210 Mass MoCA Way
North Adams, MA 01247
9781612120058, $14.95, www.storey.com

The basics of medicine came from the plants around us, and new advances are still coming from them. "Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide" is a guide for those who want to gain a more comprehensive understanding of natural medicines and how to grow these herbs within one's own gardens. With tips on growing and helpful and medicinal recipes all throughout presented in full color, "Medicinal Herbs" is a strong pick for gardening and alternative medicine collections.

Propagation Techniques
Geoff Hodge and Rosemary Ward
Mitchell Beazley
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781845336424, $19.99, www.octopusbooksusa.com

PROPAGATION TECHNIQUES offers a new guide to making more plants from seed, cuttings, perennials and more, and offers a basic easy coverage of all the tools and techniques for so doing. The authors are expert gardeners who work in cooperation with The Royal Horticulture Society to teach some 20 techniques in step-by-step sequences. Over 525 selected varieties are covered in a propagation dictionary that outlines the latest best practices for specific plants. Color illustrations and photography rounds out the fine presentation, a recommendation for any beginning gardener's collection.

Natural Companions
Ken Druse
Abrams
115 West 18th Street, 6th floor
New York, NY 10011
9781584799016, $40.00, www.abrams.com

Color photos pack a gorgeous discussion of recipes for perfect plant pairings using diverse species that bloom at the same time in Natural Companions: The Garden Lover's Guide to Plant Combinations. It's organized by theme and season and offers discussions and photos of a wide range of planted combinations to suit all climates and conditions. This is a lovely blend of gardening lore and botanical images, includes digital artist Ellen Hoverkamp's striking, eye-popping images, and is a 'must' for any home and garden or botany collection!


The Graphic Novel Shelf

Giants Beware!
Jorge Aguirre, author
Rafael Rosado, artist
First Second Books
175 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10010
9781596435827 $14.99 www.firstsecondbooks.com

Giants Beware! is a colorful fantasy graphic novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. Set in a remote town protected from surrounding monsters, Giants Beware! follows young Claudette, a fiery redheaded tomboy eager to prove herself against the alleged menace of giants, her shy younger brother who longs to achieve greatness in the arts of swordmaking and pastry cuisine, and her loyal would-be princess friend. When Claudette learns that a giant could return to menace her hometown, she goads her friends into making a pre-emptive strike - and causes an uproar when her father and the village learn that the children have ventured into danger! Claudette and her friends must survive confrontations with a cannibalistic apple hag, a capricious river king, and ultimately a towering giant - but will the townspeople who set out to rescue Claudette's group also survive? The cartoon-style art lends a cheerful, upbeat atmosphere to this engaging story where good and evil aren't always as sharply defined as one might think, and monsters just might be in the eye of the beholder. Highly recommended.

The Action Bible: New Testament
Sergio Cariello
David C. Cook
4050 Lee Vance View
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9780781406086 $16.99 www.davidccook.com

The Action Bible: New Testament is a faithful, full-color graphic novel adaptation of the Christian Bible's New Testament - including the birth and life of Jesus Christ, Christ's death and resurrection, and his followers' tireless efforts to spread His teachings and share the Gospel after His ascension. Sergio Cariello brings the New Testament in life with a striking, realistic art style that vividly captures human emotions. The text adapts the stories of the New Testament into modern English, but does not stray from their core meaning. For example, one dialogue balloon relates Peter's response to the question of whether followers of Christ should be compelled to obey Jewish laws. "Brothers, God chose me to take the good news to people who aren't Jews. He gave them the same holy spirit he gave us. Why do you want to make it hard for them to believe? We are saved by the grace of God. The gentiles are saved the same way." The Action Bible: New Testament is never excessively graphic or gory, but neither does it sugar-coat the darker moments in Christ's story. The comic format makes The Action Bible: New Testament an utterly enthralling and compelling new way to experience Scripture. Regardless of whether the reader is young or old, a believer in Christ or a nonbeliever curious about His story, The Action Bible: New Testament is an extraordinarily immersive, educational, and captivating account that deserves to be read cover to cover. Highly recommended.

Rohan at the Louvre
Hirohiko Araki
Comics Lit/Musee du Louvre Editions
NBM Publishing
40 Exchange Place, Suite 1308
New York, NY 10005-2742
9781561636150 $19.99 www.nbmpublishing.com

Rohan at the Louvre is a manga (Japanese graphic novel) presented as a full-sized hardcover book, printed on glossy paper. The art is deliberately "unflipped" (in its original format, read right-to-left) and colored in a stylized tonal palette that effectively brings its darker elements to the fore. A tale of suspense that gradually builds up to supernatural horror, Rohan at the Louvre follows a young comic artist with a unique talent - the ability to read people's souls as if they were pages of manga. He is conscientious about respecting other people's privacy, and his extraordinary ability is largely a background element to the unfolding story about a mysterious painting by an executed artist. Created to be the darkest shade of black imaginable, this evil masterpiece is held deep within the recesses of the Louvre museum. Years after learning about the painting under questionable (at best) circumstances, Rohan dares to go to the Louvre and investigate - only to find that the concentrated hatred buried beneath the impenetrable canvas craves blood sacrifice! Rohan at the Louvre is not a ghost story for the faint of heart, and should definitely not be read before bedtime, not if one plans to sleep with the lights out. Highly recommended for fans of horror comics!


The Audiobook Shelf

What Money Can't Buy
Michael J. Sandel, author and narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427214928 $29.99 www.macmillanaudio.com

What Money Can't Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a sharp criticism of modern society by Michael J. Sandel (Professor of Government at Harvard University). Sandel directly confronts one of the most important ethical questions of today - is it right for virtually everything to be for sale, from corporate "cap and trade" pollution privileges, to studies that pay people to test questionable new drugs, to hiring private mercenary organizations such as Blackwater to fight America's wars? What are the moral limits of markets, and how can their omnipresent reach be limited in areas where they don't belong? Is a market-driven society truly what we want to become, and if not, how can it be changed for the better? A soul-searching analysis of the role that markets can and should perform in a democratic society (as well as the roles they must not perform!), What Money Can't Buy is fascinating, thought-provoking, and worthy of the highest recommendation for both personal and public library audiobook collections. 6 CDs, 7 hours.

The Magicians' Guild
Trudi Canavan
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd., Jackson, ME 04921
www.bolinda.com
9781743111116, $24.99, www.amazon.com

The first book of 'The Black Magician Trilogy' by Trudi Canavan, "The Magicians' Guild" is set in a world where practicing magicians are required by King's Law to be members of a guild or suffer their magical abilities to be forever repressed and bound. Guild membership has become the exclusive province of magic users from the nobility or 'houses', while the common people, especially the annually displaced poor from the city, are felt to be inappropriate candidates for the privilege of guild membership. That is, until a young girl from the city slums discovers during the course of an annual protest that she has such powers. Slum dwellers or 'dwells' fear and despise the magicians. Fearing for her life and with the help of her closest friend and the 'Thieves', she seeks to hide from the magicians who are now seeking her out. The problem is that untrained and unchecked, her growing magical power will kill her. "The Magicians' Guild" is brought fully to life with the dramatic narrative skills of Richard Aspel in this complete and unabridged, 15 hour 45 minute, flawlessly produced audio book and will have listeners eagerly looking forward to the next two volumes of Trudi Canavan's 'The Black Magician Trilogy'!

Galaxy Press
7051 Hollywood Boulevard, Suite 200
Hollywood, CA 90028
www.galaxypress.com

L. Ron Hubbard was a mastery storyteller and one of the most diverse and successful writers during the 'Gold Age' of pulp magazines. In addition to Galaxy Press bringing back Hubbards short stories in print editions, they have made available a steadily expanding list of Hubbards wonderfully imaginative tales as multiple-cast, special effects, musically enhanced audio books that provide a complete and flawlessly produced 'theatre of the mind' experience for the listener. Among the newest additions to the growing audio book canon of Hubbard's work are an action/adventure tale set in the wilds of Africa. "All Frontiers Are Jealous" (9781592123384, $9.95) which first appeared in the pages of 'Five Novels Monthly' in June 1937. "Killer's Law" (9781592122769, $9.95) is a hard boiled mystery originally published in the September 1947 issue of 'New Detective Magazine'. This Galaxy Press audio book also includes Hubbard's mystery stories 'They Killed Him Dead', 'The Mad Dog Murder'; and 'The Blow Torch Murder'. Published in the October 1937 issue of 'Ward Birds', this audio book production of "Red Death Over China" (9781592123346, $9.95) is one of Hubbard's signature aviation yarns and also includes 'The Crate Killer' and 'Wings Over Ethiopia'. Hubbard was an especially gifted writer of westerns. "The Magic Quirt" was first read in the pages of the June 1948 issue of 'The Rio Kid Western'. This outstanding audio book collection also features two more Hubbard westerns: 'Vengeance is Mine!' and 'Stacked Bullets'. "While Bugles Blow!" debuted in the December 1936 issue of 'Five Novels Monthly' and is set North Africa as the French Foreign Legion becomes entangled in a blood feud between two warring tribes. High quality recordings showcasing stories that engage the listener's total attention from beginning to end, all of these audio book titles are enthusiastically recommended for personal and community library audio book collections.

Bring Up the Bodies
Hilary Mantel, author
Simon Vance, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427225825 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com

The unabridged audiobook rendition of the sequel to the Man Booker Prize Winning historical novel "Wolf Hall", Bring Up the Bodies follows the strong-willed Anne Boleyn, wife to Henry VIII. Anne is beset with many troubles - she hasn't been able to give Henry a son, and she is a lightning rod for malicious attacks, leading up to a trial of her and her suitors for adultery and treason. Thomas Cromwell in particular is determined have Anne Boleyn's head - but at what cost? Tense and vivid in its retelling of ruthless high intrigue, Bring Up the Bodies is highly recommended especially for historical fiction aficionados. 12 CDs, 14.5 hours.

Dead Europe
Christos Tsiolkas, author
Humphrey Bower, narrator
Bolinda Publishing
186 S Long Swamp Rd., Jackson, ME 04921
c/o Brilliance Audio (distribution)
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
9781743105948 $29.99 www.bolinda.com www.brillianceaudio.com

Read by Audie Award-winning performer Humphrey Bower, Dead Europe is the suspenseful, unabridged adaptation of a novel about a young Australian photographer on a journey through Europe. Though he dreams to experience the sophistication, wealth, and majesty of the Europe his father once described, the Europe he discovers is horrifically different. A tale of murder, suffering, revenge, and the dark repercussions of past evil, Dead Europe is as compelling as it is horrifying. Highly recommended. 11 CDs, 13 hours 40 min., tracks every 3 min. for easy bookmarking.

Children of Wrath
Paul Grossman, author
Kyle Munley, narrator
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781611748451 $34.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com

Children of Wrath is the unabridged audiobook adaptation Paull Grossman's second mystery novel, continuing the story of Willi Kraus, the most famous Jewish detective of Germany Weimar Republic. The year is 1929, the Weimar Republic is struggling with the fallout of the Great War, enormous hyperinflation, and the threat of rebellion. In this heady and potentially dangerous setting, Kraus is called to investigate a burlap sack from the city's sewer system, filled with the horrific spectacle of children's bones with teeth marks on them, and a Bible with the phrase "children of wrath" circled in red. Kraus must confront a horrific menace, in this tautly suspenseful story of murder and the ominous press of a diabolical threat, sure to keep the reader guessing to the very end. 10 CDs, 12 1/4 hours.

Come Home
Lisa Scottoline, author
Maggi-Meg Reed, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315
New York, NY 10010
9781427213303 $39.99 www.macmillanaudio.com

Now available in an unabridged audiobook edition (including a bonus essay read by the author), Come Home is a tense blend of murder mystery and family drama. Jill Farrow is an ordinary suburban single mother, recovering from a divorce and doing her best to raise her thirteen-year-old daughter Megan. Then Jill's ex-stepdaughter Abby suddenly appears, bringing devastating news - Jill's ex-husband is dead. Abby pleads with Jill to find the killer, but Jill's investigation threatens to destroy the family stability she has worked so hard to earn. Part suspense, part exploration of where the limits of motherly duty lie, Come Home is an absorbing narrative from beginning to end, and a worthy pick for public library audiobook collections.

The Corn Maiden and Other Nightmares
Joyce Carol Oates
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220
Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781611746013, $34.95, www.highbrigeaudio.com

The Corn Maiden and Other Nightmares provides seven tales of suspense and provides a range of dark mysteries spiced by a dual reading by Adam Verner and Christine Williams. In the title story a pre-teen vanishes from her home and while the adults search futilely, Marissa's life hangs in the balance as a warped classmate enacts a horrifying legend. Six other tales include the never-before-published Helping Hands. A fine account makes for a vivid set of tales recommended for any mystery audio collection.

American Dervish
Ayad Akhtar
Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017-0010
9781611136173, $29.98, www.hachetteaudio.com

AMERICAN DERVISH is narrated by the author who lends a dramatic and pointed voice to his memoir of a young American in love. The difference between this and any other coming of age story lies in his Pakistani heritage and a family life affected by the arrival of his mother's oldest friend from Pakistan. Mina brings the family happiness, deep spirituality that reinforces their Muslim faith, and a new purpose in his life. When she begins dating a family friend Hayat will make a decision that will bring terrible consequences to them all. It's an emotional look at religion and family life and is a powerful memoir of a Midwestern boy's striking life, and is a fine pick for any general lending library.


The Library CD Shelf

Fall of the Moon
Marcel Khalife
An homage to Mahmoud Darwish
Nagam Records
c/o Rock Paper Scissors
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2
Bloomington, IN 47404
$19.78 www.rockpaperscissors.biz

Lebanese master of the oud (a type of lute) Marcel Khalife presents Fall of the Moon, a poignant, 2-CD tribute to Khalife's departed friend and collaborator, the Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish. A fervent supporter of the Arab Spring political movement, Khalife sings in support of protesters in Tunisia, Bahrain, Egypt, and Syria, promoting a brighter future in which human rights are rightly respected. The songs experiment with elements of Western chamber music, jazz, or even rock amid the traditional cultural rhythms and Khalife's unique personal touch. Fall of the Moon is an emotionally compelling album, highly recommended especially for private and public library international music collections. The tracks are "The Pigeons Fly" (9:40), "And We Love Life" (9:43), "The Stranger's Bed" (4:50), "Oh, My Proud Wound" (3:40), "Mohammad" (9:02), "Houriyeh's Instructions" (13:07), "Jahar Kah" (2:13), "Now, in Exile" (12:13), and "Two Guitars" (5:39) on the first CD, and "Fall of the Moon" (7:23), "A Song On My Mind" (5:00), "Remember" (1:55), "Her Eyes" (7:34), "The Poem of the Land" (3:55), "Waltz for Rita's Winter" (8:35), "Palestinian Mawwal" (4:29), "The Most Beautiful Love" (6:43), and "In Damascus" (4:27) on the second CD.

Gragnani: Sonatas for Guitar and Violin
Franco Messena, violin
Massimo Scattolin, guitar
Newton Classics
c/o Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue, Suite 28
Franklin, TN 37064
www.naxosaudiobooks.com
B007C7FE9G, $15.26, www.amazon.com

Filippo Gragnani (3 September 1768 - 28 July 1820) was an Italian guitarist and composer.
Gragnani was born in Livorno, the son of Antonio Gragnani. Coming from a family of notable luthiers and musicians, he studied music in his home town with Giulio Maria Lucchesi, first studying the violin then later devoting himself to the guitar, becoming known as a virtuoso performer. According to church records, Filippo Gragnani is buried at the Church of St. Martino di Salviano. Gragnani first published works for guitar and chamber music in Milan around the beginning of the 19th century with the publishers Ricordi and Monzino. During these times he travelled to Germany and then eventually settling in Paris by 1810. There he befriended and became a pupil of Ferdinando Carulli, to whom he dedicated three of his guitar duets and who in turn also dedicated some duets to Gragnani. Little is known about Gragnani after 1812 although the "Registro dei Morti" (Register of Deaths) of the Church of St. Martino di Salviano in Livorno indicates he died on 28 July 1820. Naxos of America is a premier producer of inexpensive classical music and audio books. As part of their 'Newton Classics' series, "Gragnani: Sonatas for Guitar and Violin" showcases the talents of guitarist Massimo Scottolin and violinist Franco Messena as they perform Filippo Gragnani's Sonata No. 1 in D; Sonata No. 2 in C; and Sonata No. 3 in A. These superb performances are flawlessly recorded. "Gragnani: Sonatas for Guitar and Violin". An exemplary example of Early Romantic composition, and with a total running time of 45 minutes, 45 seconds, "Gragnani: Sonatas for Guitar and Violin" is very highly recommended for personal, academic, and community library CD music collections.

Heilt Nye Vel
Elin Furubotn
Ozella Music
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207
Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$16.26 www.flipswitchPR.com

Heilt Nye Vel is an immersive album by Norwegian singer-songwriter Elin Furubotn, with the assistance of close collaborator and talented Norwegian sax player Karl Seglem, and additional friends contributing with percussion, bass, electric guitar, piano, accordion, synth, euphonium-horns, trumpet, flugelhorn, acoustic guitar, and cello - different songs feature different medleys of instruments supporting Furubotn's melodious voice. Furubotn's dulcet singing conveys a love of life and music and that transcends language barriers, in this smooth as silk listening experience. Heilt Nye Vel is highly recommended especially for international music collections. The tracks are "Akkurat Det Som Er Na" (4:04), "Helt Nye Vel" (3:43), "Eg Ser Du Leite" (4:41), "Slepp Tvilen Fri" (2:51), "Tankane Har Fargar" (4:54), "Treet" (3:37), "Ei Stille Na" (3:42), "Malt Dagen Din" (3:39), "En Drom" (4:02), "Du Vett Godt Ka Eg E Sure For" (4:46), "Stillheten" (1:55), "New Path" (3:42), and "I See You Looking" (4:43).

Meditation
Nazarenes
I Grade Records
www.igraderecords.com
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207, Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$8.99 MP3 download / $TBA CD www.flipswitchPR.com www.amazon.com

Meditation is a reggae album from the Nazarenes (brothers Noah and Medhane Tewolde), who celebrate the African-roots culture that has evolved over time in Jamaica's downtown black neighborhoods. With Meditation, the Nazarenes seek to share the enduring sense of connection, community, and spirituality as a means of meaningful communication within a multicultural world. Songs feature lyrics in English and the classical Ethiopic language of Ge'ez. A wonderful and exciting addition to international music collections, Meditation is highly recommended for spiritual and reggae music lovers everywhere, as well as for public library CD collections. The tracks are "Meditation", "Food", "It's Too Late", "Mother", "On My Way", "The Lord Said", "Mamy Blues", "Alive", "Everlasting", "Politrickcians", "Get Together", "Destiny", "Lonesome Lady", and "Love JAH".

Variations
Peter M. Kolar
World Library Publications
3708 River Road, Suite 400
Franklin Park, IL 60131-2158
9781584595946 $17.00 www.wlpmusic.com

Variations is the solo piano debut album of Peter M. Kolar, consisting of both popular Christian hymns and Kolar's original compositions. Filled with the richness of a concert-worthy performance, Variations experiments with original stylings on classical themes, and is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves piano or spiritual music. Highly recommended, especially for public library music CD collections. The tracks are "Variations on Ich Glaub An Gott" (8:07), "The Lord Is Rich in Kindness" (6:29), "Variations on the Passacaglia from Misa Luna" (7:50), "Variations on Hymn to Joy" (7:36), "Fugue in G Minor" (2:04), "Variations on Dix" (7:36), "Variations on Beach Spring" (7:18), "Peace in A Major for Piano and Three Woodwinds" (4:49), "Treasures Out of Darkness" (3:35), "Variations on Lambilotte" (5:26), "Meditation on 'Bilingual Intercessions'" (6:18), and "Meditation on 'Keep in Mind'" (8:12).

Inhale Slowly
Tim White and Joe Paulino
WhiteGates Music
c/o The Creative Service Company (publicity)
4360 Emerald Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
www.thecreativeservicecompany.com
$16.00 www.inhaleslowly.com www.amazon.com www.cdbaby.com

Inhale Slowly is a beautiful instrumental album by the multitalented musical duo of Tim White (playing bamboo flutes, sitar, guitar, and esraj) and Joe Paulino (playing piano, synthesizer, and percussion). Crafted by the principle of "world fusion", in which any global harmonic styling is fair creative game, Inhale Slowly is meant especially to facilitate relaxation, meditation, and spiritual healing. A wonderfully calming listening experience, especially ideal for helping one unwind after a long, hard day, Inhale Slowly is highly recommended. The tracks are "Morning Chai" (16:41), "Hidden Oasis" (8:58), "In-Joy" (17:02), "Island Pulse" (8:42), and "Inhale Slowly" (16:28). 1 hour, 7 min.

Choban Elektrik
Jordan Shapiro, Dave Johnsen, Phil Kester with Eva Salina Primack & Jesse Kotansky
Privately Published
c/o FlipSwitch (publicity)
PO Box 2207
Bloomington, IN 47404-2207
$21.35 www.flipswitchPR.com

The progressive rock band Choban Elektrik ("Electric Shepherds") has released a self-titled album showcasing their unique international style. Drawing upon elements of Albanian, Macedonian, Greek, and Armenian musical tradition as well as jazz, funk, and rock, Choban Elektrik has created a wildly exciting medley. Choban Elektrik is especially recommended as a lively, Balkan addition to international music collections. The tracks are "Valle e Shqiperise se Mesme", "Moj Xhemile", "Kopanitsa", "Beratche from Prespa", "Mom Bar", "Koftos", "Steve's Gajda", "Cobankat", "Ibraim Odza/Pusteno", "Jasino Demiralievo Oro", and "Stankena Tehova".

Canyon Records Productions
3131 West Clarendon Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
www.canyonrecords.com

Three excellent music CD albums from Canyon Records continue their laudable endeavor to share Native American music with the world at large. Six-time Grammy nominees Northern Cree present "Dancerz Groove: Cree Round Dance Songs" ($16.75), a rhythmic, intense album of Round Dance jams with a binding theme of love, heartache, and pride in one's heritage. The tracks are "Sing with Me" (5:14), "Gold Digger" (4:15), "Hey B :)" (5:50), "Facebook Drama" (4:49), "Stacked for the Jack" (4:41), "Thank Heaven I'm an Indian Boy" (4:12), "Dance with Me" (3:54), "Tyrique" (4:34), "Dancerz Groove" (5:59), and "Earth Angel" (7:28). Wayne Silas, Jr. presents "True" ($21.32), an album of round dance songs in accordance with the traditions of his ancestors. Lyrics that tell the tale of the love-lorn weave through this album that brims with the emotion and desire to stay in touch with one's roots no matter how complex and confusing the modern world becomes. The tracks are "Stacked" (5:22), "Can-Am Affair" (3:58), "U Got it Right" (4:47), "Pretty Lady" (4:03), "Fanatic" (3:52), "My Right Hook" (4:00), "Phoenix Crush" (3:18), "Nina Mosaeh" (4:24), "Love Medicine" (5:02), "Bow-Chick-A-Wow-Wow" (4:03), "My Sweet Baby" (4:06), "Ask Dad" (3:41), and "The Justice League" (3:54). Dine Singer Louie Gonnie offers "Pathway to Destiny: Songs of Healing and Contemplation" ($16.75), an album of songs cultivated from the ancient traditions of the Dine as well as the healing compassion of the Native American Church. The songs embrace a spiritual connection to the inner world within all human beings, and overflow with reverence and love. The tracks are "White Cone" (3:02), "Discovering Years" (4:15), "Southern Winds" (3:03), "Pathways" (4:28), "Waterfalls" (4:03), "Serago" (2:59), "Star People Dance as the Moon Sings" (2:16), "Tsidi Dineh" (3:04), "Kalogi" (3:59), "Odyssey" (4:04), "Our Glory and Pride" (3:27), "Falling Leaves" (3:38), "Corn Pollen Road" (4:25), and "Swirling Smoke" (4:49). All three albums are top-quality, highly recommended additions to Native American music collections.


The Library DVD Shelf

In the Garden of Sounds
a film by Nicola Bellucci
First Run Features
630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213
New York, NY 10036
$27.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com

In the Garden of Sounds is an extraordinary documentary following Wolfgang Fasser, who lost his sight at an early age, and the physical therapy retreat he has established for disabled children. Impressed by the healing powers of sound, Wolfgang uses sound and music to establish rapport with children, helping them learn how to communicate with others and gain greater control over their own bodies. Bonus features includes a "travels with Wolfgang" segment, a resource guide, and a filmmaker biography. Filmed in Italian and Swiss with the option of English subtitles, In the Garden of Sounds is a striking and emotionally moving portrayal of the healing powers of music and personal rapport, highly recommended. 90 min.

Garbo the Spy
A film by Edmon Roch
First Run Features
630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213
New York, NY 10036
$27.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com

Garbo the Spy is an extraordinary documentary about a double agent whose heroic actions saved thousands of Allied lives during World War II. Juan Pujol Garcia fed false information to the Nazis, inventing a network of nonexistent agents across Europe, and even misleading them about the timing and location of D-Day. Vintage propaganda footage as well as interviews with intelligence experts and crucial figures in Garbo's life, as well as Garbo himself, compose this captivating true story, highly recommended especially for public library DVD shelves. Garbo the Spy also includes a wealth of bonus features, such as an interview with espionage expert Nigel West (32 minutes) and the WW II training film "Sonic Deception" (27 minutes). 93 minutes plus bonus features.

Reuniting the Rubins
a Yoav Factor Film
Monterey Media Inc.
566 St. Charles Drive
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360-3901
$26.95 www.montereymedia.com

Reuniting the Rubins is an uproarious "dramady" movie about the reunion of a dysfunctionally diverse family. When the sick mother of stiffly formal lawyer Lenny Rubins pressures him into reuniting his estranged children, the resulting personality gathering could not be more divisive - from a control-freak capitalist to an eco-warrior, a Buddhist monk, and a born-again Rabbi! While the bickering may be fierce enough to spark an African war, Reuniting the Rubins also has a soulful side that acknowledges the true bonds of family, no matter how vehement their disagreements. Bonus features include an "on location" segment and an alternate ending! Reuniting the Rubins is rated PG, and highly recommended for family viewing and public library DVD collections. 16:9 anamorphic aspect ratio, closed captioned, 99 min.

Titanoboa: Monster Snake
Smithsonian Channel/Inception Media Group
smithsonianchannel.com
c/o Greenleaf & Associates (publicity)
$14.98 DVD / $19.98 Blu-ray www.inceptionmediagroup.com

Available in both DVD and Blu-ray formats, Titanoboa: Monster Snake is a jaw-dropping documentary about a gigantic species of boa snake that lived 60 million years ago, in the era after the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. Longer than a bus, this tremendous snake was large enough to swallow crocodiles whole! Scientists seek to reconstruct how this enormous reptile lived, what it ate, and why it was able to grow so gigantic, into this fascinating documentary, especially recommended for public library DVD collections and anyone fascinated by snakes! 92 min.

Revenge of the Electric Car
A film by Chris Paine
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
193777208X $295.00 www.bullfrogfilms.com

Chris Paine, director of the "Who Killed the Electric Car?", continues his documentary saga with "Revenge of the Electric Car", an exploration of the possible revival of the electric car after GM unceremoniously destroyed its first attempt at creating a line of them. Unlike "Who Killed the Electric Car", which focused on the cars themselves, "Revenge of the Electric Car" focuses more on the people pushing to make electric cars a modern-day reality. From Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk, who dared to start up Tesla Motors to create electric cars and compete with big, established auto industries in the US, to General Motors executive Bob Lutz (once accused of killing the electric car, now potentially responsible for its rebirth), to Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn, and even Greg "Gadget" Abott, an ordinary man who toils against the odds to realize his dream of being able to privately convert regular cars into electric cars, Revenge of the Electric Car portrays brilliant people anticipating a revolutionary future. But how close is that future, really? The Great Recession that began in 2008 was a heavy blow that nearly ended America's auto industry altogether. Tesla Motors was almost torn apart by internal lawsuits even before it barreled headlong toward bankruptcy, and just how committed are General Motors and Nissan to the Chevy Volt and the Leaf? Will electric cars be available to consumers at reasonable prices in this generation's lifetime? Revenge of the Electric Car does not have all the answers, but it does have an unparalleled degree of candid, honest testimony from car manufacturers, entrepreneurs, journalists, scientists, and much more, making it a most enjoyable ride! Bonus features include the Tribeca Film Fest post-screening discussion and brief interviews. 90 min., SDH captions.

Agatha Christie's Poirot Series 4
Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598287608 $39.99 DVD / $49.99 Blu-ray www.acornonline.com

Available in both DVD and Blu-ray versions, Agatha Christie's Poirot Series 4 continues the excellent British television adaptation of Agatha Christie's beloved detective stories featuring the eccentric Hercule Poirot (played by David Suchet) and his associates Captain Hastings (Hugh Fraser) and Chief Inspector Japp (Philip Jackson). 1930's Europe is brought to vivid life in these dramatic mysteries: "The ABC Murders", in which the killer sends Poirot letters announcing his chosen victim; "Death in the Clouds", in which a blackmailer dies aboard a plain full of potential suspects and one plucky Detective Poirot; and "One, Two, Buckle My Shoe" when the shooting death of a dentist unravels a scheme of deceit, yet a simple broken shoe buckle is a key unraveling the mystery. Agatha Christie's Poirot Series 4 maintains the high quality for which the series is justly famous, and is sure to prove immensely popular among mystery buffs and for public library collections. 3 DVDs, 306 min., fullscreen, SDH subtitles.

Discoveries... America National Parks series
Bennet Watt HD Productions, Inc.
13021 - 244 Avenue SE
Issaquah, WA 98027
$24.95 each (DVD or Blu-ray), www.Bennett-Watt.com

Available on both DVD and Blu-ray (for the same affordable price!), four new additions to the Discoveries... America National Parks series offer wonderful armchair travel experiences in glorious high definition. "Arches: Canyonlands & Natural Bridges" (9781604901610) explores the striking rock formations of southern Utah, canyonlands carved by the Colorado River, natural stone bridges, and even an excursion by adventurous rock-crawling enthusiasts. "New Orleans Jazz & Acadian Culture: Jean Lafitte, Creole Natural Trail, Natchitoches & Rural Mardi Gras" (9781604901627) is the next best thing to a personal visit the National Historical Park in New Orleans' French Quarter, a rural Mardi Gras run, the Prairie Acadian Culture Center in Eunice, coastal wetlands and wildlife refuges of the Creole Nature Trail, and Natchitoches, Louisiana's oldest town. "Yellowstone Dual Personalities: Spring & Winter" (9781604901597) allows the viewer to viscerally experience the magnificence of Yellowstone National Park, from its abundant wildlife to its steaming geysers, its opportunities for boating/hiking/horse riding, and its dramatic transformation in winter to an icy wonderland where the primary modes of travel are snow machine, snow coach, or cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. "Dry Tortugas: Fort Jefferson & The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center" (9781604901603) explores one of America's lesser-known and geographically removed national parks, the Dry Tortugas, located just off the southernmost tip of Florida. Its strategic location made it historical site of military and piracy legends; Fort Jefferson once oversaw Spanish explorers, Gulf Coast merchants, and more people who transformed the New World. The Floriday Keys Eco-Discovery Center is also featured, with an eye-opening glimpse of the beautiful terrestrial and marine native plants and animals of the Keys. All four DVDs are as captivating as they are educational, and worthy of the highest recommendation especially for public library collections.

Treasure Houses of Britain
Hosted by Selina Scott
Athena
c/o Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598287493 $49.99 www.acornonline.com

Treasure Houses of Britain: Tour Five of England's Grandest Houses lives up to its title with a lavish, high-definition video showcase of Burghley House, Chatsworth, Blenheim Palace, Holkham Hall, and Boughton House. With the gracious aid of the present occupants of each luxurious residence, journalist Selina Scott leads viewers on a tour of great works of architecture, rare paintings, antique furniture, historic sculptures, and other exquisite works of art collected over the course of centuries. Each house has its own story to tell of the notable and influential families who lived there over the course of generations. Bonus features include a 22 min. behind-the-scenes featurette, a 12-page viewer's guide, and more. An extraordinarily beautiful and respectful documentary series of five spectacular residences and the British history they embody, Treasure Houses of Britain is a captivating and educational delight. 5 episodes, 231 min. plus bonus, SDH subtitles, widescreen.

Basketball Fundamentals
Produced by Marty Schupak
Youth Sports Club
9 Florence Court
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
9780983924227 $24.95 www.YouthSportsClub.com

Basketball Fundamentals is a practical DVD demonstrating a wide variety of basic basketball techniques and drills. Ideal for coaches, parents, and players, Basketball Fundamentals is a solid guide to improving both individual and team performance. Topics covered include Ball Handling Basics, Advanced Dribbling Techniques, Ball Handling Games, Offensive Plays & Moves, Dual Purpose Drills, Communication Techniques, V Cut, L Cut, Passing Fundamentals & Drills, Slow Motion Analysis, Pick and Roll, Breaking Out & Rebounding, and Defense Techniques. A user-friendly video guide, Basketball Fundamentals is especially recommended for high school physical education DVD libraries. 38 min.

Hot Body Cool Mind: The Life Force Power System
Jennifer Kries
True Mind Media
c/o 411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$29.95 www.411videoinfo.com

Hot Body Cool Mind: The Life Force Power System is a 4-DVD set featuring an excellent combination workout from fitness professional Jennifer Kries. The entire regimen walks the viewer through the benefits of Pilates (especially to strengthen one's core), Vinyasa Yoga for flexibility, Jazz Dance for cardio and calorie burning, Ballet to sculpt one's muscles, Chi-Gong to revitalize energy, Yin Yoga and Meditation to clear the mind as well as the body, and more. 20 "On the Go" workouts are only 10 or 20 minutes apiece, allowing one to squeeze healthy exercise into the busiest of schedules. An excellent resource to help one look and feel better, Hot Body Cool Mind is highly recommended for fitness DVD collections. The four DVDs are "Level 1: Embark on the Journey", "Level 2: Harness the Power", "Level 3: Life Force Challenge", and "Level 4: Waking Energy". 580 min.

Power 4 Pink Workout
Patricia Friberg
208 Entertainment Inc.
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com

Patricia Friberg, creator of the award-winning DVDs "Belly Beautiful Workout Prenatal" and "Belly Beautiful Workout Postnatal" presents Power 4 Pink Workout: Cardio, Strength, Pilates, & Balance, a mind-body fitness DVD fusing four key elements into a healthy whole. Divided into The Cardio Interval Balance Challenge, The Toning Floor Series, The Stretch and Revive Series" and a bonus section of exercises intended especially for survivors of breast cancer, Power 4 Pink Workout is a great way to look and feel better about oneself. An inexpensive small fitness ball and six-foot resistance band (not included) are the only recommended equipment for this solid, user-friendly workout, highly recommended for women's fitness DVD collections. 80 min.

Boston Body Barre
Zayna Gold
BostonBody.com
c/o 411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.95 www.411videoinfo.com

Boston Body Barre is a DVD presentation of the Pilates and Cardio based fitness program designed by Zayna Gold, an award-winning Pilates instructor and the founder/co-owner of Boston Body Pilates and Boston Body Barre. Expensive equipment is not required; only a simple, inflatable fitness ball is recommended to get the most out of this solid program to improve one's buttocks, arms, abs, and legs. Ideal for use at least 2-3 times a week, Boston Body Barre is a well-rounded, enjoyable, and effective workout, highly recommended for personal fitness DVD libraries. 60 min.

Coregeous
Jill Miller
Tune Up Fitness Worldwide, Inc.
c/o 411 Video Information (publicity)
PO Box 1223
Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$19.99 www.411videoinfo.com yogatuneup.com

25-year movement art and body therapy veteran Jill Miller presents Coregeous, a fitness DVD designed to help the user build strength in the core muscles. Especially suited for those who may have weakness in the core due to underuse, overtraining, injury, or scar tissue, Coregeous is a user-friendly workout guide. The four main sequences are "Core Re-From", which includes a deep tissue massage and exercises for key respiratory muscles, "Get COREganized", which features proper spinal alignment and breathing patterns, "InCOREporate" which emphasizes building a strong lower back as well as improving the muscles of the ribcage and the torso as a whole, and "Get COREgeous", which is all about balance and improving the stability and fluidity of one's core muscles on different gravitational planes. Three specialty sequences - "Tubular Core Activation", "Abdominal Massage", and "Abdominal Churning" further enhance this excellent supplement to DVD fitness libraries. No expensive equipment is required; the props used in Corgeous are a stability ball, YTU therapy balls, soft sponge ball, and yoga block, but ordinary tennis balls, a blanket, and a large book can be substituted for these. Coregeous is a superb abdominal fitness guide for users of all skill and experience levels, highly recommended. 105 min.

Rapid Hypnotic Inductions
Gabor Filo, DDS ABHD
Crown House Publishing
6 Trowbridge Drive Suite 5
Bethel, CT 06801
9781845908461 $49.95 www.crownhousepublishing.com

Gabor Filo (Diplomate of the American Board of Hypnosis in Dentistry) presents Rapid Hypnotic Inductions: Demonstrations & Applications, a DVD guide to using hypnosis interactions in clinical settings, for the benefit of patients. Hypnosis is often seen as time-intensive, but doesn't have to be, claims Dr. Filo. He demonstrates time-efficient methods for practical use of hypnosis techniques, some verbal, some nonverbal, and some physical inductions. A 16-page learning guide explaining each of the demonstrations rounds out this excellent supplementary resource, ideal for not only dentists, but also any professional practitioner seeking swift, effective ways to calm and relax patients without the use of drugs. 60 min.


The Crafts Shelf

Arts and Crafts of Micronesia
Barbara Wavell
The Bess Press
3565 Harding Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
9781573063098, $29.95, www.besspress.com

The way their art is expressed tells much about the culture. "Arts and Crafts of Micronesia: Trading with Tradition" discusses the art of the Oceanic islands, and how their relatively remote location has allowed them to continue and flourish free of foreign meddling, allowing their style and form to develop uniquely and interestingly. With full color photographs all throughout focusing on their sculptures, jewelry, weavings, and much more, "Arts and Crafts of Micronesia" is a strong pick for those with an interest in worldwide crafts.

Stash Happy
Cynthia Shaffer
Lark Crafts
67 Broadway, Asheville, NC 28801
9781454702801, $16.95, www.larkcrafts.com

"Stash Happy: Applique, 25 Fresh Projects For Fabric Lovers" is a wonderful creative craft book from the multi-medium series called Stash Happy, which motivates creative crafters to use their stashes of notions, fabrics, trim, beads and scraps in easy-to-make projects that highlight artistic individuality. Here are color photo illustrated directions for 25 projects, with simple step by step instructions and suggestions for adaptation. Beginning with 14 pages of introduction and basic sewing and applique techniques, "Stash Happy: Applique" moves quickly into a fantastic forest of creative fabric projects. Included are instructions for making a tooth pillow felt Mary Janes, a decorated lampshade, a tic-tac-toe game, a sail-away baby ensemble, a fun and friendly furoshiki (Japanese special wrapping cloth for gifts), a dream big banner, a woodsy gnome doll, a spring flowers zip pouch, and many more. Individual special touches and stitches are carefully demonstrated and explained, and the final 10 pages include template illustrations for all the special projects. Each project begins with a list of materials needed from your stash, tools and implements needed, and step by step sequenced instructions. "Stash Happy: Applique" is the perfect inspirational gift for your favorite crafter. Other titles in this fun and creative series by Cynthia Shaffer include "Stash Happy: Felt" (9781600599255, $16.95) and "Stash Happy: Patchwork" (9781600596124, $16.95). Further free bonus projects may be found online at, www.larkcraft.com/bonus. Crafters, prepare to enjoy!

Heart-Felt Holidays
Kathy Sheldon & Amanda Carestio
Lark Crafts, and imprint of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9789781454702818, $14.95, www.larkcrafts.com

"Heart-Felt Holidays: 40 Festive Felt Projects to Celebrate the Seasons" contains complete instructions for 40 fabulous felt craft projects for all the usual holiday themes plus Hanukkah, Chinese New Year, Groundhog Day, St. Patrick's Day, Teacher Appreciation Day, Cinco de Mayo, Earth Day, and more. Complete with color photos of finished projects and exact diagrams of 100 percent templates, simple instructions guide the crafter through each charming seasonal themed project. From the creators of Fa la la la Felt, "Heart-Felt Holidays" is an amazing felt crafters' resource and dream project book, with more suggestions and project ideas available at, www.larkcrafts.com.

Herringbone Stitch
Kalmbach Publishing Company
21027 Crossroads Circle
Waukesha, WI 53186
9780871164544, $17.95, www.kalmbachbooks.com

For do it yourself individuals, a new technique opens the door for new ideas. "Herringbone Stitch: Basic Techniques, Advanced Results" is a guide to understanding this jewelry creation technique of beading stitching and how to use it to he fullest, with 26 projects to follow and use as templates for further creations. "Herringbone Stitch" is presented in full color and is very much recommended reading for do-it-yourself jewelry collections.


The Parenting Shelf

American Sign Language And Early Literacy
Kristin Snoddon
Gallaudet University Press
800 Florida Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002-3695
http://gupress.gallaudet.edu
9781563685279, $55.00, www.amazon.com

"American Sign Language and Early Literacy: A Model Parent-Child Program" by Kristin Snoddon (Fellow in the School of Early Childhood Education, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada) is a 144-page compendium deftly describing a program for developing parental 'literacy' in utilizing American Sign Language to develop a child's sense of identity, culture, and vernacular language. Informed and informative chapters include ASL and Early Intervention; Discourse and Counterdiscourse; Research as Praxis; ASL as Resource; 'A Deaf Cultural Space', and Facilitating Emergent ASL Literacy. Enhanced with the inclusion of a substantial bibliography, extensive 'author's notes', and a comprehensive index, "American Sign Language And Early Literacy" is a seminal contribution to ASL studies and highly recommended for personal, professional, and academic library reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

The Available Parent
John Duffy
Viva Editions
2246 Sixth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710-2219
9781573446570, $15.95, www.vivaeditions.com

A parent being there is sometimes the best you can do. "The Available Parent: Radical Optimism for Raising Teens and Tweens" is a parenting guide from John Duffy with a positive message that encourages a stronger presence in the lives of children, facing teenage rebellion, keeping the self-esteem together and remembering the pressures of young adulthood. "The Available Parent" is a fine choice for community library parenting collections, highly recommended.

Parenting for Peace
Marcy Axness
Sentient Publications
1113 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302
8671591811763, $18.95, www.sentientpublications.com

Children are our future, and the values of now are the values they will bring with them when they rule the world. "Parenting for Peace: Raising the Next Generation of Peacemakers" is Marcy Axness, parenting expert, as she advises readers on thinking for the future and encouraging kids to embrace peace and empathy for their lives now, and how to make them remember as such in the future. "Parenting for Peace" is a strong pick for parenting collections, very much recommended reading.

Growing Happy Kids
Maureen Healy
Health Communications, Inc.
3201 S.W. 15th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442-8190
9780757316128, $14.95, www.hcibooks.com

Happiness is something we seek all our life, and having it in childhood is a good way to start. "Growing Happy Kids: How to Foster Inner Confidence, Success, and Happiness" is a parenting guide from Maureen Healy who advises parents on how to inspire happiness in their children, drawing from philosophy and faith and how to apply these ideals to empower a positive insight in themselves and spread it to their children. "Growing Happy Kids" is a strong pick for any parenting collection, highly recommended.


The Gaming Shelf

Playing No-Limit Hold'em as a Business
Rob Tucker
Cardoza Publishing
5473 South Eastern Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89119
www.cardozapub.com
9781580422635, $19.95, www.amazon.com

When Chris Monemaker won the main event at the 2003 World Series of Poker tournament and turned a $40 investment into a 2.5 million dollar return, every amateur poker player in America thought about 'turning pro' and making their own fortunes in big money cash games and tournaments. In "Playing No-Limit Hold'em as a Business", professional poker player Rob Tucker draws upon his many years of experience and expertise to present a 304-page instruction manual on how to play poker profitably through employing winning strategies whether in live or on-line games. Enhanced with a profusion of examples, graphics, and action plays illustration key concepts, tactics, approaches, methods, tricks, and techniques, "Playing No-Limit Hold'em as a Business" will prove to be an enduringly valuable and 'user friendly' instruction and reference guide for anyone who setting down to play a serious game of No-Limit Hold'em.


The Interior Design Shelf

Atomic Ranch Midcentury Interiors
Michelle Gringeri Brown
Gibbs Smith, Publisher
PO Box 667, Layton UT 84041
9781423619314, $40.00, www.gibbs-smith.com

Atomic Ranch Midcentury Interiors belongs in any home renovation and interior design collection and provides keys to how to spice and fix a boring ranch-style house. Eight examples of great ranch-style interiors are provided in a lively survey of featured homes that includes interviews with homeowners, keys to creating a ranch style that is artistic yet family-friendly, and notes on why each interior design works. Lovely color examples pack every page and make for an outstanding presentation.


The Political Science Shelf

Beyond Great Powers And Hegemons
Kristen P. Williams, et al.
Stanford University Press
1450 Page Mill Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94304-1124
www.sup.org
9780804771641, $25.95, www.amazon.com

The word 'hegemon' means a leading or paramount power. International politics has always been a matter of stronger states forming alliances with weaker ones, and of weaker states banding together to oppose a stronger one. In "Beyond Great Powers and Hegemons: Why Secondary States Support, Follow, or Challenge", the editorial team of Kristen P. Williams (Professor of Political Science at Clark University), Steven E. Lobell (Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Utah), and Neal G. Jesse (Associate Professor of Political Science at Bowling Green State University) collaborate to deftly assemble fourteen essays by experts in their field to examine why weaker states follow more powerful global or regional states or tacitly or openly resist their goals, and how weaker states navigate their relationships with the hegemon. Informed and informative, "Beyond Great Powers And Hegemons" is highly recommended reading and a significant contribution to academic library 'International Studies' and 'Political Science' reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

State of Disrepair
Kori N. Schake
Hoover Institution Press
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305-6010
9780817914547, $19.95, www.hooverpress.org

The United States is not alone, and the State department must realize that. "State of Disrepair: Fixing the Culture and Practices of the State Department" discusses the importance of the United States State department rising to the challenge and reducing the use of military force throughout the world must play in acting harmoniously with the rest of the world, and that civilian agencies could do well in perpetuating trade and peace around the world. With a powerful read of the problems America faces and how to move towards a solution, "State of Disrepair" is a strong addition to any international issues and politics collection.

American Gridlock
H. Woody Brock
Wiley
c/o Wiley Professional Trade Group
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9780470638927, $27.95, www.wiley.com

AMERICAN GRIDLOCK: WHY THE RIGHT AND LEFT ARE BOTH WRONG refutes the popular notion that the choice before us is not between free market capitalism and a government-driven economy, but rather requires constructive policies that allow 'true' capitalism to flourish plus provide social policies that helps those in need. This book identifies five challenges critical to the nation's future, showing how deductive logic can change how we think about problems and provide win-win solutions that transcend the current Left/Right divide. Any collection strong in historical, economic or political surveys needs this different discussion.

Strategic Vision
Zbigniew Brzezinski
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465029549, $26.00, www.basicbooks.com

STRATEGIC VISION: AMERICA AND THE CRISIS OF GLOBAL POWER comes from a former National Security Advisor who considers the cause and effect of changes in global power and provides insights into the future role America and the West must play to keep the world stable. Brzezinski provides a 'balance sheet' outlining liabilities in America, such as national debt and public ignorance, versus assets - economic strength, innovation and democratic strengths. Chapters identify world changes, question whether any other nation can in fact replace the United States in world status, and call for a new geopolitical balance in the world. Such changes will depend on the ability of the West to include other countries as partners in its sphere of influence, and STRATEGIC VISION is a powerful documentation of the steps that must be taken to ensure continued American success.

Occupy World Street
Ross Jackson
Chelsea Green Publishing Company
85 North Main Street, Suite 120
White River Junction, VT 05001
9781603583886, $19.95, www.chelseagreen.com

OCCUPY WORLD STREET: A GLOBAL ROADMAP FOR RADICAL ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL REFORM offers a fine, clear description of global financial practices that have driven world economics to the edge of ruin, offering keys to how these nations can take back their economies, form new global trade alliances based on humane associations and goals, and phase out global institutions that have fostered disaster. The focus on replacing them with sustainable economies and groups that respect human rights makes for a powerful social and political argument perfect for any college-level classroom or library.


The Fashion Shelf

Fashion Design Course Accessories
Jane Schaffer & Sue Saunders, authors
Lily de Gatacre, editor
Caroline Guest, art director
Moira Clinch, creative director
Barron's Educational Series. Inc.
250 Wireless Boulevard, Hauppauge, NY 11788
9780764147548, $25.99, www.barronseduc.com

"Fashion Design Course: Accessories, Design Practice and Processes for Creating Hats, Bags, Shoes, and Other Fashion" is a head-turning, state -of- the- art creative fashion text on accessories from two of London's most distinguished millinery and footwear experts. Using the latest in advanced technologies, theory of design and the creative process is linked with specific components of sophisticated handbag, footwear, and millinery, and other fashion accessories design, creation, and marketing. Incredible color photography and artwork illustrate dazzling design examples throughout all chapters of this artistic fashion design text. In addition to the creative process, handbags, footwear, and millinery, there are sections on small leather goods design and construction and also resources and professional practice. Crucial to design development and projection are the underlying components such as portfolio presentation, creating your resume, resources such as competitions, internships, or graduate training programs, and further information about recruitment agencies and where to study more about fashion accessories design. An extensive glossary is presented for each area of handbags, footwear, millinery, and small leather goods, in addition to a general reading list. Thoroughly researched and beautifully documented, "Fashion Design Course: Accessories" is a must read text for students, interns, and practitioners of fashion accessory design as an art form.

A Guy's Guide to Style
H. F. Ullmann
c/o 60 Cycle Media Relations LLC
38 High Avenue, 4th floor office
Nyack, New York 10960
9783848000289, $19.99, www.ullmann-publishing.com

Style isn't just for women any more. "A Guy's Guide to Style" is a resource for men who want to bring themselves up to quality and style in the modern era where style is expected out of men, and t-shirts and jeans won't cut it. With advice for every situation and expectation, "A Guy's Guide to Style" is presented in full color and is a solid and very much recommended read, not to be overlooked for those who want to avoid the modern fashion faux paus.

Lillian Bassman: Lingerie
Lillian Bassman
Abrams
115 W. 18th St., New York NY 10011
9781419702150, $29.95, www.abramsbooks.com

LILLIAN BASSMAN: LINGERIE is a pick for any arts collection strong in fashion or fashion photography and gathers over 80 black and white photos that showcase women's lingerie over a sixty-year period. Lillian Bassman worked with fashion magazines and ad agencies throughout the 1950s and 60s, and her work influenced some of the fashion trends of the era. Fifty years later her ads remain powerful images and this collection of her best work deserves a place in any fashion or fashion photography collection.

Emerging Fashion Designers 2
Sally Congdon-Martin
Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764337918, $39.99, www.schifferbooks.com

Emerging Fashion Designers 2 appears in an impressive second updated edition to highlight garments and illustrations for all kinds of clothes, from evening wear to children's wear, and packs in original designs by some sixty recent graduates from 12 top fashion designer programs in this country. Each design is accompanied by a fashion biography of its designer, offering insights into how designers perceive evolving fashion. The author was a fashion writer living in Shanghai China, writing for local magazines about fashion and retail: her take on the latest talents and trends in fashion is a 'must' for any arts collection strong in modern fashion trends.


The Art Shelf

Grete Prytz Kittelsen
Karianne Bjellas Gilje, editor
W. W. Norton & Company
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110
www.wwnorton.com
9780393733310, $55.00, www.amazon.com

The late Grete Prytz Kittelsen (born Margrethe Adelgunde Prytz) (28 June 1917, Oslo - 25 September 2010, Oslo), was a Norwegian goldsmith, enamel artist, and designer. She is one of the most well-known Norwegians in the Scandinavian Design movement. The collaborative project of Karianne Bjellas Gilje (head of program at the Foundation for Design and Architecture in Norway), curator and writer Thomas Flor, Widar Halen (director of design and decorative arts at the National Museum of Art, Architecture, and Design), Jan-Lauritz Opstad (director of the Museum of Decorative Arts in Trondheim), and Astrid Skjerven (a professor in the Department of Product Design at Akershus University College), "Grete Prytz Kittelsen: The Art of Enamel Design" is the first comprehensive study of her work in the field of enamel design. This profusely and beautifully illustrated 288-page compendium is comprised of seven informed and informative essays by experts in the work of Grete Prytz Kittelsen. Enhanced with the inclusion of extensive notations, a catalog of works, a chronology, sources list, bibliography, and a comprehensive index, "Grete Prytz Kittelsen: The Art of Enamel Design" is highly recommended for personal, academic, and community library 20th Century Art History collections.

Waikiki Tiki
Phillip S. Roberts
The Bess Press
3565 Harding Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
www.besspress.com
9781573063111, $22.95, www.amazon.com

The Tiki is an iconic image of aboriginal Hawaiian culture which has become co-opted into modern society associated with Hawai'i's tourist industry from settings for luaus to gift shop memorabilia. That's why Phillip S. Roberts' profusely illustrated, 264-page compendium "Waikiki Tiki: Art, History and Photographs" is such a welcome and much appreciated insightful history of the Tiki that is both sacred and an imbedded part of Polynesian popular culture. Beginning with and extensive, informed and informative ten-page introduction, followed by illustrated chapters on 'A Modern Tiki History in Brief' and 'The Influence of Brownlee in Hawai'i', each captioned photograph presents a complete montage of images that are inherently fascinating, making "Waikiki Tiki: Art, History and Photographs" a valued and highly recommended addition to personal reading lists, as well as academic and community library "Hawai'ian Studies' reference collections.

Lines for Birds
Barry Hill & John Wolseley
UWA Press
c/o International Specialized Book Services
920 Northeast 58th Avenue, Suite 300
Portland, OR 97213
9781921401534, $59.95, www.isbs.com

The majesty of avian kind has captivated many through the years. "Lines for Birds" is a collection of art and poetry from poet Barry Hill & painter John Wolseley as they present a unique explanation of our wonder when looking to the skies. From their curiosity of the world around them, their bold life style, and their never resting life styles. Drawing heavily from the birds of Australia, their inspiration is worldwide. "Lines for Birds" is a fine compilation of poetry and full color artwork, very much recommended for coffee tables and art collections.

The Drawing Mind
Deborah Putnoi
Trumpeter Books
c/o Shambhala Publications, Inc.
Horticultural Hall
300 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02115-4544
9781590309438, $17.95, www.shambhala.com

Artistry lies in us all. "The Drawing Mind: Silence Your Inner Critic and Release Your Creative Spirit" discusses how to embrace one's own creativity and gain a more clear knowledge of one's potential, and the drive to make the most of one's own art. Deborah Putnoi encourages readers to delve into their own minds and do what they can to get their mind's artwork out onto some form of expression. "The Drawing Mind" is a fine and much recommended pick for those who want to tap into their own creative energies.

Ironwork Today 3: Inside and Out
Jeffrey B. Snyder
Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764338762, $50.00, www.schifferbooks.com

Ironwork Today 3: Inside and Out packs in over 400 color photos documenting a range of iron art pieces being created by modern artist-blacksmiths across the country, and is a pick for any arts holding. It ranges from sculpture to furniture, gates and more and is third in the series. Interviews with each artist offer perspective on both artistic perception and the special challenges of working with iron. Homeowners, designers, artists and blacksmiths alike will all be interested in this series in general and this latest addition in particular.

The Invention of Glory
Miguel Angel de Buenes Ibarra, et.al.
Hudson Hills Press
PO Box 205
3556 Main Street, Manchester, VT 05254
9781555953751, $64.00, www.hudsonhills.com

The Invention of Glory: Afonso V and the Pastrana Tapestries is a 'must' for any Medieval arts collection, whether or not the holding is in a town where the traveling exhibition will be presented. It highlights the recently restored Pastrana tapestries of the 1470s - a group of four towering works - and displays wool and silk pictures of military, royal and maritime life of the era. The color representations and oversized, full-page survey is a gorgeous pick for any interested in Medieval art and culture.


The Psychology Shelf

PsycEssentials
Janet L. Sonne
American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
www.apa.org/books
9781433811173, $39.95, www.amazon.com

"PsycEssentials: A Pocket Resource For Mental Health Practitioners" is a handy, accessible, spiral bound, 312-page compendium covering every aspect of situations most common the practice of psychotherapy and counseling. From an initial clinical assessment interview, to child abuse reporting, to psychopharmacotherapies, to records and record keeping, to resources for clients and their significant others, and so much more, "PsycEssentials" is thoroughly 'user friendly' and an invaluable, highly recommended addition to the working reference shelf of professional psychologists and counselors.

Asylum on the Hill
Katherine Ziff
Ohio State University Press
180 Pressey Hall, 1070 Carmack Road
Columbus, OH 43210-1002
9780821419731, $35.00, www.ohiostatepress.org

For much of America's history, mental health treatment was more akin to a prison. "Asylum on the Hill: History of a Healing Landscape" delves into this shining beacon psychiatric care in the 19th century, the Athens Lunatic Asylum. Approaching the mentally ill with care above simply locking the troubled away, they used physicians and rehabilitation with much success through the mid twentieth century. "Asylum on the Hill" is a fine documentation with photography throughout, making for a strong and recommended pick for history collections.

Getting Past Your Past
Francine Shapiro, PhD
Rodale Press, Inc.
400 South Tenth Street
Emmaus, PA 18098-0099
9781594864254, $26.99, www.rodale.com

GETTING PAST YOUR PAST: TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE WITH SELF-HELP TECHNIQUES FROM EMDR THERAPY comes from the originator of EMDR therapy, who discovered that moving her eyes in certain ways reduced the impact of disturbing thoughts and memories. She developed the form of psychotherapy based on her research and here shares her knowledge and techniques in a guide that discusses behavior development, personality development, and how readers can understand both themselves and those who influenced their lives. Many people stuffer from PTSD symptoms even though they have never experienced a major trauma: this book tells how to get a handle on earlier life events and how to use EMDR techniques to improve relationships and life. A fine recommendation for any psychology collection!

The Emotional Life of Your Brain
Richard J. Davidson, PhD and Sharon Begley
Hudson Street Press
c/o Penguin Group USA
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
9781594630897, $25.95, www.penguingroup.com

The Emotional Life of Your Brain: How Its Unique Patterns Affect the Way You Think, Feel, and Live - and How You Can Change Them comes from a leading pioneer in brain science whose 30 years of research has produced hundreds of findings in how the brain operates. Connections between the brain and human thought and perception are provided in a new model of our emotions and their relationship to brain chemistry. The book doesn't stop with the science of brain operations: it accompanies strategies for changing our own brains and emotions and addresses many common problems, from being terminally scatterbrained to being in a state of distress. The information thus works through the mind to change the brain and will offer inspiration to many.


The Social Issues Shelf

Campaign It!
Alan Barnard & Chris Parker
Kogan Page USA
1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19102
9780749464202, $34.95, www.koganpageusa.com

Communication is the key to success in so many avenues. "Campaign It!: Achieving Success Through Communication" is a powerful read from communications experts in Alan Barnard and Chris Parker as they bring readers through how to use the power of communication to organize efforts to bring positive change to the worlds of business, politics, and culture in general. With tips on using everything from Twitter to Facebook and getting the passion out there, "Campaign It!" is a strong pick for social issues and new media focused collections.

Humane Migration
Christine G. T. Ho & James Loucky
Kumarian Press
c/o Stylus Publishing
22883 Quicksilver Drive, Sterling, VA 20166
9781565493193, $24.95, www.kpbooks.com

At the end of one's rope, one will give up anything to find their place in life once more. "Humane Migration: Establishing Legitimacy and Rights for Displaced People" discusses the advances of immigration law and how they are affecting more than immigrants. Christine G. T. Ho & James Loucky provide a scholarly exploration of the impact of the anti-immigration rhetoric that is prevalent in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and that migration should be a basic human right, "Humane Migration" is a strong pick for social issues collections.

Introductions to Homeland Security
Keith Gregory Logan & James D. Ramsay
Westview Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10016
9780813345987, $42.00, www.perseusbooksgroup.com

Since that fateful day in 2001, the home front has been a strong military focus. "Introductions to Homeland Security" discusses the dynamics that goes into the modern processes of Homeland security that those who are to practice it. Compiled of essays from intellectuals, academics, and those involved in the homeland security process, the combined expertise of professors Keith Gregory Logan & James D. Ramsay presents a comprehensive treatise on the role of homeland security. "Introductions to Homeland Security" is a strong addition to any social issues collection, highly recommended.

The Democratic Contradictions of Multiculturalism
Jens-Martin Eriksen & Frederik-Stjernfelt
Telos Press Publishing
431 East 12th Street
New York, NY 10009
9780914386469, $24.95, www.telospress.com

A more accepting world is what we all say we want, but sometimes our actions contradict our words. "The Democratic Contradictions of Multiculturalism" as Jens-Martin Eriksen & Frederik-Stjernfelt as they discuss the implications that come with multiculturalism and the movements that have been made around the world, their words, and empty promises. From the responses of the people, the many faiths, and politics, "The Democratic Contradictions of Multiculturalism" provides a focus on Islam, but its words are valid in discussing any religious integration into society around the world.

Blue Collar Intellectuals
Daniel J. Flynn
ISI Books
3901 Centerville Road
Wilmington, DE 19807-1938
9781610170208, $27.95, www.isibooks.org

Intellectualism is treated as a virus by some, but Daniel J. Flynn encourages it being embraced by all. "Blue Collar Intellectuals: When the Enlightened and the Everyman Elevated America" discusses how the blue collar everyman can aspire to think, using stories of twentieth century success stories of people from non-academic backgrounds rising up and presenting new developments in thought on many levels. From building oneself up from nothing using knowledge, embracing reading and using the knowledge gained even from pulp fiction novels. "Blue Collar Intellectuals" is a powerful read on the value of thinking for oneself despite the anti-intellectualism of today's society.

Consent of the Networked
Rebecca MacKinnon
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465024421, $26.99, www.basicbooks.com

Consent of the Networked: The Worldwide Struggle for Internet Freedom comes from an Internet freedom activist who argues for debate over how technology should be structured to support the rights and liberties of the entire world's Internet user population. Citizens concerned about these liberties receive a fine survey that draws upon two decades of experience to consider how government actions and unaccountable company practices threaten the future of democracy around the world, and calls into question practices that will eventually erode the Internet's capabilities. From issues of censorship and governance to ideas of government and private control systems, this book is packed with a call to action to defend civil liberties, and is a top pick for any social issues collection.

Lessons from Ground Zero: Media Response to Terror
Ralph Izard & Jay Perkins, Editors
Transaction Publishers
300 McGaw Drive, Edison NJ 08837
9781412813365, $39.95, www.transactionpub.com

Lessons from Ground Zero: Media Response to Terror deserves ongoing recognition as a fine analysis suitable for any college-level social issues or media studies collection, considering journalism's efforts to cover a major crisis and analyzing the lessons learned by journalists from 9/11. Chapters also consider whether these lessons ultimately resulted in better journalistic practice, blending scholarly research with interviews of those writers who covered 9/11 in a range of media. What did media do differently in covering the crisis, and why did public approval of journalism show a decline in popularity? This gathers lessons from the event and is a strong recommendation for any college-level collection.

This Changes Everything
Sarah van Gelder, Editor
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781609945879, $9.95, www.bkconnection.com

THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING: OCCUPY WALL STREET AND THE 99% MOVEMENT comes from the editors of YES! Magazine and gathers perspectives from within and outside the movement to convey the issues and intentions behind the Occupy Wall Street movement. Contributions by Ralph Nader and others join those by Occupy activists who fostered the movement and provides a powerful synthesis of articles highly recommended for any social or political issues collection.

The Self-Made Myth
Brian Miller and Mike Lapham
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650
San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781609945060, $17.95, www.bkconnection.com

Suitable for business, political science, economics and social issues holdings alike, THE SELF-MADE MYTH AND THE TRUTH ABOUT HOW GOVERNMENT HELPS INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESS SUCCEED gathers important evidence about the role government and society have played in the success of American business leaders. Testimonials of entrepreneurs who recognize the important role public investments and government supports play accompany influences on the creation of wealth and success which supersede the myth of the self-made man or business. A powerful pick for any library considering the fundamentals of social success!


The Library Science Shelf

Disaster Response and Planning for Libraries
Miriam B. Kahn
ALA Editions
c/o American Library Association
50 East Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60611
9780838911518, $54.00, www.alastore.ala.org

Disasters happen, and having a plan can minimize damage. "Disaster Response and Planning for Libraries" is a guide for librarians and administrators for minimizing the damage of a bad situation. Natural disasters, power outages, maintenance problems, among others can wreak havoc on a library that isn't kept under control. Miriam B. Kahn, library consultant, advises on dealing with damage, what to do with damaged materials, technology recovery, and keeping account of what's on hand and what may have been lost. "Disaster Response and Planning for Libraries" is a strong pick for library science reference shelves.

U Content
Nicholas G. Tomaiuolo
Information Today, Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike
Medford, NJ 08055-8750
9781573874250, $49.50, www.infotoday.com

In the new generation of the web, user created content is king. "U Content: The Information Professional's Guide to User-Generated Content" discusses the impact that user created content has had on the world of information today, and how many librarians and information professionals are dealing with the sudden surge of information from many sources, and better deal with these new additions. "U Content" is a strong pick for any library science and technology collection that wants to better handle their surge of information in today's world, using real world examples of effective use of media.

No Shelf Required 2
Sue Polanko, Editor
American Library Association
50 E. Huron St., Chicago IL 60611
9780838911457, www.alastore.ala.org

No Shelf Required 2: Use and Management of Electronic Books gathers articles for librarians on managing ebook lending and is a 'must' for any librarian looking to develop a collection beyond the printed word. Chapters discuss everything from acquiring to managing ebooks and address changes in lending routines, budgets, and weeding. Articles come from practicing professional librarians and provide fine assessments of all the issues involved in incorporating ebooks into a lending environment. The result is a powerful reference for any collection developer interested in ebook acquisition and management.


The Genealogy Shelf

How to Do Everything Genealogy, third edition
George G. Morgan
McGraw-Hill
c/o The McGraw Hill Companies
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10121-2298
007178084X, $25.00, www.mhprofessional.com

The third updated edition of How to Do Everything Genealogy is a 'must' for any general lending library interested in genealogy trends and research strategies. It shows how to conduct a family history research project using online databases, digitized records, social networks, and traditional research and tells how to locate resources around the world. From locating hard-to-find records to using DNA genealogy and the latest technologies, this is a fine resource for any general collection.


The Science Shelf

The Fungal Pharmacy
Robert Rogers, RH
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
9781556439537, $29.95, www.northatlanticbooks.com

THE FUNGAL PHARMACY: THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS & LICHENS OF NORTH AMERICA is a 'must' reference for mycologists, mushroom hunters, and practitioners of natural health care, and comes from a herbalist who synthesizes an array of knowledge on over three hundred species of medicinal mushrooms and lichens found in North America. Full color photos pack a survey of clinical studies, homeopathic uses, global folklore and cultural references, and more, and is the first book in the field that investigates the pathological patterns of the medicinal mushrooms rather than their pharmacological profiles. A 'must' reference for any serious mycological collection, as there's nothing as extensive currently in print.

In Pursuit of the Unknown
Ian Stewart
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South
New York NY 10016
9780465029730, $26.99, www.basicbooks.com

IN PURSUIT OF THE UNKNOWN: 17 EQUATIONS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD offers a fine history of math and examines some seventeen influential equations in the process of considering this history. Equations have played a key role in creating today's world, and this uses the best to illustrate math's relationship to changing perceptions and technological innovations. Seventeen chapters hold an equation per chapter in roughly chronological order and holds five math equations, ten from physics, one from information theory, and one from finance. It's a top pick for any who would understand the history and influence of math across disciplines.

Turing's Cathedral
George Dyson
Pantheon
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor
New York, NY 10019
9780375422775, $29.95, www.pantheonbooks.com

TURING'S CATHEDRAL: THE ORIGINS OF THE DIGITAL UNIVERSE provides a science biography for any computer, science or biography collection and tells of a small group of men and women led by John von Neumann who built one of the first computers to realize Alan Turing's 1936 vision of a single machine which could be used to compute any sequence. Their work would transform how numbers were perceived and later decades building on their work would create a new digital universe in the years following World War II. From Alan Turing's initial vision and model to today's computers, science and history comes to life in a lively coverge many a general interest reader will relish!

Fourier Transforms in Radar and Signal Processing, second edition
David Brandwood
Artech House
685 Canton St., Norwood MA 02062
9781608071975, $139.00, www.artechhouse.com

The second updated edition of Fourier Transforms in Radar and Signal Processing is a pick for electrical engineers working in radar, sonar and signal processing and provides a newly revised, expanded edition updating details on performing Fourier transforms in a variety of applications. The entire process has been updated and this edition also includes a new chapter on periodic waveforms - a topic not covered in any other book. An accompanying DVD contains MATLAB programs that implement many of the results in the book, making this a fine pick for any engineering collection.


The Nautical Shelf

The Citizen's Guide to the U. S. Navy
Thomas J. Cutler
Naval Institute Press
291 Wood Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
9781591141570, $22.95, www.navalinstitute.org

The United States boasts the strongest Navy in the world today. "The Citizen's Guide to the U.S. Navy" is a comprehensive exploration of the American Navy, explaining the purpose of the Navy, its missions, its people, and a crash course in many Navy terms, as well as its long and important history. Informative and a great introduction in learning about the Navy, "The Citizen's Guide to the U.S. Navy" is a strongly recommended pick for military history collections.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Becoming Dinosaurs
David Trexler
Sweetgrass Books
c/o Farcountry Press
PO Box 5630, Helena, MT 59604
9781591520924, $29.95, www.sweetgrassbooks.com

The earth, by most scientists measures, is 4 and half billion years old. And to understand its science, you have to review that science. "Becoming Dinosaurs: A Prehistoric Perspective on Climate Change Today" reviews the climate change debate, decrying the reliance on data that only focuses on the past hundred years, stating the debate they need to pay attention to is millions of years in scale. Arguing that if humanity does nothing, humanity's rule on the earth will follow the same route as the dinosaurs. "Becoming Dinosaurs" is a strong pick environmental and scientific history community library collections.


The Economic Studies Shelf

Moving Towards Sustainable Prosperity
The Worldwatch Institute
Island Press
1718 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 300
Washington, DC 20009-1148
9781610910378, $21.95, www.islandpress.org

Prosperity and environmentalism are not enemies. "Moving Toward Sustainable Prosperity" discusses how the world can encourage economic growth while staying true to the environment. Stating that the world has been abusing much of the environment and economically the world is in bad shape as well. The thinkers of the Worldwatch Institute present their own ideas on how to reverse both fronts and present a better future for both mankind's wallets and the environment. A wise read for the world's future, "Moving Toward Sustainable Prosperity" is a solid and much recommended read for environmental and science collections.

The Decline in Saving
Barry P. Bosworth
Brookings Institution Press
1775 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036-2188
9780815721352, $26.95, www.brookings.edu

The personal safety net of savings seems non-existent in the modern day. "The Decline in Saving: A Threat to America's Prosperity" discusses the fall of savings for many of Americans and how the lack of savings in America is the biggest threat to continued prosperity in America. Economist Barry P. Bosworth presents a comprehensive and thoughtful exploration of finance and economics, outlining the causes and effects on the fall of savings accounts. "The Decline in Saving" is a scholarly and much needed addition to the modern economic debate.


The Large Print Shelf

A Dark Legacy
Benita Brown
Magna
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
PO Box 1230
West Seneca, NY 14224-1230
9780750534352, $35.50, www.ulverscroftusa.com

The decisions we make have life long repercussions. "A Dark Legacy" is a novel of romance and a love rectangle between Bethany, Greg, Paul, and Duncan, leaving Bethany with a hard choice... but the weight of her choice grows only heavier, as no matter where she throws her lot, she will make enemies and she may yet regret it. "A Dark Legacy" is a riveting read, a fine addition to any large print romance collection, highly recommended.


The Real Estate Shelf

Rent vs. Own
Jane Hodges
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street
San Francisco, CA 94107
9781452102535, $18.95, www.chroniclebooks.com

Amount of money on hand shouldn't be the only factor in deciding what to do for a home. "Rent vs. Own: A Real Estate Reality Check for Navigating Booms, Busts, and Bad Advice" is a guide for prospective home seekers and owners, as Jane Hodges presents a knowledgeable breakdown of elements to be considered on many levels. From understanding the future of the market, the dangers and benefits of mortgages, loans, and when to seek professional help, "Rent vs. Own" is a wise and recommended pick for anyone at the edge of making serious financial decisions.


The Autism Shelf

Destination Friendship
Mary Benton, et al.
AAPC Publishing
Box 23173, Shawnee Mission, KS 66283-1073
www.aapcpublishing.net
9781934575901, $26.95, www.amazon.com

One of the common symptoms of autism in children and adults is social isolation. In "Destination Friendship: Developing Social Skills For Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders Or Other Social Challenges", the team of Mary Benton (retired special education consultant for the Capital Area Intermediate Unit in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania), Carol Hollis (educational consultant for autism with the Capital Area Intermediate Unit in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania), Kelly Mahler (pediatric occupational therapist in the Central Pennsylvania region specializing in the development of self-regulation and social cognition skills), and Alice Womer (speech-language pathologist and educational consultant with the Capital Area Intermediate Unit in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania) draw collectively upon their many years of experience and expertise to compile a 250-page compendium thoroughly 'user friendly' and 'real world' activities, strategies, and techniques effectively supporting the development of specific and universal friendship skills in children with ASD as part of a practical, stimulating, and entertaining environment that is especially conducive to education. "Destination Friendship" is enhanced with the inclusion of forms, games, and print outs, making it very strongly recommended for parental, professional, school, and academic library Autism reference collections and supplemental reading lists, .

Be Different
John Elder Robison
Broadway
c/o Random House
1745 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
9780307884824, $14.00, www.broadwaypaperbacks.com

When a mind works differently, it's quite difficult for others to understand. "Be Different: My Adventures with Asperger's and My Advice for Fellow Aspergians, Misfits, Families, and Teachers" is a discussion from John Elder Robison as he presents a definition of Aspergers syndrome and how to fully understand what it means, and how Aspergers isn't a disability but is simply different. "Be Different" is a strong addition to any community library psychology collection, very much recommended reading.


The Literary Studies Shelf

Robin Hood
Paul Buhle
PM Press
PO Box 23912, Oakland, CA 94623
9781604863185, $15.00, www.pmpress.com

To break the law for the greater good is a trope that has its roots in the legend of a fourteenth century forest bandit. "Robin Hood: People's Outlaw and Forest Hero" chronicles the impact of the legend, looking at its historical context and its continual impact that lives on in modern media and pop culture, romanticizing the people's outlaw ideal. With plenty of art strewn about the writing, "Robin Hood" is a strong addition to any literary studies collection focusing on legends of popular culture.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

Bitter Freedom
Jafa Wallach
Gihon River Press
c/o KSB Promotions
55 Honey Creek NE, Ada, MI 49301
9780981990637, $18.95, www.gihonriverpress.cm

Face to face with evil, it can be hard to scourge such events from one's mind. "Bitter Freedom" is a memoir from Jafa Wallach, as she shares her personal journey as a Polish Jew, how her tormentors were always not so far away and how the experience remains with you all of your life, even when you hang in there for seven decades after the fact. "Bitter Freedom" is a powerful read for memoir collections focusing on the Holocaust.


The Anthropology Shelf

The Metamorphoses of Kinship
Maurice Godelier
Verso
20 Jay Street, 10th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201-8346
9781844677467, $49.95, www.versobooks.com

Humanity has become far removed from the remote tribal societies. "The Metamorphoses of Kinship" discusses the evolution of friendship, romance, and family has rapidly changed in past decades and what this had done to society. Exploring the concepts of the nuclear family, the facts and myths of child rearing, the impact of modern society, and the role of homosexual couples in the role of society, Maurice Godelier provides a fascinating read for those intrigued by anthropology. "The Metamorphoses of Kinship" is a strong addition to any social issues, anthropology, or history collection.


The Language Studies Shelf

Chinese In Motion
Yi Lin
Cheng & Tsui Company
25 West Street, Boston, MA 02111-1213
www.cheng-tsui.com
9780887275029, $49.99, www.amazon.com

The value of being fluent in Chinese will only increase as the economic, political, and cultural relationship of China and America continues to build in complexity and breadth over the next few decades. For Chinese language students who have achieved competency by completing Tao-Chung Yao's "Integrated Chinese Level 2, Part 2" (Cheng & Tsui, 9780887276767, $24.99), "Chinese In Motion" focuses upon student field work as the core of a comprehensive study abroad experience and offers professional-level vocabulary and sentence structures presented in context to aid acquisition of professional language ability. Featuring targeted themes and dialogues that focus each lesson on topics relevant to contemporary China and enhanced with superbly designed in interactive lesson outlines that build on student at-home preparation for more effective in-class learning, "Chinese In Motion" is an ideal textbook and Chinese Language curriculum supplement. Also very highly recommended from Cheng & Tsui for those seeking fluency in Chinese language studies is Madeline K. Spring's "Making Connections: Enhance Your Listening Comprehension In Chinese" (9780887277672, $44.99).

Introduction To Old English, third edition
Peter S. Baker
Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148
www.wiley.com
9780470659847, $44.95, www.amazon.com

Now in a newly revised and updated third edition, "Introduction To Old English" is a 416-page compendium specifically written to assist students with no expertise in either other languages or in traditional grammar who are grappling with Old English literature. A combination grammar and reader, "Introduction To Old English" expands the coverage of Old English manuscripts, runes, and other inscriptions from previous editions. Of special note is that individual chapters includes basic grammar reviews at their beginning and a 'minitext' feature for practicing Old English readings. Enhanced with new anthology readings, common spelling variants, phonetic symbols and terms, a glossary, references, and a comprehensive index, "Introduction To Old English" is an ideal student textbook and highly recommended addition to academic library instructional reference collections.

Vergil's Aeneid
Barbara Weiden Boyd
Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers
1570 Baskin Road, Mundelein, IL 60060
www.bolchazy.com
9780865167643, $37.00, www.amazon.com

Vergil was is influential literary figure from Roman antiquity down to the present day. Generations of students have studied his works as a means of gaining fluency in the Latin language. In "Vergil's Aeneid: Selected Readings from Books 1, 2, 4, and 6", academician Barbara Weiden Boyd draws upon her many years of experience and expertise as the Henry Winkley Professor of Latin and Greek at Bowdoin College to produce an annotated 298-page compendium specifically designed to be a curriculum text for high school and college 'Advanced Placement' courses. Beginning with an informed and informative introduction on the life and work of Vergil, "Vergil's Aeneid: Selected Readings from Books 1, 2, 4, and 6" includes same-page vocabulary notes, a General Word List, a selected bibliography, and more. Highly recommended for academic library "Latin Language Studies" reference collections, "Vergil's Aeneid: Selected Readings from Books 1, 2, 4, and 6" is ideal for a self-study Latin Studies personal reading list.


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