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Library Bookwatch

Volume 5, Number 9 September 2010 Home | LBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Library CD Music Shelf Library Science Shelf
Calendar Shelf Writing/Publising Shelf Fiction Shelf
Poetry Shelf Library DVD Shelf Audiobook Shelf
Photography Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Christian Studies Shelf
Parenting Shelf Biography Shelf Holocaust Studies Shelf
Travel Shelf Interior Design Shelf Architectural Shelf
Political Science Shelf Self-Help Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Women's Studies Shelf American History Shelf Education Shelf
Money/Finance Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf World History Shelf
Judaic Studies Shelf Business Shelf Social Issues Shelf
Civil War Shelf Sports Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Psychology Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
Philosophy Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf Needlecraft Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

The Real Man's Guide to Fixin' Stuff
Nick Harper
Sourcebooks
PO Box 4410, Naperville, IL 60567-4410
9781402230028, $12.99, www.sourcebooks.com

Being able to fix something is a skill lost to many modern men. "The Real Man's Guide to Fixin' Stuff: How to Repair Anything You Need (or Just Want) to Know How to Fix" is a guide to being the handyman of legend, and to become the Mr. Fix It that has been lost to time. With tips on fixing everything from busted high heels to what's really important like television remotes, "The Real Man's Guide to Fixin' Stuff" is a guide that's not to be missed.

Elsie & Mairi Go To War
Diane Atkinson
Pegasus Books
80 Broad Street, Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10004
9781605980942, $26.00, www.pegasus.us

Time is the most valuable resource in saving lives. "Elsie & Mairi Go to War" tells the story of Elsie Knocker and Mairi Chisholm, two women with an unusual for the time love of motorcycles and how they set up their own first aid stations near the front lines, placing their own lives on the line in the process. Gaining fame for their heroism, returning to normal life wasn't easy. "Elsie & Mairi Go to War" is an exciting read of friendship, fame, and living against the grain.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Ripley
Ripley Entertainment
7576 Kingspointe Pkway, Suite 188, Orlando, FL 32819
9781893951631, $28.95, www.ripleybooks.com

There are many strange and fascinating things in the world. "Ripley's Believe It or Not!: Enter If You Dare!" is a fascinating collection of facts and notes covering the many strange topics. Everything from the human body being pushed to its very limit, the strange creatures in the world, and unique customs, and new art forms, "Ripley's Believe It or Not!" is a fascinating and highly distracting piece of work that one can get lost in for hours.

Everybody Marries The Wrong Person
Christine Meinecke
New Horizon Press
PO Box 669, Far Hills, NJ 07931
9780882823195, $14.95, www.newhorizonpressbooks.com

Nobody is perfect and as soon as one realizes this, the relationship possibilities open wide. "Everybody Marries The Wrong Person: Turning Flawed Into Fulfilling Relationships" is a guide to good relationships in a world where happily ever after is a myth. With tips on finding the fixable flaws in a relationship, having the wisdom to not change the impossible, and keeping a relationship strong through the years, "Everybody Marries the Wrong Person" is a read that should help everyone find their realistic expectations in their soulmate.

Pearl Buying Guide
Renee Newman
International Jewelry Publications
560 W. Main St., Suite C-200, Alhambra, CA 91801
9780929975443, $19.95, www.reneenewman.com

Being a smart shopper makes your purchases all the more beautiful. "Pearl Buying Guide: How to Identify and Evaluate Pearls & Pearl Jewelry" is a guide for the wise shopper with a love for pearls to avoid the many pitfalls that come with pearl shopping, such as fakes, procedures done to pearls, how to turn simple jewelry into something greater, and more, "Pearl Buying Guide" is a must for any pearl lover who wants their jewelry dollar to go further.


The Library CD Music Shelf

Chocolate Paper Suites
Krista Detor
Airtime Studio
c/o Rock Paper Scissors (publicity)
511 West 4th Street, Suite 2, Bloomington, IN 47404
CD, $15.99, www.kristadetor.com

Produced, Recorded & Mixed by David Weber at Airtime Studio, Chocolate Paper Suites is the latest music CD album by genre-defying artist Krista Detor, whose life reached a turning point at age 30, when her birth parents contacted and she discovered the rapture of freely choosing to pursue one's own dreams and live one's life to the fullest. Part of the genesis for the lyrics to the "Oranges Fall Like Rain" suite lies in when she languished in her cubicle-bound job as a real estate broker, looking down at an orange vendor and yearning to abandon her crushing daily grind to try something different. Chocolate Paper Suites brims with the determination to sink her teeth into the fruit of life's offerings, see the lands about her and craft something of wonder from the experience. The result is a captivating and inspirational treasury, highly recommended. The tracks are "Rich Man's Life" (4:04), "Lorca in Barcelona" (2:54), "Recklessness & Rust" (4:27), "Dazzling" (4:51), "All to do with the Moon" (3:25), "Teeter-Totter on a Star" (4:18), "Innuendo" (3:48), "Middle of a Breakdown" (3:35), "Deliver Me" (3:39), "A Hundred Years More" (2:55), "So Goes the Night" (5:07), "Small Things" (5:39), "From Miss Emma Brawley" (4:13), "Clock of the World" (5:35), and "Emma's Lullabye" (2:14).


The Library Science Shelf

Advocacy, Outreach and the Nation's Academic Libraries
William C. Welburn, Janice Welburn, & Beth McNeil
Association of College & Research Libraries
50 East Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60611
9780838985496, $40.00, www.ala.org

Libraries across the country are in danger. "Advocacy, Outreach and the Nation's Academic Libraries: A Call for Action" discusses the need for advocacy for these libraries and what they need to flourish and survive in today's society where libraries face budget cuts. Twelve chapters discuss public relations, campus libraries, the workplace, and more. "Advocacy, Outreach and the Nation's Academic Libraries" is a strong pick for anyone concerned for the future of America's academic libraries.

A Practical Writing Guide for Academics Librarians
Anne Langley & Jonathan D. Wallace
Chandros Publishing
c/o Neal-Schuman
100 William Street, Suite 2004, New York, NY 10038
9781843345329, $99.95, www.amazon.com

If you work with libraries of books and can't write effectively, it reflects poorly on the library. "A Practical Writing Guide for Academic Librarians" is a guide for librarians who want to keep their professional writing short and to the point while still conveying the information needed to be successful. With chapters ranging on such topics of landing the librarian job in the first place, presenting research, and more, Anne Langley and Jonathan Wallace provide an expert guide on the library system and what's expected of the pens of its librarians. Enhanced with many useful indexes, "A Practical Writing Guide for Academic Librarians" is a resource that belongs in every library science collection.


The Calendar Shelf

Tide-Mark
PO Box 20, Windsor, CT 06095-0020
www.tide-mark.com

Calendars are more than just ways of marking off the days, weeks and months of the year. More than just a scheduling resource for recording appointments, memorial occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, trip dates and vacation plans. The best of them are also inexpensive works of art and adornment that can liven up and esthetically elevate even the humblest home or office. One of the premier publishers of calendars has now begun to release their extensive collection of 2011 wall calendars. The photography-based calendars are enduringly impressive. The painting-based calendars are of museum collection quality. Especially recommended are three horticulturally oriented calendars for 2011 featuring superb examples of full color photography: "Celebrating Roses" (9781594906305, $13.95); "Container Gardening" (9781594906749, $13.95); "Fine Gardening Ideas" (9781594906787, $13.95). The painting-based calendars run the gamut from wildlife to classical art, to outer space, to the American Civil War and include "Wolves" (9781594906879, $13.95); "The Hunting Art Of Arthur Shilstone" (9781594906442, $13.95); "Space 2011 Calendar" (9781594906718, $13.95); "Masterpieces Of European Painting: Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art" (9781594906596, $13.95); "Masterpieces Of American Painting: Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art" (9781594906589, $13.95); "Hudson River Masterpieces: Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art" (9781594906572, $13.95); "Civil War: The Paintings Of Dan Nance" (9781594906152, $13.95). As is customary with Tide-Mark calendars, all twelve monthly images can be seen on the back of the calendars giving a complete perspective of what will be seen as each month progresses throughout the year. The quality of the individual images alone make these calendars truly extraordinary and enthusiastically recommended!


The Writing/Publising Shelf

Writing Your Bestseller
L. Perry Wilbury
Piccadilly Books, Ltd.
PO Box 25203, Colorado Springs, CO 80936
www.piccadillybooks.com
9780941599818, $14.95, www.amazon.com

In "Writing Your Bestseller: Everything You Need to Know to Become A Successful Author", L. Perry Wilbur draws upon his personal experience and considerable expertise as the published author of 31 books to date -- especially the highly recommended and instructive titles "How To Write Articles That Sell" (Allworth Press, 9781581150148, $19.95) and "Money In Your Mailbox" (Wiley, 9780471573302, $16.95) which should be standard reference titles for all aspiring authors seeking to establish themselves in successful professional writing careers and including self-publishing -- for his latest instructional reference work "Writing Your Bestseller: Everything You Need to Know to Become A Successful Author". This 163-page compendium is packed cover to cover with cogent addresses to a whole series of germane issues including how to make money writing books, finding ideas to write about, dealing with writer's block, writing resources, improving what you write, the role of a literary agent, evaluating potential publishers, payment arrangements for published works, and the all important topic of marketing your published titles. Thoroughly 'user friendly', "Writing Your Bestseller: Everything You Need to Know to Become A Successful Author" is an invaluable and recommended read for the novice, as well as having a great deal to offer by way of a refresher course for even the more experienced author.

The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!
Arlene Miller
Bigwords 101
PO Box 4483, Petaluma, CA 94955
9780984331604, $11.95, www.bigwords101.com

Articulation is an invaluable skill. "The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!: 101 Ways to Impress with Your Writing and Speaking" is a guide to being a better speaker and a better writer by avoiding the common pitfalls of the English language. How one speaks and writes is often the first impression one makes in communication, and "The Best Little Grammar Book Ever!" is a fine tool and a top resource.

Trail Writer's Guide
Cinny Green, author
Maureen Burdock, illustrator
Western Edge Press
126 Candelario St., Santa Fe NM 87501
9781889921501, $16.95, www.westernedgepress.com

A handful of captivating, black-and-white illustrations by Maureen Burdock enhance Trail Writer's Guide, a simple book of tips, trips, and techniques for jotting down one's transitory instants of inspiration while experiencing the wilderness. Whether one is moved to write poetry, dialogue, description of discoveries, or simple journal entries, Trail Writer's Guide is both practical and motivational. Highly recommended. "Step back with pen and paper in hand. First write about being a witness, an observer in a place; step back even more and ascribe a special moment in that place when you became a participant. For example, observe the wind fluttering the tree branches (witness) and then feel it blow your hair back (participant). How have you shared the tree's experience?"

Grammar Essentials for Dummies
Geraldine Woods
Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46256
9780470618370, $9.99, www.wiley.com

Written by English teacher Geraldine Woods as part of the excellent "For Dummies" series of instructional books, Grammar Essentials for Dummies is a concise, easy-to-use guide to improving one's grammar whether for schoolwork, college application tests, resumes or business documents, or simply to communicate more effectively with friends, family and co-workers. Chapters explain grammar rules in plain terms, give examples of correct and incorrect usage, offer principles of punctuation, tips for common trouble issues and pitfalls, and more. Once again, the stellar "For Dummies" series goes beyond living up to its title - Grammar Essentials for Dummies is emphatically not just for "dummies", but also for writers of all skill and experience levels, whether they are novices seeking to improve their basic writing skills or professionals trying to apply just a little more polish to their final draft.

The Guide to Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction
Philip Athans
Adams Media Corporation
57 Littlefield Street, 2nd floor, Avon, MA 02322
9781440501456, $14.95, www.adamsmedia.com 1-800-872-5627

Featuring an introduction and an illustrative original story by acclaimed and popular fantasy writer R. A. Salvatore, The Guide to Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction is a solid, user-friendly guide to creating vivid, enjoyable novels filled with lifelike characters and immersive worlds. Chapters offer tips, tricks, and techniques for smooth storytelling, constructing characters with internally consistent motives, world-building, overseeing details, narrative tone, and more. Of particular interest is the chapter with advice for those who are considering writing for a living: "If you want to be rich in a hurry, sell insurance... as far as being a novelist is concerned, you'll find that money comes slowly, rarely, and in small doses. Do this for everything but the money. Only if you're writing for the love of the game will you ever end up with a book that people respond to, and pay for." A pull-no-punches combination tutorial and source of inspiration, The Guide to Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction is an absolute "must-have" for any aspiring writer - even those with interest in other genres will find a great deal of valuable advice!

How to Write & Sell Simple Information for Fun and Profit
Robert W. Bly with Fred Gleeck
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
9781884995606, $15.95, www.quilldriverbooks.com

How to Write & Sell Simple Information for Fun and Profit is a straightforward, career-minded guide to creating and publishing saleable how-to books, articles, reports, seminars, or even online content. Chapters cover how to efficiently and effectively conduct research, build a reputation in one's field, avoid common pitfalls, and earn a solid living. "One of the biggest challenges for the how-to writer running his own membership site is retaining members. There is really only one strategy that can prevent your members from leaving: continually posting fresh content on the site." Making money through the creation of audio CDs, DVDs, and even selling software is also covered, in this hands-on practical guide that absolutely anyone interested in nonfiction writing as a career must have.


The Fiction Shelf

Comanche Crossing
Harold G. Ross
Harold G. Ross Publishing
2339 Chris Drive, Manhattan, KS 66502
0971544085, $14.95, www.amazon.com

Comanche Crossing is an exciting historical novel following a young man's coming of age in New Orleans during the second half of the nineteenth century. His entanglements with pirates, settlers, Native Americans, lawmen and lawbreakers lead to a rousing adventure, where courage and steadfast friends are the best defense against the endless greed and ruthlessness of one's enemies. A riveting and satisfying read, highly recommended for fans of westerns.

Mesopotamia
Arthur Nersesian
Akashic Books
PO Box 1456, New York, NY 10009
9781936070084, $15.95, www.akashicbooks.com

Who cares about a chain of serial killings when we can talk about what the pop star is wearing? "Mesopotamia" tells the story of reporter Sandy Bloomgarten, a serious reporter in a time where reporting isn't being taken seriously. With few other leads, she covers a seemingly superficial story near her hometown of Mesopotamia, Tennessee. What she finds though, is far from superficial, and may yet save her career as a reporter. "Mesopotamia" is a fascinating and fun read, very highly recommended.

Ransomed Dreams
Sally John
Tyndale Fiction
351 Executive Drive, Carol Stream, IL 60188
9781414327853, $13.99, www.tyndalefiction.com

Even when some truths appear, others remain hidden. "Ransomed Dreams" tells the tale of Sheridan Montgomery and her coping with losing her husband after an assassination attempt- not from becoming a widow but for losing her marriage. Things have a way of constantly changing and Sheridan's status on her marriage may not be as clear cut as she thought. A riveting tale of marriage and what keeps it alive through unusual turns of events, "Ransomed Dreams" is a read that will resonate well with many readers, solidly recommended.

Curse of the Full Moon
James Lowder, editor
Ulysses Press
PO Box 3440, Berkeley, CA 94703
9781569757888, $14.95, www.ulyssespress.com

To turn into something more savage and primal has been a fantasy of people for centuries. "Curse of the Full Moon: A Werewolf Anthology" is a collection of werewolf stories from a grand assortment of authors as they all bring their own spin to the Werewolf mythos and new appreciation to why it fascinates us so. With works from authors like George R. R. Martin and Neil Gaiman, "Curse of the Full Moon" is a top pick for any short story enthusiast, especially those who ponder a bit on their own lupine side.

Tales from the Trappers' Trail
Kay Beth Faris Avery
Western Reflections Publishing Company
PO Box 1149, 951 N. Highway 149, Lake City, CO 81235
9781932738841, $16.95

When civilization was less common, the world was a lot more chaotic. "Tales from the Trappers' Trail" is a collection of short stories of the old west in the times where American life in Colorado and New Mexico was just developing. Native American encounters, wars, and more, Kay Beth Faris Avery hopes to give a historically driven tales, with much to bring both history lovers and old west lovers together. "Tales from the Trappers' Trail" is a riveting read that shouldn't be overlooked for short fiction collections.

Running
Jean Echenoz
The New Press
38 Greene Street, New York, NY 10013
9781595584731, $19.95, www.thenewpress.com

The Olympics morphed into something more than an icon of national pride and unity. "Running" is a novel surrounding Emil Zatopek, famed Czech runner in the 1952 Olympics. Telling a unique story of not starting til late in life and how he became entombed in the Communist politics surrounding him. "Running " is fascinating novel that draws on the history of the Cold War well, as well as telling the story of a remarkable athlete.

Ashes to Water
Irene Ziegler
Gale Cengage Learning
Five Star Editorial Dept, 295 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901
9781594148606, $25.95, www.cengage.com

It's a strange position to be trying to acquit the very person accused of your father's murder. "Ashes to Water" tells the story of Annie Barlett as she finds herself campaigning to clear the name of the woman accused of murdering her father. Her endeavor is made more challenging as her sister has strong reasons for wanting the guilty verdict to go through. A riveting mystery with original elements, "Ashes to Water" is a fine read and is not to be missed by mystery fans.

Plum Blossoms in Paris
Sarah Hina
Medallion Press
1020 Cedar Lane, No. 2N, St. Charles, IL 60174
9781605421261, $15.95, www.medallionpress.com

Some families suffocate, others leave no air at all. "Plum Blossoms in Paris" tells the story of an American girl in Paris, embracing her adulthood after a sheltered life. When she finds a man who latches onto her fiercely, she finds herself split between exotic love and the family she fled from. "Plum Blossoms in Paris" is a charming romance and coming of age tale, highly recommended.

I Will Not be Silent
April Maley
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 West 86th Street, Suite H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608444335, $13.95, www.iwillnotbesilentbook.com

The vicious cycle is something heard of all too often. "I Will Not Be Silent" is the memoir of April Maley as she copes with her own horrible childhood in retrospect, a childhood filled with abuse leaving her with nothing left to make her feel like she was of any worth. Hoping to warn and inspire others to tell their own tales and find strength to endure all of them. "I Will Not Be Silent" is a powerful message and a very highly recommended one.

Her America
Susan Glaspell
University of Iowa Press
100 Kuhl House, Iowa City, IA 52242
9781587298646, $22.00, www.uiowapress.org

America means many things to different people, but there are factors that are universal. "Her America: "A Jury of Her Peers" and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories from Susan Glaspell as she reflects on the major social issues of today's world through fiction, and tackles these subjects well. Not only a discussion of these important values, she remembers the story as well, making "Her America" an all around excellent read.

With Hearts and Hymns and Voices
Pam Rhodes
Monarch Books
c/o Kregel Publications
PO Box 2607, Grand Rapids, MI 49501
9781854249753, $14.99, www.lionhudson.com

A religious meeting can lead to some very nonreligious relations. "With Hearts and Hymns and Voices" is the story of Clive and his wife Helen as they work with the BBC to do a gospel show from their small village. But when Helen becomes too involved with one of the television team, the small village just may never be the same. "With Hearts and Hymns and Voices" is a fascinating read, highly recommended.

A Deal on a Handshake
Vickie Britton & Loretta Jackson
Whiskey Creek Press
PO Box 51052, Casper, WY 82605-1052
9781603138857, $17.95, www.whiskeycreekpress.com

The Wild West still hasn't been all that tamed. "A Deal on a Handshake" is a mystery following Wyoming Sheriff Jeff McQuede as he presides the law over in rural society. Seven tales puts McQuede into a fun series of adventures certain to give those with a lust for mystery and the west a never ending supply of stories to enjoy. "A Deal on a Handshake" is a riveting collection and a top pick for mystery fans.


The Poetry Shelf

Sanctuary of the Soul
Alice M. Carleton
Mystic Publishers
850 S. Boulder Hwy., Ste. 436, Henderson, Nevada 89015
9781934051467, $16.98, www.mysticpublishers.com

Sanctuary of the Soul: Poems of Anguish, Healing, Hope, Comfort and Celebration is an anthology of brief poems - most only one page long - that reflect multiple facets of the human condition. From the suffering of poverty, war, and death to treasuring the hope, joy, and togetherness that make life worth living, Sanctuary of the Soul is a beautiful, poignant, and inspirational collection. Highly recommended, whether to linger upon and contemplate a single poem at a time, or to immerse oneself in the verses all at once, cover to cover. "The Hope... The Child": A child of passion and joie de vivre / A child of Eve / I can see potential / In rains torrential / And / The light in the darkest velvet night / In deepest silent Winter / I can see Spring / When all around / Nothing seems as if it will ever sing / We should live as if we are dying / Because / We are.

Absolute Bob
Anne Portugal
Burning Deck
1341 Seventh St., Berkeley, CA 94710
9781936194025, $14.00, www.spdbooks.org

The everyman, the endlessly curious, the always questioning. "Absolute Bob" explores the place of the everyman and how he faces the world through the model of Bob. Deftly translated from French by Jennifer Moxley, told in a rolling style of a long story with poetry "Absolute Bob" is a fine piece of Anne Portugal's work.

I Tulips
Mario Petrucci
Enitharmon
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781904634935, $21.95, www.dufoureditons.com

If you blink, you might miss something. "I Tulips" is a collection of poetry with a scientific slant from Mario Petrucci as he brings readers a fascinating assortment of insight into the world and what it means to see and experience its beauty. "I Tulips" is an intriguing assortment of poetry, very highly recommended. "Behind the Lines": -just as you might never/find some white-worn/tongue of soap//long fluffed/beneath basin -- or/fine marks of particular//weight penned in their/margin near skip-bottom or/one flake/falling deep in a/cwm between sheer-set//neighbors of pine -- or/with morning still dark that//word/barely spoken/to your sleeping ear.

Rabbi Auschwitz
Louis Daniel Drodsky
Time Being Books
10411 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131
9781568091327, $15.95

Some wounds take long to heal, and some are more vicious about the process than others. "Rabbi Auschwitz: Poems of the Shoah" is a collection of poetry from Louis Daniel Drodsky, going after his own recovery with a good deal of venom about the world, to himself, and what has happened to his people. As poignant and thought provoking as it is entertaining, "Rabbi Auschwitz" is a strong pick for poetry collections. "Bestial Desire": Instinct may hold the only clue/As to how crows, darting toward a flattened possum,/Then back to road's shoulder,/With beakfuls of bloody eye, entrails, or tail,/Avoid obliteration by cars racing along the pavement,/But I'm not sure I trust my instincts/To extrapolate a facile answer/From my observation of the commonplace.//Doubtless, theirs is a practiced act of savagery,/A necessary balancing of symbiotic opposites --/Life rising out of life given up./It's nature insulating itself against decay,/The most common denominator in death's equation./But perhaps these easy explanations/Fail to give the fanatical will to ravage its due./Maybe it has as much to do with bestial desire.

Interruptions in Glass
Tracy Hamon
Coteau Books
2517 Victoria Ave., Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, S4P 0T2
9781550504262, $16.95, www.coteaubooks.com

Reality can pass you by without you even realizing it. "Interruptions in Glass" is a collection of poems from Tracy Hamon, as she gives readers her take on the world as it should be and as it is. No shortage of thought and wisdom, "Interruptions in Glass" is a volume not to be missed. "In the Absence of Conversation I": Eat rice.//Engrave your name on a grain of rice. Tiny. So small no/one will see it. Wear it around your neck. Engrave your/name on thousands of grains of rice. Save them like/memories, for years. Throw them as confetti into the/face of the one who has left you.


The Library DVD Shelf

College, Inc.
PBS Home Video
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608832835, $24.95, www.shopPBS.org

College, Inc. is an episode of the documentary public television Frontline on DVD, examining the dark side of for-profit colleges and universities. Such colleges sell shares to Wall Street investors rather than seeking donations from wealthy alumni, and charge high fees to accept students that the (usually cheaper) nonprofit schools often won't take. But what do those who pay the high tuition costs of for-profit colleges, and take on heavy debt, have to show for their efforts? Can the degrees obtained be reliably used to get a job and earn a living? Frontline examines all sides of the issue, in this thought-provoking documentary about how a new trend in higher education is literally transforming college in America. 60 minutes, widescreen, closed-captioned. Also highly recommended is the Frontline documentary "The Wounded Platoon" (9781608832248, $24.99).

10 Minute Solution Rapid Results Fat Burner
Cat Chiarelli
Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
$14.98, www.anchorbayentertainment.com

10 Minute Solution Rapid Results Fat Burner is a fitness DVD perfect for fitting invigorating workouts into a busy schedule. Offering five, ten-minute workouts that can be mixed and matched, or done all at once, 10 Minute Solution Rapid Results Fat Burner is fun, easy-to-use, and a choice pick for a solid cardio workout. Hosted by certified group fitness instructor Cat Chiarelli, the five exercise sessions are "Power Sports Drills", "Extreme Intervals", "Low Impact Fat Blaster", "Rapid Results Kickboxing", and "Cardio Max". An excellent addition to any personal fitness DVD library, highly recommended. 56 minutes, closed-captioned.

The Quantum Activist
Amit Goswami, Ph.D.
Intention Media
contactus@intentionmediainc.com
$24.95, www.quantumactivist.com

The Quantum Activist is a documentary on DVD revealing a tremendous shift in thought outside of the standard materialist perspective of mainstream science. More and more scientists are constructing and evaluating a paradigm grounded in the power and presence of consciousness. Amit Goswami, Ph.D. guides viewers through a tour of what the similarities in the world's major religions and mystical traditions imply for a greater understanding of reality. The Quantum Activist ultimately dares to connect spiritual and practical worldviews, in a breathtaking revelation that contemplates the delicacy of humankind's continued existence on the planet itself, and ways to counter the economic, social, and spiritual menaces that threaten all people. Highly recommended.

Weapons of War
PBS Home Video
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608832972, $49.99, www.shopPBS.org

Part of the PBS Explorer Collection, Weapons of War collects three documentaries about changes in warfare across human history. "Ground War" evaluates how innovations ranging from the stirrup to the gunner's quadrant have transformed battles on land; "Warplane" chronicles airborne military advances in the century since the Wright brothers opened up the skies; and "Warship" reveals naval military history up to modern-day nuclear aircraft carriers, submarines, and more. A detailed, riveting, and informative documentary, ideal for military history buffs and public library collections. 3 DVDs, 12 hours, widescreen, closed-captioned. Also highly recommended from PBS is the documentary "Unforgettable: The Korean War" (9781608832897, $24.99, 56 min., widescreen).

Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth with Bill Moyers
Athena
c/o Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
9781598284782, $49.99, www.acornmedia.com, www.athenalearning.com

Filmed at George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch and New York's American Museum of Natural History, Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth with Bill Moyers is an extended and enlightening dialogue between scholar and 40-year college teacher Joseph Campbell and distinguished journalist Bill Moyers. In their discussions, the two men portray the pivotal role myths have had upon human lives, history, survival, and society. From the beliefs of world religions to marriage customs to popular culture, The Power of Myth reveals the hidden search for meaning behind the traditions and beliefs that shape our lives. Bonus features of this six-episode series include a never-before-released conversation with Campbell from "Bill Moyers' Journal", parts of Moyer's interview with "Star Wars" creator George Lucas, a twelve-page viewer's guide, and more. ("The Power of Myth" is not rated, but it should be noted that the programs do contain some nudity and violent images.) A choice pick, especially for public library collections. 2 DVDs, 342 min. plus bonus footage, full screen, SDH subtitles. Also highly recommended from Athena/Acorn Media is the extraordinary and captivating two-disc documentary Lost Kingdoms of Africa (9781598284966, $49.99, widescreen, SDH subtitles).

The Age of Stupid
Bullfrog Films, Inc.
PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547
1594589453, $320.00, www.bullfrogfilms.com

Featuring music from Radiohead and Depeche Mode, The Age of Stupid: Why Didn't We Save Ourselves When We Had the Chance? is a wry yet all-too-close to reality movie set in 2055, where climate change has brought about the end of the world as we know it. Pete Postlethwaite is a sole survivor looking back at old footage of seven people from contemporary times, and asking the question: why didn't they (and the rest of humanity) work to stop climate change and ecological devastation, back when they still could? An award-winning cautionary tale with an overwhelmingly critical message, The Age of Stupid deserves the highest recommendation. This two-disc DVD set offers both an uncensored and a "bleeped" version of the movie; extra features include extended interviews, deleted scenes, a 50-minute "making of" documentary, 8 short climate films, a crew commentary, and more. 89 minutes, 2 DVDs, subtitles in SDH English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Chinese Mandarin, Dutch, Thai, and Vietnamese.

Breakfast Special
PBS Home Video
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608832941, $24.99, www.shopPBS.org

Originally broadcast on public television, Breakfast Special is a delightful documentary on DVD that blends elements of travelogue and food show to offer a portrait of what it's like to enjoy fine early morning cuisine in America. From savory bacon and eggs to buckwheat pancakes to corned beef hash, grits, gumbo, and more, Breakfast Special tours the corners of America to reveal unique touches on classic favorites. Additional features include a making-of video, formerly unseen footage, and promotional spots. A gourmet's viewing delight, highly recommended. 60 minutes, widescreen, English SDH subtitles.

Dance With Me Cardio Fit
Billy Blanks Jr.
Lionsgate
c/o 411 Video Information
PO Box 1223, Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$14.98, www.411videoinfo.com

Billy Blanks Jr. and his wife Sharon host Dance With me Cardio Fit, a user-friendly fitness DVD featuring three complete, high-energy dance routines incorporating the vigor and enthusiasm of Hip-Hop, Country, and Bollywood moves. 2-minute cardio bursts embedded within the dance routines help the viewer burn fat and build stamina. Bonus features include a breathing technique tutorial, a custom workout option, and a music-only option. An easy-to-follow workout that practitioners of all ages and fitness backgrounds can get into, Dance With Me Cardio Fit lives up to its title and is highly recommended to spice up any cardio exercise DVD collection. 46 minutes, closed captioned.

Harp Dreams
PBS Home Video
c/o SSA Public Relations
15260 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 1730, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
9781608832712, $24.99, www.shopPBS.org

Harp Dreams: Inside the USA International Harp Competition is a DVD documentary originally aired on public television, observing 31 of the finest harpists in the world who gathered for the 15-day triennial USA International Harp Competition, one of the most prestigious music competitions worldwide. Careers, fame, and legendary accolade await the winners. Narrated by Blythe Danner, Harp Dreams reveals the pressure, the drive to succeed, and the human drive to be the best one can possibly be. Special features include behind-the-scenes footage of the construction of the prize harp, and a hands-on look at the process of choosing a harp or bringing a harp in for repair. An extraordinary look at the fire of competition burning beneath musical beauty, highly recommended. 90 minutes, widescreen, closed captioned.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Tale of Briar Bank
Susan Wittig Albert, author
Virginia Leishman, narrator
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
9781440773457, $92.75, www.recordedbooks.com 1-800-638-1304

Award-nominated author Susan Wittig Albert presents the fifth episode of the "Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter" series, The Tale of Briar Bank, a family friendly adventure featuring Beatrix Potter and her woodland friends - now available in unabridged audiobook format! Narrated by Shakespearean performer Virginia Leishman, The Tale of Briar Bank begins with the mysterious death of an unfortunate man who had discovered an unknown treasure last spring. Ms. Potter and her animal friends spend Christmas season investigating the suspicious situation, in this charming and involving adventure that pays worthy homage to the well-known and widely beloved children's author. 8 CDs, 9.75 hours.

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

Galaxy Press is a publisher specializing in reprinting the literary works of L. Ron Hubbard, who before he founded the Scientology movement, was one of the more prolific and successful writers of the 'Golden Age' era of pulp magazines. Their reprints of Hubbard's thematically diverse short stories were so successful that Galaxy Press has branched out into unabridged audio book editions of these stories. Four of their new audio book titles, brilliantly showcasing Hubbard's storytelling talents, are "Cattle King For A Day" (9781592123650, $9.95) which was originally published in the March 1937 issue of "All Western Magazine", also includes the backup short 'Come And Get It' a; "All Frontiers Are Jealous" (9781592123384, $9.95), originally published in the June 1937 issue of "Five-Novels Monthly" and is an action/adventure yarn about establishing the Anglo-Egyptian Railroad while rescuing a fair young maiden from evil whites and dangerous native tribesmen; "The Trail Of The Red Diamonds" (9781592123261, $9.95) originally published in the January 1935 issue of "Thrilling Adventures" and which (along with the backup short story 'Hurricane's Roar" is set in China); and "Hurtling Wings" (9781592123032, $9.95) offering an aviation oriented action/adventure in an era of 'wooden planes and iron men'. Each of these of these outstanding audio books are two hour productions characterized by talented multi-cast performances, which are enhanced with impressive special effects and thematic music. Flawless technical recordings, each and every one of these very special audio books provides the listener with a true 'theatre of the mind' experience and is enthusiastically recommended for personal and community library audio book collections. Librarians building audio book collections would be very well advised to visit the Galaxy Press website at, www.galaxypress.com for a complete listing of their available audio book titles.

Undead And Unfinished
MaryJanice Davidson
Recorded Books, LLC
270 Skip Jack Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
C5588, $72.75, www.recordedbooks.com

Vampires are in fashion. One of the major reasons is the vampire adventure series by MaryJanice Davidson that features a host of memorable characters and a decidedly comedic twist centered on Betsy, Queen of the Vampires whose interest in fashion surpasses any interest in ruling the dark world of her fanged followers. "Undead And Unfinished" is the ninth and apparently final title in one of the very best of the vampire genre. Vampire Queen Betsy and her Anti-Christ half-sister Laurie find themselves caught up in a time-traveling series of misadventures courtesy of Betsy's aunt (who happens to be Lucifer Morningstar, ruler of Hell looking for a replacement so she can finally retire). "Undead And Unfinished" ties up several story thread 'lose ends' and in the epilogue, comes to an unexpected finale. This Recorded Books 6-disk audio CD edition has a total running time of 7.75 hours, is deftly narrated by Nancy Wu, and is a highly recommended 'theatre of the mind' experience.


The Photography Shelf

Photography
Chris Dickie
Barron's
250 Wireless Blvd., Happauage, NY 11788
9780764162954, $14.99, www.barronseduc.com

A picture is worth a thousand words, and a powerful picture is worth even more. "Photography: The 50 Most Influential Photographers of All Time" looks at the fifty people who have turned photography from a scientific interest or a hobby to a powerful tool of news and social concern. From art to famous portraits and more, these photographers from around the world are discussed well. "Photography" is a solid entry into Barron's Icons of Culture series, very highly recommended.

The Nile Cruise
Jenny Jobbins & Sherif Sonbol
The American University in Cairo Press
c/o International Publishers Marketing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9789774163029, $39.95, www.aucpress.com

Perhaps the most famous river in the world, The Nile has much to inspire. "The Nile Cruise: An Illustrated Journey" is a collection of full color photographs from Jenny Jobbins and Sherif Sonbol as they bring readers on an exciting journey through The Nile and Egypt, both rife with history that spans thousands of years. From the time of Cleopatra to the modern beauty, "The Nile Cruise" is a loaded volume, perfect for any photographic history collection or for coffee tables.

Coming Back
Mario Tama
Umbrage
111 Front Street #208, Brooklyn, NY 11201
9781884167027, $45.00, www.umbragebooks.com

The spirit of people isn't easily defeated. "Coming Back: New Orleans Resurgent" tells the tale of people returning to New Orleans after its massive destruction by the events of Hurricane Katrina, which left the city forever changed. But the people wouldn't abandon their home for good, and have returned to continue their lives in spite of the awful events. With plenty of photos, Mario Tama captures the indomitable human spirit.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Sword and Song
Roz Southey
Creme De La Crime
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9780956056627, $14.95

Layers upon layers of intrigue, with nothing to cut through it. "Sword and Song" delves into the into the world of musically inclined detective Charles Patterson, as he looks for those responsible for the death of a young girl. But the man paying for him seems to have him going around in circles, and there seems to be many of those out for his head. "Sword and Song" is a riveting tale of intrigue set in eighteenth England, and a very highly recommended read.


The Christian Studies Shelf

The Franciscan Tradition
Regis J. Armstrong & Ingrid J. Peterson
Liturgical Press
St. John's Abbey, PO Box 7500
9780814630303, $16.95

Good people alleviate suffering in the world. Good leaders make an impact that inspires people to do so for generations. "The Franciscan Tradition: Spirituality in History" looks at these great individuals in the order's history and how they all made their impact on making the world a much better place to live. Saint Francis of Assisi, the most famous of friars, as well as women who have made an impact, other brothers, and much more, "The Franciscan Tradition" is an intriguing look the history of this monastic order, highly recommended.

Pilgrimage of a Soul
Phileena Heurtz
InterVarsity Press
PO Box 1400, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515-14426
9780830836154, $15.00, www.intervarsitypress.com

Contemplation is the meditation of the soul. "Pilgrimage of a Soul: Contemplative Spirituality for the Active Life" urges contemplation as part of a healthy spirituality, connecting the conscious to the subconscious. With plenty of discussion on faith and thought, "Pilgrimage of a Soul" is an intriguing and intellectual read for any Christian studies collection.

God's Bounty?
Peter Clarke & Tony Claydon
Boydell Press
668 Mt Hope Ave, Rochester, NY 14620-2731
9780954680961, $90.00, www.boydellandbrewer.com

There is little nature reverence in Christianity. "God's Bounty?: The Churches and the Natural World" discusses Christianity and its relationship with nature, discussing he role of nature in Christianity, as other thoughts and philosophies emerge, bringing more thought to the table. From the environmental topics of the middle ages, the emergence of naturalism in the ideas of the reformations, and more, this volume brings forth much thought and discussion from many thinkers. A sound, complete and comprehensive scholarly collection of thoughts, "God's Bounty?" is a core addition to any Christian studies collection.

Becoming a Young Woman Who Pleases God
Pat Ennis
New Hope Publishers
PO Box 12065, Birmingham, AL 35202-2065
9781596692404, $14.99, www.newhopepublishers.com

Puberty comes and the task of becoming a young woman can be quite the overbearing one. "Becoming a Young Woman Who Pleases God" is a guide for young Christians on becoming a good Christian while still living a positive and inspired life. With much thought on the modern youth and avoiding its temptations and pitfalls, "Becoming a Young Woman Who Pleases God" is a powerful read and a great gift to any young Christian girl coming of age.

Aidan's Song
Aidan Wilcoxson
Conciliar Press
1550 Birdie Way, Chesterton, IN 46304
9781936270033, $18.95, www.conciliarpress.com

What brings one to the calling of the priesthood. "Aidan's Song: A Year in the Life of a Parish Priest" is a Christian memoir from Aidan Wilcoxson, as he brings his own experiences as an Orthodox Christian, a branch of Christianity that allows its priests to marry. A charming read of the joys and challenges of the priest hood, Wilcoxson does well in giving readers a taste of the priestly life. "Aidan's Song" is a fine addition to any memoir or Christian driven library collection.

Church Programs & Celebrations for All Generations
Rachel Gilmore
Judson Press
PO Box 851, Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851
9780817016425, $18.00, www.judsonpress.com

The Church was once considered a community center, and that status could be recovered. "Church Programs & Celebrations for All Generations" is a guide for making the Church a cultural center for many events throughout the year in regards to certain holidays throughout the year and what the church can do to bring the community together. "Church Programs & Celebrations for All Generations" is a must for any Church leader who also wants to be a community leader.

The Amazing Claims of Bible Prophecy
Mark Hitchcock
Harvest House
990 Owen Loop North, Eugene, Oregon 97402-9173
9780736926454, $13.99, www.harvesthousepublishers.com

Everything in the Bible has not yet come to pass. "The Amazing Claims of Bible Prophecy: What You Need to Know in These Uncertain Times" discusses the Bible and what it says about today's environment of an uncertain future and how faith can carry one through it all and remain strong and what to expect from the Bible's prophecies. For those who believe in the Holy Book, "The Amazing Claims of Bible Prophecy" is a top pick.

On Guard
William Lane Craig
David C Cook
c/o Cook Communications
4050 Lee Vance View, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
9781434764881, $16.99, www.davidccook.com

Today is not a world where blind faith is accepted. You need faith with backup. "On Guard: Defending Your Faith with Reason and Precision" is a guide to using reason to defend one's beliefs in today's world to protect one's faith and keep up one spirit when discussing matters of faith and religion. For those who want to talk Christianity with grace and poise, "On Guard" is a highly useful read.

Songs Out of Silence
Jessica Powers
New City Press
202 Comforter Blvd., Hyde Park, NY 12538
9781565482500, $14.95, www.newcitypress.com

Wise words don't need much explanation. "Songs Out of Silence: 99 Sayings" is a collection of proverbs from Jessica Powers, a woman who served as a nun for decades and in that time formed her own connection with God and hoped to help others find that connection as well. In poetic form, "Songs Out of Silence" is simply spiritual and will do well in helping empower the faiths of her readers.

The Mystical Way in Everyday Life
Karl Rahner
Orbis Books
Price Bldg, Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545
9781570758676, $20.00, www.orbisbooks.com

The connection with God is required for faith to survive. "The Mystical Way in Everyday Life" is an analysis of modern faith from Karl Rahner, encouraging mysticism for the modern Christians to help them regain that link with God that has been lost through many of people's faiths. With readings for many important Christian events, there is no shortage to help the Christian who wants to strengthen those bonds to God. "The Mystical Way in Everyday Life" is an insightful read for any person of faith.


The Parenting Shelf

Momology
Shelly Radic
Revell
c/o Baker House
PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287
9780800734497, $13.99, www.revellbooks.com

Every mother wants to be the greatest mother. "Momology: A Mom's Guide to Shaping Great Kids" delves into the skill of mothering, something that to be great at is truly intangible. With a Christian outlook, Shelly Radic comes to mothers with plenty of tips and affirmation that effort is half the battle. "Momology" is a must for any mother feeling overwhelmed by the task that lies before them.

What Not to Say
Sarah MacLaughlin
Bay Island Books
P.O. Box 485, Corte Madera, CA 94976
www.bayislandbooks.com
9780965469425, $12.00, www.amazon.com

"What Not to Say: Tools for Talking with Young Children" is a practical guide for communicating with children. Parents will find the mindful interaction style of intergenerational communication a very helpful model. Dealing with children ages 1-6 can be very challenging and stressful, but there are also rewards for the patient, sensitive, experimental, and determined parent. "What Not to Say for Talking with Young Children" is also laced with humor, an invaluable asset. Topics covered include why wrong things are said, changing language to make it work, use of labels and nicknames, threats or bribes, handling emotions, the inner critic, conveying clear messages about our bodies, and avoiding the temptation to make contests control issues. All information is conveyed in a clear, non-judgmental style, and refreshing hints of lack of perfection abound. Parents and teachers and child caregivers will hail "What Not to Say for Talking with Young Children" as a great resource and fount of ideas for developing good communication skills with children.

Twins and Supertwins
Eve-Marie Arce
Redleaf Press
10 Yorkton Court, St. Paul, MN 55117-1065
9781605540306, $29.95, www.redleafpress.org

Twins are truly something special, and require special care all their own. "Twins and Supertwins: A Handbook for Early Childhood Professionals" delves into the special needs of twins and supertwins, author Eve-Marie Arce's term for triplets or more. Twins require different care due to their nature of growing up together and the psychological issues that may arise, there is plenty of advice here for any parent or caretaker that applies to them. "Twins and Supertwins" is a read not to be missed for these individuals.


The Biography Shelf

A Maze of Grace
Trish Ryan
Faith Words
c/o Hachette Book Group
237 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017
9780446545815, $19.99, www.faithwords.com

The honeymoon is not for very long. "A Maze of Grace: A Memoir of Second Chances" discusses the challenges of a new marriage and how fast the honeymoon truly ends. With faith and spirituality, Trish Ryan comes to readers with much to ponder and think about their marriages and how to remember that God is there for you even when it seems like he isn't. "A Maze of Grace" is full of plenty of thoughtful wisdom for newlyweds, highly recommended.

On Gandhi's Path
Stephanie Mills
New Society Publishers
PO Box 189, Gabriola Island, British Columbia, V0R 1X0, Canada
9780865716155, $16.95, www.newsociety.com

The fight for equality is a fight that is never over. "On Gandhi's Path: Bob's Wann's Work for Peace and Community Economics" looks at the work of Robert Wann, an economist who has been trying to realize the importance of heart and reality in his studies, something that always go well with bottom line thinking. Telling the tales of his battles and his successes, "On Gandhi's Path" is a brightening look at the good side of economics.

Atypical
Jesse A. Saperstein
Perigee
c/o Penguin
375 Hudson Street, NewYork, NY 10014
9780399535727, $14.00, www.penguin.com

A life in awkwardness is a life unique. "Atypical: Life With Asperger's in 20 1/3 Chapters" is a reflection from Jesse A. Saperstein on facing his aspergers and the challenges he has faced in life tied to his disorder. Awkwardness for a longer period, the strange fascinations, the challenges of a sex life, bonding with others, and more, "Atypical" is an intriguing look into the soul of aspergers afflicted individuals, very highly recommended.

Accidental Leadership
Paul Mooney
The Liffrey Press
c/o DuFour Editions
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781905785674, $32.95, www.theliffeypress.com

No one sets out to be a great leader, it happens naturally. "Accidental Leadership: A Personal Journey" is a leadership memoir from Paul Mooney telling of his own unique path to becoming president of the National College of Ireland. From being a butcher to working for General Electric, international businesses and more, he gives a profound insight on the qualities that ring true in all of them. "Accidental Leadership" is an intriguing memoir with plenty of lessons to be learned.

Families, Lovers, and their Letters
Sonia Cancian
University of Manitoba Press
301 St. John's College, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, R3T 2N2
9780887557156, $34.95, www.umanitoba.ca

America wasn't the only destination for immigrants. "Families, Lovers, and their Letters: Italian Postwar Migration to Canada" looks at immigration to Canada, in particular Italians who came over seas following World War II. Telling these individuals stories through their letters, Sonia Cancian paints a portrait of life and the immigrant experience not always heard about. "Families, Lovers, and their Letters" is a thoughtful and insightful read on immigrants, very highly recommended.

Healing with Words
Diana M. Raab
Loving Healing Press
5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
9781615990108, $19.95, www.dianaraab.com

Expression is a powerful healing tool. "Healing with Words: A Writer's Cancer Journey" is the reflections of Diana M. Raab as she faced down two cancers and through her writing, found her power to keep her spirit up and keep up the fight. Through her own determination, she hopes to inspire others to rise up and embrace the same, and gives many important tips, such as the invaluable aspect of early detection. "Healing with Words" is a poignant and powerful piece, very highly recommended.

Letters from a Distant Shore
Marie Lawson Fiala
CavanKerry & press
6 Horizon Road No. 2901, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
9781933880198, $21.00, www.cavankerrypress.org

Hope is something no mother can ever be short of. "Letters from a Distant Shore" is a memoir from a desperate mother as she faces the terror of her own son afflicted with a brain hemorrhage and in a coma. Blended with her own memoir and letters to others and those who supported her, she tells a riveting story of a mother who never gave up and inspires others to do the same. Touching, "Letters from a Distant Shore" is not a read to be missed.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

Who Shall Live
Samuel Oliner & Kathleen Lee
Academy Chicago Publishers
363 West Erie Street, Chicago, IL 60654
9780897336017, $18.95, www.academychicago.com

Survival sometimes becoming what you hate. "Who Shall Live: The Wilhelm Bachner Story" tells the tale of William Bachner, a Jewish Engineer through his own cunning, saved dozens of Polish Jews from the camps by helping them pose as Aryan workers and fought back against Nazi occupation in their own way. Drawing on interviews with Bacner himself and the families of the men he saved, "Who Shall Live" is a fascinating tale of the ingenuity of man in the face of danger.


The Travel Shelf

Cannabis Trips
Bill Weinberg
Running Press
2300 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-4371
9780762438129, $16.96, www.runningpress.com

Cannabis has been embraced by humans for thousands of years, and a few reactionary laws won't stop that. "Cannabis Trips: A Global Guide that Leaves no Turn Unstoned" discusses Cannabis and marijuana all around the world and how different people fight for their own freedom of use, face even tougher penalties, and how progress has been made around the world. For anyone who wants to travel the world in favor of their personal pastime, "Cannabis Trips" is a fascinating read with plenty of food for thought and need for food afterward.

Green Earth Guide
Dorian Yates
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
9781556438417, $15.95, www.northatlanticbooks.com

Spain hasn't fallen behind in joining the green movement and environmentally conscious travelers should find much to attract them. "Green Earth Guide: Traveling Naturally in Spain" is a guide to traveling to Spain an keeping one's trip as green friendly as possible. With plenty of destinations in the country and plenty to keep the trip green, "Green Earth Guide" is a must for any environmentally driven person who wants to enjoy the best of Spain without taxing the world.

Shanghai
Stephen Grace
Sentient Publications
1113 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO 80302
9781591810834, $18.95, www.sentientpublications.com

Communism has become a guideline in China, not the rule. "Shanghai: Life, Love, and Infrastructure in China's City of the Future" looks at the development of the city of Shanghai, a bustling city that has become quite the economic center and symbol for change in China. An economic, cultural, and social analysis, Shanghai is an interesting case study for the world. "Shanghai" is a top pick for any international studies collection.


The Interior Design Shelf

Interior Design Clients
Thomas L. Williams
Allworth Press
10 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010
9781581156768, $24.95, www.allworth.com

You can be the greatest designer in the world but if you don't understand the business aspect, you aren't going to far. "Interior Design Clients: The Designer's Guide to Building and Keeping a Great Clientele" is a guide to the business end of interior design, giving would be designers the advice they need to get clients and keep them over the years. Good business is always the first step, and Thomas Williams delivers this advice well in "Interior Design Clients".


The Architectural Shelf

Log Home
Roland Sweet
PixyJack Press
PO Box 149, Masonville, CO 80541
9780977372478, $22.95, www.pixyjackpress.com

A log cabin is an icon of the serene woodland life. "Log Home: Secrets of Success" is a guide to making one's log home dreams a functional reality. Planning one's log home, finding the right builders, the details to be understood, and more, Roland Sweet gives readers a fine read that will prove to be very useful and invaluable in those trying to get a picture-esque vacation home. "Log Home" is a fine addition to any home planning collection.


The Political Science Shelf

10 Books Every Conservative Must Read
Benjamin Wiker
Regnery
One Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20001
9781596986046, $27.95, www.regnery.com

What is a conservative? It's a message lost in much of today's politics. "10 Books Every Conservative Must Read: Plus our Not to Miss and One Impostor" is a take on literary politics by analyzing the ten books he views as cornerstones for conservative philosophy, as well as books that tell the conservative story. Along with an interesting analysis of treasured conservative book Atlas Shrugged and its place in modern conservative thought, "10 Books Every Conservative Must Read" is a collection to be considered for any conservative trying to find their way back to their own political philosophy.


The Self-Help Shelf

The Joy of Geocaching
Paul & Dana Gillin
Quill Driver Books
2006 S. Mary St., Fresno, CA 93721
9781884956997, $16.95

The search for something is an entertainment that has been lost. "The Joy of Geocaching: How to Find Health, Happiness, and Creative Energy Through a Worldwide Treasure Hunt" is a guide to Geocaching, a game that encourages GPS use as players use the game to see new sights and sounds in the countryside and even around their own towns. A fine guide to a game that has helped many people with their relationships and life, "The Joy of Geocaching" is a top pick for anyone looking for an introduction to the game.

Fearless
Brenda Shoshanna
Sterling Publishing
387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016-8810
9781402770678, $22.95, www.sterlingpublishing.com

Peace of Mind has no price tag. "Fearless: The 7 Principles of Peace of Mind" is a self-help guide to help attain this long lusted after quality and how to attain it for a happier and more fulfilling life. From building courage, knowing when to let go, a safe place, love, and realizing who you are, "Fearless" is a vital and very inspiring and useful read for those on that journey to peace of mind.

Powerful Mind
Cathal O'Brian
O Books
c/o National Book Network
PO Box 62188, Baltimore, MD 21264-2188
9781846942983, $24.95, www.o-books.com

If you're in control of your own mind, you're off to a good start no matter what you're doing. "Powerful Mind: Through Self-Hypnosis" is a discussion of self-hypnosis and how one can use the process to gain a more dominating control over one's own thoughts and help themselves be more focused and eliminate annoying habits in the process. For anyone trying to change their lives starting with themselves, "Powerful Mind" just may be the key to success.

Teen Esteem
Pat Palmer & Melissa Alberti Froehner
Impact Publishers
PO Box 6016, Atascadero, CA 93423-6016
9781886230873, $11.95, www.impactpublishers.com

How can anyone else believe in you when you don't believe in yourself? "Teen Esteem: A Self-Directional Manual for Young Adults" is a guide for teens who want to stay control of their lives during a time of sweeping changes. In a few years, one finds themselves burdened with new responsibilities, fear for the future, sexuality, and the evils of the world. Pat Palmer and Melissa Alberti Froehner give readers assistance in dealing with all of this, and make "Teen Esteem" a powerful tool in this battle.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

The Secret Language of Your Body
Inna Segal
Atria Paperback
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
Boothe Media Group (publicity)
1386 nightshade Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011
9781582702605, $18.00, www.simonandschuster.com

Your body tells you a lot of things, but it can sometimes be hard to understand. "The Secret Language of Your Body: The Essential Guide to Health and Wellness" is a guide to understanding what your body is telling you, and how to interpret it and use it to attain better health. Inna Segal explains these signs and gives practical advice and exercise tips for improving one's general health. Insightful and highly useful, "The Secret Language of Your Body" is a pick that shouldn't be missed for those looking for general health advice.

The Holistic Baby Guide
Randall Neustaedter
New Harbinger Publications
5647 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
9781572246935, $18.95, www.newharbinger.com

A healthy child is the goal of every parent. "The Holistic Baby Guide: Alternative Care for Common Health Problems" is a guide to what alternative medicines can offer to an infant in dealing with the many problems infants face, ranging from the mostly harmless of diaper rash to generally improving a young child's immune system. With plenty of information and ideas, "The Holistic Baby Guide" is not one to be overlooked for the positive and driven parent.

Doctor on Board
J. Hauert
Sheridan House
145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
9781574092981, $19.95, www.sheridanhouse.com

First aid is essential especially when the nearest has several miles of water between it and the patient. "Doctor on Board: Your Practical Guide to Medical Emergencies at Sea" is a guide for those who want to be prepared for when accidents happen out on the sea, where more intensive care may take hours to reach. From everything from food poising and sprains to life and death situations, "Doctor on Board" is a must for anyone preparing for a trip out to sea.

Stick-to-it-iveness
Addie Johnson
Red Wheel, Weiser, Conari
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
9781573244749, $14.95, www.redwheelweiser.com

Just staying with something until it's done is a radical thought in itself sometimes. "Stick-to-it-iveness" is an inspirational read designed to help readers who tend to give up on something easily get back to it and finish what they've done, in a world where discouragement comes so easily. With simple wisdom in easily digestible form on every page, "Stick-to-it-iveness" is a motivating read with the powerful message of persistence.


The Women's Studies Shelf

The Words of Extraordinary Women
Carolyn Warner
Newmarket Press
18 E. 48th Street, new York, NY 10017
9781557048578, $12.95, www.newmarketpress.com

The Woman's intuition isn't something to be overlooked. "The Words of Extraordinary Women" is a collection of profound words from many different women of status throughout history and the world. From literary legends like Emily Dickinson to big players in the world of law like Sandra Day O'Connor, "The Words of Extraordinary Women" is a fine read and one not to be missed.

The Female Vision
Sally Helgesen & Julie Johnson
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 650, San Francisco, CA 94104-2916
9781576753828, $17.95, www.bk-life.com

A feminine perspective is more than just a saying. "The Female Vision: Women's Real Power at Work" discusses the power of women in the work place, stating the real advantages women can have as thinkers and their perspectives on life that can help them better understand the world around them. With much discussion as well as tips for women to use this natural intuition in the workplace, "The Female Vision" is a must for any woman whose career depends on their thoughts.


The American History Shelf

Lincoln and Emancipation in the District of Columbia
J. C. Ladenheim
Heritage Books
229 Danagher Court, Holly Springs, NC 27540
9780788450129, $15.50, www.heritagebooks.com

In the war of the states, the status of the not-quite-state was an intriguing one. "Lincoln and Emancipation in the District of Columbia" analyzes the District of Columbia and the avenue of slave holding, with DC in its unique position between later Confederate leaning Virginia and Union retaining Maryland. The Emancipation of DC is thought to be a prototype of the famed Emancipation Proclamation, making "Lincoln and Emancipation in the District of Columbia" a fascinating and important historical read.


The Education Shelf

Challenging Kids, Challenged Teachers
Leslie E. Packer & Sheryl K. Pruitt
Woodbine House
6510 Bells Mill Rd., Bethesda, MD 20817
9781890627829, $29.95, www.woodbinehouse.com

A student with a learning disability isn't unteachable, but it can prove difficult. "Challenging Kids, Challenged Teachers: teaching Students with Tourette's, Bipolar Disorder, Executive Dysfunction, OCD, ADHD, and More" is a reference for teachers who are faced with these special students and how to deal with their needs in an educational environment so that they still receive their education to the fullest, without hindering the education of others. Complete with CD-ROM full of resources, "Challenging Kids, Challenged Teachers" is a choice pick for any educational reference collection.

Retool Your School
James Lerman & Ronique Hicks
ISTE
180 West 8th Ave., Suite 300, Eugene, OR 97401
9781564842671, $37.95, www.iste.org

Technology can be a wonderful thing for education if it's used right. "Retool Your School: The Educator's Essential Guide to Google's Free Power Apps" is a guide to embracing the many Google applications to enhance educational experiences. Google Earth as an exploration tool, networking, Google documents, and more, Google has a lot to add to the classroom and "Retool Your School" fully explains these ideas quite well, very highly recommended.


The Money/Finance Shelf

How to Keep From Going Broke with a Broker
Richard A. Lewins
Bascom Hill Publishing Group
212 North 3rd Avenue, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401
9781935098249, $19.95, www.bascomhillpublishing.com

Good money management is the key to good wealth. "How to Keep From Going Broke with a Broker: A Guide to Opening, Maintaining and Surviving Your Brokerage Account" is a guide to brokers and how a broker is a powerful tool in keeping one's head afloat in these financial times with so many bad investments waiting around to eat one's money. With plenty of advice on avoiding these pitfalls and keeping a plan for the future, "How to Keep From Going Broke with a Broker" is a top pick.

Inquiries into the Nature of Slow Money
Woody Tasch
Chelsea Green Publishing
PO Box 428, White River Junction, VT 05001
9781603582544, $15.95, www.chelseagreen.com

Getting rich quick is what got us where the economy is today. "Inquiries into the Nature of Slow Money: Investing as if Food, Farms, and Fertility Mattered" is a discussion of slow money, a movement encouraging sustainable income for both the economy and the environment. Responsibility and thinking for the future could be the recovery the country needs, and "Inquiries into the Nature of Slow Money" is a thoughtful and much needed look into modern economics.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

The World of Wolves
Marco Musiani, Luigi Boitani, & Paul C. Paquet
University of Calgary Press
2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2N 1N4
9781552382691, $34.95, www.uofcpress.com

No longer just a predator to be feared. "The World of Wolves: New Perspectives on Ecology, Behavior, and Management" analyzes the role of the gray wolf in today's environment, and the importance of the predator to ecosystems. Wolves have long been feared by humans, and have been seriously threatened over the years, and as such, have been protected and been the objects of fascination at the same time. For anyone who wants to understand the importance of wolves, "The World of Wolves" is a powerful addition to any environmental studies collection.

Forbidden Creatures
Peter Laufer
Lyons Press
c/o Globe Pequot Press
PO Box 480, Guilford, CT 06437
9781599219264, $19.95, www.lyonspress.com

Why stop at the common house cat when you can have a lynx? "Forbidden Creatures: Inside the World of Animal Smuggling and Exotic Pets" delves into the black market of pets, where all around the world animals are being smuggled for profit all around the world for big profits that compete with drug and weapon money. But it is not just plants and unfeeling weaponry involved, but living creatures, and this trade is threatening their survival. A detailed look at a crisis going ignored, "Forbidden Creatures" is not to be missed.

Minding Your Dog Business
Veronica Boutelle & Rikke Jorgensen
Dogwise
403 South Mission Street, Wenatchee, WA 98801
9781929242740, $19.95, www.dogwise.com

Some people love dogs. Some people love dogs so much they turn it into a living. "Minding Your Dog Business: A Practical Guide to Business Success for Dog Professionals" is a guide for those who are trying to get their dog related business off the ground. With business advice as well as how to apply these aspects to dog business and how the dog business can vary from other typical businesses, "Minding Your Dog Business" is a fine resource for anyone trying to turn their dog fancy into profit.


The World History Shelf

Highland Martial Culture
Christopher Scott Thompson
Paladin Press
7077 Winchester Circle, Boulder, CO 80301
9781581606928, $13.00, www.paladin-press.com

The pride of traditional Scottish culture is strong, so strong that the potential confusion of accusations of wearing skirts won't deter them. "Highland Martial Culture: The Fighting Heritage of Scotland" looks into the martial history of Scotland. From the actual martial arts used by Scottish warriors, to the legends of men who combined steel and magic, to the diet and life of a Highlander, "Highland Martial Culture" is another snapshot of traditional European warrior culture that anyone with a curiosity will love.

Lost Girls
Nicholas Terpstra
John Hopkins Press
2715 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218
9780801894992, $50.00, press.jhu.edu

With three hundred deaths in little more than a decade, there is more than cause for concern. "Lost Girls: Sex and Death in Renaissance Florence" is a history of the House of Compassion shelter - Casa della Pieta. Founded by women to give orphaned and homeless girls somewhere to stay, over sixty percent of the girls who went to live in this orphanage died premature deaths, sexually exploited by Renaissance Florence. Author Nicholas Terpstra tells this tragic tale and through it, gives readers a look at the dark side of Renaissance Florence and Italy in general. "Lost Girls" is a fine addition to any history collection, especially those with a focus on the Renaissance.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Jewish Theology In Our Time
Elliot J. Cosgrove
Jewish Lights Publishing
Sunset Farm Offices, Route 4, PO Box 237, Woodstock, VT 05091
9781580234139, $24.99, www.jewishlights.com

Jewish faith is over five thousand years old, and like anything that old, it has to change with the times. "Jewish Theology in Our Time: A New Generation Explores the Foundations & Future of Jewish Belief" is a discussion of the evolution of Jewish faith through the centuries and the Jewish search for understanding with God in the modern day. Many modern voices of the faith converge and provide an intellectual and scholarly read, making "Jewish Theology in Our Time" an intriguing and very highly recommended addition to any Judaic studies collection.

Toward a Renewed Ethic of Jewish Philanthropy
Yossi Prager
KTAV
930 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
9781602801370, $30.00, www.ktav.com

Charity is not a Christian value alone; it holds its place in Judaism as well. "Toward a Renewed Ethic of Jewish Philanthropy" discusses the role of philanthropy in Orthodox Judaism and its purpose for Jews of many levels. From philanthropy at home, the community, the history of Jewish philanthropy, economics, dirty money, and more. "Toward a Renewed Ethic of Jewish Philanthropy" is a scholarly and thoughtful read that discusses the good things that can be done with money from a Jewish perspective.


The Business Shelf

Earth, Inc.
Gregory Unruh
Harvard Business Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422127179, $24.95, www.hbr.com

The financial gravy train will meet the end of the line eventually; it's just a matter of when. "Earth, Inc.: Using Nature's Rules to Build Sustainable Profits" is a guide to environmentally responsible business that works with nature to create a business that works with nature to keep both the environment and nature around them to be renewable and at a constant. Sustainability is the message and Gregory Unruh plays it well. "Earth, Inc." is a choice pick and solidly recommended read that shouldn't be missed for any environmentally conscious business leader.

The International Dictionary of Personal Finance
A. J. Rider
Global Professional Publishing
c/o Stylus Publishing
PO Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
9781906403065, $12.95, www.styluspub.com

The world of personal finance is one that weighs one down with many questions and much language that can prove hard to understand. "The International Dictionary of Personal Finance" is an insightful look at the large array of sometimes confusing terminology that comes along with one's financial troubles and financial success. From abandonment to zero rated, A. J. Rider defines these terms and their differences internationally. "The International Dictionary of Personal Finance" is a wise read for anyone handling money, highly recommended.

The Leaderful Fieldbook
Joseph A. Raelin
Davies-Black
20 Park Plaza, Suite 1115A, Boston, MA 02116
9780891063803, $34.95, www.nicholasbrealey.com

What is needed to be a major leader in business today has vastly changed. "The Leaderful Fieldbook: Strategies and Activities for Developing Leadership in Everyone" is a business guide that realizes that more than one leader is needed for a business to be majorly successful in today's world. The leadership team is important and at all levels of cooperation and management is needed to make a progressive and powerful business. For those who understand that you need more than one leader in today's business, "The Leaderful Fieldbook" is a must have resource.

Successful Networking
Frances Kay
Kogan Page
525 South 4th Street, #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749458799, $17.95, www.koganpage.com

Networking is the key to business success. "How to Build New Networks for Career and Company Progression: Successful Networking" is a guide to making those connections and making them strong enough for business relations. With advice on finding the right connections, the right people, using the internet, making the pitch, sharing contacts, and more, "How to Build New Networks for Career and Company Progression" is a must for anyone who wants to get that unbeatable support system for their business.

Capitalism at the Crossroads
Stuart L. Hart
Wharton School Publishing
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
9780137042326, $19.99, www.whartonsp.com

More than ever, the power of capitalism is in doubt. "Capitalism at the Crossroads: Next Generation Business Strategies for a Post-Crisis World" discusses capitalism in the future where the rules of capitalism will have to be reinvented to deal with the problems that have been created over the past few decades. From focusing on sustainable money, environmental issues, the social applications, and more, "Capitalism at the Crossroads" is a useful and very highly recommended read that shouldn't be overlooked for those concerned about the economic future.


The Social Issues Shelf

Between the Fences
Tony Hefner
Seven Stories Press
140 Watts Street, New York, NY 10013
9781583229125, $19.95, www.seventstories.com

Guantanamo wasn't unique. "Between the Fences: Before Guantanamo, there was the Port Isabel Service Processing Center" is a story from Tony Hefner telling of one of America's other non-standard prison, where undocumented immigrants were held. His story one is of abuse of many types, and lets his story be known before it's swept up in history. "Between the Fences" is an intriguing read of American trespasses on human rights.


The Civil War Shelf

Columbus Georgia 1865
Charles A. Misulia
University of Alabama Press
PO Box 870380, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0380
9780817316761, $39.95, www.uapress.ua.edu

The Civil War didn't instantly end at Appomattox. "Columbus, Georgia, 1865: The Last True Battle of the Civil War" looks at the battle in this conflict that occurred April 16, 1865, a week after Lee surrendered to Grant. One last battle occurred as the remnants of the Southern forces were not prepared to give up just yet. Analyzing this battle and what it means in the greater picture of the war and Civil War history. "Columbus, Georgia, 1865" is a fine addition to any civil war history section.


The Sports Shelf

Hockey Talk
John Goldner
Fitzhenry & Whiteside
195 Allstate Parkway, Markham, ON L3R 4T8
9781554550920, $14.95, www.fitzhenry.ca

Hockey is a sport that's never been the most popular in America, but don't discount the passion of its fans. "Hockey Talk: The Language of Hockey from A-Z" is a guide to the lingo of hockey so that readers trying to get into the sport can understand the words and lingo of the sport. From aerial to zamboni, "Hockey Talk" is a choice reference for any hockey novice or those who enjoy a bit of humor in their favored sport.


The Cookbook Shelf

Thai Cooking in a Sufi's Kitchen
Alima Ravadi Quinn
Emerald of Siam Publishing
1314 Jadwin Avenue, Richland, WA 99354
9780962878336, $17.95, www.sufichef.com

Good cooking is something that is truly wonderful. "Thai Cooking: In a Sufi's Kitchen" is a cookbook detailing the fine aspects of Thai cooking, with plenty of recipes for all sorts of meals, as well as detailed instructions on making the more complex dishes in the Thai chef's repertoire. For anyone who wants to dive into Thai cooking, "Thai Cooking in a Sufi's Kitchen" is an absolute must.


The Psychology Shelf

Freud on Madison Avenue
Lawrence R. Samuel
University of Pennsylvania Press
3905 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4011
9780812242515, $29.95, www.upenn.edu/pennpress

Without even thinking about it, you may be being advertised to. "Freud on Madison Avenue: Motivation Research and Subliminal Advertising in America" discusses psychology and why people shop the way they shop, breaking down these unusual habits in people who claim to be rational. This concept has been researched through years, and author Lawrence R. Samuel gives a thoughtful and scholarly look at this work and provides a very eye opening read. "Freud on Madison Avenue" is a strong pick for anyone who wants to understand consumer psychology, either as a business man or just the endlessly curious.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Recycle The Essential Guide
Lucy Siegle
Black Dog Publishing
151 West 19th Street, New York, NY 10011
9781907317026, $29.95, www.blackdogonline.com

Recycling is a good habit, but it isn't always the simplest one. "Recycle: The Essential Guide" is a guide to being a wiser and more adept recycler, outlining how to recycle many things that aren't exactly obvious on how to dispose in an environmentally friendly way. From everything such as old clothes to dangerous materials, Black Dog Publishing provides a very strong resource for the environmentally conscious who want to go further. "Recycle" is a top pick for any environmentally conscious library collection.


The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf

Filmmaking for Teens
Troy Lanier & Clay Nichols
Michael Wiese Productions
3940 Laurel Canyon Blvd. #1111, Studio City, CA 91604
9781932907681, $20.95, www.mwp.com

Filmamking can be quite the avenue for self-expression. "Filmmaking for Teens: Pulling Off Your Shorts" is a guide to young readers who want to break into the art of filmaking. With tips on getting started, how the advancement of services like YouTube are a boon, pushing the technological envelope, shooting for profit, and much more, "Filmmaking for Teens" is a very useful resource for the Spielbergs and Lucases to be.

The Cult TV
Stacey Abbott
Soft Skull Press
c/o Counterpoint
2117 Fourth Street, Suite D, berkeley, CA 94710
9781593762766, $15.95, www.softskull.com

When a show gets steam, there are people who take it seriously. "The Cult TV Book: From Star Trek to Dexter, New Approaches to TV Outside the Box" delves into the history of TV fandom to where serious fandom of TV shows used to only apply to the fringe of Trekkies, but now has become and enveloped nearly every level of television. With a scholarly eye and plenty to think about with these shows, "The Cult TV Book" is a fascinating look at television and the fans it creates.


The Philosophy Shelf

Running is Life
Bruce Fleming
University Press of America
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
9780761851752, $25.00, www.univpress.com

Running is more than vigorous movement. "Running is Life: Transcending the Crisis of Modernity" takes a spin of philosophy surrounding running and presents many insights into the act that many people don't yet understand. From running around the world, the body's movement, and what it means to run and the philosophy of it, "Running is Life" discusses many things, and Bruce Fleming provides much food for thought on today's world, leading to a thoughtful and very highly recommended read.

Commonsense Darwinism
John Lemos
Open Court
315 Fifth Street, PO Box 300, Peru, IL 61353-0300
9780812696325, $29.95, www.opencourtbooks.com

Evolution to many conflicts with many preexisting beliefs, or does it really? "Commonsense Darwinism: Evolution, Morality, and the Human Condition" discusses Darwinism and where it conflicts with many existing beliefs such as religion, free will, and other factors. John Lemos proposes that Darwinism does none of those things, and provides many thoughts and reasons why. "Commonsense Darwinism" is a scholarly and philosophical read that shouldn't be missed by those critical of Darwinist beliefs.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Transforming Relations
Franklin T. Harkins, editor
University of Notre Dame Press
310 Flanner Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556
9780268030902, $50.00

Christianity and Judaism are two faiths that have lied close to each other throughout both of their existences. "Transforming Relations: Essays on Jews and Christians Throughout History in Honor of Michael A. Signer" is a scholarly look at Christianity and its relationship with its parent faith Judaism. Through the centuries, the faiths have had an unusual unity through both persecution and friendship. In the honor of a renown researcher on the topic, many authors bring their own thought and research through the table on the two thousand years of conflict. "Transforming Relations" is a key addition to any community library religious studies collection.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Knitting Motifs For Babies And Kids
Lucinda Guy
Trafalgar Square Publishing
PO Box 257, Howe Hill Road, North Pomfret, VT 05033
www.trafalgarbooks.com
9781570764592, $24.95, www.amazon.com

In "Knitting Motifs for Babies and Kids: A Source Book of 50 Charted Designs", professional knitwear and textile designer Lucinda Guy draws upon her more than twenty years of experience and expertise to compose a 112-page, profusely illustrated instructional compendium showcasing fifty knitting projects and techniques that cover everything from using and combining colors, to yarn choices and sizing when creating customized knitting projects for babies and children. Offering a wealth of motif designs for illustrating every thing from socks and mittens to hats and scarves, "Knitting Motifs For Babies And Kids" is thoroughly 'user friendly' and enhanced throughout with little 'design ideas' suggestions. A cornucopia of needlecraft ideas, "Knitting Motifs For Babies And Kids" is an especially recommended and useful addition to personal and community library needlecraft instructional reference collections.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com


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