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Wisconsin Bookwatch

Volume 17, Number 3 March 2022 Home | WBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Writing/Publishing Shelf Health/Medicine Shelf
Science Shelf Art Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Jobs/Careers Shelf Military Shelf General Fiction Shelf
Historical Fiction Shelf Romantic Fiction Shelf Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Christian Studies Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf
Self-Help Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf Graphic Novel Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Music CD Shelf Business Shelf
Automotive Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Gardening Shelf
Biography Shelf Architecture Shelf Sports Shelf
Computer Shelf Photography Shelf Travel Shelf


Reviewer's Choice


The Green Hour: A Natural History of Home
Alison Townsend
University of Wisconsin Press
728 State Street, Suite 443, Madison, WI 53706-1418
www.uwpress.wisc.edu
9780299334604, $28.95, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Green-Hour-Natural-History-Home/dp/0299334600

Synopsis: When Alison Townsend purchased her first house, in south-central Wisconsin, she put down roots where she never imagined settling. To understand how she came to live in the Midwest, she takes a journey through personal landscapes, considering the impact of geography at pivotal moments in her life, vividly illuminating the role of mourning, homesickness, and relocations.

With sparkling, lyrical prose,"The Green Hour: A Natural History of Home" undulates effortlessly through time like a red-winged blackbird. Inspired by five beloved settings (Eastern Pennsylvania, Vermont, California, Western Oregon, and the spot atop the Wisconsin hill where she now resides) Townsend considers the role that place plays in shaping the self. She reveals the ways that a fresh perspective or new experience in any environment can incite wonder, build unexpected connections, and provide solace or salvation.

Mesmerizingly attentive to nature with its beauty, its fragility, and its redeeming powers, Townsend asks what it means to live in community with wilderness and to allow our identities to be shaped by our interactions with it: our story as its story.

Critique: An inherently fascinating, informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking read throughout, "The Green Hour: A Natural History of Home" showcases author Alison Townsend's enviable skills as an observant storyteller. The result is a book that will linger in the mind and memory of the reader long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While very highly recommended, especially for community, college, and university library collections, with its unique combination of memoir, Wisconsin history, and nature writing, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Green Hour: A Natural History of Home" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $21.99).

Editorial Note: Professor Emerita of English at the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater, Alison Townsend is the award-winning author of two poetry collections, "The Blue Dress" and "Persephone in America", as well as a volume of prose, "The Persistence of Rivers".

When Alison Townsend purchased her first house, in south-central Wisconsin, she put down roots where she never imagined settling. To understand how she came to live in the Midwest, she takes a journey through personal landscapes, considering the impact of geography at pivotal moments in her life, vividly illuminating the role of mourning, homesickness, and relocations.

With sparkling, lyrical prose, The Green Hour undulates effortlessly through time like a red-winged blackbird. Inspired by five beloved settings - eastern Pennsylvania, Vermont, California, western Oregon, and the spot atop the Wisconsin hill where she now resides - Townsend considers the role that place plays in shaping the self. She reveals the ways that a fresh perspective or new experience in any environment can incite wonder, build unexpected connections, and provide solace or salvation.

Mesmerizingly attentive to nature - its beauty, its fragility, and its redeeming powers - she asks what it means to live in community with wilderness and to allow our identities to be shaped by our interactions with it: our story as its story.


The Writing/Publishing Shelf

Refuse to Be Done
Matt Bell
Soho Press
853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
www.sohopress.com
9781641293419, $15.95, PB, 168pp

https://www.amazon.com/Refuse-Be-Done-Rewrite-Drafts/dp/1641293411

Synopsis: With the publication of "Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts" experienced writer and academician Matt Bell provides an encouraging and intensely practical combination instructional guide and 'how-to' manual for aspiring novelists that focuses on specific rewriting tasks, techniques, and activities for every stage of the process of writing a successful novel.

You won't find bromides here about the "the writing Muse." Instead, Bell breaks down the writing process in three sections. In the first, Bell shares a bounty of tactics, all meant to push you through the initial conception and get words on the page. The second focuses on reworking the narrative through outlining, modeling, and rewriting. The third and final section offers a layered approach to polishing through a checklist of operations, breaking the daunting project of final revisions into many small, achievable tasks.

Whether you are a first time novelist or a veteran writer, you will find an abundance of strategies here to help motivate you and shake up your revision process, allowing you to approach your work, day after day and month after month, with fresh eyes and sharp new tools.

Critique: Especially recommended reading for any novelist on how to approach the inevitably necessary work re-writes and revisions, "Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts" is exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation. Impressively informative and 'real world' practical, as well as very highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Writing/Publishing collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99). Simply stated, if you are working on a novel and only have time to read one help and improvement 'how to' title on writing, make it "Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts" by Matt Bell.

Editorial Note: Matt Bell is the author most recently of the novels "Scrapper" (a Michigan Notable Book) and "In the House upon the Dirt between the Lake and the Woods" (a finalist for the Young Lions Fiction Award and an Indies Choice Adult Debut Book of the Year Honor Recipient, as well as the winner of the Paula Anderson Book Award). His stories have appeared in Best American Mystery Stories, Tin House, Conjunctions, Fairy Tale Review, Gulf Coast, and many other publications. He currently teaches creative writing at Arizona State University.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Strong Heart, Sharp Mind
Joesph C. Piscatella, author
Marwan Sabbagh, MD, author
Humanix Books
www.humanixbooks.com
9781630061937, $24.99, HC, 250pp

https://www.amazon.com/STRONG-HEART-SHARP-MIND-Brain-Body/dp/163006193X

Synopsis: "Strong Heart, Sharp Mind: The 6-Step Brain-Body Balance Program that Reverses Heart Disease and Helps Prevent Alzheimer's" by heart health expert Joseph C. Piscatella and board certified neurologist and geriatric neurologist Dr. Marwan Sabbagh presents a cutting-edge, science-based program that teaches readers how to develop the habits and lifestyle practices that improve both heart and brain health.

Readers will learn how they can prevent or forestall both the nation's number-one killer (heart disease) as well as the affliction Americans fear most: Alzheimer's disease. For the 108 million Americans 50 and over, creating what the authors call the "Brain-Body-Balance" through the steps detailed in these pages can also improve quality of life and longevity, by synchronizing the interaction between our two most vital organs.

Joseph C. Piscatella, author of countless heart health books, and one of the longest-living survivors of coronary bypass surgery (43 years and counting!) and Cleveland Clinic neurologist Marwan Noel Sabbagh, M.D., one of the worlds's foremost researchers in the fight against Alzheimer's, employ the latest science and recommendations from other leading-edge thinkers and practitioners, to help readers optimize the connection between cardiac and neuro health -- a nexus that until recently has been overlooked as a key to wellness and longevity. Joe Piscatella and Dr. Sabbagh are poised to guide readers to this new intersection of heart-brain health, and take them through the necessary steps to make that connection between our most vital organs, for optimal wellness, as well as to protect them against the world's most lethal and feared diseases.

"Strong Heart, Sharp Mind: The 6-Step Brain-Body Balance Program that Reverses Heart Disease and Helps Prevent Alzheimer's" blends science and solution in the form of a new, singular heart/brain-specific program and takes readers through the steps necessary to optimal wellness and a longer, happier life.

Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Strong Heart, Sharp Mind: The 6-Step Brain-Body Balance Program that Reverses Heart Disease and Helps Prevent Alzheimer's" is impressively informative and highly recommended reading for professionals and non-specialist general readers with an interest in Homeopathy Medicine, Heart Disease, and medical conditions and diseases associated with the aging process, that "Strong Heart, Sharp Mind: The 6-Step Brain-Body Balance Program that Reverses Heart Disease and Helps Prevent Alzheimer's" is an invaluable and welcome addition to personal, community, college, and university library Health/Medicine collections, as well as also being readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Sit to Get Fit
Suzy Reading
Aster
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781783254453, $14.99, HC, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sit-Get-Fit-Suzy-Reading/dp/1783254459

Synopsis: We live increasingly sedentary lives and our lifestyle has radically changed in terms of how we work and naturally move throughout our day. While we all know about the benefits of exercise for mental and physical health, what we're not so attuned to are the damaging effects of just how we sit while at our desks, scrolling on our phones, in the car or even on our bicycles.

But it doesn't have to be this way. By making small changes to our everyday sitting behavior, we can experience increased energy, confidence, optimism and openness.

With "Sit to Get Fit" by psychologists and self-care expert Suzy Reading we change the way we sit in 28 days for health, energy and longevity with a practical 28-day plan to transform our relationship with sitting, how long we sit at a time, how to add simple breath work and movement into our day and restorative moves for the end of the day. Basically we will sit up, sit better and reap the benefits!

Critique: Nicely illustrated with line drawings, "Sit to Get Fit" is a unique and impressive health improving approach to an otherwise often neglected aspect of our physical day -- a very large part of which is spent sitting down. While also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99), "Sit to Get Fit" is enthusiastically recommended addition to community, college, and university library Health & Physical Fitness collections.

Editorial Note: Suzy Reading is a chartered psychologist (B. Psych (Hons), M.Psych (Org)) and qualified yoga teacher from Australia, specializing in wellbeing. Her offerings include face-to-face coaching, walk & talk sessions, private and group yoga, mummy and baby yoga courses, Skype coaching, workshop presentations on self-care and other topics such as sleep, rest and relaxation, and how to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Suzy is also the Neom Organics Psychology expert and a Contributing Editor on Psychologies Magazine. She has contributed to journals on the subject of self-care. She is also the author of The Little Book of Self-Care, Self-care For Tough Times and Stand Tall Like A Mountain.

Nature Wants Us to Be Fat
Richard J. Johnson, MD
BenBella Books
www.benbellabooks.com
9781637740347, $26.95, HC, 288pp

https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Wants-Fat-Prevent-Reverse/dp/1637740344

Synopsis: Dr. Richard Johnson has been on the cutting edge of research into the cause of obesity for more than a decade. His team's discovery of the fructose-powered survival switch -- a metabolic pathway that animals in nature turn on and off as needed, but that our modern diet has permanently fixed in the "on" position, where it becomes a fat switch. This insight has revolutionized the way we think about why we gain weight.

With the publication of "Nature Wants Us to Be Fat: The Surprising Science Behind Why We Gain Weight and How We Can Prevent--and Reverse--It", Dr. Johnson details the mounting evidence on how this switch is responsible both for excess fat storage and for many of the major diseases endemic to the Western world, including heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Dr. Johnson also reveals the surprising link between the survival switch and health conditions such as gout, kidney disease, liver disease, stroke -- and even behavioral issues like addiction and ADHD. And, most important, he shares a science-based plan to help his readers to fight back against nature.

Guided by ongoing clinical research (plus fascinating observations from the animal kingdom, evolution, and history) Dr. Johnson covers: What you can do to turn off your survival switch; What we have in common with hibernating bears, sperm whales, and the world's fattest bird; Why it's fructose (not glucose) that drives insulin resistance and metabolic disease; The foods we eat that trigger the body to make its own fructose; The surprising role salt and dehydration play in fat accumulation.

Dr. Johnson not only provides new recommendations for how we can prevent or treat obesity, but also how we can use this information to reduce our risk of developing disease. Nature wants us to be fat, and when we understand why, we gain the tools we need to lose weight and optimize our health.

Critique: Enhanced for academia and the non-specialist general reader with the inclusion of an eight page Glossary, a thirty-four page list of References, and a nine page Index, "Nature Wants Us to Be Fat: The Surprising Science Behind Why We Gain Weight and How We Can Prevent--and Reverse--It" is exceptionally well organized and presented, making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to personal, community, college, and university library Health/Medicine collections. An especially appropriate addition to Diet & Eating Disorder studies lists, "Nature Wants Us to Be Fat: The Surprising Science Behind Why We Gain Weight and How We Can Prevent--and Reverse--It" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Editorial Note: Dr. Richard Johnson is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Colorado and is both a clinician, educator and a researcher. He is board certified in internal medicine, infectious diseases, and kidney disease and is the founding editor of Comprehensive Clinical Nephrology, one of the main textbooks on kidney disease. For more than 20 years, he has led research on the cause of obesity and diabetes, with especial interest in the role of sugar (especially fructose) and uric acid. His research has been highly cited, published in top medical journals, and supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health. He is also the author of "The Sugar Fix" and "The Fat Switch".


The Science Shelf

Universe Within
Melvin A. Felton, Jr.
https://www.melvinfelton.com
Iff Books
c/o John Hunt Publishing
www.johnhuntpublishing.com
9781789047196, $16.95, PB, 328pp

https://www.amazon.com/Universe-Within-Surprising-Human-Models/dp/1789047196

Synopsis: "Universe Within: The Surprising Way the Human Brain Models the Universe" by physicist Melvin A. Felton, Jr. makes the case that the human brain is a physical model of the universe because of structural and dynamical similarities shared between the two systems based on the pictures emerging out of neuroscience and physics, respectively. The relationship between the human brain and the universe revealed with the publication of "Universe Within: The Surprising Way the Human Brain Models the Universe" might be the missing principle that leads to the theory-of-everything.

Critique: Informative, iconoclastic, and thought-provoking, "Universe Within: The Surprising Way the Human Brain Models the Universe" is an inherently fascinating and compelling read from cover to cover. While highly recommended for community, college, and library collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academics, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in biology, physics, and philosophical metaphysics that "Universe Within: The Surprising Way the Human Brain Models the Universe" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.49).

Editorial Note: Melvin Felton is a physicist who conducts research in diverse fields that include remote sensing of the lower atmosphere, cybernetics, and computational neuroscience.


The Art Shelf

Painting Happiness: Creativity with Watercolors
Terry Runyan
Leaping Hare Press
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711270565, $19.99, PB, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/Painting-Happiness-Watercolors-Terry-Runyan/dp/0711270562

Synopsis: "Painting Happiness: Creativity with Watercolors" by watercolor expert Terry Runyun is simple and vibrant 'how to' guide that explores the art of watercolor through the lens of mindfulness, presenting activities and projects which aspiring artists can paint along with as they allow their creative side to flourish.

This illustrated and instructive watercolor guide is especially easy and accessible for beginners, as Runyan gently delves into the basics of the artform, starting with simple techniques which can be follow along with, as well as presenting some fun projects ideas for novice painters to explore.

Alongside beautiful examples of the techniques and styles explored in "Painting Happiness", Runyan also encourages readers to practice mindfulness as they paint, and explores the ways in which art can be used to help improve mental health. Exploring the idea of 'perfectly imperfect watercolors', Runyan places emphasis on self-expression and allowing yourself to make mistakes.

"Painting Happiness" also includes fun projects for readers to try at home, including: Turning blobs into birds; Creating wild hairstyles; Experimenting with different prompts to paint at least one thing a day. From technical skills and notes on materials to insight into the creative process, "Painting Happiness has everything needed to start painting in the medium of watercolor.

Critique: Especially in these stressful times, "Painting Happiness: Creativity with Watercolors" is an ideal pastime and approach to combating stress and anxiety while releasing our inner creative aspirations. Exceptionally informative and 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Painting Happiness: Creativity with Watercolors" is very highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Watercolor Art instructional reference collections.

Editorial Note: Terry Runyan is a visual artist and creative encourager. After a long career as an in-house illustrator for Hallmark, Terry now runs her own business, creating art and videos, and leading classes at Skillshare to help others explore their creativity. She loves painting cats, cats on heads, big hair, and encouraging imperfectly perfect watercolor. She maintains an informative website at: www.terryrunyan.com and can be followed on Instagram: @terryrunyan; YouTube: Terry Runyan; Facebook: @terryrunyancreative; and the Daily Creating Group on Facebook: @dailycreating

Bridget Riley: Working Drawings
Lucy Askey, et al.
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
500 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10110-0017
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500971161, $60.00, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bridget-Riley-Drawings-Lucy-Askew/dp/0500971161

Synopsis: Bridget Louise Riley CH CBE (born 24 April 1931) is an English painter known for her op art paintings. She lives and works in London, Cornwall and the Vaucluse in France.

Riley's paintings are developed carefully over time, the result of methodically working through pictorial variables such as color, tone, scale, and rhythm. Studies are central to this process, allowing Riley to concentrate on the analysis and synthesis that lie at the heart of her working practice.

"Bridget Riley: Working Drawings" is coffee-table style volume that richly illustrates the thinking that goes into Riley's work through a selection of over 150 drawings, color analyses, notations, scale studies, and cartoons. The selection spans most of Riley's working life, tracing the origins and evolving nature of her remarkable body of work. Riley's beginnings are also documented through selected childhood drawings, work made during and immediately following her studies at Goldsmiths' College and the Royal College of Art, and her early explorations into abstraction.

The artist's working method is brought into high relief in a newly commissioned conversation with Riley and Sir John Leighton, Director of the National Galleries of Scotland. The text explores the cardinal moments in the artist's practice and the impulses that bring her work into existence. "Bridget Riley: Working Drawings" also features four texts dedicated to Riley's studies and practice written by the artist, art historians, curators, and museum directors, which shed further light on the enduring role of drawing and the process of exploration central to her work.

Critique: Highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Art & Artist collections, and published by Thames & Hudson in a large sized, hardcover edition (10.1 x 1.6 x 11 inches) that includes some 200+ color illustrations, "Bridget Riley: Working Drawings" is the collaborative work of Lucy Askew (Chief Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the National Galleries of Scotland, and a Trustee of The Common Guild and of Edinburgh Art Festival); Gene Baro (an American curator, critic, writer, and organizer of special exhibitions of art; Lynne Cooke (Senior Curator for Special Projects in Modern Art at the National Gallery of Art, Washington DC); Maurice de Sausmarez (who was a painter, teacher, and art historian and author of Bridget Riley, London, 1970); and Michael Harrison (who was Director of Kettle's Yard in Cambridge).


The Cookbook Shelf

Jeremy Pang's School of Wok
Jeremy Pang
Hamlyn
c/o Octopus Publishing
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
http://www.kylebooks.com
9780600637301, $24.99, HC, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Jeremy-Pangs-School-Wok-Pang/dp/0600637301

Synopsis: A wok is a deep round-bottomed cooking pot that originated in China. Woks are used in a range of Chinese cooking techniques, including stir frying, steaming, pan frying, deep frying, poaching, boiling, braising, searing, stewing, making soup, smoking and roasting nuts.

Bringing together the best Asian flavors from across the continent, "Jeremy Pang's School of Wok" is comprised of wok- based recipes for quick-fire, easy meals that take as little as 15 minutes to cook. From lavish suppers for lavish weekend suppers to family feasts with a bit more flare, Jeremy Pang's School of Wok contains the tips and tricks you need to make the world of Asian cooking easily accessible so you never have to resort to a fakeaway ever again.

Most of the recipes in "Jeremy Pang's School of Wok" utilise the 'wok clock' technique, where the ingredients are laid out in a clock formation in the order they will be cooked for complete simplicity. Wok Wednesdays and Flavor Fridays, all seen on the School of Wok Youtube channel, are also featured.

Critique: An ideal cookbook for the novice family chef wanting to provide authentic wok prepared Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese; Singaporean, Malaysian; Indonesian, Pindy, Lorean, Japanese dishes, "Jeremy Pang's School of Wok" is profusely and beautifully illustrated in full color and provides thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes instructions for each showcased dish. Of special note is the secton devoted to 'Tasty Sides'. Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99), and enhanced with the inclusion of a Glossary and an Index, "Jeremy Pang's School of Wok" will be a prized and appreciated addition to personal, family, professional, and community library Asian Cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: The young and talented chef Jeremy Pang comes from three generations of Chinese cooks. Jeremy is now a regular chef on BBC1's Ready Steady Cook and Channel 4's Sunday Brunch as well as having published two of his own cookbooks: demystifying Chinese cooking in Chinese Unchopped and exploring different delectable dishes in Hong Kong Diner.

Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Pang's School of Wok has gone from strength to strength: launching a range of products and meal kits, winning at The British Cookery School Awards in 2014 and teaching over 60,000 students the secrets of Asian cuisines.

Natural Flava
Craig McAnuff, author
Shaun McAnuff, author
Bloomsbury Press
www.bloomsbury.com
9781526631879, $30.00, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Flava-Plant-Based-Caribbean-Recipes/dp/1526631873

Synopsis: Caribbean food is often known for its tasty meat and fish dishes. However, there's more to Caribbean food than jerk chicken. Caribbean cusine also features a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables like plantain, yams, jackfruit, guava, and plenty more, making it perfect for vegan recipes.

Jamaica has a long and authentic vegan tradition: the Ital diet of Jamaican Rastafarians. Ital means clean, natural, and unprocessed as much as possible. Rastafari is an expression of unity with all things, and the Ital diet reflects that through a sense of peace and togetherness with the natural world. Essentially Jamaican cooking without salt, meat, or additives, Ital is just as tasty but with the power to promote overall health and wellness.

Craig and Shaun charmed cooks everywhere with their essential introduction to home-cooked Caribbean food in Original Flava. Now, in "Natural Flava: Quick & Easy Plant-Based Caribbean Recipes", they are offering the family cook Ital inspiration and punchy Caribbean flavors to the feel-good, plant-based, vegetarian diet.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated with full color photography throughout, "Natural Flava: Quick & Easy Plant-Based Caribbean Recipes" offers informative commentaries of each showcased dish, along ingredients lists and preparatory instructions with 'kitchen cook friendly' style of organization and presentation. From Corn Fritters; Mushroom Pepper Steak; Lentil and Bean Stew; and Red Pea Soup; to Meta-Free Kebabs; Mango Coleslaw, Sweet Potato Salad; and Rum Cake, "Natural Flava: Quick & Easy Plant-Based Caribbean Recipes" will prove to be a unique and enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, and community library Vegetarian Cookbook collections. It should be noted that "Natural Flava: Quick & Easy Plant-Based Caribbean Recipes" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99).

Editorial Note: Craig and Shaun McAnuff, raised in London and of Jamaican descent, are bringing Caribbean food to the masses. In April 2016, they launched the Original Flava brand, sharing videos of them cooking simple Caribbean recipes. Their videos went viral and they have since been featured on the BBC, Buzzfeed, BET Network, London Live and Reprezent Radio and have published two books, including Caribbean Cookbook in 2017 and Original Flava in 2019.

The Camping Cookbook
Annie Bell
Kyle Books
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781914239151, $14.99, PB, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Camping-Cookbook-Fabulous-Campfire-Adventurers/dp/1914239156

Synopsis: With the publication of "The Camping Cookbook: Fabulous Campfire Feasts For Outdoor Adventurers", Annie Bell shows even the most novice of campers how to make delicious and interesting camping recipes with just the barest of essentials.

Using a traveling barbecue, one-ring burner or a tripod and pot, now new and experienced outdoor campers can create portable feasts such as Baba Ghanoush, Chicken Tagine with Pine Nuts and Raisins, and Apricots with Gooey Nougat, and learn about the best equipment to use for minimum mess and clearing up.

From hearty brunches and tea & cake to one-pot cooking and sweet treats, "The Camping Cookbook: Fabulous Campfire Feasts For Outdoor Adventurers" essential guide has more than 60 recipes for every occasion, so you can eat in style wherever you are.

Critique: Showing that there can be so much more to campfire cuisine than hot dogs and smores, "The Camping Cookbook: Fabulous Campfire Feasts For Outdoor Adventurers" is profusely and beautifully illustrated throughout with full color photography, From Twice Baked Banana Cake; Feta with Pistachios in Honey; and Cowboy Coffee Beef; to Goat Cheese Wrapped in Parma Ham; Butterflied Leg of Lamb, all the recipes comprising "The Camping Cookbook: Fabulous Campfire Feasts For Outdoor Adventurers" are thoroughly 'camp fire cook' friendly. With the inclusion of an entire section devoted to side dishes, expert advice on what constitutes an essential kit and more, "The Camping Cookbook: Fabulous Campfire Feasts For Outdoor Adventurers" is highly recommended for personal, family, professional, and community library cookbook collections.

Editorial Note: Annie Bell is an award-winning cookery writer who trained as a chef before writing for Vogue, and then the Independent. She was awarded Journalist of the Year by the Guild of Food Writers in 2003. She has been principal cookery writer on the Mail on Sunday's YOU Magazine for the last 20 years. Her previous cookbooks include Plant Power, Annie Bell's Baking Bible, Soup Glorious Soup, Low Carb Revolution, Low Carb Express and How to Cook.

A Good Day to Bake
Benjamina Ebuehi
Quadrille Publishing
c/o Hardie Grant
https://www.hardiegrant.com/us/quadrille
9781787138018, $32.00, HC, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Day-Bake-Simple-Recipes/dp/1787138011

Synopsis: Compiled by Benjamina Ebuehi, "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is a culinary compendium showcasing 70 sweet and savory baking recipes for any day of the week.

Going through the ritual of bringing out the measuring scales, pouring out flour, whipping up the eggs, stirring the batter and impatiently slicing up warm cake is a beautiful thing that deserves to be enjoyed all year round no matter the day, the season or the occasion.

"A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is a cookbook that embraces simplicity, mindfulness and the therapeutic comforts of baking. The Great British Bake Off's 2016 contestant Benjamina writes so warmly about cakes and her recipes speak to a natural, seasonal and down-to-earth way of baking. The chapters comprising "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" include Herbs & Tea, Stone Fruit & Berries, Vegetables, Best of Beige, Spice Cupboard, and Chocolate.

The underlying message throughout "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is that every day is a good day to bake!

Critique: Beautifully illustrated with full color photography throughout, "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is a dedicated baker's delight to simply browse through one delicious recipe at a time. Of particular value for both the novice and the experienced family baker, "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collections. It should be noted that "A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Benjamina Ebuehi writes recipes, styles and creates content for media, such as BBC Good Food, Waitrose Weekend and Guardian Feast as well as brands such as Sainsbury's, McVities, Lindt, Lyles Golden Syrup, Anthropologie, Baileys and Schwartz spices. She is also an ambassador for the incredible social enterprise Luminary Bakery, and co-founded, with her sister Bonita, The Sister Table (www.thesistertable.com), hosting pop-up brunches and supper clubs for women across London. Her food blog Carrot and Crumb (www.carrotandcrumb.com) was a finalist in the 2019 Saveur Blog Awards.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Great Careers Without a Bachelor's Degree series
Andrew Morkes
College & Career Press
PO Box 300484, Chicago, IL 60630
www.chicagopa.com

http://www.ccpnewsletters.com/great-careers-without-a-bachelors-degree-series

Synopsis: "Great Careers Without a Bachelor's Degree" is a new DIY instructional guide series by Andrew Morkes that showcases lucrative and satisfying careers that can be trained for by earning certificates and associate's degrees at community colleges and technical colleges; by completing apprenticeships; and by training in the military.

These careers provide students with a path to a comfortable, middle class life. Each individual title comprising this outstanding series features information on typical job duties and work environments for the career; a glossary of more than 35 commonly used terms in the career; information on educational training paths; a list of college scholarships and other types of financial aid that help students reduce the cost of training; information on typical salaries; 15+ ways to explore the field while still in school -- classes, competitions, camps, websites, books, tours, school clubs, information interviews, job shadowing; a detailed look at the employment outlook in the United States; interestingly informative sidebars, and more than 40 photos that illustrate that particular career.

Of special interest is the inclusion of interviews with professionals and educators who describe what it's like to work in the field, what they love about their jobs, and key skills for success. The thoroughly 'user friendly' titles currently comprising this series of 'real world practical' books include: "Wind Turbine Technicians" (9780982921029, $19.95, PB, 96pp); "Physical Therapist Assistants" (9780982921036, $19.95, PB, 96pp); Paralegals (9780982921012, $19.95, PB, 96pp); 9780982921005, $19.95, PB, 96pp); and Computer Support Specialists (9780982921043, $19.95, PB, 96).

Critique: Each individual title is illustrated throught out with black/white photography and provides a comprehensively description information with respect to job description, salary information, and are currently experiencing above average job growth rates. Although the books comprising the "Great Careers Without a Bachelor's Degree" are readily available for personal reading lists individually, it is especially and unreservedly recommended for highschool and community library Jobs/Careers collections that the entire series be acquired for the benefit of their students and patrons.

Editorial Note: Andrew Morkes is the founder and editorial director of College & Career Press in Chicago, Illinois. He has written about college- and career-related topics for more than 25 years. Andrew is the author of more than 50 books about college planning and careers, including many titles in the Vault Career Guides series (including Law, Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology, and Information Technology); Mason Crest's Careers in the Building Trades and Cool Careers in Science series; College Spotlight newsletter, the CAM Report career newsletter; and They Teach That in College!?: A Resource Guide to More Than 100 Interesting College Majors. He is also the author and publisher of "The Morkes Report: College and Career Planning Trends" blog and a member of the parent advisory board at his son's school.


The Military Shelf

Alpha One Sixteen: A Combat Infantryman's Year in Vietnam
Peter Cark
Casemate Publishers
1940 Lawrence Road, Havertown, PA 19083
www.casematepublishers.com
9781636240565, $22.95, PB, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Alpha-One-Sixteen-Infantrymans-Vietnam/dp/1636240569

Synopsis: Peter Clark's year in Vietnam began in July 1966, when he was shipped out with hundreds of other young recruits, as a replacement in the 1st Infantry Division. Clark was assigned to the Alpha Company. In his memoir, "Alpha One Sixteen: A Combat Infantryman's Year in Vietnam", Clark gives a visceral, vivid and immediate account of life in the platoon, as he progresses from green recruit to seasoned soldier over the course of a year in the complexities of the Vietnamese conflict.

Clark gradually learns the techniques developed by US troops to cope with the daily horrors they encountered, the technical skills needed to fight and survive, and how to deal with the awful reality of civilian casualties. Fighting aside, it rained almost every day and insect bites constantly plagued the soldiers as they moved through dense jungle, muddy rice paddy and sandy roads. From the food they ate (largely canned meatballs, beans and potatoes) to the inventive ways they managed to shower, every aspect of the platoon's lives is explored in this revealing personal story. The troops even managed to fit in some R&R whilst off-duty in the bars of Tokyo.

"Alpha One Sixteen" follows Clark as he discovers how to cope with the vagaries of the enemy and the daily confusion the troops faced in distinguishing combatants from civilians. The Viet Cong were a largely unseen enemy who fought a guerrilla war, setting traps and land mines everywhere. Clark's vigilance develops as he gets used to 'living in mortal terror', which a brush with death in a particularly terrifying fire fight does nothing to dispel. As he continues his journey, he chronicles those less fortunate; the heavy toll being taken all around him is powerfully described at the end of each chapter.

Critique: An impressively candid, detailed, informative, and emotionally engaging military memoir of one man's experience fighting in Viet Nam, "Alpha One Sixteen: A Combat Infantryman's Year in Vietnam" is an especially and unreservedly contribution to the expanding library of Viet Nam military histories, biographies and memoirs. Originally published in a hardcover edition in 2018, this newly published paperback edition from Casemate remains an important and recommended addition to community, college, and university library collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of military buffs and Viet Nam war studies that "Alpha One Sixteen: A Combat Infantryman's Year in Vietnam" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Editorial Note: Peter Clark served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1968, including Vietnam service with the 1st Infantry Division. He currently serves in the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services in the Office of the Inspector General.


The General Fiction Shelf

The Marsh Bird
Anne Brooker James
Koehler Books
3705 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
www.koehlerbooks.com
9781646633654, $29.95, HC, 346pp

https://www.amazon.com/Marsh-Bird-Anne-Brooker-James/dp/1646633679

Synopsis: Set in the American south, "The Marsh Bird" by novelist Anne Brooker James is the compelling coming of age story of a young, orphaned, multiracial girl from Louisiana and a white teen abandoned as an infant and raised by a local white fisherman, both embraced by the residents of a rural, Gullah Geechee sea island community. Set among descendants of those once enslaved in the lush marshes of the Lowcountry coast of South Carolina and Georgia, "The Marsh Bird" is an engaging love story, as well as a tale of survival.

Critique: Deftly crafted, thought-provoking, and a thoroughly engaging read from cover to cover, "The Marsh Bird" showcases the literary storytelling talents of Anne Brooker James -- all the more impressive when considering that this is her debut as a novelist. "The Marsh Bird" will prove to be an immediate and enduringly welcome addition to community library contemporary literary fiction collections. It also should be noted for personal read lists of southern fiction fans that "The Marsh Bird" is also readily available in a paperback edition, (9781646633654, $19.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Road of Bones
Christopher Golden
St. Martin's Press
120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271
https://us.macmillan.com/smp
9781250274304, $27.99, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Road-Bones-Novel-Christopher-Golden/dp/1250274303

Synopsis: Surrounded by barren trees in a snow-covered wilderness with a dim, dusky sky forever overhead, Siberia's Kolyma Highway is 1200 miles of gravel packed permafrost within driving distance of the Arctic Circle. A narrow path where drivers face such challenging conditions as icy surfaces, limited visibility, and an average temperature of sixty degrees below zero, fatal car accidents are common.

But motorists are not the only victims of the highway. Known as the Road of Bones, it is a massive graveyard for the former Soviet Union's gulag prisoners. Hundreds of thousands of people worked to death and left where their bodies fell, consumed by the frozen elements and plowed beneath the permafrost road.

Fascinated by the history, documentary producer Felix "Teig" Teigland is in Russia to drive the highway, envisioning a new series capturing Life and Death on the Road of Bones with a ride to the town of Akhust, "the coldest place on Earth", collecting ghost stories and local legends along the way. Only, when Teig and his team reach their destination, they find an abandoned town, save one catatonic nine-year-old girl -- and a pack of predatory wolves, faster and smarter than any wild animals should be.

Pursued by the otherworldly beasts, Teig's companions confront even more uncanny and inexplicable phenomena along the Road of Bones, as if the ghosts of Stalin's victims were haunting them. It is a harrowing journey that will push Teig beyond endurance and force him to confront the sins of his past.

Critique: A deftly crafted blend of history and the supernatural, "Road of Bones" by veteran novelist Christopher Golden is a simply riveting read with the lights full on! While highly recommended, especially for community library collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated supernatural thrillers that "Road of Bones" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Exiled South
Harriet Cannon
Koehler Books
3705 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
www.koehlerbooks.com
9781646635467, $29.95, HC, 268pp

https://www.amazon.com/Exiled-South-Harriet-Cannon/dp/1646635469

Synopsis: Lizbeth Gordon is a school counselor and a master at facilitating conflict resolution in everyone's life but her own. She returns home to South Carolina after her husband's sudden death.

Seeking solace at the ramshackle family cottage, she walks the winter beach, but the quiet life doesn't last. An elderly aunt has troubling family stories: a blockade runner hunted as a traitor after the fall of Charleston, and ancestors who disappeared during Civil War Reconstruction. Curiosity drives Lizbeth into roots research that dead ends.

Tentacles of the past reach across the continents when Lizbeth takes a job at an international school in Rio de Janeiro. She meets a multiethnic descendant of Confederate exiles, with the Gordon surname and nineteenth-century documents. Robert Gordon's letters describe bold escapes from Federal blockaders and Civil War intrigue in Scotland. Laurette Gordon's diary shares a heart-wrenching story of sacrifice.

Can the keys to generations-long secrets open a path to family reconciliation and healing?

Critique: A unique, fascinating, entertaining, and finely crafted novel from first page to last, "Exiled South" by Harriet Cannon is all the more impressive when considering that is her debut as a novelist. An extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to community library General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Exiled South" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781646635443, $17.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.49).

Editorial Note: Harriet Cannon is a writer with Southern roots and a wanderlust. Curiosity about places we live and how family history effects our world view has been a life-long passion. In her career as a psychotherapist, she has specialized in culture and identity. Harriet is also the co-author of :Mixed Blessings: A Guide to Multicultural and Multiethnic Relationships". Her website can be found at www.harrietcannon.com.

Red Thread of Fate
Lyn Liao Butler
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
www.penguin.com
9780593198742, $17.00, PB, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Red-Thread-Fate-Liao-Butler/dp/0593198743

Synopsis: Two days before Tam and Tony Kwan receive their letter of acceptance for the son they are adopting from China, Tony and his estranged cousin Mia are killed unexpectedly in an accident. A shell-shocked Tam learns she is named the guardian to Mia's five-year-old daughter, Angela. With no other family around, Tam has no choice but to agree to take in the girl she hasn't seen since the child was an infant.

Overwhelmed by her life suddenly being upended, Tam must also decide if she will complete the adoption on her own and bring home the son waiting for her in a Chinese orphanage. But when a long-concealed secret comes to light just as she and Angela start to bond, their fragile family is threatened. As Tam begins to unravel the events of Tony and Mia's past in China, she discovers the true meaning of love and the threads that bind her to the family she is fated to have.

Critique: An immediately absorbing and inherently compelling novel by an author with a genuine flair for distinctive, memorable, and narrative driven storytelling, "Red Thread Of Fate" by Lyn Liao Butler is an especially recommended choice for community library Asian American themed literary fiction. It should be noted for fans of multiculture based romance novels that "Red Thread Of Fate" is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).


The Historical Fiction Shelf

The Magnolia Palace
Fiona Davis
Dutton
c/o Penguin Group USA
https://www.penguin.com
9780593184011, $27.00, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Magnolia-Palace-Novel-Fiona-Davis/dp/0593184017

Synopsis: Eight months after losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter's life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists' models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate -- the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven.

So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion (a building that, ironically, bears her own visage) Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family -- pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.

Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career (and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home) within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City's most impressive museums. But when she, along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua, is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica's financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.

Critique: A veritable saga of a novel by an author with a genuine flair for originality, descriptive commentary, and narrative driven storytelling, "The Magnolia Palace" by Fiona Davis is a compellingly memorable read with its blending of historical fiction with a mystery, and will prove to be an enduringly welcome addition to community library general fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Magnolia Palace" is also readily available in a large print paperback edition (Random House Large Print, 9780593460153, $29.00, 480pp) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

The Lawless Land
Boyd Morrison, author
Beth Morrison, author
Head of Zeus, Ltd.
9781801108638, $29.95, HC, 432pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lawless-Land-Sword-Honour/dp/1801108633

Synopsis: Canterbury, 1351. Ex-communicated knight Gerard Fox is a battle-hardened warrior whose ancestral home was unjustly taken from him. Now, he roams across the known world of Europe looking for work as a man-at-arms. Equipped with only his Damascus-steel sword and war bow, Fox takes out tyrannical and dishonorable men in a land still blighted by the Black Death.

In his ongoing crusade to deliver justice, Fox comes to the aid of Lady Isabel, who is fleeing from her brutal betrothed. But she hasn't told him the whole story. Isabel is guarding a priceless holy relic. One many men would kill for.

Fox and Isabel soon find they are being chased across the continent and try to evade those who seek the relic. But as more assassins close in, Fox realizes they will stop at nothing to possess the sacred treasure that Isabel has sworn to protect...

Critique: A simply riveting action/adventure novel that will have a very special appeal to fans of medieval era fiction, "The Lawless Land" is the debut volume authors Boyd and Beth Morrison's historical fiction series 'Sword & Honor' series. The stuff of which block buster movies are made, "The Lawless Land" will leave its enthusiastic readers looking eagerly toward the next installment this entertaining sage of battle knight Gerard Fox. Certain to be a welcome addition to community library Historical Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Lawless Land" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781801108652, $15.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.49).

Editorial Note #1: Boyd Morrison is the author of twelve thrillers, including six collaborations with Clive Cussler in the Oregon Files adventure series. His first novel, The Ark, was an Indie Next Notable pick and has been translated into more than a dozen languages.

Editorial Note #2: Elizabeth Morrison is Senior Curator of Manuscripts at the J. Paul Getty Museum. A leader in her field, she has curated several major exhibitions, including 'Imagining the Past in France, 1250-1500,' and 'Book of Beasts: The Bestiary in the Medieval World'.

Daughter of the King
Kerry Chaput
www.kerrywrites.com
Black Rose Writing
PO Box 1540, Castroville, TX 78009
www.blackrosewriting.com
9781684338375, $15.95, PB, 247pp

https://www.amazon.com/Daughter-Defying-Crown-Kerry-Chaput/dp/1684338379

Synopsis: La Rochelle France, 1661. Fierce Protestant Isabelle is desperate to escape persecution by the Catholic King. Isabelle is tortured and harassed, her people forced to convert to the religion that rules the land. She risks her life by helping her fellow Protestants, which is forbidden by the powers of France. She accepts her fate -- until she meets a handsome Catholic soldier who makes her question everything.

She fights off an attack by a nobleman, and the only way to save herself is to flee to the colony of Canada as a Daughter of the King. She can have money, protection and a new life -- if she adopts the religion she's spent a lifetime fighting. She must leave her homeland and the promises of her past. In the wild land of Canada, Isabelle finds that her search for love and faith has just begun.

Based on the incredible true story of the French orphans who settled Canada, "Daughter of the King" by novelist Kerry Chaput is a sweeping tale of one young woman's fight for true freedom. Chaput brings the past to life, expertly weaving a gripping saga with vivid historical details.

Critique: A deftly crafted historical novel featuring a memorable heroine and is replete with unexpected plot twists and turns, "Daughter of the King" clearly demonstrates author Kerry Chaput's complete master of the genre. A fully entertaining and compelling read from first page to last, "Daughter of the King" is unreservedly recommended for community library Historical Fiction collections and is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).

Editorial Note; Kerry Chaput began writing shortly after earning her Doctorate degree. Her love of storytelling began with a food blog and developed over the years to writing historical fiction novels. She has always been fascinated by tales from our past and is forever intrigued by the untold stories of brave women. She also maintains an informative website www.kerrywrites.com is on Twitter @ChaputKerry


The Romantic Fiction Shelf

Where the Last Rose Blooms
Ashley Clark
Bethany House Publishers
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton Road, Ada, MI 49301
www.bethanyhouse.com
9780764239908, $29.99, HC, 312pp

https://www.amazon.com/Where-Last-Blooms-Heirloom-Secrets/dp/0764239902

Synopsis: Alice runs a New Orleans flower shop alongside her aunt, but thoughts of her mother, who went missing during Hurricane Katrina, are never far from her mind. After getting off on the wrong foot with a handsome yet irritating man who comes to her shop, Alice soon realizes their worlds overlap -- and that the answers they both seek can be found in the same place.

In 1861 Charleston, Clara is known to be a rule follower -- but the war has changed her. Unbeknownst to her father, who is heavily involved with the Confederacy, she is an abolitionist and is prepared to sacrifice everything for the cause. With assistance from a dashing Union spy, she attempts to help an enslaved woman reunite with her daughter. But things go very wrong when Clara agrees to aid the Northern cause by ferrying secret information about her father's associates.

Faced with the unknown, both women will have to dig deep to let their courage bloom.

Critique: Two deftly blended stories of romance, "Where The Last Rose Blooms" is author Ashley Clarks' latest addition to her simply outstanding 'Heirloom Secrets' series. Once gain readers are treated to original storylines, memorable characters, and a compulsively entertaining read from cover to cover. While a highly recommended selection for community library Romance Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Where The Last Rose Blooms" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780764237621, $15.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Editorial Note: Ashley Clark writes romantic women's fiction set in the South. With a master's degree in creative writing, Ashley teaches literature and writing courses at the University of West Florida. Ashley has been an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers for almost a decade. She maintains an informative website at www.ashleyclarkbooks.com

The Spark of Love
Amanda Cabot
Fleming H. Revell Company
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton, Ada, MI 49301
www.revellbooks.com
9780800741037, $29.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Spark-Love-Mesquite-Springs/dp/080074103X

Synopsis: When a spurned suitor threatens her, heiress Alexandra Tarkington flees New York for Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country, where her father is building a hotel. But the happy reunion she envisions is not to be as her father insists she return to New York. Instead, Alexandra carves out a niche for herself in town, teaching schoolchildren to paint and enjoying the company of Gabe Seymour, a delightful man she met on the stagecoach.

But all is not as it seems. Two men, each with his own agenda, have followed her to Mesquite Springs. And Gabe is an investigator, searching for proof that her father is a swindler. When a series of apparent accidents threaten her life, Alexandra and Gabe will have to work together to discover the truth. And perhaps along the way they will discover that the sparks of attraction they've felt from the beginning are more than sparks -- they are in love.

"The Spark of Love" by Amanda Cabot invites her readers back to 1850s Texas in an exciting and heartwarming tale of treachery, love, and learning to trust.

Critique: A master of the genre, "The Spark of Love" will have a very special attraction and appeal for dedicated fans of historical Christian romance and history novels. While certain to be a welcome and popular addition to community library Historical Christian Romance Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of the growing legions of Amanda Cabot fans that "The Spark of Love" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780800735371, $15.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).

Editorial Note: Amanda Cabot is the author of "Out of the Embers" and "Dreams Rekindled", as well as the Cimarron Creek Trilogy and the Texas Crossroads, Texas Dreams, and Westward Winds series. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers' Best. She also maintains an informative website at www.amandacabot.com.

A Brush with Love
Mazey Eddings
St. Martin's Press
120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271
https://us.macmillan.com/smp
9781250805980, $16.99, PB, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Brush-Love-Novel-Mazey-Eddings/dp/1250805988

Synopsis: Harper is anxiously awaiting placement into a top oral surgery residency program when she crashes (literally) into Dan. Harper would rather endure a Novocaine-free root canal than face any distractions, even one this adorable. A first-year dental student with a family legacy to contend with, Dan doesn't have the same passion for pulling teeth that Harper does. Though he finds himself falling for her, he is willing to play by Harper's rules. So with the greatest of intentions and the poorest of follow-throughs, the two set out to be "just friends." But as they get to know each other better, Harper fears that trading fillings for feelings may make her lose control and can't risk her carefully ordered life coming undone, no matter how drool-worthy Dan is.

Critique: A thoroughly fun read from cover to cover, "A Brush With Love" by Mazey Eddings will, with its carefully crafted and narrative driven storytelling style, have a very special and enduring appeal for dedicated romance fans. While highly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Contemporary Romance Fiction collections, it should be noted that "A Brush With Love" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99). Librarians should also be aware that "A Brush With Love" is available in a large print library binding edition (Center Point Publishing, 9781638083184, $37.95, 500pp).


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

The Debutante's Code
Erica Vetsch
www.ericavetsch.com
Kregel Publications
2450 Oak Industrial Drive, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505
www.kregel.com
9780825447136, $15.99, PB, 312pp

https://www.amazon.com/Debutantes-Thorndike-Swann-Regency-Mysteries/dp/0825447135

Synopsis: Newly returned from finishing school, Lady Juliette Thorndike is ready to debut in London society. Due to her years away, she hasn't spent much time with her parents, and sees them only as the flighty, dilettante couple the other nobles love. But when they disappear, she discovers she never really knew them at all. They've been living double lives as government spies -- and they're only the latest in a long history of espionage that is the family's legacy.

Now Lady Juliette is determined to continue their work. Mentored by her uncle, she plunges into the dangerous world of spy craft. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the fox hunts, regattas, and soirees of country high society, she must chase down hidden clues, solve the mysterious code her parents left behind, and stay out of danger. All the while, she has to keep her endeavors a secret from her best friend and her suitors -- not to mention nosy, irritatingly handsome Bow Street runner Daniel Swann, who suspects her of a daring theft.

Can Lady Juliette outwit her enemies and complete her parents' last mission? Or will it lead her to a terrible end?

Critique: A carefully crafted Regency Mystery by author Erica Vetsch, "The Debutante's Code" is part of an inherently fascinating new series that combines mystery and suspense with elements of Regency era elegance, decadence, adventure, and romance. While also readily available for the personal reading lists of dedicated Regency Era fans in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Debutante's Code" is unconditionally recommended for community library Historical Mystery/Suspense collections.

Editorial Note: Fans can learn more about novelist Erica Vetsch and her books by visiting her website at www.ericavetsch.com

A Secret Never Told
Shelley Noble
Forge
c/o Tor/Forge Books
www.tor-forge.com
9781250750457, $27.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Never-Told-Dunbridge-Mystery/dp/1250750458

Synopsis: Philomena Amesbury, expatriate Countess of Dunbridge, is bored. Coney Island in the sweltering summer of 1908 offers no shortage of diversions for a young woman of means, but sea bathing, horse racing, and even amusement parks can't hold a candle to uncovering dastardly plots and chasing villains. But Lady Dunbridge hadn't had a big challenge in months.

Fate finally obliges when Philomena is called upon to host a dinner party in honor of a visiting Austrian psychologist whose revolutionary theories may be of interest to the War Department, not to mention various foreign powers, and who may have already survived one attempt on his life.

The guest list includes a wealthy industrialist, various rival scientists and academics, a party hypnotist, a flamboyant party-crasher, and a damaged beauty whose cloudy psyche is lost in a world of its own. Before the night is out, one of the guests is dead with a bullet between the eyes and Philomena finds herself with another mystery on her hands, even if it's unclear who exactly the intended victim was meant to be.

Worse yet, the police's prime suspect is a mystery man who Philomena happens to be rather intimately acquainted with. Now it's up to Lady Dunbridge, with the invaluable assistance of her intrepid butler and lady's maid, to find the real culprit before the police nab the wrong one!

Critique: The fourth Lady Dunbridge Mystery from novelist Shelley Noble, "A Secret Never Told" is a fun read from cover to cover for 'whodunnit' style historical mystery fans. With many an unexpected plot twist and interesting characters, "A Secret Never Told" will prove to be a welcome and popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted that "A Secret Never Told" is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

The Good Son
Jacquelyn Mitchard
Mira Books
www.mirabooks.com
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9780778311799, $27.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Son-Novel-Jacquelyn-Mitchard/dp/0778311791

Synopsis: What do you do when the person you love best becomes unrecognizable to you? For Thea Demetriou, the answer is both simple and agonizing: you keep on loving him somehow.

Stefan was just seventeen when he went to prison for the drug-fueled murder of his girlfriend, Belinda. Three years later, he's released to a world that refuses to let him move on. Belinda's mother, once Thea's good friend, galvanizes the community to rally against him to protest in her daughter's memory. The media paints Stefan as a symbol of white privilege and indifferent justice. Neighbors, employers, even some members of Thea's own family turn away.

Meanwhile Thea struggles to understand her son. At times, he is still the sweet boy he has always been; at others, he is a young man tormented by guilt and almost broken by his time in prison. But as his efforts to make amends meet escalating resistance and threats, Thea suspects more forces are at play than just community outrage. And if there is so much she never knew about her own son, what other secrets has she yet to uncover -- especially about the night Belinda died?

Critique: An impressively crafted and psychologically compelling novel, "The Good Son" is an extraordinary read that showcases author Jacquelyn Mitchard's abilities as a narrative driven storyteller whose story will linger in the mind and memory long after it has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While highly recommended for community library general fiction collections, it should be noted that "The Good Son" is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781665104524, $41.99, CD).

Front Page Murder
Joyce St. Anthony
Crooked Lane Books
2 Park Avenue, 10th floor, New York, NY 10016
www.crookedlanebooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643858982, $26.99, HC, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Front-Page-Murder-Homefront-Mystery/dp/164385898X

Synopsis: Irene Ingram has written for her father's newspaper, the Progress Herald, ever since she could grasp a pencil. Now she's editor in chief, which doesn't sit well with the men in the newsroom. But proving her journalistic bona fides is the least of Irene's worries when crime reporter Moe Bauer, on the heels of a hot tip, turns up dead at the foot of his cellar stairs.

An accident? That's what Police Chief Walt Turner thinks, and Irene is inclined to agree until she finds the note Moe discreetly left on her desk. He was on to a big story, he wrote. The robbery she'd assigned him to cover at Markowicz Hardware turned out to be something far more devious. A Jewish store owner in a small, provincial town, Sam Markowicz received a terrifying message from a stranger. Moe suspected that Sam is being threatened not only for who he is -- but for what he knows!

Tenacious Irene senses there's more to the Markowicz story, which she is all but certain led to Moe's murder. When she's not filling up column inches with the usual small-town fare (locals in uniform, victory gardens, and scrap drives) she and her best friend, scrappy secretary Peggy Reardon, search for clues. If they can find the killer, it'll be a scoop to stop the presses. But if they can't, Irene and Peggy may face an all-too-literal deadline.

Critique: A thoroughly enjoyable cosy mystery of the 'whodunnit' genre, "Front Page Murder" by Joyce St. Anthony (and all the more impressive when considering it is the author's debut as a novelist) is recommended as an enduringly popular addition to community library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated World War II era mystery fans that "Front Page Murder" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781666534504, $22.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Joyce St. Anthony was a police secretary for ten years and more than once envisioned the demise of certain co-workers, but settled on writing as a way to keep herself out of jail. She is also the author of the award winning Brewing Trouble mysteries set in Pittsburgh.

Paris Noir: The Suburbs
Herve Delouche, editor
Akashic Books
232 Third Street, #A115, Brooklyn, NY 11215
www.akashicbooks.com
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781636140773, $39.95, HC, 272pp

https://www.amazon.com/Paris-Noir-Suburbs-Akashic/dp/1636140777

Synopsis: Compiled and edited by Herve Delouche, "Paris Noir: The Suburbs" features brand-new short stories by: Cloe Mehdi, Karim Madani, Insa Sane, Christian Roux, Marc Villard, Jean-Pierre Rumeau, Timothee Demeillers, Rachid Santaki, Marc Fernandez, Guillaume Balsamo, Anne Secret, Anne-Sylvie Salzman, and Patrick Pecherot.

All stories were written in French and translated into English by Katie Shireen Assef, David Ball, Nicole Ball, and Paul Curtis Daw.

Critique: The newest addition to the simply outstanding Akashic Noir series, "Paris Noir: The Suburbs" showcases memorable and literate short stories by some of the best writer's in the noir thriller/mystery genre that France has ever produced. While highly recommended for community, college, and university library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of noir literature enthusiasts that "Paris Noir: The Suburbs" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781617757556, $16.95), in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Brilliance Audio, 9781799784104, $24.99, CD).

Editorial Note; Herve Delouche is a noir literature specialist, columnist, conference moderator, and noir festival coordinator. He was in charge of the full reissue of Jean Meckert's work for Editions Joelle Losfeld, and he works as a copy editor for the French publishers Gallmeister, Rivages, and le Seuil. From 2007 to 2016 he was the president of 813, the first French association of noir literature lovers.

Undermoney
Jay Newman
Scribner
c/o Simon & Schuster
https://www.simonandschusterpublishing.com/scribner
9781982156022, $28.99, HC, 496pp

https://www.amazon.com/Undermoney-Novel-Jay-Newman/dp/1982156023

Synopsis: When a U.S. airdrop of billions of dollars disappears in the desert sands of Syria, only a small group of military operatives knows its ultimate destination or why it has been stolen. Their goal is no less than the restoration of America's geopolitical dominance on the global stage. Essential to this scheme are Greta Webb, a sophisticated CIA operative who is an expert on dark money, not to mention lethally skilled in hand-to-hand combat, and Elias Vicker, the damaged, dangerous soul who runs the world's largest hedge fund.

To achieve its goals, the group must form dangerous alliances. One is with the hidden family that manages the largest private pool of capital that has ever existed. Another is with Fyodor Volk, the ruthless founder of Russia's most successful private military company, a mercenary with ties to Vladimir Putin. Volk has his eye on Greta. She would be wise to avoid him but cannot.

Arcing from Manhattan's finest apartments to Washington, D.C., from Middle Eastern war zones to private European bank vaults, "Undermoney" by Jay Newman follows the Americans as they are enmeshed in the world of dark money and confront ever-increasing danger. Ultimately, they must decide whether their objectives are worth the cost of sacrificing not just a few but potentially many human lives.

Critique: Although a work of fiction (and the author's debut as a novelist), "Undermoney" reveals the details only a sophisticated financial insider like Jay Newman knows and filled with compulsive page-turning action. A true reflections of 'real world' events, "Undermoney" is a combination of political, financial, and criminal action that reveals the secret intentions and savage deeds of the world's richest people as revealed by the famous/infamous data leaks in recent years. While highly recommended for community library Contemporary Suspense/Thriller Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Undermoney" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781797123868, $49.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Jay Newman has worked in the field of international finance as a trader, investment banker, and investor for forty years. During most of that time, he focused on investments in the defaulted debt of sovereign nations in Latin America, Eastern Europe, Africa, and Asia.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Though the Earth Gives Way
Mark S. Johnson
Bancroft Press
PO Box 65360, Baltimore, MD 21209
www.bancroftpress.com
9781610885478, $26.95, HC, 260pp

https://www.amazon.com/Though-Earth-Gives-Way-Novel/dp/1610885473

Synopsis: "Though the Earth Gives Way" by novelist Mark Johnson tells a timely and timeless tale of the struggle to find truth in belief, faith in fact, and friendship in times of fear. It is a new survival story, one that takes place post-climate apocalypse where our main character, Elon, thirty-seven, alone, hungry, and desperate to hear just another voice, is determined to discover what is next for a world sunken and on fire.

When Elon discovers a hidden retreat deep in the woods of Northern Michigan, he soon finds himself on the verge of regeneration, as a pack of loners band together amidst a society turned hostile and an environment turned violent. No longer must he travel alone with his shopping cart, his jug of gasoline, and rotten crab apples. Now, he has the chance to rediscover friendship and intimacy -- if an increasingly volatile climate and always treacherous world doesn't prove fatal to him and his companions.

Critique: A deftly crafted novel that is all the more impressive when considering that it is author Mark S. Johnson's debut as a novelist, "Though the Earth Gives Way" showcases his genuine flair for creative originality, as well as the kind of brilliantly delivered and narrative driven storytelling style that creates a riveting read and an all to believable post- apocalyptic dystopian world. "Though the Earth Gives Way" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Science Fiction collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated science fiction fans that "Though the Earth Gives Way" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.49).


The Christian Studies Shelf

On Love and Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional
Stephen Mattson
Herald Press
P.O. Box 866, Harrisonburg, VA 22803
www.heraldpress.com
9781513809373, $21.99, HC, 300pp

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Mercy-Social-Justice-Devotional/dp/1513809377

Synopsis: A hopeful and Christ-centered devotional for Christians who know social justice to be a good and holy endeavor, "On Love and Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional" by Stephen Mattson is a 60-day devotional that invites its readers to expand their vision of both their personal faith in God and the redemptive and saving work of social action.

Breaking down the premise that Christians must choose between being either socially conscience or theologically sound, Mattson offers the hopeful message that Jesus (and Christianity) is both. Each day's entry offers Christians who long to see justice and equity within society with a much-needed source of affirmation, solidarity, and encouragement.

These heart-felt devotions bring readers hope and encouragement to embrace social justice as the Christ-like discipline that it always was and is meant to be. "On Love and Mercy" validates social justice practices within the Christian faith by centering the example of Jesus as the ultimate standard.

The ultimate message of "On Love and Merch" is that although our religion, our church, or our community may fail us, Jesus never will. He walks alongside us in living out God's commands us to love our neighbors to the best of our ability. Step into this journey and discover anew what it means to be devoted to Jesus and justice.

Critique: Inspired and inspiring, thoughtful and thought-provoking, exceptionally well organized and presented, "On Love and Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional" is especially and unreservedly recommended for church, seminary, community, college, and university library Christian Social Issues & Devotional collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of clergy, seminary students, social justice activists, and all other members of the Christian community that "On Love and Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Editorial Note: Stephen Mattson is a writer and activist whose work has been published in Relevant, Huffington Post, Sojourners, Red Letter Christians, and a variety of other venues. Mattson graduated from Moody Bible Institute, served as a youth pastor, and now works at University of Northwestern--St. Paul.

Say Yes
Scott Erickson
Zondervan Publishing House
5300 Patterson Avenue, S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49530
www.zondervan.com
9780310361909, $25.99, HC, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Say-Yes-Discover-Surprising-beyond/dp/0310361907

Synopsis: All of us at one time or another cry out "My life doesn't look anything like I wanted it to. How do I even keep going?" When the dreams for our life die, our vision of who we hoped to become often dies too. That's when The Voice of Giving Up appears.

Visual artist and spiritual director Scott Erickson has had long midnight conversations with The Voice of Giving Up, and he knows how anxiety and depression make The Voice especially loud. But he's discovered that our darkest moments are sometimes doorways to a deeper, more joy-filled journey of recovering who we are, why we're here, and why the future bursts with possibilities if we are willing to say yes to life's brightest gifts.

With the publication of "Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream", Scott helps, from a Christian perspective, how you can learn to reawaken your deepest desires, disempower your greatest fears, and identify the destructive narratives holding you back.

Combined with Scott's beautiful, thought-provoking illustrations, this is a profound exploration of beginning again after: Disappointment at how life is turning out; Suspecting we are not prepared or smart enough; Losing hope that change is possible and that pain can have a purpose.

Reading "Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream" is the first step to gaining the gentle yet powerful tools you need, and say yes to what lies ahead today.

Critique: Inspired and inspiring, "Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream" is impressively well written, organized and presented. While highly recommended for all members of the Christian community, and anyone else who is struggling with the inevitable failures that life will inflict in terms of our aspirations and personal plans, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Editorial Note: Scott Erickson is a touring painter, performance storyteller, and creative curate who mixes autobiography, biblical narrative, and visual aesthetics that speak to our deepest experiences. He is currently touring his multimedia storytelling piece "Say Yes: A Liturgy of Not Giving Up on Yourself" and is also the author of "Honest Advent: Awakening to the Wonder of God-With-Us Then, Here, and Now".


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Rooted in Torah
Rabbi Matityahu Clark
Gefen Publishing House
c/o Storch 255 Central Ave #B-206, Lawrence, NY 11559
www.gefenpublishing.com
9789657023174, $34.95, HC, 465pp

https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Torah-Raphael-Parashah-Holidays/dp/9657023173

Synopsis: With the publication of "Rooted in Torah: Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch on the Weekly Parashah and the Holidays" by Rabbi Matityahu Clark, the brilliance of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch's Torah commentary is now available in brief, accessible essays, conveniently organized around the weekly Torah portion, the Torah readings for each festival, and other special Torah readings.

All of Rabbi Hirsch's depth, his understanding of human nature and relationships, his inspired analysis of Hebrew language, shines from every page. Whether looking for an idea about the weekly parasha or a topic to discuss at the table on Shabbat or yom tov, this extraordinary volume is an essential resource.

Those who are interested in the Hebrew words that underlie each essay will especially enjoy Rabbi Hirsch's analysis of the key words from the Torah verses discussed. This is in keeping with Rabbi Hirsch's conviction that learning Torah cannot be separated from an understanding of the words of Torah. These grammatical explanations are found in the shaded area of the text.

The essays in this volume are drawn from Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch's Torah commentary and other writings. The topics were carefully selected by Rabbi Matityahu Clark, a longtime devotee of R. Hirsch and author of The Etymological Dictionary of Biblical Hebrew, a comprehensive guide to the roots of Hebrew words in Tanach, based entirely on the methodology of Rabbi Hirsch.

Critique: A prized and welcome addition to the every growing library of Judaic Studies literature, "Rooted in Torah: Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch on the Weekly Parashah and the Holidays" is an extraordinarily informed and informative resource that is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, synagogue, college, and university library Judaic Studies collections in general, and Torah supplemental curriculum studies reading lists in particular. It should be noted that "Rooted in Torah: Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch on the Weekly Parashah and the Holidays" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.84).

Editorial Note: Rabbi Matityahu Clark, a lifelong educator, served in principal director positions in Montreal, Cleveland, Milwaukee and Washington. He is one of the founders of the Educational Council of America and former president of the Council for Jewish Education. In 1988 he retired from his position as Director of the Board of Jewish Education of Greater Washington and made aliyah. He currently resides in Jerusalem. Rabbi Clark's interest in the work of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch was sparked by his father, who studied in Frankfurt in the early 1900's at the behest of his father, the Dayan of Kovno.


The Self-Help Shelf

Unbreakable
Jay Glazer, author
Dey Street Books
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/deystreetbooks
9780063062856, $27.99, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Unbreakable-Jay-Glazer/dp/0063062852

Synopsis: With the publication of "Unbreakable: How I Turned My Depression and Anxiety into Motivation and You Can Too", professional football athelete Jay Glazer speaks directly to his readers, his teammates, and shares his hard won truths -- That all the success from his screeching-and-swerving joy ride through professional football, the media, the MMA fighting world, Hollywood, the military-warrior community, comes with a side of relentless depression and anxiety.

Living in the gray, as Jay calls it, is just a constant for him. And, in order to work through and work better, Jay knows he has to keep going, to be of service, to believe in himself when no one else will, and be stronger, tougher, and more dedicated than anyone. Unbreakable is his story of how he has done this in all of his many endeavors -- a relentless insider who won't quit talking or take his foot off the gas, whether detailing how he got his big break inside the NFL (it involves a friendship with Michael Strahan that seems too unlikely even for Hollywood) or helping veterans fight for their lives in gyms around the country or playing himself on the hit show Ballers, Jay's ability to laugh at himself and take on his mental struggles has given him a clarity, toughness, and openness that few people can rival.

Throughout "Unbreakable", Jay uses his true life stories (featuring some of the biggest, baddest, and most fascinating characters in the public eye today) to tackle the toughest subjects by making you laugh. He will also use them as motivation to outline a prescriptive plan for his readers to get to the top of their game, whatever that game may be -- and to stop making excuses. He shows how to use personal insecurities and one's own battles with mental health to get where we need to go -- scars and all.

Critique: Principally written in a conversational style, "Unbreakable: How I Turned My Depression and Anxiety into Motivation and You Can Too" is an inherently interesting and thought-provoking read that is inspirationally motivating and would be a prized addition to personal and community library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections. It should be noted for the reading lists of Jay Glazer's football fans, counseling professionals and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subjects of self-esteem and anxiety disorders, that "Unbreakable: How I Turned My Depression and Anxiety into Motivation and You Can Too" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9798200852215, $36.99, CD).

Choose Your Story, Change Your Life
Kindra Hall
HarperCollins Leadership
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
195 Broadway, New York, NY, 10007
www.harpercollins.com
9781400228409, $27.99, HC, 272pp

https://www.amazon.com/Choose-Your-Story-Change-Life/dp/1400228409

Synopsis: Most of the "self-stories" you tell yourself (the kind of person you say you are and the things you are capable of) are invisible to you because they have become such a part of your everyday mental routine that you don't even recognize they exist.

Yet, these self-stories influence everything you do, everything you say, and everything you are.

"Choose Your Story, Change Your Life: Silence Your Inner Critic and Rewrite Your Life from the Inside Out" by Kindra Hall (who is President and Chief Storytelling Officer at Steller Collective, a consulting firm focused on the strategic application of storytelling to today's communication challenges) will help you take complete control of your self-stories and create the life you've always dreamed you'd have. "Choose Your Story, Change Your Life" offers up a new window into your psychology, one that travels the distance from the frontiers of neuroscience to the deep inner workings of your thoughts and feelings.

"Choose Your Story, Change Your Life" will help you to: Uncover the truth of how you have created the life you have; Challenge everything you think you know about how your life has been built; Uncover the clear steps you can take to create the life you want; Take control of your self-story to become the author of who you are; Live your life in a way you never have before.

"Choose Your Story, Change Your Life" offers an eye-opening, but applicable journey that will transform you from a passive listener of these limiting, unconscious thoughts to the definitive author of who you are and everything you want to be.

The underlying message of "Choose Your Story, Change Your Life" is that changing your life for the better is as simple as choosing better stories to tell yourself. If you can change your story, you can change your life!

Critique: Enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of four pages of Notes and a five page Index, "Choose Your Story, Change Your Life: Silence Your Inner Critic and Rewrite Your Life from the Inside Out" is exceptional, motivationally inspiring, 'real world practical', transformatively effective, and thoroughly reader friendly in organization and presentation. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community, corporate, college, and university library Business Management and Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Choose Your Story, Change Your Life: Silence Your Inner Critic and Rewrite Your Life from the Inside Out" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Brilliance Audio, 9781713651253, $27.99, MP3 CD).


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Soul Helper Oracle: Messages from Your Higher Self
Christine Arana Fader, author
Elena Dudina, illustrator
Earthdancer Books
c/o Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
www.innertraditions.com
9781644114681, $19.99, Card Deck & Guide Book, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Helper-Oracle-Messages-Higher/dp/1644114682

Synopsis: Held within your soul lies your highest potential and your own profound inner wisdom. By connecting with the messages of your soul, you can discover the answers you seek and initiate a much deeper process of transformation and awakening.

With evocative and inspiring images and profound spiritual messages, the 43 dreamlike cards of the Soul Helper Oracle help you to hear and understand messages from your higher self, the whispers of your soul's wisdom. Each card features four companions to guide and support you on your soul's path: a power animal, a healing stone, a plant essence, and a number with a corresponding rune.

In the accompanying guidebook, Christine Arana Fader details the message of each card and the supportive qualities of each card's companions. She shares two well-known card spreads to use when working with the Soul Helper cards and explains how to channel your inner voice through the cards and reveal what issues need to be explored in your life. Christine also shows how to work with the theme of a card for a 21-day cycle, allowing you to make meaningful changes and find the courage to face and apply what is revealed to you.

By immersing yourself in the guidance of these cards, the soul helpers will bring you clarity, divine light, and wisdom. They will immediately change something for the better, open gates for you, and lead you to happiness. Through these cards you will encounter your true feelings, be able to accept what is, find your heart's goals, and experience wisdom, truth, peace, and bliss.

Critique: Since 2010 Christine Arana Fader has been leading seminars, workshops, and guided trance journeys. She is deeply connected to dragons, Avalon, and the spirit world. Through her work she shares the wisdom, love, and insight she receives from the spirit world, thereby planting a light-filled seed for a new world in people's hearts. The author of the Dragon Wisdom oracle deck, she currently resides in Germany.

Showcasing the artwork of illustrator Elena Dudina, the 43 card deck, "Soul Helper Oracle: Messages from Your Higher Self" from Christina Arana Fader is an extraordinary, memorable, engaging, and highly recommended addition to personal and professional Tarot collections.

Soulflower Plant Spirit Oracle
Lisa Estabrook
Findhorn Press
c/o Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
www.innertraditions.com
9781644114766, $30.00, Card Deck & Guide Book, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Soulflower-Plant-Spirit-Oracle-Guidebook/dp/1644114763

Synopsis: Each flower or plant species has its own plant spirit, or deva, who radiates a unique healing energy and embodies specific soul qualities and universal spiritual truths. These soul energies are also present in each one of us like small seeds, dormant and waiting for the right conditions to sprout and grow.

"Soulflower Plant Spirit Oracle: 44-Card Deck and Guidebook" is a high-vibration, full-color card deck with which artist and plant whisperer Lisa Estabrook presents 44 beautiful and vividly illustrated Soulflower oracle cards, along with empowering and insightful messages from each card's plant spirit, to help you tend the garden of your soul.

The cards are designed to help you remember the simple truth that all of Nature is sharing -- that we are cyclical beings intimately entwined with the Earth and all of life. Working with the cards will help you connect directly to your own inner wisdom, your intuition, like a mirror reflecting back at you the truth of what's in your heart. For example, Chamomile reflects the soul quality of stability and its plant spirit reveals how, even on a cloudy day, the sun is still shining -- it is just obscured. For Bleeding Heart, the soul quality is independence and its plant spirit helps you to recognize and strengthen the true source of your heart's power.

In the accompanying guidebook Lisa offers ideas on how to use the Soulflower cards for daily self-reflection and personal growth. She includes a longer, deeper message from each Soulflower plant spirit as well as suggestions to help you embody the lessons shared. She also shows how working with the cards provides potent plant spirit medicine to help you reconnect to Nature, recognize patterns in your thoughts, words, and actions, and expand your awareness of what is happening around and within you.

By working with the Soulflower cards, you can learn from the plant spirits and awaken the seeds of your own inner wisdom and intuition. As your understanding of the flowers and the interconnectivity of all of Nature deepens, so does your understanding of yourself. And understanding yourself is true empowerment.

Critique: Lisa Estabrook is an artist, mother, way shower, writer, home herbalist and plant whisperer working with the Soulflower plant spirits to remember, embody, heal and restore Divine Feminine consciousness on our beautiful Earth. Her work includes the Soulflower Plant Spirit Oracle and The Daily Practice Journal.

Lisa's maintains an informative website at www.mysoulflower.com where she features a growing range of beautiful, intentional, healing tools to inspire and deepen your relationship with your intuition, your heart, and the planet through the power of art and flowers.

Unique, inspiring, meditative, thought-provoking, "Soulflower Plant Spirit Oracle: 44-Card Deck and Guidebook" is a truly extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal and professional metaphysical and tarot studies collections.

Blackthorn's Protection Magic
Amy Blackthorn
Weiser Books
c/o Red Wheel/Weiser/Conari
65 Parker Street, Suite 7, Newburyport, MA 01950
www.redwheelweiser.com
9781578637614, $16.95, PB, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Blackthorns-Protection-Magic-Physical-Self-Defense/dp/1578637619

Synopsis: There has long been a need for a 'user friendly' hands-on guide to protection magic using essential oils, incense, spells, and tarot cards. "Blackthorn's Protection Magic: A Witch's Guide to Mental and Physical Self-Defense" by Amy Blackthorn guides readers through the realm of the green witch to a glade filled with options for your protection.

Amy discusses spiritual, emotional, and physical security in an easy-to-understand way. "Blackthorn's Protection Magic: A Witch's Guide to Mental and Physical Self-Defense" provides an overview of what protection means to witches and then explores practices in more depth, including: Essential oils for protection magic; The role plant allies play in both protecting and healing; What tarot can teach us about our strengths and weaknesses; Oracle spell work as a potent source of protection.

As a witch who has worked in executive security for nearly fifteen years, Amy possesses the botanical spirit of an animist witch, able to see the inherent spirit in plants, as well as a keen eye on ways to make a home feel safer and more secure, on the magical and the mundane levels. For example, holly trees provide magical protection from lightning, but also make a prickly barrier outside the home to keep burglars from lurking in the shadows.

Critique: A unique and invaluable contribution to the every growing library of practical magic books for the metaphysical student and practitioner, "Blackthorn's Protection Magic: A Witch's Guide to Mental and Physical Self-Defense" is extraordinarily well written, organized and presented. A complete instructional compendium and 'how to' manual which is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "Blackthorn's Protection Magic: A Witch's Guide to Mental and Physical Self-Defense" by Amy Blackthorn is highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Witchcraft & Magic collections.

Editorial Note: Amy Blackthorn is a professional intuitive, a practicing withc, and the author of "Blackthorn's Botanical Magic", "Sacred Smoke", and "Blackthorn's Botanical Brews". She has a certification in aromatherapy and incorporates her experiences in a traditional witchcraft with her horticulture studies. Amy's company, Blackthorn's Botanicals, creates tea based on magical herbal formulas. She has appeared in print as well as on Coast to Coast AM, HuffPoLive, Netflix's Top Ten Secrets and Mysteries in an episode about Supernatural Abilities. Amy has an online tea shop at www.BlackthornsBotanicals.com and can be followed on Instagram at @amyblackthornauthor

A Beginner's Guide to Chakras
Lisa Butterworth
Smith Street Books
https://www.smithstreetbooks.com
9781922417626, $19.95, HC, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/Beginners-Guide-Chakras-positivity-wellness/dp/1922417629

Synopsis: Chakras are various focal points on the human body used in a variety of ancient meditation practices, collectively denominated as Tantra, or the esoteric or inner traditions of Hinduism. Working with the chakras and understanding their energy will add a new depth to your health and well-being.

With its roots in ancient India, the chakra system has evolved into a modern-day tool for balance and healing. "A Beginner's Guide to Chakras: Open the path to positivity, wellness and purpose" by Lisa Butterworth offers an easy-to-understand overview and guidance for tuning into, caring for, and engaging with your energetic centres (including chakra-specific yoga poses, crystals, food and herbs, and visualizations) for an informative journey towards greater love and expansion.

Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, as well as enhanced with the full color photography by Lisa Linder, "A Beginner's Guide to Chakras: Open the path to positivity, wellness and purpose" is an ideal combination of instructional reference and 'how to' manual for the novice Charas and Parapsychology student and aspiring practitioner. Impressively informative and comprehensive, "A Beginner's Guide to Chakras: Open the path to positivity, wellness and purpose" is especially recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library New Age metaphysical studies collections.

Editorial Note: Lisa Butterworth is the West Coast editor of BUST and a founding editor of Tidal. She covers food, fashion, pop culture, women's issues, and more for outlets including Nylon, Cosmopolitan, Women's Health, Elle, Martha Stewart Living, Time Out, and New York Magazine while basking in L.A.'s eternal sunshine. She has previously published "28 Days Vegan" (Smith Street Books).


The Graphic Novel Shelf

Arakawa Under the Bridge 1
Hikaru Nakamura
Vertical, Inc.
c/o Kodansha
https://kodansha.us
c/o Penguin Random House (distribution)
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9781945054419 $17.95 pbk / $13.99 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Arakawa-Under-Bridge-Hikaru-Nakamura/dp/1945054417

Arakawa Under the Bridge 1 is the first volume of a black-and-white manga (Japanese graphic novel) series about the dramatic contrasts between people from different walks of life. Kou Ichinomiya is a young man born to a wealthy family. He wholeheartedly believes in a value drilled into him ever since childhood - that he must never be content to remain indebted to another person, whether that debt is monetary or a debt of honor. Kou's life changes drastically when Nino, a young homeless woman (who claims to be from the planet Venus), saves him from drowning in the Arakawa river. Although Kou wants to repay Nino, she refuses all offers of money; instead, she asks him to teach her about love. In his quest to fulfill her wish and repay his debt, Kou starts to share her everyday life under the Arakawa bridge, and meets a most unusual homeless community that exists outside the boundaries of everyday Tokyo. Arakawa Under the Bridge thoughtfully cross-examines modern social issues with a captivating blend of comedy, drama, insightful philosophy, and a cast extraordinarily quirky characters. Highly recommended!

Horizon Zero Dawn: Liberation
Anne Toole, writer
Elmer Damaso, artist
Titan Comics
titan-comics.com
9781787734104 $17.99 pbk / $11.99 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Horizon-Zero-Dawn-Vol-2/dp/1787734102

Horizon Zero Dawn: Liberation is a full-color graphic novel set during the events of the immensely popular, post- apocalyptic open-world video game Horizon Zero Dawn for the Playstation 4. Horizon Zero Dawn: Liberation is a compilation of issues 1 to 4 of the comic book "Horizon Zero Dawn arc two", and follows skilled survivalist Aloy and her fierce friend Erend on a hunt to serve justice upon the murderer of Erend's sister. As they journey, Erend reveals the saga of the Liberation of Meridian, a conflict in which his sister fought valiantly. The realistic art style brings a saga of struggle and complex characters to vivid life, and the story is told in an accessible manner that will draw in connoisseurs of post- apocalyptic adventure regardless of their familiarity with the video game. A gallery of the original comic book issue covers rounds out this excellent and exciting graphic novel.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Golden Couple
Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen, authors
Marin Ireland & Karissa Vacker, narrators
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250835611, $39.99, CD

https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Couple-Novel-Greer-Hendricks/dp/1250835615

Synopsis: If therapist and counselor Avery Chambers can't fix you in 10 sessions, she won't take you on as a client. Her successes are phenomenal. She helps people overcome everything from domineering parents to assault, while almost absorbing the emptiness she sometimes feels since her husband's death.

Marissa and Mathew Bishop seem like the golden couple -- until Marissa cheats. She wants to repair things, both because she loves her husband and for the sake of their eight-year-old son. After a friend forwards an article about Avery, Marissa takes a chance on this maverick therapist, who lost her license due to controversial methods.

When the Bishops glide through Avery's door and Marissa reveals her infidelity, all three are set on a collision course. Because the biggest secrets in the room are still hidden, and it's no longer simply a marriage that's in danger!

Critique: A carefully crafted domestic thriller of a novel by the writing team of Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen, "The Gold Couple" is brought to life in a true 'theatre of the mind' experience by the gifted narrative talents of Marin Ireland and Karissa Vacker. This 9 CD, complete and unabridged audio book from Macmillan Audio is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal and community library audio book collections.


The Music CD Shelf

Music for Hard Times
The Living Earth Show and Danny Clay
https://www.dclaymusic.com
$12.00 CD / $10.00 digital

https://tles.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-hard-times

Can music help the listener feel better in trying times? Music for Hard Times is an original, experimental New Age album created in search of the answer to that question. The gentle, harmonious songs promote feelings of relaxation and peace. A printed booklet accompanying the physical CD includes thoughts from the music artists (The Living Earth Show and Danny Clay) on the strategies they used when composing the album. Music for Hard Times lives up to its title and is highly recommended especially for unwinding after a long and difficult day.

JoyRide
Colin Maier and Charles Cozens
JoyRide Records
www.joyrideconcerts.com
$20.00 CD / $TBA digital

https://www.joyrideconcerts.com/shop

The debut collaboration of Colin Maier on oboe, bass, and harmonica with Charles Zoens on piano and accordion, and both on vocals, JoyRide an original album fusing elements of jazz, ragtime, blues, tango, klezmer and more into a high- energy performance evocative of a live concert. The songs vary in nature from light and quirky to poignant and wistful, and spark an enduring sense of creativity and adventure. Highly recommended! The tracks are Spirit of Earth, Tiger Rag, Somewhere Under the Rainbow, Plight of the Bumblebee, Prism of Time, Rhapsody in Light Blue, Isolation Blues, Air on a Blue String,Celebration, Kelzmer Fun, Tango de la Noche, Czardahora, The Mirror, and La Fiesta.

Me and My Guitar
Kent Blazy
kentblazy.com
Privately Published
$6.00 CD / $9.49 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094DQVFT9

Featuring John Martin and Kent Blazy on guitars and vocals, Me and My Guitar is a pure, emotional treasure for connoisseurs of quality, resonant acoustic guitar music. Me and My Guitar is a captivating experience to savor or simply play in the background while focusing on everyday tasks, and also makes an excellent gift. The tracks are When This Is All Over, Just Another Old Man, Nashville Strong, Songman, Rabbit Hole, Me and My Guitar, Human Touch, Raindrops, The Future Ain't What It Used To Be, The Truth, The Night John Lennon Died, and The Times They Are a Changin'.

Ran Out of Sky
Kevin Wilber
Franklin Mountain Records
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09HYTZXM9

Ran Out of Sky is a masterfully performed album by guitar maestro and captivating vocalist Kevin Wilber. The evocative country songs are smooth and easy to listen to, fostering a sense of inspiration and nostalgia. Ran Out of Sky is a joy to experience, highly recommended. The tracks are Take It Back, Come On Wheels, Is It Working For You, It's All Your Fault, Bread on the Table, She Don't Make It Easy, You've Gone To My Head, I Found Out, Freedom Song, Hammer & Nail, Memphis (When You Got the Blues), Rhythm of Love, Stealing Time, Summer Time Thing, What Love Left Behind, I Could Get Used To You, You Got Me Now, If I Was A House, and Ran Out Of Sky.

Stones
Allie Colleen
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $10.89 MP3

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09H7PCXBZ

Stones is an intense modern country music album featuring talented music artist Allie Colleen. Her songs evoke both the joy and the heartache that are fundamental elements of life itself, in emotional performances that resonate in the mind and heart long after the music fades. Stones is an unforgettable contribution to the genre, highly recommended. The tracks are Stones (I Don't Give A), Playin' House, Don't Give Your Heart to a Cowboy, Vagabond Angels, Wildflower, Only Oklahoma, Blame it on the Weather, Good As It Gets, Well Enough Alone, Make Me a Man, and Pink Lemonade.


The Business Shelf

Competing in the New World of Work
Keith Ferrazzi, author
Kian Gohar, author
Noel Weyrich, author
Harvard Business Review Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
http://hbr.org/books
9781647821951, $30.00, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Competing-New-World-Work-Adaptability/dp/1647821959

Synopsis: You've shed antiquated systems and processes. You went all-in on digital. Your teams settled into new, often better, ways of doing things. But did your organization change enough to stay competitive in the post-pandemic world? Did you fully leverage the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to leap forward and grow stronger? Are you shaping the new environment to your advantage? -- If not, it's not too late to learn from the best.

With the publication of "Competing in the New World of Work: How Radical Adaptability Separates the Best from the Rest", author Keith Ferrazzi, along with co-authors Kian Gohar and Noel Weyrich, shows corporate leaders and executives how to shape their organizations and practices to remain competitive in a new, post-pandemic context. Based on an ambitious global research initiative involving thousands of executives, innovators, and change makers who redefined their strategies, business models, organizational systems, and even their cultures,

"Competing in the New World of Work" offers a bold new vision for the organization of the future and reveals the workplace innovations that emerged during the pandemic. It also defines the new model of leadership (radical adaptability) for sustaining continuous change throughout the coming years of opportunity and transformation

"Competing in the New World of Work" is a 'real world' road map to embracing new realities, motivating talent in today's local, regional, national, and international marketplace.

Critique: Enhanced with the inclusion of eight pages of Notes and a fourteen page Index, "Competing in the New World of Work: How Radical Adaptability Separates the Best from the Rest" is unreservedly recommended and thought-provoking reading for any and all entrepreneurs, business managers, or corporate executives. While a core addition to personal, professional, community, corporate, college, and university library Human Resources/Personnel Management, Strategic Business Planning, and Business/Organizational Learning collections, it should be noted for MBA Students, academia, corporate executives, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Competing in the New World of Work: How Radical Adaptability Separates the Best from the Rest" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $28.50).

Editorial Note: Keith Ferrazzi is the founder and chairman of Ferrazzi Greenlight, a management consulting and coaching company that works to transform many of the largest organizations and governments in the world. Kian Gohar is a former executive director of the XPRIZE Foundation and Singularity University and has coached the leadership teams of dozens of Fortune 500 companies. Noel Weyrich has co-authored and edited more than twenty business leadership books and personal memoirs.

The Metail Economy
Joel Bines
McGraw Hill
c/o McGraw Hill Professional
1221 Avenue of the Americas, 45th Floor, New York, NY 10020
www.mhprofessional.com
9781264274635, $27.99, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Metail-Economy-Strategies-Transforming-Me-Centric/dp/1264274637

Synopsis: Armed with computers, tablets, smartphones, and social media, today's consumers have revolted against the marketplace status quo. Demanding a voice, and sometimes a hand, in the products they buy, these digitally empowered consumers ('Me's') have inverted the traditional power dynamics of retail into 'Metail'. To put it simply, your customers are now in charge, and you must recognize and embrace this fact in order to survive in new Metail economy.

From Joel Bines, one of today's top retail brand thought leaders,

With the publication of "The Metail Economy: 6 Strategies for Transforming Your Business to Thrive in the Me-Centric Consumer Revolution" by Joel Bines (one of the top retail brand thought leaders working today) provides innovative methods for connecting with the Me-centric consumer and shows how to thrive in this consumer revolution. Bines provides examples of companies that have failed to address the Metail paradigm, along with those that are on the right path, clearly illustrating how the traditional power dynamic has inverted and why it matters for business survival.

"The Metail Economy" offers six proven models you can use to cultivate and serve highly informed and empowered customers in the Metail marketplace: Curation; Customization; Category Expertise; Cost; Convenience; Community.

"The Metail Economy" also explains why you shouldn't pigeonhole your business into one model, but rather develop a deep self-awareness about how your organization is viewed and valued by your customers -- and focus your efforts accordingly.

Whether you're the CEO of a global organization or starting your own clothing boutique, you must become a Metailer - and this groundbreaking book will show you how.

Critique: Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "The Metail Economy: 6 Strategies for Transforming Your Business to Thrive in the Me-Centric Consumer Revolution" should be considered as essential reading by any entrepreneur, business manager, or corporate executive wanting their enterprise to succeed in this new era of technology driven marketing and consumption. While an invaluable addition to community, corporate, college, and university library Business Management, Marketing Research, and Consumer Behavior collections, it should be noted for personal reading list that "The Metail Economy: 6 Strategies for Transforming Your Business to Thrive in the Me-Centric Consumer Revolution" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $20.19).

Editorial Note: Joel Bines leads the Global Retail Practice at the business consulting firm Alix Partners. He's sought after worldwide for his advice on improving the performance of a wide spectrum of global retailers, brands, and consumer companies.


The Automotive Shelf

Ford Mustang 2011-2014: How to Build & Modify
Wes Duenkel
CarTech Inc.
838 Lake Street South, Forest Lake, MN 55025
www.cartechbooks.com
9781613256008, $36.95, PB, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ford-Mustang-2011-2014-Build-Modify/dp/1613256000

Synopsis: The Ford Mustang has seen quite an evolution in its 50-plus years of existence. Times change, consumer demands change, and sometimes, you stop and wonder, "How did we get here?" Ford's designers and its customers were thinking the same thing in the early 2000s. The evolution from the classic original design to the New Edge styling of the 1999 - 2004 models had some scratching their heads. Ford decided to take a bold turn back to the Mustang's roots with the fifth-generation model, which made its debut for the 2005 model year and lasted through 2014.

Echoing the Mustang fastback design of the 1960s, Ford inspired a path of retro design that the Camaro and Challenger followed shortly thereafter. The move proved incredibly popular with enthusiasts. Of course, with car enthusiasts, the immediate thought was, "How can we make this new Mustang even better?" The big news in 2011 was the introduction of the new 5.0-liter Coyote engine, which was a huge upgrade over the previous 4.6-liter engine.

In "Ford Mustang 2011 - 2014: How to Build and Modify", Mustang expert Wes Duenkel takes you through the entire car, system by system, to explore ways to get more performance out the last of the fifth-generation Mustangs. Included are chapters on engine modifications, brake and exhaust upgrades, power adders, chassis and suspension upgrades, cooling system modifications, and EFI and tuning tips.

Wheels and tires, differentials, electronic upgrades, and more are also covered. The 2011 - 2014 Mustangs are finding their way into the affordable category at present with warranties expiring and acquisition costs being very reasonable. Of course, as with all generations of Mustang, there is a robust aftermarket to explore for performance parts and accessories. Ford Mustang 2011 - 2014: How to Build and Modify covers it all and will help you make your Mustang everything you want it to be.

Critique: Profusely illustrated and comprised of comprehensive, 'user friendly' step-by-step instructions, the publication of "Ford Mustang 2011-2014: How to Build & Modify", will enable any Mustang car enthusiast to maximize the potential of their 2011 - 2014 Mustang. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $35.10), "Ford Mustang 2011-2014: How to Build & Modify" is very highly recommended for personal, professional, and community library Mustange Automotive History collections.

Editorial Note: Wes Duenkel has wrenched on Mustangs since 1995. His first car was a well-worn 1985 Mustang GT that needed lots of work. After college and a stint working in the performance automotive aftermarket, his passion for sports cars and creative photography skills led to a full-time career in motorsports photography and automotive writing. Since then, he's created hundreds of technical and feature articles for enthusiast publications. A determined do-it-yourselfer, Duenkel has owned and/or modified dozens of Mustangs from 1965 to present. From carburetors to Coyotes, road racing to rotating assemblies, he is well-versed in the engineering and mechanics of high-performance vehicles and enjoys using his words and photos to entertain, inform, and inspire his fellow automotive enthusiasts.

Ford GT40 Anthology
John S. Allen, author
Colin Graham Endeacott, author
Veloce Publishing Ltd.
www.veloce.co.uk
9781787115767, $90.00, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ford-GT40-Anthology-John-Allen/dp/1787115763

Synopsis: A unique compilation of stories about one of the most iconic cars the automotive industry ever produced, "Ford GT40 Anthology" is a new and unique compilation of feature articles about the GT40, all accompanied by a host of old and new photographs. While not a history of the GT40, each individual story will give the GT40 enthusiast new insights into the car's design and development, as well as some fascinating racing tales and previously well-kept secrets.

Individual chapters include an explanation of the mysteries of Appendix J and its impact on the design of the Mirage and MkIV GT40; a detailed scrutineering report on GT40P/1075 at Le Mans; some untold truths behind the 2005 name controversy; and the unrecorded engine swap which enabled a GT40 to race (and finish) at the Le Mans 24 hours. The "Ford GT40 Anthology" contains information which at last shows that Ford did really install the Indy 4-cam engine in a development of the GT40. It explains in detail how GT40-builder JWAE was structured, and what its accounts looked like: the fascinating facts concerning the financial aspects of the GT40-building business are revealed.

With the publication of "Ford GT40 Anthology", knowledgeable and experienced authors John S. Allen and Graham Endeacott have collaborated to create a great collection of GT40 stories, some of which had previously been published in magazines many years ago, but have now been reworked, and some of which are totally new. None are currently available in any other book.

Critique: This coffee-table style volume (12.05 x 1.34 x 10.75 inches) is profusely illustrated with expert commentaries -- making it a 'must read' for any and all dedicated GT40 enthusiast, as well as a unique, cherished, and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Automotive History collections.

Editorial Note #1: John Allen's daily drive is a Ford Mustang GT, and his hobbies and interests include anything to do with GT40s, sports racing cars, railways, model railways, and Luftwaffe aviation.

Editorial Note #2: Colin Endeacott built his own replica GT40 about 25 years ago, and is currently engaged in rebuilding the same GT40 to be a more accurate replica. He has spent many years helping and advising on the restoration of numerous original GT40s, and sourcing many hard-to-find original parts.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Doodle School
Dara Tomasson, author
Amy Colleen Robertson, author
www.dappledthingsbyamy.com
Stash Books
c/o C&T Publishing
www.ctpub.com
9781644030905, $21.95, PB, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Doodle-School-Challenge-Free-Motion-Quilting/dp/164403090X

Synopsis: With the publication of "Doodle School: A Daily Design Challenge to Up Your Free-Motion Quilting Game" by needlecrafters Dara Tomasson and Amy Robertson, even the most novice of quilters can master doodle designing in just 31 days.

The will be transformed into a skilled free-motion quilting expert with a month-long series of daily design prompts and learning from experienced free-motion quilters Dara Tomasson and Amy Robertson with respect to their direct methods.

Each design helps build muscle memory and spurs creativity with dozens of unique shapes and styles. Start sketching feathers, arrows, shells, rainbows, bubbles, spider webs, and so much more. Designs range from basic and vary in difficulty and intricacy making this the perfect reference for those learning to draw free-motion designs. Once you've completed your daily doodle challenges, show off your skills with a sampler quilt that features all of your doodle challenges.

Basically, with "Doodle School: A Daily Design Challenge to Up Your Free-Motion Quilting Game" you start with pen and paper and take on daily doodle prompt challenges. Then become a confident free-motion quilt designer by learning to stitch a variety of different shapes. There is a wealth of skill-building techniques and easy-to-follow visual guides for each doodle design

Critique: Expertly organized and presented, enhanced with full color and line drawn illustrations throughout, and thoroughly 'user friendly' with step-by-step instructions, "Doodle School: A Daily Design Challenge to Up Your Free-Motion Quilting Game" is the perfect combination of instructional guide and 'how to' manual. Highly recommended for personal, professional, and community library collections, it should also be noted that "Doodle School: A Daily Design Challenge to Up Your Free-Motion Quilting Game" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.49).

Editorial Note #1: Dara Tomasson spends most of her days as a life coach to quilters by helping them lose weight and create more joy in their lives. When she isn't coaching, longarm quilting or cheering her kids at their basketball games, Dara loves to design patterns, make YouTube videos, and quilt for charity. She has her own website at www.daratomasson.com

Editorial Note #2: Amy Robertson has been running her longarm quilting business, Dappled Things Quilting, since 2018. She is currently exploring pattern design, fiber art, and the many possibilities for art and design that exist within the quilting world. She has her website at www.dappledthingsbyamy.com

Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe
Karoline Dahrling Hughes
Stash Books
c/o C&T Publishing
www.ctpub.com
9781644031148, $29.95, PB, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Stylehacking-Sew-Creative-Wardrobe-Possibilities/dp/1644031140

Synopsis: Turn your clothing basics into a stylish wardrobe! Get inspired to elevate your wardrobe with dozens of tips and tricks on creating handmade, fashionable creating fashionable, wardrobe pieces with "Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe: Use 5 Favorite Garments for Limitless Possibilities".

Dream about it one day and wear it the next. Take the essentials found in every closet (a camisole, a tee, a jumper, a pair of trousers, and leggings) and learn how to transform them into something new. The advice and ideas comprising "Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe: Use 5 Favorite Garments for Limitless Possibilities" ranges from hemming and elastic techniques, stitch and fabric guides, to basic sewing principles.

Perfect for sewing beginners looking to conquer clothing, you'll learn how to sew a top, trousers, skirts, and other fashion favorites. Also great for more experienced sewists looking to get creative with new timesaving garment tricks. All creatives can find something to design with 30+ wardrobe ideas from basic tee dress to cardigans, kimonos, bike shorts, and so much more. "Stylehacking" is made for even the most novice of needlcraters to succeed because there is no time spent on measuring, or decrypting the lines on paper patterns, or altering premade patterns.

Critique: Profusely illustrated throughout, "Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe: Use 5 Favorite Garments for Limitless Possibilities" is thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and DIY presentation. While a welcome and recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library Contemporary Needlecrafting collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe: Use 5 Favorite Garments for Limitless Possibilities" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99).

Editorial Note: Karoline Dahrling Hughes is a garment sewist, writer, designer, illustrator, and crafter. She lives in Denmark and is a regular contributor to the British sewing magazine Simply Sewing, where she shows readers how to make stylish garments without using paper patterns. Her first book, Smart I En Fart ( Smart in a Hurry or Stylishly Dressed in a Hurry), was published in Danish, her native tongue, in April 2017. She has a website at www.skandimama.com

Pet Portrait Embroidery
Michelle Staub
Stash Books
c/o C&T Publishing
www.ctpub.com
9781644030141, $24.95, PB, 144pp

https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Portrait-Embroidery-Lovingly-Painting/dp/1644030144

Synopsis: Cats and dogs seem to always have a paw planted firmly in our hearts. Now with the publication of "Pet Portrait Embroidery: Lovingly Stitch Your Dog or Cat; A Modern Guide to Thread Painting" needlecrafters and embroidery enthusiasts can capture the life in their pets eyes and the texture of their fur with a unique embroidered pet portrait!

Self-taught artist Michelle Staub puts a modern spin on thread painting with her easy-to-learn approach. Get started with 4 basic embroidery stitches, and follow the detailed tutorials to hone your skills. Capture awe-inspiring details of your pet with lessons in full-color thread painting or go clean with a simple line drawing -- the choice is yours as you learn to personalize your art piece with names, dates, and decorative accents. With 20 sample patterns to customize, you can easily recreate any breed!

Critique: With "Pet Portrait Embroidery: Lovingly Stitch Your Dog or Cat; A Modern Guide to Thread Painting" as a DIY instructional guide and 'how to' manual, andone can create stunningly realistic pet portraits with just a needle and thread. They can make either minimal outlines and incredible full-color renderings. They can make their thread based projects modern with floral garlands, personalized banners, and crisp lettering. A highly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library Needlecrafting collections, it should be noted that "Pet Portrait Embroidery: Lovingly Stitch Your Dog or Cat; A Modern Guide to Thread Painting" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).

Editorial Note: Michelle Staub is a self-taught embroidery artist who has been creating pet embroideries since 2014. She loves using needle and thread to create gorgeous keepsakes. Her pet portraits have been featured in magazines, on television, and on websites around the world. She has a website at www.stitchingsabbatical.com

Cozy Knits
Kari Cornell, editor
Voyager Press
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780760373538, $24.99, PB, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Cozy-Knits-Mitten-Projects-Around/dp/0760373531

Synopsis: Expertly compiled and edited by Kari Cornell (who has been knitting and collecting vintage patterns for years), "Cozy Knits: 30 Hat, Mitten, Scarf and Sock Projects from Around the World" showcases DIY stylish projects are inspired by knitting traditions from Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, the British Isles, the Americas, and Asia.

Each individual knitting project is partnered with complete illustrated patterns, beautiful four-color photography, schematics and diagrams, and alternatives for yarns and needle weights and sizes to help you get the results you want. The patterns range from simple to more complicated, making this a great book to grow your craft.

Critique: Thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and step-by-step presentation, "Cozy Knits: 30 Hat, Mitten, Scarf and Sock Projects from Around the World" is an especially recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library needlecraft instructional reference collections.

Black Threads
Kyra E. Hicks
McFarland & Company
PO Box 611, Jefferson NC 28640
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9780786413744, $TBA, HC, 260pp

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Threads-American-Quilting-Sourcebook/dp/0786413743

Synopsis: One million African Americans spend approximately $118 million annually on quilting. Some believe that recent studies of oral histories telling of the role quilting played in the Underground Railroad have inspired African Americans to take up their fabric and needles, but whatever the reason, quilters like Faith Ringgold, Clementine Hunter, Winnie McQueen, and many others are keeping the African American traditions of quilting alive.

"Black Threads: An African American Quilting Sourcebook" by Kyra E. Hicks is the first comprehensive guide to African American quilt history and contemporary practices. It offers more than 1,700 bibliographic references, many of them annotated, covering exhibit catalogs, books, newspapers, magazines, dissertations, films, novels, poetry, speeches, works of art, advertisements, patterns, greeting cards, auction results, ephemeral items, and online resources on African American quilting.

"Black Threads: An African American Quilting Sourcebook" also includes primary research utilizing the Internet usage of African American quilters, a listing of over 100 museums with African American-made quilts in their permanent collections, a directory of African American quilting groups in 29 states, and a detailed timeline that covers 200 years of African American quilting and needle arts events.

Critique: Illustrated with black/white photography, "Black Threads: An African American Quilting Sourcebook" is a groundbreaking and definitive work of meticulous research. Impressively informative and exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Black Threads: An African American Quilting Sourcebook" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library African American History & Culture collections. It will have a special appeal to dedicated members of the quilting community and is also available for personal reading lists in a paperback edition (9781476667102, $29.95).

Editorial Note: Kyra E. Hicks is a marketing professional and quilter whose quilts have appeared in more than thirty group exhibitions such as the American Craft Museum in New York, the Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C., and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum in Hartford.


The Gardening Shelf

The Modern Gardener
Frances Tophill
Kyle Books
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9780857839435, $26.99, HC, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Gardener-practical-creating-beautiful/dp/0857839438

Synopsis: Most enthusiastic gardeners no longer just want to garden, they want to engage with the land; the plants in it, the animals, insects and even the fungi. A practical guide for creating a beautiful and creative garden, "The Modern Gardener" by gardening expert Frances Tophill isn't just about creating a space that simply looks visually stunning, but about responding to the need to modernize; to live in a way that works in harmony with the world around us and engages with our outdoor space. That the plants that we choose to grow should encourage wildlife, reduce our carbon footprint and be useful in all areas of our lives.

Filled with a wealth of projects, as well as the whys and hows of growing and choosing plants, "The Modern Gardener" includes a recipe section with activities that can be tried at home for all kinds of fun, ranging from delicious concoctions to essential products, and all made from plants!

Critique: Beautifully and profusely illustrated with ful color photography throughout, "The Modern Gardener" is thoroughly 'user friendly' for the novice and experienced gardener alike. Informative and motivating, "The Modern Gardener" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Gardening instructional reference collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of gardening enthusiasts that "The Modern Gardener" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).

Editorial Note: Frances Tophill is a Horticulturist and Botanist who trained at The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh. Since 2012 she has been a presenter on ITV's Love Your Garden, with Alan Titchmarsh. She also presents regularly on BBC Gardeners' World. She works closely with the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and WWF, championing the importance of growing for us as individuals and as communities. She is the author of three other books: "First-Time Gardener", "The Container Gardener", and "Re-Wild Your Garden".

The Rooted Life
Justin Rhodes
Worthy Books
c/o Worthy Publishing
www.worthypublishing.com
9781546012597, $28.00, HC, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Life-Cultivating-Wholeness-Through/dp/1546012591

Synopsis: Have you ever wanted to experiment with growing your own food but didn't think you had the space, the time, or the knowledge? Justin Rhodes thought the same thing -- until after years battling systemic illness and struggling to provide the kind of wholesome food he wanted for his family, he bought a seed packet at the grocery store and was hooked!

Justin discovered the miraculous potential and empowerment of working with nature to grow food for his family, and since that discovery, he has shared his self-taught skills with hundreds of thousands of growers via his popular YouTube channel and website. Whether you're looking for greater food security, better health, tastier food, to save or earn money, connect with your food source, "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food" will enable anyone looking for a different kind of life, a life focused on health and wellness, to accomplish just that.

Looking for every opportunity to pass his hard-earned knowledge onto others, with the publication of "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food", Rhodes provides an impressively illustrated instructional guide to growing your own food and experiencing a more connected, sustainable lifestyle, no matter where you live or how much space you have.

Filled with beautiful and inspiring photographs from the Rhodes' homestead and chock full of resources, including gardening plans, everything you need to know about raising chickens, tips for how to get your kids involved, and even recipes for how to serve up your home-grown goodness, "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food" provides the inspiration, the encouragement, and the practical wisdom that needed to begin the journey to a more rooted life.

Critique: Inspired and inspiring, "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food" is an inherently fascinating and motivating read from cover to cover. Impressively informative, exceptionally well written, illustrated, organized and presented, "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food" is unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Organic Gardening, Horticulture, and Agronomy collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists of any and all aspiring gardeners that "The Rooted Life: Cultivating Health and Wholeness Through Growing Your Own Food" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781668607725, $40.00, CD).

Editorial Note: Justin Rhodes is a Permaculturalist, film producer, and author, teaching folks to work with nature to produce their own sustenance and live a more abundant life. Seasoned homesteaders, the Rhodes family has enjoyed many years of practicing "beyond organic" and permaculture methods on their seventy-five-acre family farm near Asheville, NC. Justin trained under the highly accredited Geoff Lawton of PRI Australia for his Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC) and has studied natural chicken care under popular author, Pat Foremen. Abundant Permaculture was founded out of a love of teaching and the sustainable movement.


The Biography Shelf

Open Every Window: A Memoir
Jane Munro
Douglas & McIntyre
https://douglas-mcintyre.com
c/o Harbour Publishing
https://harbourpublishing.com
9781771622967, $24.95, HC, 240pp

https://www.amazon.com/Open-Every-Window-Jane-Munro/dp/1771622962

Synopsis: "Open Every Window" by Jane Munroe is a genre-bending prose account of the unravelling of a life (actually of two lives) when Munro's husband, Bob, twenty years her senior, is diagnosed with Alzheimer's. This intimately personal memoir deftly charts a path through sorrow -- the pain of seeing a partner age and approach death, the exhaustion of caretaking and the regret in seeing life's scope narrow and diminish. Writing with courage and love, Munro grapples with what it means to care for a husband who is gradually but devastatingly deteriorating. Her identity as a writer, yoga practitioner, mother and grandmother is eclipsed by a single word -- caregiver.

When a doctor admonishes, "What job could be more important than caring for your husband?" Munro wonders if the same question would be asked if the roles were reversed and her husband was asked to put aside all his own needs in order to care for a wife with dementia. Ultimately, Munro finds respite in the power of writing, Iyengar yoga and the rhythms of the moon -- not to heal but to allow her to face grief without breaking.

A poignant affirmation for anyone who has experienced loss, "Open Every Window" reveals the pain and power inherent in loving and being loved. Framed with short observations of the moon (ranging from a new moon in Pune, India, to the following new moon in Vancouver, Canada) "Open Every Window" is a memoir that will entrance the reader with its lyricism and comfort with the writer's hard-won warmth and wisdom.

Critique: An accomplished wordsmith in both poetry and prose, fiction and non-fiction, Jane Munro's "Open Every Window" is a personal memoir that rises to the highest standards of literary excellence. The story itself is both memorable and unreservedly recommended reading for anyone faced with the burdens and responsibilities and commitments of a caregiver for a loved one that can no longer care for themselves. Simply stated, "Open Every Window" is an especially recommended addition to personal, community, college, and university library Contemporary Biography & Memoir collections.

Editorial Note: Jane Munro is an award-winning Canadian poet, writer and educator. Her previous books include the poetry collection Blue Sonoma (Brick Books, 2014), which won the 2015 Griffin Poetry Prize, and more recently, Glass Float (Brick Books, 2020). Munro has also taught creative writing at universities across BC, led informal writing workshops and given readings around the world.

Mala's Cat
Mala Kacenberg
Pegasus Books
www.pegasusbooks.com
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781643139036, $27.95, HC, 288pp

https://www.amazon.com/Malas-Cat-Memoir-Survival-World/dp/1643139037

Synopsis: Growing up in the Polish village of Tarnogrod on the fringes of a deep pine forest, Mala Szorer had the happiest childhood she could have hoped for. But at the age of twelve, as the German invasion begins, her beloved village becomes a ghetto and her family and friends reduced to starvation. She takes matters into her own hands and bravely removes her yellow star, risking sneaking out to the surrounding villages to barter for food.

It is on her way back that she sees her loved ones rounded up for deportation, and receives a smuggled letter from her sister warning her to stay away. In order to survive, she walks away from everything she holds dear to live by herself in the forest, hiding not just from the Nazis but hostile villagers. She is followed by a stray cat who stays with her -- and seems to come to her rescue time and time again.

"Malach" the cat becomes her family and her only respite from painful loneliness, a guide, and a reminder to stay hopeful even when faced with unfathomable darkness.

Critique: An unforgettable memoir, "Mala's Cat: A Memoir of Survival in World War II" by Mala Kacenberg is a compelling true life story of remarkable spiritual strength that allows her readers to see the war through the innocence of a child's eyes. Unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Jewish Biography & Memoir collections, "Mala's Cat: A Memoir of Survival in World War II" is a powerfully written, extraordinarily, compelling, invaluable and unique addition to the World War II Holocaust canon. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mala's Cat: A Memoir of Survival in World War II" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781666530667, $44.99, CD).

Editorial Note: Mala Kacenberg (nee Szorer) was born in Tarnogrod, Poland in 1927. As World War II broke out, she found herself having to fend for herself at the tender age of twelve. Surviving by her wits, courage, and the help of a guardian angel (her cat Malach), she was the sole survivor of her family. After the war, she immigrated to London with other Jewish refugees, where she raised a large beautiful family, living long enough to be blessed with many grandchildren.

Cecily Bonville-Grey
Sarah J. Hodder
Chronos Books
c/o John Hunt Publishing
www.johnhuntpublishing.com
9781789049022, $17.95, PB, 160pp

https://www.amazon.com/Cecily-Bonville-Grey-Marchioness-Dorset-Royalty/dp/1789049024

Synopsis: Cecily Bonville-Grey (30 June 1460 - 12 May 1529) was one of the richest women of her time, inheriting the Harington and Bonville fortunes as a young child. In 1474, at the age of fifteen, she married Thomas Grey, the eldest son of Elizabeth Woodville from her first marriage to Sir John Grey. When Thomas was created Marquis of Dorset a year later, Cecily became the Marchioness of Dorset alongside him.

During her lifetime she was connected to many of the fifteenth and sixteenth century personalities that we read about today. Her stepfather was William, Lord Hastings, her mother-in-law Elizabeth Woodville, the White Queen. Her mother was a daughter of the great Neville family and her uncle was the Earl of Warwick, also known as the 'kingmaker' having assisted his cousin, Edward IV, in his path to the throne. Her second husband was a son of the ancient Stafford family and Lady Jane Grey was a direct descendant of hers.

During the Wars of the Roses and the emergence of the new Tudor dynasty, Cecily was witness to many of the events that unfolded and her own story is intertwined with many of these events. Yet she remains relatively unknown. "Cecily Bonville-Grey - Marchioness of Dorset: From Riches to Royalty" will effectively rescue an impressive woman who lived during perilous times from an undeserved obscurity.

Critique: A fascinating, informative, and entertaining biography by Sarah J. Hodder, "Cecily Bonville-Grey - Marchioness of Dorset: From Riches to Royalty" is recommended for community, college, and university library Royal British Biography collections and Women in History supplemental curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for students, academicians, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Cecily Bonville-Grey - Marchioness of Dorset: From Riches to Royalty" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.49).

Editorial Note: Currently residing in in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, UK, Sarah J. Hodder began her career in publishing as a Production Manager for Shire Publications, but has had a love of books since childhood. She is passionate about medieval and Tudor history, her particular interest being in the lives of women.

Senor Sack: The Life of Gabe Rivera
Jorge Iber
Texas Tech University Press
PO Box 41037, Lubbock, TX 79409-1037
www.ttupress.org
9781682830994, $27.95, HC, 256pp

https://www.amazon.com/Se%C3%B1or-Sack-Rivera-Sports-Heroes/dp/1682830993

Synopsis: Gabriel "Gabe" Rivera was one of the greatest players in the history of Texas Tech football. He earned All American status, was enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame, and saw his name elevated to the Texas Tech Ring of Honor. After his college career, Rivera became a first-round selection of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1983, but his career would be tragically cut short by an accident during his rookie year that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

"Senor Sack: The Life of Gabe Rivera" by sports historian and academician Jorge Iber chronicles a Mexican American athlete's rise to prominence and later life. Beginning with the Rivera family in Crystal City, Texas, a hotbed of Chicano activism in the late 1960s, Senor Sack seeks to understand how athletic success impacted the Rivera family's most famous son on his route to stardom. Football provided this family with opportunities that were not often available to other Mexican Americans during the 1940s and 1950s.

While Rivera's injury seriously derailed his life, "Senor Sack" also chronicles his struggle to regain a sense of purpose. With great effort and despite adversity, over the final two decades of his life, Rivera found meaning in helping minority youths in his community of San Antonio, serving as an example of what can be accomplished even under incredibly trying circumstances.

Ultimately, the true legacy of Gabe Rivera is not just on the football field, but also in the lives he touched with his volunteer work. One of the most storied Red Raiders and a legend of Texas football, Gabe Rivera powered through many obstacles to make way for future generations of Latinos in American sports.

Critique: Inherently fascinating, impressively informative, and ultimately inspiring, "Senor Sack: The Life of Gabe Rivera" will prove to be of immense and enduring interest for Contemporary Latino biography collections. While highly recommended for community, college, and university libraries, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Senor Sack: The Life of Gabe Rivera" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).

Editorial Note: Jorge Iber was born in Havana, Cuba and raised in the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, Florida. He taught in the public schools of Miami-Dade County for five years before pursuing a PhD. He is currently a professor of history and associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Texas Tech University. Over the past ten years, he has written and published widely on the role of Latinos/Latinas in the history of US sports.


The Architecture Shelf

Philadelphia City of Homes
David S. Traub
Camino Books, Inc.
PO Box 59026, Philadelphia, PA 19102
www.caminobooks.com
9781680980493, $29.95, HC, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Philadelphia-City-Homes-David-Traub/dp/1680980491

Synopsis: "Philadelphia: City of Homes" is an affectionate and illustrated homage to Philadelphia by architect David Traub, which showcases his deep and intimate knowledge of the city's streets and buildings.

With the publication of "Philadelphia: City of Homes", Traub takes readers on a wide-ranging and eclectic tour of the city's homes. Comprised of full-color photographs and detailed descriptions of Philadelphia homes that date from the seventeenth through the twenty-first centuries, and that range from modest rowhouses to distinctive mansions, and from the historically significant to the eccentrically expressive.

Presented are homes located in every section and nearly every neighborhood in Philadelphia, ranging from the working-class to the more affluent. In Traub's descriptions, these homes become portals to greater understanding: of the history of the neighborhood where they appear; of the range of architectural styles that characterize the city's homes; and of the aesthetic effect of each building's massing of visual elements, inflected by an open-ended curiosity about those who designed, built, or lived in these buildings -- all combining to bring them to life on the page.

In different chapters, we learn more about the types of homes found across Philadelphia's many neighborhoods - including the ubiquitous rowhouse and townhouse; twin homes; courtyard and walkway homes; detached houses; mansions and carriage houses; "unusual" or somehow distinctive houses; modern houses, and the recently emerging style that Traub calls the New Vernacular.

Critique: In a volume that could well serve as a template for similar architectural histories and studies of other major cities with diverse and historic neighborhoods, "Philadelphia: City of Homes" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Architectural Studies collections and the personal reading lists architecture students, academia, professional architects, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject.

Editorial Note: David S. Traub is the author of Searching for Philadelphia: The Concealed City (2013), and Discovering Philadelphia: Places Little Known (2017). A native of Louisville, Kentucky, he studied architecture at the University of Pennsylvania in the Master Class of Louis I. Kahn. In 1974, Traub established his own architectural office on Walnut Street. In 2006, he moved his office to a Victorian carriage house that he restored in the Fairmount section. In 1982, for the tercentenary of the city's founding in 1682.

Vacant Spaces NY
Michael Meredith, author
Hilary Sample, author
Actar D
c/o Actar Publishers
440 Park Avenue S, 17th FL, New York, NY 10016
http://actar.com
9781948765992, $59.95, PB, 608pp

https://www.amazon.com/Vacant-Spaces-NY-Michael-Meredith/dp/1948765993

Synopsis: This project that culminated in the publication of "Vacant Spaces NY" by the team of Meredith, Sample, began by walking around a New York neighborhood noticing empty storefronts. Once noticed, they were everywhere. Many had no signage, no "for rent," no "coming soon." Usually empty, sometimes dusty, sometimes with brown paper covering the glass. Such vacancies had only increased in the densest city in the United States during a housing crisis and throughout a pandemic. The quantity of vacant spaces is anyone's best guess. Only partially documented, they hide in plain sight.

"Vacant Spaces NY" is organized from large to small, general to specific. It begins by looking at vacancy within the United States and continues down to each Manhattan neighborhood, where it zooms into specific vacant spaces. The authors have provided case studies that imagine some possibilities for transforming current vacant spaces into housing or social services. There is also a section on Covid 19, which infiltrated New York during their research.

As a whole, "Vacant Spaces NY" is not meant to provide specific solutions. The data is incomplete. Case studies are limited. The authors are not policy experts or data analysts or urban planners. Instead, "Vacant Spaces NY" is simply meant to show something we have taken for granted, vacant spaces, taking part in a collective process of imagining a better city.

Critique: Informative, thought-provoking, and a unique contribution to our on-going regional and national discussions with reference to urban planning and reversing urban decay, "Vacant Spaces NY" is especially and unreservedly recommended additions to professional, governmental, college, and university library Urban & Land Use Planning and Contemporary Architecture collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of architects, city planners, urban renewal activists, students, academics, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Vacant Spaces NY" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $35.95).

Editorial Note: Michael Meredith, along with Hilary Sample, is a principal of MOS, an internationally recognized architecture practice based in New York, and Professor at Princeton University School of Architecture. Hilary Sample is the IDC Professor of Housing Design and Sequence Director of the Core Architecture Studios at GSAPP, and co-founder of the New York-based architecture and design studio MOS.


The Sports Shelf

Lords of Smashmouth
John Baskin, author
Michael O'Bryant, author
Orange Frazer Press
PO Box 214, Wilmington, OH 45177
www.orangefrazer.com
9781949248524, $30.00, HC, 395pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lords-Smashmouth-Unlikely-American-Phenomenon/dp/1949248526

Synopsis: It all began in the spring of 1890 when a ragtag group of lads got off a Columbus train in the sodden midlands of Ohio and walked themselves into football gridiron immortality. More than a hundred and thirty years later, their athletic descendants at Ohio State are part of an institution with nearly nine hundred wins and has become, said the Wall Street Journal, college football's most valuable franchise, worth in excess of a billion and a half dollars.

Told imaginatively by John Baskin with the assistance of Michael O'Bryant, "Lords of Smashmouth: The Unlikely Rise of an American Phenomenon" is a detailed account of a journey across time that is also one of America's great sports stories,

Revealing the subterranean alignment of forces that built one of America's most spectacular athletic institutions, "Lords of Smashmouth" contends the modern era of Ohio State football began with the appearance of a bowtie-wearing Southwesterner who appeared in downtown Columbus and outlined (with a handful of pocket change on the hotel carpet) game strategies no one had ever seen before.

There was the near-miss of Ohio State's likely first dynasty, then the real thing: the tumultuous near-quarter of a century in which Ohio State football (and its irascible coach Woody Hayes) becaming a national icon for both excellence and excess.

Critique: A unique, extraordinary, and informatively presented football history, "Lords of Smashmouth: The Unlikely Rise of an American Phenomenon" is a compelling read that is a strongly recommended addition to community, college, and university library Sports History collections. An excellent template for the historical study of other football teams, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated football fans that "Lords of Smashmouth: The Unlikely Rise of an American Phenomenon" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Chicago Tribune's 50 Best Chicago Bears of All Time
Chicago Tribune Staff
Agate Publishing
1328 Greenleaf Street, Evanston, IL 60202
www.agatepublishing.com
9781572843059, $29.99, HC, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Chicago-Tribunes-Tribune-Sports-Players/dp/1572843055

Synopsis: The Chicago Bears football team has a grip on the Windy City that spans generations and cultures, endures disappointments, and impels celebration of triumphs great and small. From the team's humble beginnings through its century-long history as the flagship NFL franchise, the Chicago Tribune has documented every season and kept a close eye on the superstars who have shone the brightest over the last 100 years.

"The Chicago Tribune's 50 Best Chicago Bears of All Time" is a tribute to Bears football tradition, collecting classic photography and original profiles on the very best players to don the navy and orange uniform. In 2019, as the team set out to begin their 100th season, the Chicago Tribune took a look at the one thousand, five hundred and eighty-two players who have ever suited up for the Bears and culled down the list to the fifty best of all time.

From Larry Morris to Walter Payton, the Chicago Tribune has put together an in-depth look at each of these top players in franchise history, with profiles that provide readers with an overview of the player's life and career, as well as his stats and how he measures up against the rest of the field. As a team, the Bears found success at its very beginning, dominating the sport with four NFL titles in the 1940s, seven winning campaigns in the 1950s, and a final title with founder George Halas as coach in 1963. Their 1985 Super Bowl championship transformed the city's passion into a full-blown love affair that continues today.

Professional football was practically born in Chicago, nurtured by Halas through the Depression and a world war. The NFL game was made for Chicago, in Chicago, by a Chicagoan. Now the award-winning journalists, photographers, and editors of the Chicago Tribune have produced a a memorial volume that every Bears football fan will love.

Critique: A unique and very highly recommended addition for community library Sports/Athletics collection, "The Chicago Tribune's 50 Best Chicago Bears of All Time" is a must-have collector's item for any and all dedicated Bears fans. It would also well serve as a template for similar historical tributes for other NFL teams.

Editorial Note: The Chicago Tribune, founded in 1847, is the flagship newspaper of the Chicago Tribune Media Group. Its staff comprises dedicated, award-winning journalists who have authored many best-selling books.


The Computer Shelf

Software Development Pearls
Karl Wiegers
Pearson / Addison-Wesley
Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.pearsoned.com
9780137487776, $34.99, PB, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Software-Development-Pearls-Lessons-Experience/dp/0137487770

Synopsis: Experience is a powerful teacher, but it's also slow and painful. You can't afford to make every mistake yourself! "Software Development Pearls: Lessons from Fifty Years of Software Experience" helps you improve faster and bypass much of the pain by learning from others who already climbed the learning curves. Drawing on his 25+ years of helping software teams succeed, with the publication of "Software Development Pearls" Karl Wiegers has crystallized 60 concise, practical lessons for all your projects, regardless of your role, industry, technology, or methodology.

Wiegers's insights and specific recommendations cover six crucial elements of success: requirements, design, project management, culture and teamwork, quality, and process improvement. For each, Wiegers offers First Steps for reflecting on your own experiences before you start; detailed Lessons with core insights, real case studies, and actionable solutions; and Next Steps for planning adoption in your project, team, or organization. This is practical and insightful knowledge not taught in college or boot camp. It can boost your performance as a developer, business analyst, quality professional, or manager.

"Software Development Pearls" includes: Clarifying requirements to gain a shared vision and understanding of your real problem; Creating robust designs that implement the right functionality and quality attributes and can evolve; Anticipating and avoiding ubiquitous project management pitfalls; Growing a culture in which behaviors actually align with what people claim to value; Planning realistically for quality and build it in from the outset; Using process improvement to achieve desired business results, not as an end in itself; Choosing your next steps to get full value from all these lessons.

Of special note is being able to register your copy of book for convenient access to downloads, updates, and/or corrections as they become available.

Critique: A truly impressive and unique compendium of tips, tricks and techniques of practical value for novice and experienced software developers alike, "Software Development Pearls: Lessons from Fifty Years of Software Experience" is an exceptionally well organized and presented compendium of useful and applicable information that makes it an invaluable instructional textbook for academic software design engineering and testing curriculums. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $27.99), "Software Development Pearls: Lessons from Fifty Years of Software Experience" is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, college, and university library Computer Science & Software Development collections.

Editorial Note: Karl Wiegers is Principal Consultant with Process Impact, a software development consulting and training company in Happy Valley, Oregon. Previously, he spent eighteen years at Kodak, where he held positions as a photographic research scientist, software developer, software manager, and software process and quality improvement leader. Karl received a PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Illinois. Karl is the author of twelve previous books and has written many articles on software development, management, design, consulting, chemistry, and military history. Karl has served on the editorial board for IEEE Software magazine and as a contributing editor for Software Development magazine.


The Photography Shelf

Landscape Photographer of the Year: Collection 14
Charlie Waite
Ilex Press
c/o Octopus Books
236 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.octopusbooksusa.com
9781781578155, $40.00, HC, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Landscape-Photographer-Year-Collection-14/dp/178157815X

Synopsis: Charlie Waite is one of today's most respected landscape photographers and the Landscape Photographer of the Year competition is his brainchild. Beautifully presented, this memorable volume, the 14th in the series, is a stunning collection of images of the natural world from incredible image-makers, both amateur and professional. Each individual image is captioned with the photographer's account of the inspiration behind the picture, coupled with the technical information on equipment and technique that shaped the photograph.

A hugely prestigious competition, coupled with a high-profile author and an exhibition in central London, Landscape Photographer of the Year has enjoyed huge success in its thirteen years of publication -- and this 14th year collection continues to live up to the standards set by its thirteen predecessors.

Critique: An impressively coffee-table style book (10.5 x 0.95 x 10.55 inches) is inspired and inspiring as aspiring and professional landscape photographers browse through its memorable images one page at a time. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99), "Landscape Photographer of the Year: Collection 14" is highly recommended for personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Photography, Landscape Photography, and Photographic Equipment/Techniques collections and supplemental photography curriculum studies reading lists.

Editorial Note: Charlie Waite (born 18 February 1949) is an English landscape photographer noted for his "painterly" approach in using light and shade. He is noted for his square format images using a 6x6 Hasselblad. Waite is the recipient of a number of awards including a Honorary Fellowship to the British Institute of Professional Photography as well as Best Landscape Photography's 'Power of Visionary Award' and is frequently invited all over the world to give lectures on landscape photography. He was awarded status of Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society in 2014 and was invited to exhibit at the Royal Academy of Arts, London in summer 2015. (Wikipedia)

St. Joseph's College, Upholland
Michael Kenna
Prestel Publishing
www.prestel.com
9783791387758, $55.00, HC, 192pp

https://www.amazon.com/Michael-Kenna-Josephs-College-Upholland/dp/3791387758

Synopsis: At age eleven, Michael Kenna developed his first roll of black and white film in a makeshift darkroom at St. Joseph's College, Upholland, the seminary he attended with the idea of becoming a Catholic priest. Kenna abandoned his religious calling after leaving the seminary, but his experiences there have continued to inform his work for decades.

The gorgeous, meditative, black-and-white photographs comprising "St. Joseph's College, Upholland" were taken when Kenna returned to visit the now-shuttered school in the early 2000s. All of the qualities that make Kenna's work so appealing and evocative are here -- richly nuanced tones, studies in contrast, his ability to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. But Kenna is also revisiting a way of life that may be disappearing -- not only the, at times, ruthless discipline of the British boarding school, but also the somber beauty of religious practice.

In page after page of richly toned images, Kenna's camera captures the architecture of the school's built environment as well as its spiritual architecture. Kenna's richly detailed biographical essay about his experiences and observations at St. Joseph's reveal much about the way Kenna thinks and works.

"St. Joseph's College, Upholland" is enhanced with the inclusion of a critical essay by Vincent Miles which focuses on the 110-year history of the college, contextualizing Kenna's time there. At once captivating and haunting, "St. Josephs College, Upholland" truly reveals one of photographer Michael Kenna's most personal and powerful projects to date.

Critique: A compelling and memorable compilation of visual imagery, "St. Joseph's College, Upholland" is a coffee-table style (9.81 x 0.9 x 11.31 inches) volume that will prove to be a unique and welcome addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Contemporary Photography collections.

Editorial Note: Currently residing in Seattle, Washington, Michael Kenna has produced more than 30 books of photography, including Forms of Japan, Rouge, Holga, Beyond Architecture, and Buddha, all published by Prestel. His work is in the collection of countless museums and galleries around the world.


The Travel Shelf

50 States, 500 Campgrounds
Joe Yogerst
National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426222177, $29.99, PB, 368pp

https://www.amazon.com/50-States-500-Campgrounds-Where/dp/1426222173

Synopsis: With the publication of "50 States, 500 Campgrounds: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do" by Joe Yogerst anyone can plan their next getaway to the great outdoors with this one-of-a-kind resource for campgrounds across North America.

"50 States 500 Campgrounds" (the comprehensive sequel to Joe Yoerst's "50 States, 5,000 Ideas", is a compendium of practical information discover the top tent and cabin campsites, as well as RV resorts and glamping destinations around the United States and Canada.

Comprised of destination information (location, contact info, open seasons, and amenities), along with expert recommendations for activities including hiking, biking, and water sports, "50 States, 500 Campgrounds" features the best restaurants for days you need a break from the camp stove; and nearby attractions as well as sights of interest within nearby national and state parks to local museums.

Travelers and vacationers can choose from 10 sites in each state, Western and Eastern Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, including a cabin at Yogi Bear's Delaware Beaches Jellystone Park Camp Resort; a tent near the stunning waterfall at the Grand Canyon's Havasupai Campground; or a cozy yurt in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Whatever your camping bucket list includes, "50 States, 500 Campgrounds" has the site for you.

Critique: Beautifully illustrated throughout, "50 States, 500 Campgrounds" is exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, making it an ideal and impressively informative resource for planning day trips and extended vacations alike. Fun for the armchair traveler to simply browse through, "50 States, 500 Campgrounds" is a welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, and community library American Travel Guide collections.

Editorial Note: During three decades as an editor, writer, and photographer, Joe Yogerst has lived and worked in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. His writing has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, CNN Travel, Islands magazine, the International New York Times (Paris), the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and National Geographic Traveler. He has also contributed to 34 National Geographic books, including authoring the best-selling 50 States, 5,000 Ideas; 100 Drives, 5,000 Ideas; and 100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas. Yogerst is also the host of a National Geographic/Great Courses video series on America's state parks and can be followed on Twitter and Instagram at @joeyogerst.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
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