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The Bookwatch

Volume 4, Number 6 June 2009 Home | BW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Audiobook Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Computer Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf Art Shelf
Interior Design Shelf Education Shelf Business Shelf
International Studies Shelf Nautical Shelf Gardening Shelf
Real Estate Shelf Science Shelf Military Shelf
World History Shelf Biography Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Fiction Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf
Metaphysical Studies Shelf Social Issues Shelf Language Studies Shelf
Environmental Studies Shelf Music Shelf Photography Shelf
American History Shelf Crafts Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

Head First Algebra
Tracey Pilone, M.Ed & Dan Pilone
O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein Hwy North, Sebastopol, CA 95472
9780596514860, $29.99 www.oreilly.com

Any struggling through a college algebra class needs HEAD FIRST ALGEBRA, which takes advantage of the latest brain research to design a user-friendly guide packed with real-world applications. From stories to diagrams and easy charts, this is actually an engaging method of learning, not a challenge. High school to college-level libraries will find it a top pick.

Gypsy Horses and the Travelers' Way
John Stephen Hockensmith
Fine Art Editions
146 East Main Street, Georgetown, KY 40324
1599755971, $49.95 www.FineArtEditions.net

Photographer/artist/author John Hockensmith provides a gorgeous blend of images and descriptions of his journeys to Appleby Fair with the British Romani, offering plenty of social and cultural insights into Gypsy horses, donkeys, people and personalities. The Gypsies welcomed Hockensmith and his camera into their lives despite their penchant for protecting their lifestyle from others. That fact alone makes GYPSY HORSES AND THE TRAVELERS' WAY outstanding for any general lending library: a visual treat and a unique cultural contribution, highly recommended!


The Audiobook Shelf

Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887 , Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.brillianceaudio.com

Emily Durante's fine audiobook narration to Lisa Kleypas' SMOOTH TALKING STRANGER (1597378712, $36.99) provides a compelling and vivid rendition of a story of one Ella, who appears on Jack's doorstep with baby in arms and a troubled past. Ella's demand that Jack take responsibility for the first time in his life brings new challenges - and romance - to both in this gripping story, perfect for audio libraries strong in romance. Eva Selhub, MD's THE LOVE RESPONSE (1423377869, $29.99) is narrated by the author and provides a life-healing program telling of a series of biochemical reactions that lower blood pressure and stimulate physical healing. From verbal command exercises to visualization, this provides a formula for success. Mary Balogh's THEN COMES SEDUCTION (1423388941, $28.99) receives a fine narration by actress Anne Flosnik as it tells of the passionate Huxtable family and its high-charged society show. One Jasper Finley decides to seduce the virtuous Katherine Huxtable within a fortnight - and gets more than he bargained for in the process. Romance and seduction come to life in a vivid story. John Lescroart's A CERTAIN JUSTICE (1423357175, $38.99) receives a powerful narration by David Colacci as it follows up to his 13TH JUROR. Set in San Francisco during a riot, it tells of one young man on the run, charged by the media with a crime he didn't commit. One cop knows Kevin is innocent of racial murder - others have different motivations for seeing injustice done. A powerful story becomes even finer in audio. J.D. Robb's PROMISES IN DEATH (1423365127, $38.99) is narrated by Susan Ericksen and tells of Amaryllis, a cop murdered steps away from her apartment with her own weapon, and investigator Eve who is determined to uncover the truth against all odds. A dangerous connection between the case and other lives evolves in a wonderfully suspenseful story. T. Jefferson Parker's THE RENEGADES (1423345851, $34.99) is read by David Colacci and tells of Deputy Sheriff Charlie Hood, who patrols stretches of the new American West - in his cruiser. The new outlaws carry different weapons and the West is still wild in this tense thriller, spiced by veteran David Colacci's smooth voice. Eric Jerome Dickey's DYING FOR REVENGE (1423367065, $34.99) receives Dion Graham and Susan Ericksen's powerfully combined voices as it tells of one Gideon, who is active in the world of hired assassins - and who finds himself the target of a seasoned killer. When he proves an impossible target the killers turn to those close to him in this fine thriller.

Never Give Up!
Joyce Meyer
Hachette
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
9781600244131, $29.98 www.hachetteaudio.com

Joyce Meyer is an expert at overcoming obstacles: she survived an abusive childhood and limited opportunities to become one of the most popular speakers in the world. NEVER GIVE UP is thus a top pick for any audio library strong in inspirational titles: it offers examples of people who have pursued their goals relentlessly, packing in a wealth of inspiration.

Penguin Audio
375 Hudson, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

LUKE'S STORY (9780143144144, $34.95) joins others in Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins's THE JESUS CHRONICLES and receives a vivid narration by Broadway actor Robertson Dean in a survey of Luke, who never met Jesus or saw him perform miracles, but whose belief was built on faith. His rise from Greek slave to university-educated physician makes for a powerful account of how Luke's gospel was written: perfect for spirituality collections. Stephen King's ROSE MADDER (9780143143949, $49.95) receives Blair Brown's excellent performance background and tells of Rosie, roused by a drop of blood on the bed sheet, who takes flight from her world and flees her husband - a brutal but respected cop who's good at finding people. Her journey to a new life leads her to create a new persona entirely in this riveting saga, perfect for lending libraries.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Deader Still
Anton Strout
Ace Books
c/o The Berkley Publishing Group
375 Hudson St, New York NY 10014
9780441016914, $7.99 www.penguin.com

Part Ghostbusters and part Men in Black is this fine story blending a crime saga with fantasy. Simon has never imagined himself in a traditional job - but when he works for Manhattan's Department of Extraordinary Affairs he finds his life changed and challenged in more ways than one. Vampires and psychometry skills come into plan in Simon's survey of a crime spree that really sucks, perfect for collections catering to fantasy and mystery readers alike.

Belisarius II: Storm at Noontide
Eric Flint and David Drake
Baen Books
Box 1403, Riverdale, NY 10471
1416591486, $23.00 www.baen.com

Count Belisarius is the greatest general of all ages who must outwit the evil empire in battle lest evil rule humanity forever. FORTUNE'S STROKE told of a supercomputer from the future forging dangerous weapons on human soil: here Belisarius faces new allies and battles in a collection which pairs both Belisarius novels under one cover for a uniform presentation perfect for science fiction libraries strong in military presentations.

Corambis
Sarah Monette
Ace Books
c/o The Berkley Publishing Group
375 Hudson St, New York NY 10014
9780441015962, $24.95 www.penguin.com

Exiled from the Melusine for heresy, Calabine wizard Felix and his half-brother journey to the land of Corambis to face a wizard tribunal's judgements. Corambis is riddled with unrest, however - and Felix and Mildmay find themselves embroiled into a mystery thwarting even the must powerful of mages. Can their powers ultimately turn the course of events? A fine fantasy steeped in magic, perfect for fantasy collections.


The Computer Shelf

Sexy Web Design
Elliot Jay Stocks
Sitepoint
48 Cambridge St, Collingwood VIC Australia 3066
9780980455236, $39.95 www.sitepoint.com

Great web designers often hoard secrets, but this easy guide offers keys to understanding these methods of creating break-taking web interfaces. From master interface design principles to creating functional websites, it's packed with large color screen shot examples and illustrations on every page and is an eye-catching, outstanding 'must' for any serious computer library catering to web designers at all levels.

Growing Software
Louis Testa
No Starch Press
555 DeHaro St #250, San Francisco, CA 94107
9781593271831, $39.95 www.nostarch.com

Collections catering to software engineers will find this a fine practical guide for managing technology at a small company, showing how to run a software company short- and long-term. Hands-on advice teaches how to build and lead a team, sell products, and work with customers at all levels of importance.

Survival Guide for Lotus Notes and Domino Administrators
Mark Elliott
IBM Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0137153317, $49.99 www.ibmpressbooks.com

Database administrators and management personnel will find this the only title to focus on the specific technical, desk-side and infrastructure issues that support administrators running Lotus Notes in production. From client setup to technical support issues, Survival Guide for Lotus Notes and Domino Administrators offers quick, accessible coverage from reviews of key software changes to upgrades and changed client settings. A 'must' for both computer and business libraries catering to software administrators using Lotus Notes.

Seam Framework
Michael Juntao Yuan, Jacob Orshalick, Thomas Heute
Prentice Hall/PTR
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.pearsoned.com
0137129394, $44.99 www.informit.com/ph

The second updated edition of SEAM FRAMEWORK: EXPERIENCE THE EVOLUTION OF JAVA EE has been fully updated to cover enhancements to version 2.x and offers a core study guide to all the applications and functions of Seam. Java programming libraries will find this a 'must' acquisition: it covers all the advanced functions with discussions that offer keys to understanding how to take maximum advantage of Seam's impressive powers.

O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein Hwy North, Sebastopol, CA 95472
www.oreilly.com

Martin Kalin's Java Web Services Up And Running (9780596521127, $34.99) example-driven book offers an introduction to Java's APIs for XMP Web Services and RESTful Web Services alike, and is a pick for any collection appealing to Java programmers. From working code examples and clear directions for deploying and creating an application to writing web services from scratch and handling authentication, Java Web Services Up And Running is a pick for any student of Java programming. Federico Biancuzzi and Shane Warden's MASTERMINDS OF PROGRAMMING (9780596515171, $39.99) provides a series of discussions with some of the creators of major programming languages, featuring exclusive interviews with the creators of several historic programming languages. From ideas that led to specific design decisions to goals of the early pioneers of software, this is an outstanding recommendation for any computer collection.

Event-Driven Architecture
High Taylor, et.al.
Addison Wesley
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.awprofessional.com
0321322118, $44.99 www.informit.com/aw

Computer libraries catering to programmers will find much of interest in Event-Driven Architecture: How SOA Enables the Real-Time Enterprise. It covers all aspects of SOA operations, from defining terminology and showing how EDA can apply to common business programs to IT challenges in its implementation and how the EDA approach can help a range of issues. Any studying EDA needs this primer.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Potter Craft
c/o Crown Publishing Group
6 Trowbridge Dr., Suite 5, Bethel, CT 06801
www.pottercraft.com

Kathy Cano-Murillo's CRAFTY CHICA'S GUIDE TO ARTFUL SEWING: FABU-LOW-SEW PROJECTS FOR THE EVERYDAY CRAFTER (9780307406668, $21.95) covers crafts for both sewers and those new to sewing. From purses made of T-shirts and place mats to original clothing styles and designs for photo albums, pillows and more, CRAFTY CHICA'S GUIDE TO ARTFUL SEWING is a winning collection of projects that require no prior knowledge to prove successful. Any crafts or needlework library will find it a user-friendly, artful guide. Sally Melville and Caddy Melville Ledbetter's MOTHER-DAUGHTER KNITS: 30 DESIGNS TO FLATTER & FIT (9780307408723, $29.95) tells how knitters can tailor unflattering sweaters and tops to different sizes and shapes, showing how to customize knitting patterns to fit a wide variety of body types perfectly. A mother-daughter team share knowledge and show how to both pick the right patterns for a body type and modify a pattern to suit, slim, or highlight. A key acquisition for any needlework library. SOCKS FROM THE TOE UP: ESSENTIAL TECHNIQUES AND PATTERNS FROM WENDY KNITS (9780307449443, $22.95) by Wendy D. Johnson provides a new approach to sock knitting, knitting from the toe to save yarn and ensure a perfect fit. Begun in a blog that spread its knowledge rapidly in the online knitting community, now off-liners and others can benefit from a color photo-packed guide to the technique and many pattern options.

Interweave Press
201 E. 4th St, Loveland, CO 80537-5655
www.interweavebooks.com

Inspired by the seasonal festivals and traditions of Japan, Marianne Isager's Japanese Inspired Knits (9781596681149, $22.95) blends Scandinavian knitting with a Japanese influence to provide designs based on Japanese ideals of quality. Some 12 sweaters are seasonally inspired and offer an outstanding selection perfect for any needlework library seeking original and unusual ideas. Susan Wasinger's FABRICATE: 17 INNOVATIVE SEWING PROJECTS THAT MAKE FABRIC THE STAR (9781596680944, $22.95) blends haute couture and modern fiber art to offer unusual ideas for embellishments ranging from skirts and pillows to wraps and bags. Deborah Chandler's LEARNING TO WEAVE (9781596681392, $24.95) appears in a revised edition to cover all the basics of weaving. It offers a four-shaft weaving course for learning to weave either with teachers or on one's own, covering everything from basic weaving techniques to design options, project plans, and more. A fine choice for all levels of weaving learner. All levels of needleworker will find plenty of easy inspiration in these creative techniques perfect for both specific crafting libraries and general-interest collections.

Martingale & Company
20205 - 144th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072-8478
www.martingale-pub.com

Many quilter's guides use templates and patterns to provide ideas: Jo Parrott's Favorite Traditional Quilts Made Easy (9781564778437, $18.95) uses strips, rectangles, squares and folded-corner techniques to help turn advanced block designs into simple cutting and sewing blocks. It's packed with strong ideas for turning traditional quilts into easier modern works of art and will make for a fine addition to any lending library. Joanna Figueroa's FIG TREE QUILTS: FRESH VINTAGE SEWING (9781564778949, $28.99) tells how to dress up a home with five quilts and home projects ranging from pin cushions to aprons and pillows. Fig Tree Quilts offers a blend of vintage look and contemporary ease of construction, and will be a popular lend at any quilting collection. Kay Mackenzie's EASY APPLIQUE BLOCKS: 50 DESIGNS IN 5 SIZES (9781564778857, $21.99) packs in a block book for applique lovers and includes a bonus CD with all the blocks in five different sizes. Each design is featured in a line drawing and stitched in fabric and comes with basic instructions for hand-stitched and fusible applique, making it a fine survey for any needlework collection.

C&T Publishing
Box 1456, Lafayette, CA 94549
www.ctpub.com

Use precut fabric strips and 11 easy weaving techniques to create lovely and unusual quilts with the aid of Anna Faustino's Simply Stunning Woven Quilts (9781571204523, $26.95), which tells how to cut, weave, fuse and quilt. Full-sized patterns for circle weaving accompany three step-by-step weaving lessons and 8 advanced techniques for blending weaving and fabrics. Needlework collections will find it a satisfyingly different approach. Ricky Tims' FEATHERS & URNS: RHAPSODY QUILTS (9781571204585, $19.95) offers a companion volume to RHAPSODY QUILTS and offers complete patterns for the new Rhapsody quilt Viva Violetta plus 9 bonus pattern ideas. Full-sized freezer paper patterns blend with tips on making a new, full-size Rhapsody Quilt pattern in this excellent design companion perfect for owners of Tims' previous exploration. Margaret J. Miller's STUNNING ANGLEPLAY QUILTS (9781571204455, $20.95) tells how to turn long triangles into vibrant quilts. Some 42 blocks have cutting charts, piecing instructions, and full-size template patterns to produce some 6 quilts. Mix and match the blocks into other quilt styles with this stunning guide, recommended for any quilter's collection. WILLIAM MORRIS IN APPLIQUE by Michele Hill (9781571207944, $29.95) provides 6 stunning projects and over 40 individual designs for Morris' trademark magical applique. From piecing and quilting options to oversized pull-out patterns, this is a pick for any home quilter already familiar with Morris' applique innovations.


The Cookbook Shelf

The Belarusian Cookbook
Alexander Bely
Hippocrene Books
171 Madison, New York NY 10016
0781812097, $24.95 www.hippocrenebooks.com

The first comprehensive Belarusian cookbook offers home-style fare from Russia and Ukraine, pairing nearly two hundred recipes with a guide to Belarusian style and culinary history. From Buckwheat Pilaf with lamb and tomato to a raisin and walnut Chicken Ragout, this is packed with interesting, unusual dishes.

New Orleans Classic Gumbos and Soups
Kit Wohl
Pelican Publishing
1000 Burmaster St, Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781589806306, $15.95 www.pelicanpub.com

Plenty of New Orleans cookbooks include a classic gumbo dish or two, but now there's an exclusive focus on variations of gumbos and soups in New Orleans Classic Gumbos and Soups. Some fifty recipes accompanied by photos offer many variations from New Orleans chefs and restaurants, from a Smoked Wood Duck and Andouille Gumbo to Chicken and Oyster File Gumbo with Bacon. An outstanding collection of gumbo varieties!

Growing Chinese Vegetables in Your Own Backyard
Geri Harrington
Storey Publishing
210 MassMoca Way, North Adams, MA 01247
9781603421409, $16.95 www.storey.com

Chinese greens, herbs, and other edible plants will delight gardeners seeking new challenges and cooks who want different options from a backyard garden - but there's relatively few books available on the specifics of growing Chinese vegetables in a backyard. Some 40 vegetables and herbs are covered in a survey of varieties, growing and harvest options, and more. Gardeners who cultivate culinary interests will be particularly excited by the options in Growing Chinese Vegetables in Your Own Backyard.

Cooking for Two 2009
America's Test Kitchen
17 Station Street, Brookline, MA 02445
1933615435, $35.00 www.americastestkitchen.com

Recipes traditionally made for families are cut down to more manageable size in Cooking for Two 2009, a collection showing how to scale down recipes. Nearly two hundred foolproof dishes have been designed for just two servings, and tested thoroughly. From special occasion meals to everyday main dishes and side dishes, this is packed with winners.

Cooking Know-How
Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough
Wiley
111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774
9780470180808, $34.95 www.wiley.com

Hundreds of easy techniques, step-by-step photos and ideas for over 500 meals are provided in a basic, step-by-step manual packed with over 60 master recipes and 300 photos of culinary detail. It's a technique guide created and empowered by recipes that are quick and easy to reproduce, making for a powerful guide any general lending library will appreciate.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Speaking of Dying
Louis Heyse-Moore
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street #400, Philadelphia PA 19106
9781843106784 $34.95 www.jkp.com

The author's years of experience as a palliative medicine specialist allows for an insider's view of how to work with the dying. From how to break the news of a terminal illness to a patient to euthanasia questions and working with other healthcare providers and family members, SPEAKING OF DYING is a recommended pick for any college-level collection strong in counseling guides.

Getting Past Your Breakup
Susan J. Elliott
DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge MA 02142
www.perseusbooksgroup.com
9780738213286, $14.95 www.dacapopress.com

It's over, it's hurtful, and it's time to move on: but how? GETTING PAST YOUR BREAKUP tells how, offering rules of 'disengagement', working through grief, breaking old patterns of the failed relationships, and pairing these steps with inspirational stories from real people. An effective book any general lending library will find popular.

Healing Through Exercise
Jorg Blech
DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Books Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge MA 02142
www.perseusbooksgroup.com
9780738212999, $26.00 www.dacapopress.com

Exercise can act as good medicine, improving not just general health but specific disease conditions such as heart disease and depression. Backed by solid new science studies, HEALING THROUGH EXERCISE discusses short- and long-term benefits of exercise activities from walking to aerobics, surveying how exercise affects overall health. General-interest and health collections will find this timely and popular.

An Insider's Guide to Better Nursing Home Care
Donna M. Reed
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
9781591026716, $17.95 www.prometheusbooks.com

Based on the author's ten years of experience working as an LPN in many care facilities, attorney Donna Reed adds different specific dimensions to assessing quality and effectiveness in nursing homes. Over seventy tips cover the health and legal requirements on delivery of care, how to inspect nursing homes, resident and employee rights, and more. Any facing a nursing home decision - and any general-interest collection - needs this guide.

Yoni Massage
Michaela Riedl
Destiny Books
c/o Inner Traditions
One Park St, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772740, $16.95 www.destinybooks.com

Yoni massage offers women the opportunity to enhance their sexuality and is actually a long-held practice. The practices gathered in YONI MASSAGE are designed to help women overcome barriers to sexuality and involve changing consciousness as well as body patterns: both new age and health collections will find it intriguing.

Instant Psychopharmacology, 3rd Edn
Ronald J. Diamond
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393705669, $21.95 www.wwnorton.com

Change in psychopharmacology is accelerating requiring updated editions which actually often represent complete re-vampings of information. This third edition discusses these new medications how they work, how they differ from older medications, and their pros and cons. It's been completely revised and is a 'must' for any library catering to non-medical therapists and clients who wish to understand the latest drug options.

A Handbook of Bioethics Terms
James B. Tubbs Jr.
Georgetown University Press
3240 Prospect St NW, Washington DC 20007
9781589012592, $14.95 www.press.georgetown.edu

Any library strong in basic bioethics will find attractive this pocket reference, offering a clear and reliable guide to key terms in bioethics. Students will want it as a supplemental text for courses with its glossary-style reference of over 400 entries on significant terms, expressions and court cases in the field. The author's a professor of ethics and provides, here, a valuable reference!


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main St., Malden MA 02148
www.wiley.com

The 2nd updated edition of Jean-Pierre Lavoie and Kenneth William Hinchcliff's Blackwell's 5-Minute Veterinary Consult: Equine (9780813814872, $149.99) is a 'must' for horse vets or any student vet working with horses. It's been fully revised and updated and offers coverage arranged alphabetically for quick searches. The combined knowledge of nearly 200 authorities on the topic makes it a key acquisition for any library catering to horse owners, vets, and students of equine science and health. Another key vet library acquisition not to be missed is the 9th updated edition of Jim E. Riviere and Mark G. Papich's VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS (9780813820613, $199.99): it packs in over 1500 pages of reference material on the subject, with articles ranging in topic from basics of pharmacology and discussions of how drugs affect the autonomic nervous system to specific articles on anesthetics, anti-inflammatory drugs, diseases, and specialty areas of pharmacology. College-level libraries catering to vet students and practicing vets need this essential manual.

Equine Wound Management, 2nd Edition
Ted S. Stashak and Christine L. Theoret
Wiley-Blackwell
350 Main St., Malden MA 02148
0813812232, $200.00 www.wiley.com

The second updated edition of Equine Wound Management is a fully updated new edition that has been expanded to include new developments and techniques. New chapters on infection and healing and management of burn injuries compliment full-color photos throughout and an organization by body system to more easily cover wound management. A 'must' for any equine vet's reference library and any collection catering to them.

The Cattle Health Handbook
Heather Smith Thomas
Storey Publishing
210 MassMoca Way, North Adams, MA 02147
9781603420907, $24.95 www.storey.com

Any involved with cattle and many a rural library collection catering to farmers will find THE CATTLE HEALTH HANDBOOK an essential guide. It provides solutions to common problems in managing cattle health, discusses everything from common diseases to weather-related health issues, and packs in tips on handling accidents, injuries, and common problems. Whether it be for a single cow or an entire herd, this is an excellent survey.

Swimming With Piranhas at Feeding Time
Richard Conniff
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393968931, $25.95 www.wwnorton.com

Award-winning nature writer Richard Conniff takes a journey through nature history, humor, and observation to consider the lives and habits of all kinds of animals, from African wild dogs and a theory about them being man-eaters to building how own fifteen-foot-tall web to understand the lives of spiders. An outstanding survey of animal lives and myths evolves in a fine recommendation for any general-interest library strong in wildlife adventure stories.


The Art Shelf

Hudson Hills Press
3556 Main St, Manchester VT 05254
www.hudsonhills.com

Cecile Giorire and Daniel Roger's ROMAN ART FROM THE LOUVRE (9781885444356, $45.00) is published to accompany a traveling exhibition and holds an extensive collection of works with different themes and insights not just on Roman art pieces, but on the processes involved in cleaning and displaying them. Color photos of the works accompany extensive details perfect for any art library devoted to classical works. BUILDING A MASTERPIECE (9781555952013, $40.00) by Franz Schulze, et.al. tells of the evolution of the Milwaukee Art Museum and surveys the re-opening of the museum and its architectural and masterpiece contents. Color photos of museum holdings offer new photos of the building in a revised edition featuring new scholarship and conservation efforts. Davira S. Taragin, Patterson Sims and Susan Jefferies' BIGGER, BETTER, MORE: THE ART OF VIOLA FREY (9781555953058, $50.00) tells of innovative artist Viola Frey, a ceramicist whose works often reflected anthropological influences. From aging in human relationships to defining life, her works have reflected a range of human objectives, desires, and observations and are presented here in full color with striking commentary perfect for any art library collection.

Compass in Hand
Christian Rattemeyer
MOMA
11 West 53rd St, New York NY 10019-5497
9780870707452, $65.00 www.moma.org

COMPASS IN HAND: SELECTIONS FROM THE JUDITH ROTHSCHILD FOUNDATION CONTEMPORARY DRAWINGS COLLECTION is published to accompany an exhibition of drawings mounted at the Museum of Modern Art and presents some 300 works of art on paper. The plates chronicle the history of drawing from the first part of the 21st century to modern times, offering drawings by self-taught artists and those with radical ideas on what makes a drawing. A 'must' for any college-level art collection.

Drawn to Life: 20 Golden Years of Disney
Walt Stanchfield, Edited by Don Hahn
Focal Press
30 Corporate Drive #400, Burlington, MA 01803
www.focalpress.com

Any library strong in animation or drawing history in general or Disney in particular needs DRAWN TO LIFE. It offers the Walt Stanchfield lectures for the first time in a two-volume gathering of legendary lectures from the long-time Disney animator. For over twenty years Walt Stanchfield lead Disney and influenced rising young illustrators: his writings for animation artists and film pros alike offer valuable insights for any students new to animation and is a 'must' for both film and art libraries. Volume 1 (9780240810966, $29.95) and V. 2 (9780240811079, $29.95) each pack in legendary lectures not to be missed by any serious art library.

The Hanna-Barbera Treasury
Jerry Beck
Insight Editions
17 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903
1933784288, $45.00 www.insighteditions.com

Avid fans of animation history in general and Hanna-Barbera classics in particular will relish THE HANNA-BARBERA TREASURY, packed with characters and images from three generations of animation history. From Huckleberry Hound to Tom and Jerry and Space Ghost, this packs in a treasure trove of pictures and history and is a top pick for any arts or animation collection.


The Interior Design Shelf

Advanced Redesign
Barbara Jennings, CRS/CSS
Ahava Press
7501 Slater Ave #C, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
9780961802653 $34.95 www.decorate-redecorate.com

ADVANCED REDESIGN covers everything from understanding the home sales process in the staging effort to decorating a house for holiday themes, framing art, disposing of waste products, and more. Home redecorators and designers receive an outstanding selection of specific tips for not only every room of the house, but exteriors as well, making ADVANCED REDESIGN a winning acquisition for any professional real estate agent or interior design collection.

Residential Lighting 2nd Edition
Randall Whitehead, IALD
Wiley
111 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030
9780470284834, $75.00 www.wiley.com

RESIDENTIAL LIGHTING: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO BEAUTIFUL AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN tells how to use 'light layering' using a range of lighting sources together. Room-by-room lighting tips and techniques accompany expanded chapters on energy-efficient lighting offering solutions to common lighting challenges, making for an exceptional guide from a lighting consultant with over 25 years experience.

Built-Ins
Robert J. Settich
Taunton Press
Box 5506, Newtown, CT 06470-5506
9781561588732, $19.95 www.taunton.com

Taunton's 'Build Like a Pro' books are perfect for home-improvement projects and offer an expert's advice for specific projects - here, for built-in designs for cabinets, shelves and entertainment centers. From hardware to materials and construction techniques and choices, BUILT-INS is the perfect guide for any homeowner's library and for libraries catering to them.


The Education Shelf

Corwin Press
2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.corwinpress.com

Students and faculty and college-level collections will find Maria Piantanida and Noreen B. Garman's The Qualitative Dissertation, 2nd Edn (9781412942256, $38.95) an important resource for putting together a qualitative dissertation that includes the process of reflection. From issues that arise as qualitative research is conducted to rethinking method and data and defending the dissertation, students and researchers will find this a fine guide to the entire process. Roberta L. Sejnost's TOOLS FOR TEACHING IN THE BLOCK (9781412957137, $35.95) shows how to use extended class periods as an alternative to the lecture format to help teachers create lessons for blocks of time at all grade levels. From using student's prior knowledge to achieve new direction to helping them with enticements and enlightenment, this is a fine survey. John L. Badgett and Edwin P. Christmann's DESIGNING MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUCTION AND ASSESSMENT: USING THE COGNITIVE DOMAIN (9781412971888, $26.95) covers forms of assessment that help teachers measure objectives. From writing measurable objectives for lesson plans to pairing these with standards and objectives, this is the only book that offers a step-by-step approach to student assessment at the middle and secondary grades. Gail Saunders-Smith's THE ULTIMATE GUIDED READING HOW-TO BOOK, 2ND EDITION (9781412970563, $28.95) shows how to teach students reading skills geared to different rates of learning. Guided reading allows teachers to work with kids in small groups, and literacy expert Gail Saunders-Smith explains the latest research results on how kids learn to read. Donna Walker Tileston and Sandra K. Darling's CLOSING THE POVERTY & CULTURE GAP (9781412955317, $25.95) provides framework to help teachers build on student assets and strengths, examining cultural differences in motivational approaches and how educators can reach students. From resiliency to preparing students for higher objectives, this is packed with insights. Richard VanDeWeghe's ENGAGED LEARNING (9781412966290, $28.95) provides an inside look on what happens to students when they become engaged in the learning process. From changed memory pathways and brain function to ideas for guiding instructions, ENGAGED LEARNING offers an exciting outline for applications across the education spectrum. Elizabeth A. Barton's LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES FOR SAFE SCHOOLS, 2ND EDITION (9781412955683, $31.95) tells how to develop a school safety program and will appeal to school administrators seeking to develop a safety program. From conflict resolution basics to peer mediation and program evaluation, chapters cover everything from cultural differences to changing school environments. George Kapalka's 8 STEPS TO CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT SUCCESS (9781412969444, $31.95) provides teachers of challenging students with a basic primer on how to manage such students. From giving simple directions to handling tantrums and preventing disruptions, this guides teachers through helping special students become contributing learners to the overall classroom environment. Gwen Snyder Kaltman's HANDS-ON LEARNING! (9781412970952, $23.95) is for teachers of young children and shows how to engage a child with objects. 1,000 sample activities use very simple materials from paper to cotton balls and provides a different way of designing themes and activities. Robin Fogarty's BRAIN-COMPATIBLE CLASSROOMS (9781412938877, $35.95) uses the latest findings in brain research to tell how to integrate strategies into a classroom environment. From blending the research with the latest learning ideas to setting a quality learning climate, it's an excellent pick for teachers at all levels. Josefa Ben-Arieh and Helen J. Miller's EDUCATOR'S GUIDE TO TEACHING STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (9781412957762, $28.95) uses the latest advancements in evidence-based interventions to discuss identifying students with ASD in a general classroom and promote independent and socially appropriate behaviors. From environmental supports to choosing interventions, it offers plenty of specific approaches and examples. Jody L. Maanum's THE GENERAL EDUCATOR'S GUIDE TO SPECIAL EDUCATION (9781412971379, $35.95) provides instructional approaches for 13 recognized disability categories under which students are eligible to receive special education services. An explanation of the entire process makes for a powerful guide to assuring students are paired with the right educational objectives. Aimee M. Bissonette, JD's CYBER LAW: MAXIMIZING SAFETY AND MINIMIZING RISK IN CLASSROOMS (9781412966153) covers the legal issues related to Internet and technology use and provides teachers and media pros with expert advice and the latest research. Summaries of legal cases showing potentially liable classroom situations make for eye-opening insights into everything from bullying situations to the use of non-school electronics in the school. Robin Fogarty's HOW TO INTEGRATE THE CURRICULA, 3RD EDITION (9781412938891, $28.95) is for students and teachers alike and tells how to connect ideas, themes and various skills to form a solid integration. Teachers learn here how to create a brain-compatible, learner-centered classroom with flexible thinking. Amy Morse's CULTIVATING MATH COACHING PRACTICE: A GUIDE FOR K-8 MATH EDUCATORS (9781412971065, $35.95) uses a case-based guide to provide real accounts of coaching practices, dilemmas and insights. The cases come from practicing math coaches who analyze students' ideas and teachers' beliefs on learning and offer a host of activities to strengthen a teacher's content knowledge. All are top recommendations for education collections.


The Business Shelf

The Unofficial Guide to Building Your Business in the Second Life Virtual World
Sue Martin Mahar & Jay Mahar
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
081441270X, $24.95 www.amacombooks.org

Learn how to market and sell products, services and brand in a unique virtual world that is Second Life with The Unofficial Guide to Building Your Business in the Second Life Virtual World. Virtual world marketing is a unique, different approach and Second Life is one of the hottest new trends in pop culture, offering a virtual 3-D 'world' that exists only on the internet and sees traffic from tens of millions of users. Examples from other businesses teach how to tailor Second Life's structure to a marketing pursuit

The Great Digitalization and the Quest to Know Everything
Lucien X. Polastron
Inner Traditions
One Park St, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772436, $16.95 www.innertraditions.com

The digitalization of books is a blessing for the exchange of knowledge around the world, yet this new technology has introduced threats to literacy and libraries. The Great Digitalization and the Quest to Know Everything raises new legal challenges about the quality and verification of information, discussing virtual libraries and changes threatening knowledge credibility in an intriguing discussion perfect for all types of collections.


The International Studies Shelf

The Closed Circle
David Pryce-Jones
Ivan R. Dee Publisher
1332 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60642-2694
9781566638265, $18.95 www.ivanrdee.com

Newly back in print is this re-issue of David Pryce-Jones' classic account of Arab societies, a 'must' for any student of modern-day Middle East issues. It considers the motivations driving Arabs in their interactions with each other and with the West, offering insights into tribal kinship structures, religious laws, perceptions of honor and more. A fine history, it's a recommended pick for any library seeking a strong Middle East collection.


The Nautical Shelf

Trailer Sailer: Owner's Manual
Gregg Nestor
Paradise Cay Publications
Box 29, Arcata, CA 95518-0029
093983782X, $17.95 www.paracay.com

THE TRAILER SAILER OWNER'S MANUAL should be in every nautical collection: it offers a guide to selecting, caring for and enjoying a trailer-able sailboat and answers all questions about caring for sails, launching, boat maintenance and more. Essential tips key to sailing will appeal especially to novices who want tips to pleasurable sailing and maintenance.


The Gardening Shelf

Garden of Invention
Jane S. Smith
Penguin Press
375 Hudson St, New York NY 10014
9781594202094, $25.95 www.penguin.com

GARDEN OF INVENTION: LUTHER BURBANK AND THE BUSINESS OF BREEDING PLANTS offers an excellent history of the plant breeder and farm and garden efforts in early 20th century America. A century ago Burbank was the most famous gardener on the planet. This survey of his contributions is not a biography nor an encyclopedia of his creations but a cultural and social survey of Burbank's influences on gardening trends and American culture, and deserves a spot in any general lending library.

Landscaping with Fruit
Lee Reich
Storey Publishing
210 MassMoca Way, North Adams, MA 02147
9781603420914, $19.95 www.storey.com

Fruit trees, shrubs and vines bring year-round beauty to the landscape and organic fruits to a kitchen. Here's advice on choosing the perfect places for such plants, selecting for three-season visual interest as well as fruit choices, and offering plans for five such planned landscape gardens. A fine survey presents some 39 fruits.


The Real Estate Shelf

Foreclosure Nation
Shari B. Olefson JD, LLM
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781591026631 $18.98 www.prometheusbooks.com

Real estate attorney and educator Shari Olefson is an expert in the current mortgage crisis and its effects on homeowners, and here explains legal and financial terminology and how the national mortgage system works. From choosing a mortgage professional and deciding which product fits to getting the best fees and services, it's a fine collection of real-life stories from frustrated lenders, distressed borrowers, and others caught in the mortgage crunch. Any general lending library will find it a winner.


The Science Shelf

Physics of the Impossible
Michio Kaku
Anchor Books
c/o Random House
1745 Broadway, 17th fl, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com
9780307278821, $15.95 www.anchorbooks.com

From teleportation and time machines to force fields - are these going to be the new technologies of the future? Michio Kaku examines the latest perceptions of physical laws of the universe and the changes this understanding may bring in the near and distant future. Any who wonder why Star Trek's wonders aren't on the shelves NOW needs Physics of the Impossible: a light, involving reading for any general lending library.

Swimming with Piranhas at Feeding Time
Richard Conniff
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393068931, $25.95 www.wwnorton.com

Swimming with Piranhas at Feeding Time: My Life Doing Dumb Stuff with Animals blends science, humor and observation to explore the behaviors and oddities of all kinds of animals, from lemurs that eat cyanide to your local friendly piranha whose ferocity has been mistyped. Little-known truths about exotic species are imparted in a fine field survey following biologists' animal studies and favorite experiences - all seasoned by the author's often-humorous, personal observations. Any general collection catering to lay readers of science facts and animal oddities will find this an accessible, popular lend.

Secret Life of Insects
Peter Milward
Transaction Books
300 McGaw Dr-Raritan Dr, Edison NJ 08837
1412810116, $34.95 www.transactionpub.com

THE SECRET LIFE OF INSECTS: AN ENTOMOLOGICAL ALPHABET blends biology, philosophy and psychology in a fine presentation discussing insects and their relationship to human life. It doesn't examine the hidden life of insects but rather than insects reveal human experience and how their lives contrast with human habits and daily lives. A fine discussion not just for science holdings but for collections strong in philosophy as well.


The Military Shelf

Immortal: A Military History of Iran and Its Armed Forces
Steven R. Ward
Georgetown University Press
Washington, D.C.
9781589012585, $29.95 www.press.goergetown.edu

IMMORTAL is the only single-volume, English-language survey of Iran's military history and comes from a CIA analyst who shows that Iran's soldiers throughout history should not be underestimated. Background on Iran's social, cultural and military organization discusses everything from the founding of its empire to modern times and is a key acquisition for both military and college-level collections strong in Middle East studies.

Iwo Jima
Larry Smith
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393334913, $17.95 www.wwnorton.com

IWO JIMA: WORLD WAR II VETERANS REMEMBER THE GREATEST BATTLE OF THE PACIFIC comes from a reporter who interviews nearly two dozen veterans of one of the finest battles of American history. The added discussion of their lives before and after the war adds depth and dimension to battle experience in this key pick for any military collection.


The World History Shelf

Strongholds of the Samurai: Japanese Castles 250-1877
Stephen Turnbull
Osprey Publishing
443 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9781846034138, $24.95 www.ospreypublishing.com

Castle fortifications for Japan's military began appearing after the first emperors and quickly evolved from simple wooden barriers to complex and beautiful stone structures. This focus explores how these castles were adapted to accommodate firearms and changing military technology, and considers how they lent to Japanese military developments as a whole. Unpublished photos from the author's private collection and color artwork accompany a survey recommended for both military and Japanese history holdings.


The Biography Shelf

Yogi Berra: Eternal Yankee
Allen Barra
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10110
9780393062335, $27.95 www.wwnorton.com

Yogi Berra is America's most popular former athlete and this biography of his life and times presents his life and career, from his early influences and childhood to his clash with George Steinbrenner. He joined the Yankees in 1946 and helped revive the team, moving it to championship status as the only team to win five consecutive World Series. Any library strong in baseball or sports history needs this.

Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven
Susan Jane Gilman
Grand Central Publishing
c/o Hachette Book Group
237 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017
9780446578929, $23.99 www.hachettebookgroup.com

In 1986, newly out of college, the author and her friends wanted to do something daring and original. They decided to embark on a trip around the globe, starting in China - when it had been open to independent travelers for ten minutes. Their venture off the beaten path in China would test their limitations and convictions and this memoir is moving and highly charged. Perfect for any library strong in travelogues, memoirs, or accounts of cross-cultural encounters of the third-world kind.

It Sucked and Then I Cried: How I Had a Baby, A Breakdown, and a Much-Needed Margarita
Heather B. Armstrong
Simon Spotlight Entertainment
c/o Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
1416936017, $24.00 www.simonsaysTheSpot.com

The author gave up many things when she decided to have a baby - including antidepressants. The months following childbirth weren't ideal however as her husband returned to work and she faced lonely days, sleepless nights, and troubles adjusting to motherhood. Presented with a healthy dose of humor, It Sucked and Then I Cried: How I Had a Baby, A Breakdown, and a Much-Needed Margarita is a fine pick for any general lending library.

Beaumarchais: A Biography
Maurice Lever
Farrar Straus Giroux
18 West 18th St, New York NY 10011
0374113289, $35.00 www.fsgbooks.com

Playwright, politician and spy: few men of 18th century letters made such as mark as one Pierre-Augustin Caronm de Beaumarchais, whose impact was far more than the comedies that made him famous. His support of the American revolutionaries, his business ventures, and his daring work for the rights of artists of his time made him notorious in the courts of Paris and in America alike. This survey of his life is a fine pick for any collection strong in biographies.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

The Unlikely Disciple
Kevin Roose
Grand Central Publishing
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
9780446178426, $24.99 www.hachettebookclub.com

THE UNLIKELY DISCIPLE: A SINNER'S SEMESTER AT AMERICA'S HOLIEST UNIVERSITY is funny, poignant, pointed, and just what any spiritual library needs. Kevin Roose left his Ivy League school to attend Liberty University, a conservative Baptist school in Virginia. His experiences are eye-opening, fun and offer many keys to understanding religious instruction, rules, and spirituality within their confines.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

The 8th Confession
James Patterson
Little, Brown
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
9780316018760, $27.99 www.hachettebookgroup.com

As Detective Lindsay Boxer investigates a high-profile murder in San Francisco, she discovers other connections involving the Women's Murder Club's finest minds - including a parallel search by reporter Cindy Thomas. When romance begins to bud as well, the Women's Murder Club faces threats not just to careers and lives but to long-standing friendships in this complex story recommended for any library strong in murder mysteries in general or with prior fans of The Women's Murder Club mysteries by Patterson.

Obsidian
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson St, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

Suzanne Price's NOTORIOUSLY NEAT: A CRIME SOLVERS MYSTERY (9780451226594, $6.99) tells of Sky and her potential new beau, the town's police chief, who find their first date interrupted by household pets in the restaurant - and murder. A romance heats up into a puzzling investigation in this fun thriller. Leann Sweeney's THE CAT, THE QUILT AND THE CORPSE (9780451225740, $6.99) tells of a recent widow rebuilding her life with three fine cats as a quilter in a small town. When she returns from a show to find someone's broken into her house and stolen her beloved cat, nothing can stop her from getting it back in this fun puzzler. Tod Goldberg's BURN NOTICE: THE END GAME (9780451226761, $6.99) tells of an ex-covert op Michael, cut off from his life but using his talents in new ways. A new client, a hostage situation, and more lends to a fast-paced tale.


The Fiction Shelf

Delia's Gift
V.C. Andrews
Pocket Books
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
141653086X, $7.99 www.simonsays.com

In the third Delia book of the series, a boating tragedy has ended her romance with a wealthy politician's son - and Delia is carrying his child. Adan's father intends to blackmail her and a cruel nursemaid keeps track of every move: can Delia gain freedom after her son arrives? A warm story of courage and struggle evolves for general-interest novel fans.

The First Apostle
James Becker
Signet
375 Hudson, New York NY 10014
9780451226709, $7.99 www.penguin.com

Police detective Chris Bronson is devastated when he learns his best friend's life has died in a fall at her home - but when he journeys to Italy to offer condolences, he finds evidence of murder. His investigation involves deciphering a stone and working with his ex-wife to uncover the truth in this fine adventure saga.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Arrowheads: Early Man Projectile Points of North America
Ken Owens
Collector Books
Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002-3009
9781574325942, $29.95 www.collectorbooks.com

Any serious arrowhead collector and libraries catering to archaeologists or collectors alike will find Arrowheads: Early Man Projectile Points of North America an excellent guide. It covers identification and values and includes galleries of points that presents descriptions, distribution notes, age and descriptive remarks. Technical and perfect for the arrowhead specialist.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Angel Animals Book of Inspiration
Allen and Linda Anderson
New World Library
14 Pamaron Way, Novato, CA 94949
9781577316664, $14.95 www.newworldlibrary.com

Pet owners and pet lovers as well as new age libraries will relish ANGEL ANIMALS BOOK OF INSPIRATION, which uses animals to reveal compassion, teach hope, and measure feelings. Stories of animals offer heartwarming examples of unconditional love and make for an inspiring connection between pets and divine paths.

LSD: Doorway to the Numinous
Stanislav Grof, MD
Park Street Press
One Park St, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772825, $18.95 www.parkstpress.com

Stanislav Grov's first 17 years of research into nonordinary states of consciousness induced by LSD led to a revolutionary understanding of the human psyche. His research prompted new discussions of the unconscious and revealed two new realms still unacknowledged by academic circles: the perinatal domin which holds birth memories, and the transpersonal, which mediates experiences with other species and mythic figures, access to past life memories, and more. His research into these unmapped areas makes for a fine choice for any new age collection strong in modern consciousness.

The Living Universe
Duane Elgin
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery St #650, San Francisco CA 94104-2916
9781576759691, $15.95 www.bkconnection.com

THE LIVING UNIVERSE pulls together the sciences of cosmology, biology and physics and adds a dash of New Age thinking to demonstrate proof that the universe is permeated by a living field that we communicate with - conscious or not. This world-view is shared by nearly every eastern and western spiritual tradition and holds many implications for life on Earth. Both New Age and science libraries will relish this.

Tantric Techniques
Jeffrey Hopkins
Snow Lion Publications
Box 6483, Ithaca, NY 14851
1559393203, $32.95 www.snowlionpub.com

Deity yoga is the idea of imagining oneself as an ideal being endowed with compassion and wisdom, with the goal of imagining being a Buddha, to get closer to achieving Buddhahood. TANTRIC TECHNIQUES offers a system of Tantric meditation and offers a synthesis of three Tibetan authors on the topic of deity yoga. Tibetan Buddhist scholar Jeffrey Hopkins creates an outstanding survey here recommended for any new age library strong in Buddhist thinking.

The Principal of the Path
Andy Stanley
Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
9780849920608, $19.99 www.thomasnelson.com

Smart people with life goals often end up far from where they wanted to be - why is it so that clear mental pictures of paths change? Is there one simple idea to explain why so man get lose? THE PRINCIPAL OF THE PATH is such an idea: it explains changes affecting life paths, how to identify and affect or counteract negative influences, and how to achieved a desired destination. Though reviewed in our more general 'New Age Shelf', in actuality this is an inspirational pick for any general lending library.


The Social Issues Shelf

Defining Moments: Dream of America: Immigration 1870-1920
Kevin Hillstrom
Omnigraphics
Box 31-1640, Detroit, MI 48231-1640
9780780810709, $44.00 www.omnigraphics.com

Adding to the series 'Defining Moments' is a strong focus on immigration history divided into three sections: a narrative overview of immigration around the world and America, a collection of biographies on leading figures influencing their times, and a gathering of primary source documents on U.S. immigration history, making this especially key for high school to college-level history collections.

Women and Politics Around the World
Joyce Gelb and Marian Lief Palley, editors
ABC-CLIO
Box 1911, Santa Barbara, CA 93116-1911
9781851099887, $195.00 www.abc-clio.com

Women have made advances toward equal political representation in many counties but issues remain around the world - and synthesizing them under one cover is the 2-volume survey Women and Politics Around the World. From transnational and national gender-related issues to specific conditions in different global communities, this is a powerful resource for students and researchers interested in women's experiences in world politics and social life.

Parenting for a Peaceful World
Robin Grille
Longueville Media
68 Oxford St., Woollahra, New South Wales 2025 Australia
9781921004148, $29.95 www.longmedia.com.au

The childhood origins of human actions and choices and differences between violent and humane action contribute to a fine book on how parenting customs have shaped societies and major world events. New research on children's emotional development provides a foundation for learning how to create a more peaceful world, making for a book for not just parents but adults learning to be whole, and policy-makers seeking to understand issues affecting peace. Any parenting or social issues library will find it relevant.


The Language Studies Shelf

Finding Our Tongues
Dean Falk
Basic/Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465002191, $26.95 www.basicbooks.com

Anthropologist Dean Falk overturns the usual male-centered approach to the origins of language and communication and provides a new theory based on his observations of parents all over the world in all cultures. His ideas on 'motherese' or 'babytalk' overturns the usual idea that spoken language evolved from abstract, symbolic thinking patterns typically male in structure, and makes a case for female influence in forming the foundations of human communication patterns.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Going Green
Laura Pritchett, Editor
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806140131, $19.95 www.oupress.com

GOING GREEN: TRUE TALES FROM CLEANERS, SCAVENGERS, AND DUMPSTER DIVERS has gathered the work of over twenty writers who tell their personal accounts of Dumpster driving, eating road kill, salvaging bottles and recycled materials, and more. These stories consider ways in which people can 'go green' and underlying issues of priorities and cultural influences on the process, making for a fine probe of what really defines 'green' actions. General lending libraries will find it intriguing.

The Vanishing Face of Gaia: A Final Warning
James Lovelock
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
Eleven Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
www.perseusbooksgroup.com
9780465015495, $25.00 www.basicbooks.com

There is nothing humans can do at this point to reverse global warming: the planet's too overpopulated to halt its own destruction by greenhouses gases. That's the contention of scientist James Lovelock, inventor of the Gaia Theory which claims the Earth is a living, self-regulating super organism. In order to survive, humans must begin preparing now for life on a radically changed planet - such survival to include nuclear energy and aggressive agricultural development in selected, predicted-stable areas of the world. A powerful, different kind of wake-up call, this deserves a place in every lending library concerned about mankind's future on Earth.


The Music Shelf

Ultimate Guitar Play-Along: Rush
Alfred Publishing
Box 1003, Van Nuys, CA 91410-0003
073905712X, $19.95 www.alfred.com

Rush fans and guitarists need ULTIMATE GUITAR PLAY-ALONG: RUSH. Accompanied by a play-along cd, it comes packed with TAB transcriptions, music notation lyrics, and chords to six Rush classics, offering two versions of every song on the included CDs, which can be used in a Mac or Windows-based computer to loop sections for practice, change keys or temp, and more. An outstanding selection of Rush classics encourages players to learn.

Book of Rhymes: Poetics of Hip Hop
Adam Bradley
Basic Civitas
c/o Perseus Books Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465003471, $16.95 www.basiccivitasbooks.com

Hip hop is poetry regardless of its beat and music connections: here a literary scholar and hip hop expert makes the case for the artistic seriousness of hip hop poetry, contending that rap may be the most revolutionary development in poetry since hip hop's birth in the South Bronx over thirty years ago. It argues the case for rap as a distinct literary tradition and makes for a fine pick for any collection strong in contemporary music or poetry discussions.


The Photography Shelf

Creative Photoshop CS4: Digital Illustration and Art Techniques
Derek Lea
Focal Press
30 Corporate Drive #400, Burlington, MA 01803
9780240521343, $39.95 www.focalpress.com

If you're a digital artist, designer or illustrator seeking new techniques for using Photoshop, you've come to the right place with Creative Photoshop CS4: Digital Illustration and Art Techniques. It's packed with insights on how to produce stunning images, holds chapter summaries to aid in quickly locating projects that hold specific tools of interest, and is packed with the award-winning author's own digital pictures to reinforce concepts updated throughout for CS4. A 'must' for any serious Photoshop user or collections catering to them.

Adobe Photoshop CS4 for Photographers: The Ultimate Workshop
Jeff Schewe and Martin Evening
Focal Press
30 Corporate Drive #400, Burlington, MA 01803
9780240811185, $49.95 www.focalpress.com

Users of Photoshop who already have a good foundation and seek to advance skills will find Adobe Photoshop CS4 for Photographers: The Ultimate Workshop is packed with tips from a professional photographer and digital imager who teams up with a Photoshop author for maximum effect. Sharing their knowledge, the two show how to use the software on an advanced level, using examples, diagrams, and step-by-step illustrations throughout. Two hours of video tutorials and images from the book accompany color-coded pages of key detail.

Scanning Negatives and Slides
Sascha Steinhoff
Rocky Nook
26 W Mission St. Suite 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-2432
9781933952307, $44.95 www.rockynook.com

SCANNING NEGATIVES AND SLIDES: DIGITIZING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHIC ARCHIVE tells how to handle an archive of slides and negatives that cannot be directly integrated into the new digital formats or workflows. This 2nd updated edition tells how to use negatives for maximum digital effect, how to use film scanners, and how to handle software tools. Discussions of specific software options and techniques makes for a winning survey for any involved in digital photography.


The American History Shelf

Images of America
R.L. Bruckberger
Translated by C.G. Paulding and Virgilia Peterson
Transaction Publishers
35 Beurre Circle, Piscatawy, NJ 08854-8042
9781412806541, $29.95 www.transactionpub.com

IMAGES OF AMERICA: A POLITICAL, INDUSTRIAL AND SOCIAL PORTRAIT was written after R.L. Bruckberger's eight years in the U.S. during which he came to observe that his old European ideals and perceptions were different from those of American sentiments. His social and historical observations blends sociology with history and provides a fine survey of American contributions to the world through the eyes of a relative newcomer, and is a pick for any high school to college-level collection strong in American history and sociology.


The Crafts Shelf

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts
Martha Stewart
Potter Craft
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
www.crownpublishing.com
9780307450579, $35.00 www.pottercraft.com

For nearly 20 years crafters have turned to Martha Stewart Living for all kinds of crafts projects from her magazine. Now the best of these, complete with step-by-step instructions and color photos, have been gathered into a single encyclopedia and organized by topic from A to Z. Histories for more than 30 techniques, detailed descriptions of the tools and materials, and easy templates accompany a guide to a range of crafts projects. Perfect for any general lending library, the Martha Stewart brand name of quality will sell this, if not its fine appearance.

Metal Clay Beads
Barbara Becker Simon
Lark Books
c/o Sterling Publishing Company
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9781600590252, $24.95 www.larkbooks.com

Crafters seeking to work with metal clay beads will find a fine survey with over 20 projects for using gemstones, glass and other objects in METAL CLAY BEADS. These are diverse projects packed with step-by-step color photos and easy instructions perfect for all levels of jewelry-maker. A top pick for any crafts library.


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


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