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The Bookwatch

Volume 4, Number 9 September 2009 Home | BW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Nautical Shelf Criminology Shelf
Railroading Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf American History Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Economics Shelf Business Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Human Sexuality Shelf Cookbook Shelf
Computer Shelf Audiobook Shelf Fashion Shelf
Art Shelf Photography Shelf Music Shelf
Social Issues Shelf Biography Shelf Education Shelf
Library DVD Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf
Language Studies Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

The Compassionate Life
Marc Ian Barasch
Berrett-Koehler
235 Montgomery #650, San Francisco CA 94104-2916
9781576757567, $16.95 www.bkconnection.com

Personal growth and spirituality blend in a fine survey of kindness and compassion in THE COMPASSIONATE LIFE: WALKING THE PATH OF KINDNESS. From what can be learned from Buddhist monks and emphatic apes to case histories of individuals who showed great compassion against all odds - even murder and death - THE COMPASSIONATE LIFE is an outstanding pick for any community library collection or personal reading list.

Uncle John's Gigantic Bathroom Reader
Bathroom Reader's Institute
5880 Oberlin Drive, San Diego, CA 92121
1592236065, $14.95, www.amazon.com

The large-sized omnibus edition Uncle John's Gigantic Bathroom Reader blends UNCLE JOHN'S 10TH ANNIVERSARY BATHROOM READER with UNCLE JOHN'S ABSOLUTELY ABSORBING BATHROOM READER in a large omnibus edition perfect for casual reading. Hundreds of pages of information are for readers who do most of their serious reading in the privy: interesting, little-known facts from books, web sites, articles and more offer fun tidbits of detail on pop culture, forgotten history, strange lawsuits, and much more in a top pick packed with entertainment value.

Research Strategies for a Digital Age, third edition
Bonnie L. Tensen
Wadsworth
c/o Cengage Learning
20 Channel Center St., Boston MA 02210
1428231293 $36.95 www.cengage.com/wadsworth

This third updated edition of a research classic appears in a spiral format perfect for lay-flat consultation and blends traditional research methods with options on using and evaluating electronic research technologies. Examples and tips provide the latest details on styles, Internet search tools, online databases and more and discuss e-Books to illustrate the new digital resources presented. Any reference library strong in digital research options needs this.

Arcade Mania!
Brian Ashcraft with Jean Snow
Kodansha America, Inc.
451 Park Avenue South, NY, NY 10016
www.kodanshaamercia.com
9784770030788, $19.95, www.amazon.com

ARCADE MANIA! THE TURBO-CHARGED WORLD OF JAPAN'S GAME CENTERS provides a history for any who have been enthralled by arcade games, touring the unusual, often bizarre rituals that make up a Japanese arcade. Gamers and any interested in Japanese society and culture will find this packed with game descriptions and fun insights perfect for fans of Japanese culture.

Newton and the Counterfeiter
Thomas Levenson
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780151012787, $25.00 www.hmhbooks.com 1-800-225-3362

NEWTON AND THE COUNTERFEITER: THE UNKNOWN DETECTIVE CAREER OF THE WORLD'S GREATEST SCIENTIST tells of Isaac Newton's surprising career move, leaving university life where he made his revolutionary discoveries to become Warden of the Royal Mint in London. His encounters there with counterfeiter criminal William Chaloner provide a riveting, unusual aspect of Newton perfect for any general lending library!

Chop Suey
Andrew Coe
Oxford University Press
198 Madison Ave., New York NY 10016-4314
9780195331073, $24.95 www.oup.com

Popular books about Chinese culinary history are in general libraries but any college-level collection strong in culinary history courses will find even more satisfying CHOP SUEY: A CULTURAL HISTORY OF CHINESE FOOD IN THE UNITED STATES. The focus is on how Chinese food came to be seen as part of American culture - a focus that differentiates CHOP SUEY form say Jennifer Lee's more popular approach in FORTUNE COOKIE CHRONICLES. Western history and psychology are far more prominently examined here for the college-level audience that will welcome it.


The Nautical Shelf

The Annotated Sailing Alone Around the World
Joshua Slocum
Annotated by Rod Scher
Sheridan House
145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
9781574092752, $19.95, www.sheridanhouse.com

One man did what many thought was insane - sail around the world. He took it one step further and did it alone. "The Annotated Sailing Alone Around the World" presents Joshua Slocum's epic voyage with notes and research from Rod Scher, giving greater depth to Slocum's writings and logs of his lonely voyage around the planet. "The Annotated Sailing Alone Around the World" is a solid pick for those who enjoy true-life nautical adventures.


The Criminology Shelf

The Ride
Brian MacQuarrie
DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780306816260, $26.00 www.dacapopress.com

In 1997 a ten-year-old was abducted and murdered close to his Cambridge home - and his father demanded the death penalty for his abductor. Four years later he'd change his mind. "The Ride" chronicles events leading to the murder, the investigation and trial, and how Bob Curley struggled through grief and anger, and devoted himself to activism against predators. An outstanding and dramatic account, "The Ride" will interest any general lending library.


The Railroading Shelf

Iron Trails of North America 1978-2008
Robert W. Burns
Schiffer
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764332623, $49.99 www.schifferbooks.com

Modern trains still captivate audiences and provide invaluable services, as demonstrated in Iron Trails of North America 1978-2008, which foregoes the usual focus on antique vintage bygone trains of olden times to focus on modern trains that still provide important services. Over 450 color photos show engines and trains and explain modern mergers, engines, histories, and routes. Highly recommended for any library catering to rail buffs.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Small Mountain Owls
Scott Rashid
Schiffer
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
9780764332821, $39.99 www.schifferbooks.com

Over 160 photos and drawings of four species of small mountain owls to be found in the Rocky Mountains makes for a gorgeous book covering every aspect of their natural history, from anatomy and identification to natural history. Any library strong in detailed natural history of bird species in general and owls in particular will find this an appealing, gorgeous reference.

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

In a concise, systematic guide Peter Holt's Urological Disorders of the Dog & Cat (Manson Publishing, 9781840760958, $120.00) focuses on assessment of the patient and practical urological techniques involved in reaching a diagnosis. From different conditions and causes of all types of urinary incontinence to clinical diagnostic practices, Urological Disorders of the Dog & Cat is a pick recommended for both practicing vets and college-level collections catering to vet students. Mary A. Fraser and Simon J. Girling's RABBIT MEDICINE AND SURGERY FOR VETERINARY NURSES (9781405147064, $60.00) covers everything you need to know about rabbits and comes from two experts with much background on treating rabbits. From rabbit clinics and nutrition to medical problems and surgical nursing, color and black and white photos support procedural descriptions and make this a fine pick for any vet student. College-level vet collections will also relish the third edition of Steven E. Crow, Sally O. Walshaw and Jennifer E. Boyle's MANUAL OF CLINICAL PROCEDURES IN DOGS, CATS, RABBITS & RODENTS (9780813813042, $59.99), packed with expanded coverage of exotic small mammals and their needs. From the latest common vet procedures to expanded coverage of rodents and in-depth clinical processes, this is a 'must' for practicing vets and students alike.


The American History Shelf

Stupid American History
Leland Gregory
Andrews McMeel Publishing
1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106-2109
0740779915, $9.99 www.andrewsmcmeel.com

STUPID AMERICAN HISTORY: TALES OF STUPIDITY, STRANGENESS, AND MYTHCONCEPTIONS blends humor and American history ideas for history buffs, covering myths, legends and quotes that are famous - and misleading. From the mystery of Christopher Columbus' real appearance to the truth about how many Presidents actually owned slaves, this is a top pick for American history buffs who want courses in light, humorous doses perfect for trivia games.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Collected Stories V. 1-4
Roger Zelazny
NESFA Press
Box 809, Framingham, MA 01701
$29.00 each www.nesfa.org/press

Any definitive science fiction library needs the 4-volume series of collected stories by Roger Zelazny. These include every short story and poem written by Zelazny, including all of his award-winning nominations and stories. Volume 1, THRESHOLD (9781886778719, $29.00) covers early years through the mid-1960s with such works as 'The Doors of His Face, the Lamps of His Mouth'. Volume 2, POWER & LIGHT (9781886778771, $29.00) covers the mid-1960s, his most fruitful period, and includes 'The Moment of the Storm' and his novel 'And Call Me Conrad'. Volume 3 (9781886778788, $29.00) runs from the late 1960s to the early 70s with stories such as 'Damnation Alley' and 'This Mortal Mountain'. Volume 4, LAST EXIT TO BABYLON (9781886778795, $29.00) covers the late 1970s and early 80s with works such as 'Unicorn Variations' and 'Home is the Hangman'. Edited by David C. Grubbs, Christopher Kovacs, and Ann Crimmins, these are a 'must' for any serious, definitive science fiction library charting the course of the early master authors.

Lifelode
Jo Walton
NESFA Press
Box 809, Framingham, MA 01701
9781886778825, $25.00 www.nesfa.org/press

Marakanda is a university town - one of three in the world that tell of Applekirk, a neighboring town where magic, dragons, and adventures abound. Taveth's lifelode is keeping the Applekirk Manor and its interlocking families safe during a time of change, but a scholar's arrival and time transition marks a world that can't be controlled. A powerful story, Lifelode is a top pick for any fantasy library.

Ace Books
c/o Penguin Group (USA)
375 Hudson, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

Greg Cox's COUNTDOWN (9780441017188, $15.00) is based on the DC Comics series and provides a cast of comic book figures, from Jimmy Olsen and Mary Marvel to Jason Todd and ex-superheroes forced to retire and rejoin humanity - until all the superheroes are called upon to save the world. Kristin Landon's THE DARK REACHES (9780441017348, $7.99) tells of the remnants of the human race who seek refuge on the Hidden Worlds only to find that after six centuries, word comes that humans may have survived in Earth's own solar system. The Cold Minds have returned to ferret them out, and it's up to a renegade pilot to help save the worlds. Patrice Sarath's RED GOLD BRIDGE (9780441017355, $7.99) tells of a portal between our world and another, where two girls journey and return after paying a price - with a young man in tow. Colar doesn't fit in on Earth - and war threatens to embroil both universes.

Children of the Dawnland
Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear
Starscape
c/o TOR
175 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10010
0765320193, $17.99 www.tor.com

At the end of the Ice Age, when glaciers are melting and the world is changing, 12-year-old Twig will discover she has talented Spirit dreams and powers that defy her mother's instructions to ignore them. Her journey is set thirteen thousand years ago, in what is now the border between Canada and the U.S., and provides a riveting story about a visionary girl whose quest affects her entire people. A fine pick for young adult and adult readers alike.

Pyr Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
www.pyrsf.com

Matthew Sturges' MIDWINTER (9781591027348, $15.98) offers a riveting story telling of an army war hero accused of treason and sentenced to life without parole at an ancient mountain prison. Now he has a last chance to gain freedom and honor - by accepting a suicide mission and struggling against dark forces with a band of unlikely companions. A swift, involving plot keeps readers guessing to the end. Chris Roberson's END OF THE CENTURY (9781591026976, $15.00) tells of a teen alone on the streets in a strange city with only her visions give her keys to her life. Alice finds herself pursued by strange creatures and a mystery challenge that will plague her with visions and possibly cost her life in this absorbing thriller. James Enge's BLOOD OF AMBROSE (9781591027362, $15.98) tells of Ambrosia, accused of witchcraft and put to trial by combat where she's forced to call on her brother for help - a magic swordsman and drunk. Change and adventure mark a fantasy hard to put down.

ROC Books
c/o Penguin Book Group
375 Hudson St., New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

Faith Hunter's SKINWALKER (9780451462800, $7.99) presents another Jane Yellowrock novel telling of a woman who is the last of her kind - a skinwalker of Cherokee descent who can turn into any creature she desires. Add lust and a mission working for one of the oldest vampires in New Orleans hunting a rogue vampire and you have a winning story of intrigue and fantasy. S.M. Peters' GHOST OCEAN (9780451462695, $7.99) tells of Te, who works for a paranormal investigator. When a friend of investigator Babu is murdered under impossible circumstances, Te learns the death has released an ancient power, and finds herself immersed in a world more dangerous than she anticipated. Both are outstanding fantasy leisure choices perfect for any general lending library.

Baen Books
Box 1403, Riverdale, NY 10471
www.baen.com

Lieutenant General Michael O'Neal finds his Corp destroyed, his staff shot before him, and himself arrested for war times, facing an unjust trial and death in John Ringo's Eye of the Storm (9781439132739, $26.00). Add an invasion from a new alien race and one man's nightmare come true and you have a swift military action story perfect for any military science fiction collection. Michael Z. Williamson's CONTACT WITH CHAOS (1416591540, $24.00) provides any military science fiction collection with a strong story revolving around the first aliens humans encounter and a mass of political interests surrounding it. Add the revelation that the aliens are not as simple as first expected and you have a story line with many strong twists and turns. Poul Anderson's RISE OF THE TERRAN EMPIRE: THE TECHNIC CIVILIZATION SAGA (1439132755, $14.00) is a fine story of a flamboyant member of a league of star traders who is involved with a strong military fleet on earth - and in the founding of an empire. This is the third volume in the complete edition of his Technic Civilization saga, recommended for owners of the prior editions. Fred Saberhagen's OF BERSERKERS, SWORDS & VAMPIRES (1439132690, $23.00) provides a Saberhagen retrospective perfect for any fan of his overall works, whether it be his Berserker series of chaos and destruction, his 'Swords and Lost Swords' fantasy adventures, or his Dracula series. This retrospective presents short stories from all three series in a fine survey spanning some four decades of his varied productions. A set of fine paperbacks make for excellent take-along summer totes. Eric Flint and Virginia DeMarce's 1634: THE BAVARIAN CRISIS (9781439132760, $7.99) provides a new novel in the 'ring of fire' saga in paperback for the first time, and continues the story of an alternate world in a troubled century where the United States of Europe is influenced by time travelers thrown from their universe. Mercedes Lackey and Roberta Gellis' AND LESS THAN KIND (9781439132845, $7.99) tells of a duke and heir to a kingdom in an alternate universe where a queen's reign is dictated by a Dark Court. Twins stand between evil and the morals of England in a fine fantasy tale. Robert Heinlein's THE ROLLING STONES (1416591494, $13.99) is an outstanding classic presented in a fine work perfect for new audiences, and tells of the Stone family's tour of the solar system gone wrong. His classic THE PUPPET MASTERS (9781439132838, $14.00) also provides a solid classic for new audiences, telling of a flying saucer's landing in Iowa and the disappearance of agents involved in its landing. The truth is revealed in a riveting story.


The Economics Shelf

The Economic Naturalist's Field Guide: Common Sense Principles for Troubled Times
Robert H. Frank
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
2300 Chestnut, Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103
9780465015115, $26.00 www.basicbooks.com

The economic boom has ended and the connections between money and happiness have become quite tenuous: THE ECONOMIC NATURALIST'S FIELD GUIDE discusses this link, considers how the crisis has changed middle class perceptions and values, and offers a key to consuming less as part of the solution. From reducing consumption to working towards a national health plan, this provides a host of theories on how to win in troubled times.

The Myth of the Rational Market
Justin Fox
Harper Business
c/o HarperCollins
10 E. 53rd St., New York NY 10022
9780060598990, $27.99 www.harpercollins.com

THE MYTH OF THE RATIONAL MARKET: A HISTORY OF RISK, REWARD, AND DELUSION ON WALL STREET comes form a Time editor and economic columnist who tells of the rise and fall of a powerful belief that financial markets are rational and capable of regulating themselves. This belief has led to dangerous actions and market hypothesis and this history introduces a new wave of analytical approach that points out the pitfalls of market strategies and investor psychology. Any collection strong in economics, from college-level holdings to general-interest libraries with solid business sections, needs this.

IT Savvy
Peter Weill
Harvard Business School Press
60 Harvard Way, Boston, MA 02163
9781422181010, $29.95 www.harvardbusiness.org/press

Managers face an increasingly competitive global world and must know some degree of IT (information technology) savvy to be successful. IT SAVVY teaches how to link IT to bottom-line results and comes form IT expects who argue that success in the digital economy will go to companies smart about using IT successfully. Fifteen years of field-tested research contributes to a fine guide for managers on how to link IT to success.


The Business Shelf

How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Web Site Design Business
Bruce C. Brown and Charlotte Evans
Atlantic Publishing
1405 SW 6th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474-7014
9781601381439, $39.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Web Site Design Business is a 'must' for any who would turn a talent for web design into a business. Either a part-time or a full-time job can be started in your own home: this gives the nuts and bolts of building your own such design business quickly, offering a comprehensive study of the business side of web site design suitable for both business and general-interest collections.

The Complete Guide to Affiliate Marketing on the Web
Bruce C. Brown
Atlantic Publishing
1405 SW 6th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474-7014
9781601381255, $24.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

Affiliate marketing is a profitable, web-based advertising method in which internet merchants pay independent third parties to promote their products or services. While Amazon.com developed it, it is available to any business, and The Complete Guide to Affiliate Marketing on the Web provides six steps to developing a successful web marketing campaign to increase web visitors and sales. Case studies supplement the practical tips in a guide perfect for any business library catering to web-based businesses.

Guide to Contract Pricing, fifth edition
John Edward Murphy, CPA, CPCM
Management Concepts
8230 Leesburg Pike, Suite 800, Vienna, VA 22182
www.managementconcepts.com
9781567262414, $99.00, www.amazon.com

John Edward Murphy has over 40 years experience in financial management and procurement, working in government public sectors and founding his own consulting form specializing in procurement, public policy and litigation support. His book offers specific and clear pricing and cost analysis for government agencies and contractors alike, and is a 'must' for any serious business collection.

How to Tell Anyone Anything
Richard S. Gallagher
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814410154, $14.95 www.amacombooks.org

HOW TO TELL ANYONE ANYTHING: BREAKTHROUGH TECHNIQUES FOR HANDLING DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS AT WORK uses the latest findings in psychology to provide a step-by-step application for the business world. From typical negative-ending communications patterns to more positive, effective strategies, this offers concrete, successful verbal techniques.

Online Recruiting and Selection
Douglas H. Reynolds and John A. Weiner
Wiley/Blackwell
350 Main, Malden MA 02148
9781405182294, $29.95 www.wiley.com/wiley-blackwell

ONLINE RECRUITING AND SELECTION; INNOVATIONS IN TALENT ACQUISITION is a key to understanding the shift in hiring practices that Internet usage has introduced to the business world. Chapters explore online recruiting and systems, considering common hiring issues and offering HR and professional staff clues to recruiting candidates from around the world. Any business collection catering to HR professionals in particular will find this important.

The Luxury Strategy
J.N. Kapferer and V. Bastien
Kogan Page
525 S. 4th St. #241, Philadelphia, PA 19147
9780749454777, $49.95 www.koganpage.com

THE LUXURY STRATEGY: BREAK THE RULES OF MARKETING TO BUILD LUXURY BRANDS discusses the luxury market and how to break in, and comes from two industry insiders who analyze what makes a luxury brand and how to employ strategies to make the most of pricing, distribution and more. Models for profitable luxury businesses compliment tips on learning from luxury experiences in a title highly recommended for any basic business collection.

The Introverted Leader
Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D.
Berrett-Koehler Publishers
235 Montgomery #650, San Francisco CA 94104
9781576755778, $19.95 www.bkconnection.com

THE INTROVERTED LEADER: BUILDING ON YOUR QUIET STRENGTH covers the common challenges introverts face at work, from perception gaps to seeking invisibility, and offers alternatives which embrace natural lifestyles and integrate introverted strengths into workplace activities. Introverts bring value to the workplace: this tells how to succeed in an extroverted business world and is a 'must' for any business collection.

e-Riches 2.0
Scott Fox
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019
0814414621, $25.00 www.amacombooks.org

Any small business owner looking to translate brick n morter success to the Internet needs e-RICHES 2.0: NEXT-GENERATION MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR MAKING MILLIONS ONLINE. It comes from an Internet success coach who has helped many realize online profits and covers everything from capitalizing on free social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter and using 'viral marketing' to spread a brand name, making online videos, and attracting free press coverage of news. A powerful set of practical tips!

Course Technology
30 Channel Center St., Boston, MA 02210
www.courseptr.com

Anthony T. Meola's 90 DAYS TO SUCCESS AS A MANAGER (1598638653, $19.99) provides a manager's action plan for any new on the job. It tells how to manage people and processes through a fact-based approach backed by 30 years of proven success by both the author and his coaches, and uses actual job situations to pair with real work scenarios and solutions. Any business library catering to managers needs this. Jason I. Miletsky provides the agency perspective in PERSPECTIVES ON MARKETING (1598638718, $29.99) and PERSPECTIVES ON BRANDING (1598638726, $29.99), two powerful business titles covering both sides of the story in business operations. In MARKETING Michael Hand provides the client perspective in topics covering everything from how to get the most from a client/agency relationship to decision-making and personality perspectives. BRANDING has Genevieve Smith providing the brand perspective in a range of topics from brand analysis and marketing to analysis and evolution. The authors have not collaborated and what results are unbiased, unfiltered viewpoints key to business success.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Chasing Medical Miracles
Alex O'Meara
Walker & Company
175 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10010
0802716962, $25.00 www.walkerbooks.com

As a diabetic author Alex O'Meara had given up hope for a cure and for thirty years had to take two or more shots of insulin daily. But in 2004 he signed up for a clinical trial involving an experimental transplant - and his experience led to an investigation of the industry in CHASING MEDICAL MIRACLES; THE PROMISE AND PERILS OF CLINICAL TRIALS. It's the first book to offer a behind-the-scenes view of clinical trails and how they operate and are funded, and is key for any medical student and consumer who wishes to understand their organization and importance.

Forget Memory
Anne Davis Basting
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 N. Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
www.press.jhu.edu
0801892503, $19.95, www.amazon.com

FORGET MEMORY: CREATING BETTER LIVES FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA is based on ten years of practice and research in the field of memory and studies innovative programs that stimulate growth, humor and emotional connections. From how medical advances are changing options for people with dementia to stories of memory loss without old age attached, this is an outstanding survey for both health and general collections.

Pill Head
Joshua Lyon
Hyperion
114 - 5th Ave., New York NY 10011
9781401322984, $24.99 www.hyperionbooks.com

PILL HEAD: THE SECRET LIFE OF A PAINKILLER ADDICT is a powerful story of substance abuse in an era where painkillers were freely available without a doctor. Their easy accessibility led to their spread around the country, and PILL HEAD is the author's account of the epidemic and a memoir of his struggles to recover from his addiction. Any lending library will find it a revealing memoir.

Free From Lies
Alice Miller
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
0393069133, $24.95 www.wwnorton.com

FREE FROM LIES: DISCOVERING YOUR TRUE NEEDS is from any who denied that they suffered physical and emotional abuse as children. Former victims can heal by discovering and acknowledging their true history instead of denying it - and this explains why a therapist should become a witness to the survivor of such cruelty rather than the usual neutral therapeutic role. A powerful survey, this is a pick for any general or health lending library.

Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market St Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.jkp.com

Grandparents trying to handle a child with special needs will find plenty of tips on how to effectively grandparent with love and care in Charlotte E. Thompson, MD's GRANDPARENTING A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS (9781843109068, $19.95). It covers everything from understanding and accepting diagnosis to helping at different stages of a child's life, and covers everything from specialized care and resources to support systems. Public libraries and health collections alike will find this an excellent pick. Diane Austin's THEORY AND PRACTICE OF VOCAL PSYCHOTHERAPY: SONGS OF THE SELF (9781843108788, $45.00) discusses a new, voice-based model of psychotherapy, where singing and vocal improvisation are used to access unconscious aspects of the self. The basic ideas of this therapy draw on over twenty years of research and add case studies to the mix of insights on using vocal music therapy.

Smallpox: The Death of a Disease
D.A. Henderson, MD
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781591027225, $27.98 www.prometheusbooks.com

Any interested in a history of disease control - especially any health library - needs Smallpox: The Death of a Disease. It charts 3,000 years of the relentless, incurable disease and the author's own campaign to eliminate this disease from the world. Dr. Henderson's personal story of how he led the World Health Organization's efforts is riveting and provides an insider's account of international health issues. Recommended for health and general-interest libraries alike.

Planning Parenthood
Rebecca A. Clark, MD, PhD, et.al.
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218-4363
0801891124, $18.95 www.press.jhu.edu

PLANNING PARENTHOOD; STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS IN FERTILITY ASSISTANCE, ADOPTION, AND SURROGACY offers all the latest insights on everything from adoption to fertility assistance, legal and medical risks, personal issues prospective parents need to consider, and more. Personal stories of parents' experiences blend with insights to make for a powerful presentation of options perfect for any general lending library.

The Fibromyalgia Controversy
M. Clement Hall, MD
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
9781591026815, $18.98 www.prometheusbooks.com

Fibromyalgia is a disorder affecting as many as fifteen million Americans, mostly women, and presents with widespread pain, sleep disturbance, fatigue, and more. It also is one of the most contested conditions in modern times, offering ongoing debate and discussion. Here Dr. Hall reviews the latest opinions and studies on the condition and pinpoints controversies in a guide for sufferers and clinicians alike.

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

GETTING PAST YOUR BREAKUP: HOW TO TURN A DEVASTATING LOSS INTO THE BEST THING THAT EVER HAPPENED TO YOU is a powerful positive book that should be in every general lending library. It tells how to disengage from an ex, how to work through grief and break the pattern of failed relationships, and what to do when you can't stop thinking about your ex. Stories from real people blend with strategies to move on and make for an invaluable guide.

The Boy Who Was Raised As a Dog
Bruce D. Perry, MD, PhD and Maia Szalavitz
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
0465056539, $15.95 www.basicbooks.com

What happens when a young child is traumatized, and how can a child recover from terror? THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED AS A DOG AND OTHER STORIES FROM A CHILD PSYCHIATRIST'S NOTEBOOK examines what traumatized children can teach us about loss, love and healing processes. It explains what happens to the brain when children are exposed to extreme stress, reveals methods for helping kids move past pain, and offers a set of insights especially recommended for medical libraries as well as general lending collections.


The Human Sexuality Shelf

Kama Sutra Step by Step
DK Publishing, Inc.
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
www.dk.com
9780756650421, $25.00, www.amazon.com

Couples interested in erotic sensuality and 500 explicit color photos demonstrating sexual positions will find the illustrated Kama Sutra Step by Step a fine 'how to' guide to sensual sexuality. Kama 'sensation ratings' accompany not only instructions but insights on why various positions work. Highly recommended for couples interested in trying the kama sutra positions using a more visual aid than the original wordy text.

How to Get Your Man
Sally Huss
Huss Publishing
PO Box 206, La Jolla, CA 90038
9780982262528, $14.95

The pursuit of Mr. Right drives many women. "How to Get Your Man: The Slam-Dunk Formula to Getting the Love of Your Life" is written by a veteran of life and dating, Sally Huss. Using her enormous supply of wisdom, she offers helpful anecdotes and pieces of advice for any woman on the road to romance. A practical and handy guide, "How to Get Your Man" is a must read.


The Cookbook Shelf

Wine Cocktails
A.J. Rathbun
Harvard Common Press
535 Albany St., Boston MA 02118
9781558324077, $12.95 www.harvardcommonpress.com

Fifty recipes for wine cocktails offer twists on classics and come from the author of PARTY SNACKS! AND OTHERS. These recipes mix wine with fruit juice, herbs, spices and more and provide different cocktails perfect for entertaining. A lovely book any lending library will appreciate.

Dirty Dishes
Pino Luongo and Andrew Friedman
Bloomsbury
175 - 5th Avenue, Suite 300, New York NY 10010
1596914424, $25.00 www.bloomsburyusa.com

DIRTY DISHES; A RESTAURATEUR'S STORY OF PASSION, PAIN AND PASTA provides a powerful story of a restaurant 'giant' who tells his side of the story of his legendary rise to fame. From his childhood afternoons spent in his mother's kitchen in Tuscany to his early introduction to the restaurant world, his memoir is a powerful and fun account of the New York food scene and his personal evolution within it.

The Asian Vegan Kitchen
Hema Parekh
Kodansha America, Inc.
451 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
www.kodanshaamercia.com
9784770030696, $19.95, www.amazon.com

THE ASIAN VEGAN KITCHEN: AUTHENTIC AND APPETIZING DISHES FROM A CONTINENT OF RICH FLAVORS provides over 200 recipes from soups and side dishes to main dishes and noodle dishes, pairs these with over thirty pages of color photos, and includes highlights of each country's cuisine. Any interested in Asian vegan cuisine needs this: it covers a range of tastes and options in a fine, definitive guide.

Ani's Raw Food Desserts
Ani Phyo
DaCapo Lifelong
c/o Perseus Book Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780738213064, $17.95 www.dacapopress.com

Reap the benefits of raw foods in a cookbook offering such non-cook desserts as Lemon Pudding-Filled Coconut Cupcakes, Mulberry Pecan Cookies, Chocolate Raisin Bark and more. Raw food cookbooks usually focus primarily on main dishes, so it's pleasing to see a dessert-oriented cookbook to round out the offerings: perfect for libraries already including more extensive raw food cookbooks on their shelves and who see a rise in their popularity.

Thoroughly Modern Milkshakes
Adam Ried
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393068771, $24.95 www.wwnorton.com

Plenty of cookbooks offer milkshake recipes which are mostly standards with a few variations, so it's a pleasure to see a cookbook entirely focused on milkshakes, offering staples plus new twists in classics - such as a Mocha-Cardamom shake, a Ginger-Chai Shake, or Coffee-Hazelnut Shake. Add some histories and colorful photos and you have an eye-catching cookbook perfect for any lending library.

The Best of Relish Cookbook
Relish Magazine Editors
Countryman Press
Box 748, Woodstock, VT 05091
9780881508369, $24.95 www.countrymanpress.com

THE BEST OF RELISH appeared in May but deserves ongoing recommendation for any cookbook library strong in American home and regional dishes. Over a hundred 'best' recipes form the magazine range from Deep South Chicken to Gratin of Sweet Potatoes and Swiss Chard, and mix variations on traditional themes with many worldwide ethnic influences. Add color photos and you have an attractive winner.

Tassajara Dinners & Desserts
Dale and Melissa Kent
Gibbs Smith
Box 667, Layton, UT 84041
1423605209, $30.00 www.gibbs-smith.com

Any who visit the Tassajara Zen Center know about its careful routines and practices, and this cookbook offers a host of vegan and vegetarian recipes perfect for those adopting a gentler diet. Cook's stories in sidebars include topics such as 'How to Cook Vegetables and Let Go of Trying to Please Everyone' and accompany dishes such as Tofu Lasagna with Mushrooms, Goat Cheese and Chard and Parmesan Polenta Squares. Main dishes, desserts and more are packed with color photos throughout, making for an inviting vegetarian cookbook.


The Computer Shelf

Prentice Hall/PTR
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.pearsoned.com www.informit.com/ph

Any library catering to Linux programmers will Benjamin Mako Hill, et.al.'s Official Ubuntu Book, fourth edition (0137021208, $34.99) an outstanding survey of a free operating system that teaches how to blend in and customize Ubuntu for home, business or small enterprises. From locating troubleshooting advice from Ubuntu users to using the accompanying DVD of the Ubuntu Linux operating system for PCs, this is a winning recommendation. Barrie M. North's FUNDAMENTALS OF JOOMLA! (0137017812, $69.99) is a fine survey combining a video package from a top Joomla consultant and author with a booklet showing how to build sophisticated websites easy to edit and update. Some 13 video lessons pair with the book to cover all the basics, with the video reinforcing the process of building four complete sites with Joomla! Edward L. Haletky's VMWARE VSPHERE AND VIRTUAL INFRASTRUCTURE SECURITY: SECURING THE VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT (0137158009, $49.99) is for IT professionals involved in networking and offers complete hands-on help for securing Vmware Vsphere and Virtual Infrastructure. From considering attacker perspectives and security threats to learning how to secure deployment and management of virtual machines, this offers advanced network coverage for any advanced networking IT pro.

Mastering AutoCad 2010 and AutoCad Lt 2010
George Omura
Sybex, Inc.
c/o John Wiley & Sons
989 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94103
www.sybex.com
9780470466032, $49.99, www.amazon.com

There are a number of books on the market surveying AutoCad, but this is one of the best - a virtual 'bible' of detail packing in tips on using everything from hatches and tables to linking drawings to databases, presenting 3D models with x-ray views, importing PDF documents as drawings, and much more. Newcomers will find the tutorials build skills while advanced users will appreciate the detailed surveys of the latest features of the program. An accompanying DVD packs in further project details and includes a trial version of AutoCad 2010 and a searchable PDF of the book.

O'Reilly
1005 Gravenstein Hwy North, Sebastopol, CA 95472
9780596521554, $54.99 www.oreilly.com

AUTOMATING SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION WITH PERL by David N. Blank-Edelman (9780596006396, $39.99) appears in its second updated edition for any systems administrator working with Perl. It's been updated and expanded to include the latest operating systems and technologies and replaces an outdated version, so is key for any serious Perl computing collection. Topics include spam control, analyzing log files, working with different configuration file formats, and more. Rich Shupe's LEARNING FLASH CS4 PROFESSIONAL: GETTING UP TO SPEED WITH FLASH (9780596159764, $44.99) offers beginning and intermediate users a fine introduction to the latest version of Flash, packing in color examples to cover both new and old features. No previous Flash experience is needed, making this an outstanding recommendation for both computer and general collections. Chris Grover's GOOGLE SKETCHUP: THE MISSING MANUAL (Pogue Press, 9780596521462, $34.99) offers an outstanding guide to an alternative to expensive, complicated 3-D drawing programs. Use the free SketchUp tools to draw in either 2-D or 3-D, add colors, design models, and develop models from photos or drawings. Even animate them or blend them into Google's other services with this winner. Jon Loeliger's VERSION CONTROL WITH GIT (9780596520120, $34.99) teaches software engineers how to use Git in several real-world development environments, exploring an open source version control program that permits a wide range of methods for development and collaboration. From using Git for different version controls to using it to manage merges and patches, this provides an invaluable developer's tool.

Addison-Wesley
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
www.informit/com/aw

J. Jeffrey Hanson's MASHUPS: STRATEGIES FOR THE MODERN ENTERPRISE (032159181X, $39.99) is a top pick telling how to create quality web 2.0 mashups, from using presentation-oriented styles to planning requirements, implementing a step-by-step guide to design and services, and securing mashups. Mashups give businesses new ways to compete, and this web services survey is the perfect place to start, offering a companion to MASHUP PATTERNS. Jim Clarke, Jim Connors and Eric Bruno's JAVA FX: DEVELOPING RICH INTERNET APPLICATIONS (013701287X, $39.99) tells how to build Rich Applications that run on the desktop, the web, or mobile devices alike. Using Java FX, developers and graphic designers will find plenty of enabling methods using the Java programming platform. From building JavaFX programs to adding special effects, motion, and blending in pictures and videos from other applications, this is a fine pick for any Java programmer's collection.

Course Technology
20 Channel Center St., Boston, MA 02210
www.courseptr.com

Learn to program games using Michael Snow's Game Programming with Silverlight (1598639064, $39.99), a web-based application ideal for game development. Any interested in game design will find this offers a fine survey of all the features of Silverlight 3 used in game creation, teaching application basics and then how to create objects, animate them, network a game to make it a multiplayer experience, and more. The complete source code for the book is also available for download in a fine guide for any game programmer. Jerry Lee Ford Jr.'s GETTING STARTED WITH GAME MAKER (1598638823, $34.99) shows game developers how to create their own computer games - without programming knowledge. Using Game Maker's simple drag-and-drop format and step-by-step instructions, this title shows gamers how to produce games without worrying about learning programming skills.


The Audiobook Shelf

The Bourne Deception
Eric Van Lustbader
Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
9781600245992, $49.98 www.hachetteaudio.com

Eric Van Lustbader brings Robert Ludlum's Bourne scenario to life in a new Jason Bourne novel with a gripping narration by Jeremy Davidson. When Jason Bourne is ambushed and nearly killed on Bali, he takes his own death and sets out to find his would-be assassin. Add international intrigue and you have a 'whodunnit' that just won't quit.

Hachette Audio
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
www.hachetteaudio.com

Joshua Cooper Ramo's THE AGE OF THE UNTHINKABLE: WHY THE NEW WORLD DISORDER CONSTANTLY SURPRISES US AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT (9781600247200, $34.98) comes from a managing director of one of the world's leading geostrategy firms, and offers a new model of hope for thinking about a newly unpredictable world order. He explains why the usual thinking patterns aren't working - and how a new environment of unpredictability demands different approaches and frameworks for success. Any business or general lending library will find his an involving audio, powered by the author's own voice. Michael Connelly's THE SCARECROW (9781600245749, $39.98) pairs L.A. actor Peter Giles' extensive TV and film background with a thriller telling of a crime reporter's final days and his choice to produce the definitive murder story of his career. His decision leads to a dangerous murder investigation where Jack is onto a ruthless killer with perfect knowledge of police routines. Dan Simmons' THE TERROR (9781600244858, $14.98) pairs Simon Vance's award-winning voice with the vivid story of an 1845 expedition of the first steam-powered vessels to search for the legendary Northwest Passage. When the leader meets a terrible death, surviving crewmen find themselves in desperate situations in a vivid adventure thriller. John C. Maxwell's HOW SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE THINK (9781600246098, $24.98) comes from a renowned leadership expert and speaker who offers a fine survey on how to be more creative and when to question popular thinking. Eleven keys to more effective thinking focus on insights for personal success. George Dawes Green's RAVENS (9781600246258, $34.98) provides a dual narration by Robert Petkoff and Maggi-Meg Reed as it tells of two drifters who stumble on the identity of the latest multimillion-dollar Jackpot winner - and who determine to blackmail the family. Both funny and thrilling, RAVENS comes to life under audio. Anne Rivers Siddons' OFF SEASON (9781600246340, $14.98) enjoys a fine reading by actress Jane Alexander as it tells of decades of marriage that ends in loss and a solitary life for Lilly, who is looking to get past tragedy. A moving, poignant story evolves. Brad Metzer's THE BOOK OF LIES (9781600246630, $14.98) pairs the seasoned voice of narrator Scott Brick with the moving story of a long-lost father, a murder, and a killer marked with the tattoos of Cain. A tense thriller evolves. James Patterson and Michael Ledwige's THE DANGEROUS DAYS OF DANIEL X (0316002925, $19.99) tells of a man born with a power to create: a deadly secret that is bound by his title as protector of Earth and Alien Hunter. The fate of the world rests on his unique gifts - and he's on a mission to capture his parents' murderer. The sequel by Patterson and Ned Rust, DANIEL X: WATCH THE SKIES (9781600246197, $22.98) tells of the small town of Holliswood packed with wealth - and evil. Daniel X is the only person to stop a tyrant from wiping out the city and all its residents in this fine audio listen. Wonderful picks for any audio collection, these!

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

Dr. Denis Leary's WHY WE SUCK: A FEEL GOOD GUIDE TO STAYING FAT, LOUD, LAZY AND STUPID (9780143142553, $29.95) actually tells how to overcome all 6the things that lead to being 'sucky'. A memoir of his life blends with a funny assault on cultural norms to make for a fine audio listen good for any audio library strong in humor or autobiography. Clive Cussler and Paul Kemprecos' MEDUSA (978014314557, $29.95) is an abridged version fueled by the experienced voice of Richard Ferrone, an award-winning narrator of hundreds of successful audios. The thriller comes to life in a powerful presentation highly recommended for any audio collection.

Brilliance Audio
c/o Brilliance Corporation
PO Box 887, Grand Haven, MI 49417
www.brillianceaudio.com

Sean Doolittle's SAFER (1423377443, $34.99) is narrated by Patrick Lawlor and provides a vivid story of a young copy who moves into a idyllic neighborhood in a small town only to find a dangerous quarrel with a neighbor leads to false accusations and an unjust arrest. Suddenly Paul's career and marriage are threatened, all because of a vengeful man. Spell-binding twists and turns come to life under audio treatment. Dean Koontz's RELENTLESS (1423356950, $40.99) is a powerful rendition read by Dan John Miller, whose 'best voice' branding lends a mesmerizing quality to the story of a lucky man with a charmed life who finds one bad review of his new book changes his life. His search for the mysterious reclusive writer leads to dangerous, deadly encounters in this gripping saga of a sociopath. Ed Greenwood's DARK LORD (1423348915, $38.95) receives a fine narration by Christopher Lane who brings to life the fantasy of a writer drawn into his own world of brooding evil. This is the first in a saga listeners will find engrossing and compelling. Patrick Rothfuss' THE NAME OF THE WIND (1423389263, $44.99) receives a fine reading by Nick Podehl as it tells of Rvothe, who has stolen a princess from a dangerous world, burned down a town, and talked to Gods. This fantasy of a hero is told in his own voice, which makes this narrative even more compelling and vivid in audio form. Libraries strong in fantasy audios must have this. Roger Kahn's THE BOYS OF SUMMER (1423377680, $34.99) pairs veteran narrator Phil Gigante's warm and experienced voice with the story of a young man who learned to play baseball during the 1930s and 40s and went on to play for one of the most exciting major-league ball clubs in the world. Any fan of baseball history will find the story comes alive especially vividly in audio format. Linda Howard's BURN (1423310314, $36.99) enjoys veteran narrator Joyce Bean's smooth and polished award-winning voice as it tells of Jenner Redwine, who wines a lottery jackpot only to find her life falling apart. She doesn't fit into the world of the wealthy, but seven years later she's becoming close to another type of world in this story of romance, intrigue, and money. John Lescroart's A PLAGUE OF SECRETS (1423339770, $38.99) also enjoys a veteran's narrative skills as David Colacci provides a powerful story of a multiple murder case's terrible secret, protected by an attorney who may sacrifice his client's life in the process. Intrigue, homicide and danger mark a riveting thriller perfect for collections strong in intrigue and adventure. On MP3-CD is Blake Crouch's ABANDON (1423394712, $24.99), narrated by the fine voice of Luke Daniels and offering a novel beginning in 1893, where every man, woman and child in a remote mining down will vanish. Over a hundred years later two guides lead a history professor to the town to investigate a haunting - and discover the past comes to life. Malcolm Hillgartner narrates Dean Koontz's YOUR HEART BELONGS TO ME (142335687X, $44.99), a fine story of an Internet entrepreneur who has the world in his pocket, until he's diagnosed with incurable cardiomyopathy and finds himself awaiting a heart transplant. A year later he's feeling better - until gifts begin to appear with dangerous messages attached. An outstanding story evolves, especially powerful in audio. Dan Simmons' HYPERION (1423381408, $49.99) provides a riveting multicast narration as it tells of a creature called the Shrike on the world of Hyperion. With the whole galaxy at war, seven pilgrims journey to Hyperion to uncover personal insights in this fine science fiction drama. Matthew B. Crawford's SHOP CLASS AS SOULCRAFT: AN INQUIRY INTO THE VALUE OF WORK (1441800085, $29.99) receives an excellent narration by Max Bloomquist, whose smooth voice lends insights and philosophy to a probe of why everyone need not be trained to become a 'knowledge worker'. Working with one's hands has its own benefits, he maintains: his survey of the manual trades and their opportunities makes for a meaningful, involving dialogue. Jeffrey Mousaieff Masson's THE FACE ON YOUR PLATE: THE TRUTH ABOUT FOOD (1423384202, $29.99) receives a fine reading by Fred Stella, an actor and voice expert, and explores our relationship with food animals. From psychological factors that determine food choices to how our choices affect the wider environment and animal lives, Jeffrey Moussaieff Mason draws important connections between food, health, and moral living. An outstanding presentation for any audio library. Karen Slaughter's novel UNDONE (1423342305, $38.99) receives Natalie Ross' stage acting background and smooth voice and tells of Sara, who treats the city's poor and unlucky in a trauma center in Atlanta, finding relief from a tragedy that changed her life - until she's drawn into a police investigation and becomes embroiled in a dangerous mystery. Three characters from Slaughter's previous novels FAITHLESS and FRACTURED interact and join forces in this memorable thriller. Diana Palmer's HEARTLESS (1423382560, $34.95) enjoys veteran Phil Gigante's smooth voice and tells of a Texas ranch where a teen worships her cowboy stepbrother who has left home early. When romance enters the picture and re-unites them, trouble leads Gracie to reject her love - and send him away. A powerful romance ensues, perfect for fans of romantic Westerns. Ridley Pearson's KILLER SUMMER (1423383494, $29.99) receives the veteran skills of narrator Phil Gigante as it tells of an Idaho sheriff who is charged with seeing that a wine action goes on without a hitch. The world's most elite wine connoisseurs are tasting and bidding, and when a bomb explodes, Walt is drawn into a dangerous game. Meg Gardiner's THE MEMORY COLLECTOR (142336161X, $36.99) comes alive in audio powered by Susan Ericksen's smooth and seasoned voice. It provides a thriller centered around forensic psychologist Jo Beckett, called upon to handle an airline passenger who has a type of amnesia that can't form new memories. Clues lead to a deadly biological threat in this winning thriller


The Fashion Shelf

Nordstrom Guide to Men's Style
Tom Julian
Chronicle Books
680 - 2nd St., San Francisco CA 94107
9780811868365, $19.95 www.chroniclebooks.com

Nordstrom Guide to Men's Style is a top pick for any fashion or arts collection, whether it be at the college level or for a general-interest library. It packs in details ranging from button counts to stitches and beyond, examining the progression of men's styles and staples in both classic and alternative looks. Very highly recommended as a basic foundation examining men's style trends.


The Art Shelf

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

STEPHEN HANCOCK (9781555952914, $85.00) provides a detailed monograph of the artist's paintings and drawings in full-page, full-sized living color to reflect his world travels and perspectives of cultures and the arts. Blended into these pictures are photos, clippings and messages from the artist's life, making for a treasure trove of personal perceptions and a visual 'diary' of observation perfect for any art library strong in modern art. Essays by Zahi Hawass and Wendy Doniger accompany JOHN RANSOM PHILLIPS; A CONTEMPORARY BOOK OF THE DEAD (9781555953157, $65.00), a powerful consideration of funerary texts drawn from the Book of the Dead but melded with art for modern readers. Using watercolors on papyrus, this collection of John Ransom Phillips's paintings creates a fine blend of modern interpretation and ancient spiritual reflection and is perfect for both art and spirituality collections.

Thames & Hudson
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Irene Emery's construction of a comprehensive system of terminology for describing fabrics, The Primary Structures of Fabrics (9780500288023, $49.95), was recognized as a classic on the first publication of The Primary Structures of Fabrics back in 1966. It is based on years of study of fabrics produced both by hand and by machine, and offers a solid survey of the structural makeup of fabrics and their pieces. Any college-level arts collection strong in fabric art - as well as many a needlework library - needs this definitive guide. Henri Cartier-Bresson's WALKER EVANS PHOTOGRAPHING AMERICA 1929-1947 (9780500543702, $50.00) is edited by Agnes Sire and includes an essay by Jean-Francois Chevrier, and uses a parallel between the work about America made by Evans and Cartier-Bresson from 1929-1947. Evans defined his work as a documentary, whereas Cartier-Bresson believed he was embracing new paths as a stills photographer. Vintage black and white images pack a powerful survey of the perspectives and approaches of both in a collection highly recommended for any college-level art library strong in American image history and analysis. John Gillow's AFRICAN TEXTILES: COLOR AND CREATIVITY ACROSS A CONTINENT (9780500288009, $44.95) is the first comprehensive survey to illustrate the textiles of the entire continent, region by region, covering the handmade textiles of every area and using an outline of techniques used to create the different works. Full color illustrations of items such as Pygmy bark cloth from the Congo and Ethiopian weavings makes for an outstanding presentation any library strong in African art history will relish.

Digital Painting Fundamentals with Corel Painter 11
Rhoda Grossman
Course Technology
20 Channel Center St., Boston, MA 02210
1598638939, $39.99 www.courseptr.com

Digital Painting Fundamentals with Corel Painter 11 is for any computer user interested in using Corel Painter 11, the industry standard for pixel-based drawing and painting. It provides step-by-step directions for using all the basic features of Painter 11, from the fundamentals of drawing and composition to images that illustrate all techniques. A CD-ROM with the book offers all the source images needed to complete the projects in the book, custom palettes and libraries, and more. A 'must' for any user of Corel Painter 11.

How to Survive and Prosper As An Artist
Caroll Michels
Henry Holt
175 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10110
9780805088489, $20.00 www.henryholt.com

Career coach and artist-advocate Caroll Michels uses three decades of experience and insights to provide a range of business details for aspiring artists, from obtaining gallery representation and establishing prices to developing an exhibition and handling rejection. The practical business savvy makes How to Survive and Prosper As An Artist a 'must have' for any aspiring artist and libraries catering to them.


The Photography Shelf

Course Technology
20 Channel Center St., Boston, MA 02210
www.courseptr.com

Any owner of a Nikon D90 camera will find David D. Busch's Nikon D90 Digital SLR Photography (1598639056, $29.99) an in-depth survey on how to use its many features. From selecting the best autofocus mode and f/stop to making HDTV movies in the camera and keeping the camera operating efficiently, this is a top pick for any new owner of the camera and uses lovely color images to demonstrating settings and options. A fine, specific survey recommended for any Nikon D90 owner. David D. Busch's CANON EOS REBEL T1I/500D (1435454960, $29.99) covers the basics of this digital SLR Camera; one of Canon's most advanced. Chapters show how to take advantage of its advanced previewing, video and flash capabilities and offer hundreds of hands-on tips for producing superior photos, illustrated by color images throughout. Matthew Bamberg's 101 QUICK AND EASY SECRETS TO CREATE WINNING PHOTOGRAPHS (1598639021, $29.99) is a fine set of winning tips on how to blend composition and technical skills for maximum effect. Chapters cover themes in achieving these goals, use color photos to present results of different approaches, and teach everything form how to manipulate images with light and shadow to create moods and add special effects to applying skills to real-life challenges. An excellent course. Colin Smith and Tim Cooper's COMPLETE ADOBE PHOTOSHOP CS4 FOR DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHERS (1584506857, $44.99) tells how to improve images using Adobe Photoshop CS4. This new edition provides new content covering all of the CS4 tools, offering a logical workflow of content for progressive learning and pairing examples with color images and a fine step-by-step approach perfect for any seeking to absorb Photoshop's powerful features. Stephen Burns' ADVANCED PHOTOSHOP CS4 TRICKERY AND FX (1584506830, $49.99) appears in a revised new edition to show digital artists how to blend their skills with Adobe Photoshop CS4. Each chapter is laid out as a tutorial and shows how to use the new Photoshop CS4 features to change ordinary photos to polished images. All files needed to complete the tutorials are included online, with a supporting CD- ROM offering full color Jpeg images for all and custom brushes. Highly recommended for any Photoshop user.

Amherst Media
Box 586, Buffalo, NY 14226
www.amherstmedia.com

Jeff Smith's GUIDE TO HEAD AND SHOULDERS PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY (9781584282563, $34.95) discusses how to make close-ups more creative, flattering and profitable through techniques and equipment that pair with clothing choices and background options for maximum effect. Chapters pair color photo examples with tips on lighting, expression, and marketing finished products. Billy Pegram's LIGHTING TECHNIQUES FOR PHOTOGRAPHING MODEL PORTFOLIOS (9781584282594, $34.95) tells how to showcase a model's best attributes and appeal to her target market, with chapters showing how to match lighting to market the model, how to strobe for consistent results, and much more. Karen Dorame's THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S GUIDE TO MAKING MONEY (9781584282570, $34.95) uses the insights of a dozen top professionals to cover established, successful business practices in photography. From cutting costs to designing your own backdrops and making the most of a studio's location, this is packed with practical tips. Neil Van Niekerk's ON-CAMERA FLASH TECHNIQUES FOR DIGITAL WEDDING AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY (9781584282587, $34.95) tells how to create refined wedding photos using on-camera flash rather than waiting for perfect light or using other devices. From choosing equipment and understanding flash exposures to using high-speed flash sync and duplicating the effects of available light, this is a winner for any aspiring wedding photographer. Also a top pick is Ellie Vayo's GUIDE TO BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY (9781584282532, $34.95), teaching how to create flattering images of any woman. From attracting boudoir photography clients to a studio to selecting optimal lighting and designing appealing sets, any neo-professional will appreciate this.


The Music Shelf

The Supremes
Mark Ribowsky
Da Capo
c/o Perseus Book Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780306815867, $26.00 www.dacapopress.com

THE SUPREMES: A SAGA OF MOTOWN DREAMS, SUCCESS, AND BETRAYAL offers a powerful biography of the most successful female singing group of all time. From the initial relationship of group members to their rise on the charts and their dance routines, THE SUPREMES tells how they fostered the growth of the soul genre and helped bridge gaps between black and white audiences alike. Any general lending library will find this a popular lend.

Course Technology
20 Channel Center St., Boston MA 02210
www.courseptr.com

Simon Cann's BECOMING A SYNTHESIZER WIZARD: FROM PRESETS TO POWER USER (1598635506, $34.99) provides both a basic introduction to synthesizer magic and an advanced construction of the functions of synthesis and choices available to the audio manipulator. Analog synthesis, frequency, phase modulation, and specifics on four popular music synthesizers and their unique techniques makes for a solid, powerful guide perfect for any electronic musician's reference library. Also key is Todd M. Howard's GARAGEBAND 09 POWER! THE COMPREHENSIVE RECORDING AND PODCASTING GUIDE (1435454200, $29.99), a survey packed with details on remixing, mashing, video editing, DVD creation and more. Any musician or music publisher will find the coverage of this Mac-based program to be complete and extensive, offering easy tips on how to produce professional-sounding music, soundtracks, mixes and more. Screenshots blend with tutorials and examples for maximum effect.


The Social Issues Shelf

Boomers: The Cold War Generation Grows Up
Victor D. Brooks
Ivan R. Dee
1332 N. Halsted St., Chicago IL 60642-2694
9781566637244, $24.95 www.ivanrdee.com

BOOMERS: THE COLD-WAR GENERATION GROWS UP offers a chronicle of newborn children during the period between the end of World War II and the close of the 1960s, analyzing how the influence on children of a new American pop culture monitored by adults contributed to the growing 'generation gap' of later years. An intriguing survey, this is recommended for any general interest library strong in American popular history and social issues.

Right Time, Right Place
Richard Brookhiser
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Book Group
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780465013555, $27.50 www.basicbooks.com

This memoir of politics, RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE: COMING OF AGE WITH WILLIAM F. BUCKLEY JR. AND THE CONSERVATIVE MOVEMENT comes from one who wrote his first cover story for the renowned conservative magazine National Review in 1969 when he was fourteen, becoming its youngest senior editor at age 23, and is a fine memoir of his friendship with William F. Buckley Jr, who tapped him as his successor - until he suddenly changed his mind. Their friendship mirrors the progression of America's conservative movement, making for a powerful memoir.

The End of the Long Summer
Dianne Dumanoski
Crown
c/o Crown Publishing
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780307396075, $25.00 www.crownpublishing.com

THE END OF THE LONG SUMMER: WHY WE MUST REMAKE OUR CIVILIZATION TO SURVIVE ON A VOLATILE EARTH offers a passionate, powerful argument that the current state of the planet is past the tipping point. It tells our focus should be on how to avoid the worst - and how to handle environmental change that is now inevitable. History, science and culture blend in a powerful survey essential for any library with books on environmental change and human survival.

A Day in the Life
Robert Greenfield
Da Capo Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
2300 Chestnut St #200, Philadelphia, PA 19103
9780306816222, $24.95 www.dacapopress.com

A DAY IN THE LIFE: ONE FAMILY, THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE, AND THE END OF THE SIXTIES tells how an ideal marriage between two members of the English upper class fell part as the psychedelic dreams of the 50s became the hard-rock of the 80s. Using Tommy Weber and Susan Coriat as an example, the 60s and sentiments come to life in a solid true-life story of social change at its fastest pace.

Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197
www.prometheusbooks.com

Moorthy S. Muthuswamy's DEFEATING POLITICAL ISLAM: THE NEW COLD WAR (9781591027041, $25.98) analyzes the threat of global jihad and the Islamic supremacist, considering what must be done to fight and win both the political and ideological arguments against human rights that jihadists pose. His survey uses a recent statistical analysis of Islamic doctrines and considers Muslim perspectives and how Islam promotes ideas of conquest. An outstanding survey, college-level libraries strong in Middle East issues in general and Islam in particular will find this a solid prospect for debate and discussion. Michael H. Stone, M.D.'s THE ANATOMY OF EVIL (9781591027263, $26.98) could have been reviewed in our Health section but is featured here for its wider importance to general collections and college-level social issues shelves, as well. It comes from a clinical psychiatrist and host of Discovery Channel's Mostly Evil series and scientifically explains and categorizes the habits of the world's killers. Over 600 biographies of murderers led to the author's 'scale' of evil and offers over 200 vivid case descriptions of such evil.

Citizen Wealth
Wade Rathke
Berrett-Koehler
235 Montgomery #630, San Francisco CA 94104-2916
9781576758625, $24.95 www.bkconnection.com

CITIZEN WEALTH: WINNING THE CAMPAIGN TO SAVE WORKING FAMILIES tells of a rising gap between rich and poor and concurrent failing standards of living for millions of Americans. It shares the strategies that enabled ACORN founder and author Wade Rathke to pull together a holistic strategy for creating different types of wealth and assets, and provides a fine set of stories and examples of these lessons.

$20 per Gallon
Christopher Steiner
Grand Central Publishing
www.hachettebookgroup.com
237 Park Avenue, New York NY 10017
9780446549547, $24.99, www.amazon.com

$20 PER GALLON: HOW THE INEVITABLE RISE IN THE PRICE OF GASOLINE WILL CHANGE OUR LIVES FOR THE BETTER projects a major gas price hike that will continue for decades - and will affect all aspects of everyday life. From how people choose to travel - via train, for example, rather than plane - to a future without garbage trucks and where outsourced jobs come back to America, this offers some startling images of social change. Any general lending library needs this.


The Biography Shelf

In the Land of Long Fingernails
Charles Wilkins
Skyhorse Publishing
555 - 8th Ave. Suite 903, New York NY 10018
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
1602397090, $24.95, www.amazon.com

IN THE LAND OF LONG FINGERNAILS; A GRAVEDIGGER IN THE AGE OF AQUARIUS tells of a college student who takes a job as a gravedigger - and discovers his job involves more than just digging graves. His witnessing of a midsummer gravedigger's strike, the unearthing of a victim of unsolved murder, and more makes for an involving guide packed with surprises, twists and turns of plot. An intriguing, different kind of memoir.

First Lady of Hope: Michelle Obama
Elizabeth Lightfoot
Lyons Press
Box 480, Guilford, CT 06437
9781599215211, $14.95 www.lyonspress.com

Author Elizabeth Lightfoot worked as a columnist and magazine writer; here she provides a biography to examine the background of first lady Michelle Obama. From her Chicago childhood to her meeting with Barack at the prestigious law firm where they were the only African Americans, this is a fine survey of her entire life, and a recommended pick for any general collection.


The Education Shelf

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

Jon Wiles' DEVELOPING SUCCESSFUL K-8 SCHOOLS: A PRINCIPAL'S GUIDE (9781412966177, $26.95) provides a powerful guide to success, offering a model for K-8 school design with strategies for designing curriculums paired with state standards. From developing instructional methods and curriculums to activity charts and assessment techniques for the entire school model, DEVELOPING SUCCESSFUL K-8 SCHOOLS: A PRINCIPAL'S GUIDE belongs in any serious education collection. Bonnie M. Davis' THE BIRACIAL AND MULTIRACIAL STUDENT EXPERIENCE: A JOURNEY TO RACIAL LITERACY (9781412975063, $22.95) provides a critical assessment of race and its meaning to schools. From helping mixed-identity students develop racial identities to adjusting school culture to handle cultural diversity and understanding the bi- and multiracial experience in U.S. history, this guide considers modern classroom makeup and special challenges. Any educator will find it applicable and essential. Also key for any school manager is Julaine E. Field, et.al.'s UNDERSTANDING GIRL BULLYING AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT (9781412964876, $58.95), a powerful survey of social aggression between girls and its measurement, assessment, and control. Chapters offer case histories of parents and educators handling such conflicts at home and at school. Stephen J. Valentine's EVERYTHING BUT TEACHING: PLANNING, PAPERWORK AND PROCESSING (9781412967075, $25.95) is for any teacher who wants specific guidelines to managing paperwork, time management, meetings, and record-keeping - all the things accompanying teaching duties. From prioritizing common tasks to using paperwork to create better opportunities, this is not to be missed. Marilyn Katzenmeyer and Gayle Moller's AWAKENING THE SLEEPING GIANT: HELPING TEACHERS DEVELOP AS LEADERS (9781412960403, $33.95) is a powerful tool appearing in its third updated edition to provide a best-selling guide to teacher leaders. From how a teacher can accept a leadership role to working with peers and building upon relationships within the school and outside of it, this is a fine resource discussing keys to leadership qualities in teaching environments. Erin Marie Furtak's FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT FOR SECONDARY SCIENCE TEACHERS (9781412972215, $30.95) provides a strong tool based in solid research and covering all areas of science assessments. Case studies, transcript excerpts, and templates for analyzing lessons for places where formative assessments might apply make this a top pick for any education collection. The second edition of Jeffrey Glanz's TEACHING 101: CLASSROOM STRATEGIES FOR THE BEGINNING TEACHER (9781412967150, $38.95) has been revised and updated to provide a fine set of tips on lesson planning, classroom management, assessments, literacy and more. The latest school concerns pack a basic teacher's guide highly recommended for any beginning teacher or library catering to them. Carolyn Chapman and Rita King's DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES FOR READING IN THE CONTENT AREAS, SECOND EDITION (9781412972307, $33.95) has been completely revised and reorganized, offering creative methods for increasing students' content by helping them become better readers. New strategies, expanded coverage of key topics, and more offer tips on blending guided reading with vocabulary. Richard D. Parsons' THINKING AND ACTING LIKE AN ECLECTIC SCHOOL COUNSELOR (9781412966474, $26.95) presents a transtheoretical model school counselors can use to evaluate student information and intervention techniques. From presenting a model for effective counseling to introducing the basics of transtheoretical practices and pairing these with case studies and guided exercises, this is a 'must' for any professional school counselor. Edward H. Moore's SCHOOL PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR STUDENT SUCCESS (9781412965682, $33.95) packs information into a guide for leaders interested in defining and organizing their school's PR plan. Step-by-step assessments of techniques that work cover how to set expectations, provide PR questions geared to needs, and provides tips on interviews from industry professionals. Daniel M. Perna and Sarah F. Mahurt's READING TO LEARN IN SECONDARY CLASSROOMS: INCREASING COMPREHENSION AND UNDERSTANDING (9781412956123, $25.95) provides numerous classroom examples to show teachers how to use research-based, effective strategies before, during and after reading to reinforce student learning at different levels. From remaining focused and engaged to preparing for assignments and developing pre-lesson plans, this is a winning strategy for success. Ken O'Connor's HOW TO GRADE FOR LEARNING K-12, THIRD EDITION (9781412953825, $38.95) is a powerful implementation of standards-based grading practices in a new edition linking grades to standards and policies reinforcing them. Updated research and additional information on homework compliment the new sections on academic dishonesty and more, providing a new and thoroughly revised edition key to any education collection. Highly recommended for any education library.


The Library DVD Shelf

Anchor Bay Entertainment
2401 West Big Beaver road, Suite 200, Troy, MI 48084-3304
www.anchorbayentertainment.com
www.collagevideo.com.fordummies
www.anchorbayent.com/fitness

These fine new fitness DVDs are top picks for any seeking to lose weight. CRUNCH LATIN RHYTHMS: FAT BLASTING DANCE ($14.98) is from Crunch Fitness and advocates a fun dance routine that doesn't feel like work. Hot Latin dance draws on several kinds of Latin dance from mambo to cha cha and samba and provides an easy, equipment-free routine. DANCE IT OFF BALLROOM: SAMBA, CHA CHA AND JIVE YOUR WAY TO A DANCER'S BODY ($14.98) offers a ballroom routine designed to be a workout. Ballroom dancer Kristina Milova has created mini dance routines for the workout - and no partner's needed. DANCE OFF BELLY FAT ($14.98) joins other '10 Minute Solutions' workouts designed to shape abs. These 10-minute routines are for any busy person and focus on belly-blasting dance workouts to release stress and burn calories. The hefty 10 MINUTE SOLUTION: KNOCKOUT BODY ($24.97) workouts pairs a DVD with five workouts with weighted gloves and ten-minute routines designed for those who have 'no time to exercise'. The kickboxing mix promotes all-body toning, from abs to upper body workouts and cross-training cardio routines, and offers routines that can even be split into 5 separate workouts to fit any schedule. These are fine fitness additions for any workout collection.

Lionsgate
2700 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404
www.lionsgatedvd.com

Two new Kathy Smith workout routines are powerful dance-inspired workouts. TOTAL BODY LIFT ($14.98) shows how to develop a leaner, younger-looking body through upper body, leg, butt and tummy lifts. Floor exercises, light weights, and lifts using chairs are all featured. DANCE YOUR BODY SLIM: 6 HOT DANCE ROUTINES! ($14.98) features a 2-disc set of routines for belly dance and Latin rhythms. They work both with and without partners and offers stretches and dance routines perfect for trimming inches. All are top recommendations.

The Round Up
The Line King
Line King Productions
$19.95 www.worldstages.biz

The Line King appoints his leader, Harvis Williams to involve five ordinary people to complete the challenge of three stages of line dance. The result is a fine video consisting of three instructional dance videos, King's Dance, and deleted scenes which will both entertain and educate any interested in dance.

Cardio for Beginners
Petra Kolber
Acacia
c/o Acorn Media Group
8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 620, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3403
$14.99 www.acacialifestyle.com

If you're new to exercise, CARDIO FOR BEGINNERS is the perfect program to begin with. It offers a range of easy mix-and-match workouts and blends easy dance moves with athletic-based cardio workouts in 10- and 20-minute segments. A top pick for beginners new to cardio workouts who want a gentle, easy yet effective introduction.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Art and Spiritual Transformation
Finley Eversole, Ph.D.
Inner Traditions
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772818, $24.95 www.innertraditions.com

Spirituality and art join hands in this seven-stage journey represented in art form and exploring the author's own meditation practice. Modern and postmodern art from 1945 onward are surveyed in a blend of history, myth, literary and philosophical survey of the seven stages of spiritual death and rebirth of the soul possible through art.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Collectible African American Dolls
Yvonne H. Ellis
Collector Books
Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002-3009
9781574325744, $29.95 www.collectorbooks.com

COLLECTING AFRICAN AMERICAN DOLLS: IDENTIFICATION & VALUES is a key reference for any neo-professional doll collector. Its specific focus and arrangement by doll maker allows for quick identification using the many color photos paired with each listing, while brief histories and the latest value ranges will prove key to collector's efforts.

Coin Collector's CDs
Krause Publications
700 East State Street, Iola, WI 54990-0001
www.krause.com

Two new CDs from Krause Publications and specifically designed for dedicated numismatists would make superb additions to reference resources for dealers as well amateur coin collectors. SILVER FEVER; THE COMSTOCK LODE TO THE CARSON CITY MINT (9781440202476, $14.99) is edited by Robert R. Van Ryzin and offers a story of the mines and miners of the silver lode. A searchable digital collection includes CC mint history and pricing in a disc made for either Mac or PC users. HEADS OR TAILS; A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO COLLECTING COINS (9781440203459, $9.99) also offers a PC or Mac-suitable CD: this geared to those wishing to get started collecting coins. From how to acquire coins in a collection to pricing, organizing and buying and selling coins, this packs in a powerful lesson for any beginning collector. Individuals looking for easy get-started packages will want these CDs.


The Language Studies Shelf

Contemporary Spanish-English Dictionary
Merriam-Webster
Federal Street Press
Box 281, Springfield, MA 01102
9781596950559, $7.98 www.merriam-webster.com

80,000 entries and 100,000 translations enhance a guide packing thousands of examples of word use in an affordable paperback dictionary perfect for high school to public lending libraries and many a home reference library. English to Spanish and Spanish to English are provided in a fine survey profiling both American English and International Spanish. Highly recommended!


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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