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The Bookwatch

Volume 4, Number 5 May 2009 Home | BW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Health/Medicine Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Gardening Shelf Biography Shelf Environmental Studies Shelf
American History Shelf Judicial Studies Shelf Audiobook Shelf
Psychology Shelf Needlecraft Shelf Computer Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf Sports Shelf Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Business Shelf Social Issues Shelf Black Studies Shelf
Music Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf Crafts Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Education Shelf Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Aviation Shelf Nautical Shelf
Photography Shelf Science Shelf Native American Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Language Studies Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

Chasing a Dream in the Galapagos: A Personal Evolution
Bette Blaydes Pegas
Sunbelt Publications
1256 Fayette Street, El Cajon, CA 92020-1511
9780916251970, $14.95 www.sunbeltpub.com

Libraries interested in memoirs and travelogues revolving around nature will find Chasing a Dream in the Galapagos: A Personal Evolution to be vivid, inspirational reading. Pegas' journey to the Galapagos and observations of nature strengthened her relationship with her daughters and provided personal insights, revealed in this fine odyssey.

The College Roommate from Hell
Linda Fiore
Atlantic Publishing Group
1405 SW 6th Avenue, Ocala FL 34471
9781601382764, $24.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

From a roommate who lives like a pig to fights that lock roommates out or involve bill disputes, The College Roommate from Hell covers a common problem thousands of college students face: an intolerable roommate situation. More important - it outlines parameters for successful roommate situations, tells what can be expected and what is unreasonable behavior, and offers tips on mingling different lifestyles and habits. A 'must' for libraries catering to college students.

Hands of my Father
Myron Uhlberg
Bantam Books
c/o Bantam Dell Publishing Group
1540 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
9780553806885, $23.00 www.bantamdell.com

HANDS OF MY FATHER: A HEARING BOY, HIS DEAF PARENTS, AND THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE offers a memoir of Uhlberg's growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents, answering their questions about the hearing world and finding his world beautiful and challenging. His first language was American Sign Language - and his second was spoken English. His very different worlds receive poetic embellishment in a fine guide recommended for any general-interest collection.

Barbie and Ruth
Robin Gerber
Collins Business
c/o HarperCollins
10 East 53rd Street, New York NY 10022
9780061341311, $24.99 www.harpercollins.com

Any fan of Barbie dolls or collector of the dolls should also have BARBIE AND RUTH: THE STORY OF THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS DOLL AND THE WOMAN WHO CREATED HER. It tells of a Jewish immigrant child and business pioneer who founded Mattel, was forced out after a business scandal, and who began her own business, eventually changing the toy world. Business as well as general-interest collections will find this an inspirational read based on original research, interviews, and previously unpublished material.

The Inauguration of Barack Obama: A Photographic Journal
Washington Post
Triumph Books
542 S. Dearborn St #750, Chicago, IL 60605
9781600782848, $29.95 www.triumphbooks.com

Any collection seeking a definitive photographic souvenir of Barack Obama's election must have The Inauguration of Barack Obama: A Photographic Journal. It packs in a journal chronicling Obama's rise to President, through his entire campaign progress, and is a powerful tribute to the entire election process. A bright, beautiful book.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Prickly Cactus
Concha Delgado Gaitan
Cypress House
155 Cypress Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
9781879384767, $14.95, www.cypresshouse.com

Why does the human body break down so easily? "Prickly Cactus: Finding Sacred Meaning in Chronic Illness" details author Concha Delgado Gaitan's battle with systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. It struck her in the prime of her life; she had to fight this chronic illness in order to keep the life she had worked so hard for. Written to inspire readers to fight their own illnesses by sharing a bit of the author's battle spirit, "Prickly Cactus" is a fine read for any who face a disease that nags them daily.

The AbSmart Fitness Plan
Adam Weiss
McGraw Hill Professional
Two Penn Plaza, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10121-2298
9780071598057, $18.95, www.mhprofessional.com

Getting in shape is a noble goal, but you can leave yourself in worse shape than you began if you do it wrong. "The Ab Smart Fitness Plan: The Proven Workout to Lose Inches and Strengthen Your Core Without Straining Your Back" takes a look at aerobic exercise and how crunches and sit ups alone are not a cure-all for fitness woes. Presenting a solid exercise program with research backing it up, designed to help readers lose weight and craft better bodies, "The Ab Smart Fitness Plan" is a fine read for those who want to kick their fitness program up a notch.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Evolutionary Astrology
Deva Green
Llewellyn
2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125-2989
9780738714516, $34.95 www.llewellyn.com

EVOLUTIONARY ASTROLOGY: PLUTO AND YOUR KARMIC MISSION comes from an astrology and founder of 'evolutionary astrology' and offers a survey of modern use blending chart interpretation with a focus on Pluto and code locations. This in-depth guide provides an excellent survey perfect for advanced and dedicated new age libraries, with chapters covering charts, aspects, and Pluto's importance.

The Sphinx Mystery
Robert Temple with Olivia Temple
Inner Traditions
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
9781594772719, $24.95 www.innertraditions.com

THE SPHINX MYSTERY: THE FORGOTTEN ORIGINS OF THE SANCTUARY OF ANUBIS provides nearly 300 years of eyewitness accounts of people who saw the secret chambers of the Sphinx and even went inside them before they were sealed in 1926. Here it's maintained the Sphinx was originally an Anubis, the Egyptian jacket god, with the face of a Middle Kingdom pharaoh. The author blends his expertise as a professor of history and philosophy to provide a fine in-depth probe of Egyptian mysteries.

The Witches' Almanac: Spring 2009 to Spring 2010
Theitic, editor
Hampton Roads Publishing
1125 Stoney Ridge Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22902-8719
9780977370344, $11.95, www.thewitchesalmanac.com

When you're witch on the go, you need a reference to keep up with what the year will bring. "The Witches' Almanac: Spring 2009 to Spring 2010" is a guide for the witch (or the witch in spirit) to the coming year and its pending spiritual happenings. Focusing on astrology and chronicling what each sign will face, complete with calendars, "The Witches' Almanac" is presented in the form of the old school farmer's almanacs, and is especially recommended for the spiritual witchcraft practitioner.


The Gardening Shelf

P. Allen Smith's Bringing the Garden Indoors
P. Allen Smith
Clarkson Potter Publishers
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
97803073510898, $32.50 www.clarksonpotter.com

P. ALLEN SMITH'S BRINGING THE GARDEN INDOORS: CONTAINERS, CRAFTS, AND BOUQUETS FOR EVERY ROOM comes from a notable garden designer known for his indoor garden designs. Each room of the house receives full-page photo embellishments to a discussion of houseplants and flower cuttings that can enhance a living space. Perfect for any who wish a more floral home atmosphere.

Bawa: The Sri Lanks Gardens
David Robson and Dominic Sansone
Thames & Hudson
500 - 5th Ave, New York NY 10110
9780500514467, $46.00 www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

BAWA features the work of an architect who has blended modern construction with the lush tropical landscape that is Sri Lanka. While this could also have been featured in our Arts section - and, indeed, is highly recommended for any college-level library strong in world architecture - it's reviewed here for its additional interest to any general-interest library strong in home and garden books. Its portrait of two gardens and their evolution offers many insights for any tropical garden enthusiast.

Easy Answers for Great Gardens
Marianne Binetti
Sasquatch Books
615 Second Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104
1570612137, $14.95, www.sasquatchbooks.com

Gardening is a great pastime, but it can be a bit overwhelming to start. "Easy Answers for Great Gardens: 500 Tips, Techniques, and Outlandish Ideas" is an introductory guide to the world of gardening, meant to help readers get their start and then some. Gardening does not have to be hours of tedious hard work; it can actually be quite fun and have many beneficial results. Written in a simple question and answer format, "Easy Answers for Great Gardens" has much knowledge to be drawn, and is highly recommended.


The Biography Shelf

Blessing of the Animals
Brenda Miller
Eastern Washington University Press
534 E Spokane Falls Blvd., Suite 203, Spokane, WA 99202
9781597660488, $17.95, www.ewupress.ewu.edu

When you stop to think about life, there is surely a lot to cross one's mind. "Blessings of the Animals" is a compilation of essays from Brenda Miller, reflecting on thoughts that she has gathered simply by going through life and pausing to consider things. "Blessings of the Animals" is her second collection; she brings more poignant reflections and does much to encourage readers to contemplate their own lives and what's around them. "Blessings of the Animals" is well worth the read.

Agnes Lake Hickok
Linda A. Fisher and Carrie Bowers
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806139838, $29.95 www.oupress.com

Agnes Lake Hickok was the first woman in the U.S. to own and operate a circus, spending some thirty years in the business before becoming the wife of Wild Bill Hickok, five months before he was killed. It's refreshing to see a review of her life, focusing on a colorful circus performer whose career spanned over four decades.


The Environmental Studies Shelf

Energy in a Changing Climate
Martin Nicholson
Rosenburg
c/o International Specialized Book Services (ISBS)
920 NE 58th Ave., #300, Portland, OR 97213-3786
9781877058813, $32.95, www.isbs.com

The environment is an confusing issue, but through proper study it can be understood quite well. "Energy in a Changing Climate" is an introduction into the topic of energy and how it influences the environment and climate of the world. Explaining some of the common terms thrown about in discussions that rage on about the debate today, author Martin Nicholson presents a manual that will give readers a basic understanding of the rapidly changing world of energy. Particular attention is paid to nuclear power. "Energy in a Changing Climate" is very much recommended reading from cover to cover.


The American History Shelf

Telling New Mexico
Marta Weigle, editor
Museum of New Mexico Press
113 Lincoln Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
9780890135563, $29.95

The history of New Mexico is long indeed. "Telling New Mexico: A New History" attempts to reveal New Mexico's long and complex story from its earliest days, when Native Americans first set foot on the soil of the future state, to a more modern look at its history in today's world. The braintrust of forty-five scholars and historians, "Telling New Mexico" brims with exquisite detail concerning the state's major events, legendary figures, and more. "Telling New Mexico" is a fine read for anyone who wants to understand how New Mexico became what it is today.


The Judicial Studies Shelf

Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults and the Law
Michael Mandelstam
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street #400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781843106920, $28.75 www.jkp.com

The safeguarding of vulnerable adults is a major area of work for protection and enforcement agencies, yet this is the first book to address the legal framework of such efforts. Particular emphasis is put upon issues concerning vulnerable adults harmed by abuse, neglect or omission. Case histories blend with community insights, as well as social and financial harm analysis, in a detailed, in-depth guide highly recommended for college-level collections strong in social science or criminal justice.


The Audiobook Shelf

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

For five novels Clive Cussler developed the world of the Oregon, a dilapidated ship packed with high-tech equipment led by Juan. Corsairs are pirates - and the Oregon becomes caught in a terrorist plot involving a vanished Secretary of state and a set of antique Islamic scrolls. Swift action and genuine protagonists make for a fast-paced story line, especially paired with actor Jason Culp's vivid narration in Clive Cussler with Jack Du Brul's Corsair (9780143144168, $29.95). Scott Brick narrates the longer unabridged version (9780143144151, $39.95) in an equally vivid, engrossing presentation. Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin's THREE CUPS OF TEA (9780143144465, $21.95) provides a vivid documentation - for younger listeners - of Mortenson's work building schools for Afghanistan and Pakistani girls. A chance rescue by villagers during a mountain climb led to his lifelong passion - and his face-off with death in his passion for educating girls at the grassroots level. The audio is inspirational and its condensed version for younger listeners - and many an adult - is truly inspirational. David Allen's MAKING IT ALL WORK (9780143143574, $34.95) comes from the chairman and founder of a successful global management and consulting firm and provides a powerful key to taking charge of daily commitments and creating goals. Both business and life are covered in this excellent survey, recommended for business and general lending libraries alike. Stephen King's THE REGULATORS (9780143143918, $39.95) is narrated by Kate Nelligan and tells of an Ohio summer in which a young boy's supernatural powers are just awakening - and a small town's nightmare of violence just beginning. A tense thriller comes to life in a gripping story by Stephen King (writing as Richard Bachman). Randy Wayne White's DEAD SILENCE (9780143144175, $39.95) receives veteran narrator George Guidall's warm, evocative voice as it tells of winter in New York and Doc Ford, who witnesses an abduction attempt and manages to save the senator involved. The successful kidnaping of her teen companion involves him in a deadly hunt in this gripping thriller come to life in audio format!

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

The Camel Club exists at the fringes of Washington DC and consists of four eccentric members whom society has forgotten. Three Camel Club novels are included in David Baldacci's box set THE CAMEL CLUB (1600245056, $29.98), telling of a shocking murder and the Club's involvement in an international plot, THE COLLECTORS in which Oliver discovers someone's selling America's secrets, and STONE COLD, in which men from Stone's past are being murdered. James Naughton, Tom Wopat and others provide a vivid audio drama. Ben Sherwood's THE SURVIVORS CLUB: THE SECRETS AND SCIENCE THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE (9781600241451, $34.99) provides keys to understanding what makes some people survivors and others 'not'. From the safest seat on an airplane to how to add years to life, this is an outstanding audio listen for any who would improve their lives. Nelson DeMille's THE GOLD COAST (1600245102, $44.98) receives a vivid reading by Christian Rummel, who has recorded many audiobooks, and tells of a Long Island powerhouse of wealth. Two men are heading for a dangerous collision of interests in a novel packed with suspense and high drama.

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

David Liss' THE WHISKEY REBELS (1423326946, $38.95) receives narrator Christopher Lane's seasoned voice and award-winning narrative style as it tells of a former spy of general Washington who has been reduced to a drunk, accused of treason. Hid involvement with a married woman who is also a strong patriot involves them both in a dangerous opposing game in this brilliant historical audio. Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson's NEVER LAND BOOK 3: BLOOD TIDE (1423309669, $19.95) is an audio for young listeners but will also find many an interested adult. When an earthquake strikes Never Land Island, Captain Hook's discovery leads him to an evil plan involving violent mermaids. An intriguing, fun adventure results, suitable for all ages beyond the '7+' age recommendation. Jonah Lehrer's PROUST WAS A NEUROSCIENTIST (1423374207, $29.95) receives a strong narration by American actor and musician Dan John Miller as it inquires into the nature of art, science, and literature. A group of artists from a painter to a chef and a writer are used to show how each discovered an essential truth about the mind that science is only now backing up with research. Audio collections strong in nonfiction will relish this. Jill Conner Browne's AMERICAN THIGHS (1423311361, $26.99) receives a spirited narration by the author as it tells of growing up and learning a bout life. Stories range from fashion disasters to taking care of skin and provide insights on coming of age and learning about life.

Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration
Penney Peirce
Atria Books
1230 Avenue of Americas, New York NY 10020
1582702128, $24.00 www.simonandschuster.com

Our spirit, thoughts and body are all made of energy, and everyone has a personal vibration that communicates who we are to the world. FREQUENCY shows how to feel and work with personal vibration to change one's life, from improving relationships to solving problems. It's a top pick for health and new age collections alike, pairing scientific discovery with clues on how to work with personal vibration for maximum advantage.

The Alzheimer's Advisor
Vaughn E. James
Amacom Books
1601 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
0814409245, $19.95 www.amacombooks.org

Any library strong in books on aging and elder care will relish THE ALZHEIMER'S ADVISOR, a powerful survey of daily issues and strategies for handling loved ones with Alzheimer's. From legal and ethical problems to real-life situations, treatment options, and estate planning alike, this covers all facets and is a fine health library addition.

Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
www.prometheusbooks.com

Ellen Clegg's CHEMOBRAIN: HOW CANCER THERAPIES CAN AFFECT YOUR MIND (9781591026693, $18.95) is a key acquisition based on candid interviews with patients and physicians and scientists alike. It covers tactics for dealing with side effects and cognitive problems of chemotherapies and offer insights into both cancer research and treatment effects. Peter Bales, MD, MHSA's OSTEOARTHRITIS: PREVENTING AND HEALING WITHOUT DRUGS (9781591026150, $18.98) discusses everything from how joints become destroyed to how nutrients can combat osteoarthritis. Dietary recommendations accompany surveys of drugs, surgeries, and how nutritional intervention affects genes. Health collections will find both to be wonderful guides.

The e-Policy Handbook, 2nd Edition
Nancy Flynn
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814410650, $19.95 www.amacombooks.org

Digital abuse can tear companies apart - such abuse includes software pirating, inappropriate e-mails, and more. Businesses seeking protection from liability need the latest updated edition of The e-Policy Handbook: it has been newly updated to reflect the latest electronic developments and offers strategies for identifying and preventing data theft, customer information, and more. Step-by-step training and sample policies along with real-world case histories makes for a fine survey.

Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol: Drinking to Cope?
Matthew Tinsley and Sarah Hendrickx
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
400 Market Street #400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781843106098, $19.95 www.jkp.com

Collections strong in Asperger Syndrome and alcoholism will welcome an unusual connection between the two in Asperger Syndrome and Alcohol: Drinking to Cope? It uses the author's professional and personal experiences to survey ASDs and alcohol abuse, including the latest research linking the two and the author's own personal history as someone with an ASD diagnosis. A fine addition to any college-level health and medical issues library.


The Psychology Shelf

How We Decide
Jonah Lehrer
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780618620111, $25.00 www.hmhbooks.com

The human decision-making process has been viewed as either rational or emotional but neuroscience has made new discoveries on how the mind works and this focus on decision-making uses this latest research to examine how people are using new science to make better judgements. From business to sports and military intelligence, this is a fascinating examination of how the human mind works, recommended for any health collection.

The Unwell Brain
F. Scott Kraly
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393705966, $18.95 www.wwnorton.com

Brain chemistry affects behavior patterns, and THE UNWELL BRAIN examines closely what is going on in the brain of a person suffering a debilitating psychological disorder. Neuroscience for lay readers is provided in clear discussions recommended for college-level audiences and advanced high school collections alike, complete with illustrative charts, graphs, and in-depth discussions of disorders.

The Age of Anxiety
Andrea Tone
Basic Books
c/o Perseus Books Group
Eleven Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
9780465086580, $26.95 www.basicbooks.com

History and psychiatry blend in THE AGE OF ANXIETY: A HISTORY OF AMERICA'S TURBULENT AFFAIR WITH TRANQUILIZERS. The last century has seen a huge increase in anti-anxiety medication: a trend Andrea Tone charts through manufacturers' files, FDA reports, government investigations, and interviews with patients, physicians and activists alike. Any health library needs this survey of American tranquilizer usage and its physical and social impact.


The Needlecraft Shelf

Quilts in my Cubicle
Barbara Holzman
American Quilter's Society
Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-3290
9781574329636, $22.95 www.AmericanQuilter.com

12 projects for quilters who want to add quilt-based inspirations to their cubicle covers 12 months of tiny wallhangings which represent mini quilt decorations for small spaces. From using fat quarter blocks to choosing variegated fabric that does some of the work, this is a fine blending of color photos, patterns and easy projects perfect for quilters seeking smaller gift-giving or decorating choices.

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

Lutradur is the new fabric that looks, feels and folds like translucent paper - without the tearing. It offers a world of new opportunities for quilters and crafters and there's no better place to explore than with Lesley Riley's Fabulous Fabric Art with Lutradur (9781571205544, $20.95) in hand. Chapters present nearly thirty techniques to make the most of Lutradur, covering materials, methods, and adding in color photos to embellish. LET'S PRETEND: WHIMSICAL QUILTS FOR KIDS by Cynthia Tiomaszewski (9781564778429, $24.95) provides designs for kids with fun images and bold colors. Projects are big enough for kids' quilts or wall hangings and offers a range of piecing and applique designs for fine embellishment. Lynn Roddy Brown's SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR BLOCK-SWAP QUILTS (9781564778581, $26.99) offers techniques for the blocks gathered from guild swaps, online trades and stashing. From cutting lists for making individual quilts if you don't have such a collection to directions for creating 15 scrap quilts, this packs in layouts and tips along with color photos and fun embellishments. Eva A. Larkin's FREE-MOTION QUILTING MADE EASY: 186 DESIGNS FROM 8 SIMPLE SHAPES (9781564778828, $26.99) tells how to turn simple lines into fine designs using basic familiar shapes to pair in different combinations. Step-by-step directions, practice exercises, and tips make free-motion quilting basics a snap. Sys Fredens' CONTEMPORARY CROCHET: 37 EUROPEAN DESIGNS (9781564778970, $21.99) offers nearly forty European crochet designs, from winter sweater to summer shells, pairing lovely color photos with materials, instructions and different angles. Deanne Eisenman's COUNTRY-FRESH QUILTS (9781564778215, $24.95) packs in traditional blocks with floral accents and presents five designs, from wall hangings to pillows and lap quilts - some 11 projects using these floral designs. Beginners and advanced quilters alike will find these projects clear, fun and easy. Sharon A. smith's PUNCHNEEDLE ON A GRAND SCALE (9781564778727, $19.99) tells how to move punchneedle projects to a new size using large-scale designs and decorator fabrics for background. Ten pieces can be used for purses, pillows and more in a needlework presentation offering a range of design options. Kathleen Tracy's REMEMBERING ADELIA: QUILTS INSPIRED BY HER DIARY (9781564778659, $24.99) provides a range of quilts inspired by the diary of a teen living in Northern Illinois at the Civil War time. Her journal on sewing and quilting serves as inspiration for patterns and a presentation that includes period photos for further context. Any knitter seeking the basics simply MUST have A TO Z OF KNITTING: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR THE BEGINNER TO ADVANCED KNITTER (9781564778144, $18.99). It packs in clear directions, color photos, and basics for all kinds of knitting, making details simple for any new to the topic. Suzanne Zaruba Cirillo's SUNBONNET SUE AND SCOTTIE AT PLAY: DESIGNS IN REDWORK AND APPLIQUE (9781564778833, $24.99) provides a vintage image with a new look. Any working with kids' quilts or crafts will find engaging these familiar sunbonnet Sue designs in redwork embroidery and applique, perfect for a range of nostalgia pieces. Karin Renaud's QUILTS FROM THE HEART II (9781584778505, $26.99) offers a range of new quilt designs using the same color palette that attracted quilters to her previous book. Some 18 projects appear in a fine collection of easy, traditional quilts for all skills levels. These are top picks for needlework and quilting personal libraries and lending collections catering to them.


The Computer Shelf

The iPod Book, 5th Edition
Scott Kelby
Peachpit Press
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0321569350, $19.99 www.peachpit.com

Any owner of the iPod whether it be the touch, nano, shuffle or more, needs THE IPOD BOOK, now updated in its 5th edition to reflect all versions of iPod. This is a 'show me' book, which means lots of visuals, a chatty style, and a focus on the most requested, useful things about the iPod. There's only one topic per page so it's not 'cluttered' with too much. Simply the perfect choice for iPod owners.

Adobe AIR Programming Unleashed
Stacy Tyler Young, et.al.
Sams Publishing
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0672329719, $44.99 www.informit.com/sams

Version 1.5 of Adobe AIR is included in this fine guide illustrating the application through a series of examples based on the official 1.5 release. Libraries strong in Adobe AIR development guides will appreciate a programmer's guide covering how to customize and tweak the program for maximum benefit. Included are downloadable examples and source code on the web, making for an even more valuable study tool.

How to Be a Geek Goddess
Christina Tynan-Wood
No Starch Press
555 DeHaro #250, San Francisco CA 94107
9781593271879, $24.95 www.nostarch.com

Learn technology decisions ranging from buying a computer to shopping for cell phones and using electronics, surfing the web, and controlling email with How to Be a Geek Goddess, an outstanding guide to handling computers with savvy. From botnets to keeping online shopping habits private, it's packed with the latest insider info.

Digital Engagement
Leland Harden and Bob Heyman
Amacom
1601 Broadway, new York NY 10019-7420
0814410723, $24.00 www.amacombooks.org

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT: INTERNET MARKETING THAT CAPTURES CUSTOMERS AND BUILDS BRAND LOYALTY is for marketing managers and startup entrepreneurs who want to stay current in cyber-marketing. Tips on how to more effectively use the latest technologies come from online marketing gurus who cover everything from building the better website to keeping connected through phone screens and more. Any library strong in business or computer marketing strategies needs this!

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

Want to learn how to create great user interfaces on the Web? U1 experts Bill Scott and Theresa Neil present over 75 design patterns for building web interfaces for interaction with Designing Web Interfaces (9780596516253, $49.99), which comes from the authors' years of experience, and provide six key principles to help in web technologies. Each chapter covers a design principle making for an excellent in-depth focus highly recommended for web designers. David Griffiths' HEAD FIRST RAILS (9780596515775, $49.99) covers everything from database interactions and Ajax integration to XML, dynamic graphing of data, and more. An added plus: it uses the latest research in cognitive science and learning theory to provide a visually rich presentation designed to jive with brain functions. A 'must' for an computer collection catering to Rails students. David Pogue's SWITCHING TO THE MAC: THE MISSING MANUAL LEOPARD EDITION (9780596514129, $29.99) considers the basics of how to switch from a PC-oriented world to a Mac environment in SWITCHING TO THE MAC, a key survey of Mac OS X and how to transfer files from PC to Mac, how to recreate software available only for Windows, and how to learn MacOS X 'Leopard'. It's a 'must' for any making the change, and for any general-interest library with any degree of computer information for users. Dan Fernandez and Brian Peek's CODING 4FUN 10 (9780596520748, $39.99) provides programming projects for Warcraft, YouTube and more, from building an Xbox game to using Wilmote to create an electronic whiteboard. Tips on fun coding use a range of free Microsoft software to cover some ten creative coding projects that are fun, revealing projects. David Stiller, et.al.'s ACTIONSCRIPT 3.0 QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE (9780596517359, $34.99) is written by four top experts in the industry and tells how to move from Actionscript 2.0 to 3.0 quickly. From differences between the two to step-by-step solutions for tasks, reviews of features and functions in this big upgrade make this a 'must' for any library catering to Flash programmers. Ian Molyneaux's ART OF APPLICATION PERFORMANCE TESTING (9780596520663, $34.99) is a pick for any advanced library strong in software engineering, showing how to set realistic performance testing goals, implement an effective application performance testing strategy, and use automated testing tools. It comes from a consultant with 30 years of experience in the IT industry and over 12 years experience with performance testing, and offers an excellent and detailed survey. Chris Grover with E.A. Vander Veer's FLASH CS4: THE MISSING MANUAL (97804596522940, $39.99) is deserving of ongoing recognition as a top pick for any web design or Flash library catering to animation software learners. Flash is the undisputed 'king' of such programs and the solutions to common issues located in FLASH CS4; THE MISSING MANUAL make for an invaluable, highly recommended basic handbook. Lesa Snider King's PHOTOSHOP CS4: THE MISSING MANUAL (9780596522964, $49.99) is for any collection wishing to appeal to Photoshop users. Most Photoshop guides assume a basic skills level - THE MISSING MANUAL does not; it offers a more casual chatty approach to Photoshop and avoids technical jargon as it explains layers, channels, and achieving polished, professional results. Curt Hibbs, Steve Jewett and Mike Sullivan's THE ART OF LEAN SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT (9780596517311, $34.99) is for busy developers who can't afford sudden changes. It offers a 'Lean approach that's actually been tested for decades, showing how to apply Lean software development practices to increase productivity without disruption. Simon st. Laurent and Edd Dumbill's LEARNING RAILS (9780596518776, $34.99) tells how to build an application with a basic view and easy controller while learning Ruby. From connecting forms to models through a database, to using Rails to build applications from a different perspective, LEARNING RAILS offers fine keys to success. Diomidis Spinellis and Georgios Gousios' BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE: LEADING THINKERS REVEAL THE HIDDEN BEAUTY IN SOFTWARE DESIGN (9780596517984, $44.99) discusses software engineering and flexible software forms. Essays from over a dozen contemporary software engineers and designers offer analysis of notable software forms and what makes them ideal innovations. From complex models to user interfaces, it's an excellent survey for any software library.

Scaling Lean & Agile Development
Craig Larman and Bas Voddie
Addison Wesley
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0321480961, $44.99 www.informit.com/aw

Lean thinking and development projects blend with agile practices and systems thinking in "Scaling Lean & Agile Development", a definitive and thoroughly 'user friendly' guide to organizational re-design moving from single-function teams to cross-functional teams. Leaders will learn the basics of agility in a software engineering guide perfect for libraries strong in agile software concepts.

Java for Programmers
Paul J. Dietel and Harvey M. Dietel
Prentice Hall
c/o Pearson Education
801 East 96th Street, 3rd floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0137001290, $59.99 www.informit.com/ph

Programmers with a background in high-level language programming will find this 1,100+ page reference packs in details key to Java and the Powerful Java Platform. Concepts are presented in fully tested programs which come with code highlighting and code descriptions of over 220 Java applications with over 18,000 lines of proven Java code. The result is a 'must' reference for any Java programmer and library seeking depth and comprehensive substance in a Java reference.

Lessons in DSLR Workflow with Lightroom and Photoshop
Jerry Courvoisier
Peachpit Press
1249 - 8th Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
032155423X, $44.99 www.peachpit.com

Once you've captured that prime image with your camera, use this guide for importing, organizing and editing images using Adobe Photoshop Lightroom and Photoshop. Both programs are featured in this full-faceted coverage of DSLR integration with the programs, from customization options and blends with Photoshop to using advanced techniques to create surprising results. Tips from seasoned photographers lend to a guide highly recommended for either photography or computer libraries.

Enterprise Recipes with Ruby and Rails
Maik Schmidt
Pragmatic Publishers
P.O. Box 293325, Lewisville, TX 75029-3325
1934356239, $38.95 www.Pragprog.com

Over 50 'recipes' shows hot to blend existing legacy code using Ruby and Ruby on Rails, and how to create new applications based on existing models. Learn how to process a range of data pieces in all kinds of formats from XML to fixed-length records using a guide that even helps reuse existing C, C++, Java and other codes. A versatile, top pick for any computer library.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Animals Make Us Human
Temple Grandin
Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
9780151014897, $26.00 www.hmhbooks.com

ANIMALS MAKE US HUMAN: CREATING THE BEST LIFE FOR ANIMALS comes form an animal scientist and autism advocate who explains how to fulfill the specific needs of dogs, cats, horses and wildlife and farm animals alike, showing how happiness enters their lives. Chapters cover cows, cats, dogs and more in animal-specific focuses perfect for any collection strong in either domestic or wild animals.


The Sports Shelf

Die Trying
Bo Parfet with Richard Buskin
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814410847, $23.00 www.amacombooks.org

When he left for Kilimanjaro in 2003 author Bo Parfet was an overweight Wall Street investment banker with little experience - not your usual candidate for mountain-climbing. None of his fellow climbers thought he'd make it to the top, but despite many ailments he reached the top of the mountain - and decided to climb all seven summits. His story is an inspiration to any who are not neo-professional athletes.


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

Milk: A Pictorial History of Harvey Milk
Dustin Lance Black, Introduction
Newmarket Press
18 E. 48th Street, New York NY 10017
9781557048288, $19.95 www.newmarketpress.com

Film collections interested in contemporary sagas and documentaries will relish Milk: A Pictorial History of Harvey Milk It comes from a screenwriter who in 2004 began to retell the story of a gay politician who was murdered in San Francisco. The making of the movie and results of research, interviews, and news stories makes for a powerful presentation.

The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made
David Hughes
Titan Books
144 Southwark Street, London SE1 OUP
9781845767556, $14.95 www.titanbooks.com

Any collection strong in science fiction movies of the past needs THE GREATEST SCI-FI MOVIES NEVER MADE. From Spielberg's NIGHT SKIES to Kubrick's CHILDHOOD'S END, this covers some legendary unmade films, expanding and updating a prior edition and revealing details of efforts that never made it to the screen and public eye.


The Business Shelf

Goal!
Gladys Stone and Fred Whelan
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno, CA 93721
9781884956959, $14.95 www.quilldriverbooks.com

GOAL! YOUR 30-DAY GAME PLAN FOR BUSINESS AND CAREER SUCCESS is a fine, basic introduction for any collection interested in setting and accomplishing career goals. Two experienced executive recruiters and coaches offer a structured program keyed to taking action, packing exercises with motivational insights in a guide perfect for both business and general-interest collections.

Global Warming is Good for Business
K.B. Keilbach
Quill Driver Books
2006 South Mary, Fresno CA 93721
9781884956881, $24.95 www.quilldriverbooks.com

Entrepreneurs and business people can easily make money while conserving the environment: this isn't just theory but fact, based on the stories of successful endeavors presented here. From researchers into the latest 'clean' technologies to the corporate entities using them to advantage, Global Warming is Good for Business: How Savvy Entrepreneurs, Large Corporations, and Others are Making Money While Saving the Planet is a winner.

Executive Power
David J. Lieberman, Ph.D.
Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46256
9780470372821, $24.95 www.wiley.com

Success isn't just about making decisions: it depends on observation and savvy assessment of the environment around you. "Executive Power" packs in psychological assessments and business savvy, including persuasion techniques used by the FBI, mental health pros, and others. It offers a set of tactics that can be used on any person or situation, from regaining customer trust to getting people to work as a team in a business setting. An invaluable set of management tools, this is perfect for any business collection catering to executives.

The Principles of Successful Freelancing
Miles Burke
Sitepoint
48 Cambridge Street, Collingwood, VIC Australia 3066
9780980455243, $34.99 www.sitepoint.com

If you're thinking on freelancing on your own, then THE PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESSFUL FREELANCING is for you. It tells how to transition into freelance work, how to manage money and balance work and living, and how to create a business network of support. Any collection strong in entrepreneurial guides will find this an exceptional pick.

Twitter Power
Joel Comm
Wiley-Blackwell
10475 Crosspoint Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46256
9780470458426, $24.95 www.wiley.com

Twitter is an on-line micro-blog that allows users to broadcast their status to followers in 140 characters or less - and Twitter users helped broadcast terrorist attacks and some of the first news hitting the media. Business marketers who would apply business pursuits to Twitter will appreciate TWITTER POWER: HOW TO DOMINATE YOUR MARKET ONE TWEET AT A TIME. It is the first book to address business potentials of Twitter and is a pick for any library strong in alternative business marketing pursuits.

Ebay Business At Your Fingertips
Kevin W. Boyd
Alpha
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9781592577941, $16.95 www.penguin.com

There's a lot to know about doing business on eBay, but it's not information that needs to be absorbed all at once. EBAY BUSINESS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS is meant for small intense examinations a bit at a time and should be on the shelves of any potential ebay seller and any general-interest library catering to them. It covers everything from selling basics to PayPal account management, auction know-how, grading, handling shipments, and more. Perfect for beginning ebay sellers.


The Social Issues Shelf

Food Fray
Lisa H. Weasel, Ph.D.
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019-7420
0814401643, $23.00 www.amacombooks.org

FOOD FRAY: INSIDE THE CONTROVERSY OVER GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD offers insights across the board, from researchers to activists, farmers and consumers, on genetically modified food, and is a pick for both general-interest and college-level libraries strong in health and food issues. It offers stories blending science with real-world anecdotes and pinpoints facts about agricultural biotechnology applications and world events. Perfect for classroom debate or personal reflection alike, it blends science with human experience.

Islamic Radicalism and Global Jihad
Devin R. Springer, James L. Regens and David N. Edger
Georgetown University press
3240 Prospect Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007
9781589012530, $26.95 www.press.georgetown.edu

Any college-level library strong in global terrorism or world issues - or even Middle Eastern social issues - will find Islamic Radicalism and Global Jihad a fine study surveying Islamic radicalism and its relationship to terrorism and the West. Their analysis of the origins and strategies of terrorists within the global jihad movement makes for an in-depth, detailed survey key to understanding the roots of terrorist activity. Highly recommended.

The Means of Reproduction
Michelle Goldberg
The Penguin Press
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9781594202087, $25.95 www.penguin.com

Cultural analysis lends insight and depth to a guide recommended for high school to college-level collections strong in women's issues in THE MEANS OF REPRODUCTION: SEX, POWER, AND THE FUTURE OF THE WORLD. The freedom of women has become the key human rights struggle of our times, and this surveys history and social issues on four continents to consider the wider, global issue.

Green Hell
Steve Milloy
Regnery Publishers
One Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington DC 20001
9781596985858, $27.95 www.regnery.com

The environmental movement has a darker agenda: that of regulating behavior, lifestyle choices, and American lives: so maintains Steve Milloy in GREEN HELL: HOW ENVIRONMENTALISTS PLAN TO CONTROL YOUR LIFE AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO STOP THEM. No matter what side of the picture you believe - reading this different approach offers a new perspective on the subject of sustainability's impact on personal choice.


The Black Studies Shelf

Passing Strange
Martha A. Sandweiss
Penguin Press
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014-3658
9781594202001, $27.95 www.penguin.com

PASSING STRANGE: A GILDED AGE TALE OF LOVE AND DECEPTION ACROSS THE COLOR LINE is a powerful, haunting account by a historian author who probes the secrets of Clarence King, a brilliant scientist who helped map the West after the Civil War. His little-known double life - as a celebrated white explorer and writer and as a black Pullman porter and steel worker - offers up a gripping saga of a man who lied because he wished to marry his wife publicly, presenting himself falsely as a black man to marry the woman he loved. Any library will find it a powerful, popular lend.


The Music Shelf

Storms: My Life with Lindsey Buckingham and Fleetwood Mac
Carol Ann Harris
Chicago Review Press
814 N. Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
1556526601, $24.95 www.ipgbook.com www.chicagoreviewpress.com

Carol Ann Harris' personal notes and taped diaries of her eight-year journey with Fleetwood Mac offers a powerful insider's survey of the band's rise to stardom from their first album to their eight-year odyssey. From success to addiction, STORMS details a hurricane of action and events perfect for any fan of Fleetwood Mac.

Bruce Springsteen and Philosophy
Randall E. Auxier and Doug Anderson, Editors
Open Court
Box 300, Peru, IL 61354-3000
0812696476, $18.95 www.opencourtbooks.com

Libraries strong in either philosophy or popular music - or both - will welcome Bruce Springsteen and Philosophy, a guide to Springsteen's music linking lyrics with modern philosophy. Here eighteen Springsteen fans who are also philosophy buffs offer their survey of topics ranging from the musician's concept of the soul to 'fatalism' in one of his songs.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Whitman Publishing
3101 Clairmont Road, Suite C, Atlanta GA 30329
www.whitmanbooks.com

From a history of money in early America to different British coins and tokens for America and early American pieces, along with foreign coins usually collected with colonials, Q. David Bowers's Whitman Encyclopedia of Colonial and Early American Coins (9780794825416, $49.95) is a 'must' reference for any in-depth coin collector's library. It's the only authoritative reference on all pre-Federal coinage, offering good-size color photos of pieces along with historical and collecting insights. Paul Rynearson's COLLECTING ANCIENT GREEK COINS (9780794825560, $29.95) tells how to build a collection of ancient Greek coins, from the basics of evaluation and getting started to grading, cataloging and photographing a collection. From watching for forgeries to cleaning coins, over 25 different types of ancient Greek coins are covered, here. The silver Peace Dollar issued from 1921-1935 commemorated the end of the war and Roger W. Burdette with Barry Lovvorn's guide to their issue, A Guide Book of Peace Dollars (9780794826697, $19.95) explores these coins, covering all dates and mintmarks and studying patterns, errors and die varieties and the history of the Peace dollar. Coin collectors and libraries catering to them will find this specialty item an important acquisition, as it blends history with the latest values. J. Hewitt Judd, M.D.'s UNITED STATES PATTERN COINS (9780794822538, $39.95) offers a full-color 10th edition covering rare and beautiful U.S. pattern coins. History blends with values in an excellent coverage recommended for any coin collector's reference library. Q. David Bowers' GRADING COINS BY PHOTOGRAPHS: AN ACTION GUIDE FOR THE COLLECTOR AND INVESTOR (9780794827014, $19.95) should be in every coin collector's library: it covers the finer art and process of grading, which can save hundreds or thousands of dollars. Step-by-step grading instructions for all US coins provide collectors with much-needed specifics key to developing a solid, valuable coin collection.

Confederate States Paper Money
George S. Cuhaj, editor
Krause Publications
700 E. State Street, Iola, WI 54990-0001
0896897060, $27.99 www.krausebooks.com

Over 350 color photos and prices in up to six grades of condition offer complete coverage of Upham and other notes and fine history about the Confederacy and individual Southern states, in the process of producing a useful identification and value guide for money collectors. An outstanding survey highly recommended for any collector's library.

Krause Publications
700 E. State Street, Iola, WI 54990-0001
www.krausebooks.com

All levels of coin and paper money collector will find an important reference in Allen G. Berman's Warman's Coins and Paper Money, 4th edition (0896896838, $24.99), which has been updated to reflect the latest information. From listings for US, World and Ancient currency to tips on how to collect, how to grade currency, and over 700 color photos for identification, this is a 'must' for any serious collector. George S. Cuhaj edits the 12th edition of STANDARD CATALOG OF WORLD PAPER MONEY GENERAL ISSUES 1368-1960 (0896897303, $80.00), which includes a DVD with pages of the book allowing for image enlargement up to 300%. A brilliant idea for collectors needing feature details, this packs in a comprehensive feature by more than 230 note-issuing authorities, including 25,100 bank note varieties priced in up to three condition grades. A top pick for any collector's library.


The Crafts Shelf

All Beaded Up By Machine
Terry White
American Quilter's Society
Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-4290
9781574329698, $26.95 www.americanquilter.com

Bead embellishment can be used on a range of projects, from needlework and quilting to home decor, and there's no better place to begin than with All Beaded Up By Machine, a survey of 9 projects showing how to use machine beading to create wallhangings, fashion accessories, and more. Each project receives color photos and clear step-by-step patterns for easy completion. Any library catering to needleworkers or crafts learners will find it a fine pick.

Shaped Beadwork
Diane Fitzgerald
Lark Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9781600592775, $24.95 www.larkbooks.com

SHAPED BEADWORK is an outstanding jewelry crafting guide for any who would weave patterns to make lovely two- and three-dimensional forms. Moving from individual beading patterns, most instructions cover complete pieces of jewelry in a series of patterns that can be easily modified to create unique jewelry pieces. Auhtor Diane Fitzgerald is the 2008 recipient of the Bead & Button Show Excellence in Bead Artistry Award. Any library catering to jewelry-makers and beaders will welcome her unique presentation.

Making Beautiful Jewelry
Tone Rorseth
Martingale & Company
20205 - 144th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072-8478
9781564778963, $18.95 www.martingale-pub.com

From stringing wires and stitching to decoupage and working with beads and paper, MAKING BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY is an outstanding collection of jewelry designs perfect for libraries strong in jewelry-making instruction. Full-page color photos of finished products accompany instructions on their making, in a lovely display of color.

Glass Engraving: 25 Projects for the Home
Sonia Lucano
Potter Craft
c/o Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780307452375, $12.95 www.crownpublishing.com

25 projects help home crafters turn ordinary glass into pieces to give as gifts or display around the house, pairing color images with text in a guide where all displays are featured as templates. The patterns and illustrations are lovely, clear accompaniments to this beginner's engraving guide, recommended for libraries strong in basic crafts introductions.

The Paper Architect
Maria Victoria Garrido Blanchini, et.al.
Potter Craft
c/o Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, New York NY 10019
9780307451477, $24.95 www.pottercraft.com

Crafters who would create miniature replicas of the world's great architecture, from the London Eye to the Parthenon and the Golden Gate Bridge, will relish this collection of fold-it-yourself buildings and structures offering 20 templates for construction. Step-by-step, clear directions accompany easy and fun diagrams, photos and templates perfect for paper crafters and libraries catering to them.


The Cookbook Shelf

500 Cakes
Susannah Blake
Sellers Publishing
Box 818, Portland, ME 04104
9781416205340, $16.95 www.sellerspublishing.com

From quick and easy refrigerator cakes to gluten-free cakes and pound cakes, 500 CAKES is packed with quick, easy cake recipes paired with color photos on facing pages. It's an outstanding collection certain to prove a winning pick for libraries and personal collections alike, packing in a huge variety of recipes.

The Karoo Cookbook
Rose Willis
Struik Publishing
9781770076105 $22.00 www.struik.co.za www.amazon.com

The Karoo region is famous for its lamb and its rural ambiance, and this South African cookbook gathers a host of dishes from the Karoo, from a Savory Chicken Pie with a creamy chicken and chutney filling to a Nectarine Pie and a Potato Cake. Any international library will appreciate the color photos throughout and the attention to a regional cuisine little known outside of South Africa.

Sustainable Sushi
Casson Trenor
North Atlantic Books
Box 12327, Berkeley, CA 94712
9781556437694, $15.95 www.northatlanticbooks.com

How can a desire for eating a dish stay in touch with the health of oceans in general? This pocket guide covers dozens of the most common fish and shellfish one might encounter at a sushi bar, survey how these fish are caught, safety, and how they are in today's fishery crisis world. The author is a sustainability expert who offers clear insights perfect for seafood enthusiasts.

Food Festivals of Italy
Leonardo Curti & James O. Fraioli
Gibbs Smith
Box 667, Layton UT 84041
142360332X, $35.00 www.gibbs-smith.com

FOOD FESTIVALS OF ITALY: CELEBRATED RECIPES FROM 50 FOOD FAIRS covers some 50 of Italy's most diverse food fairs, packing in 100 recipes featuring festival foods and blending a cookbook with a travelogue filled with photos of the Italian countryside. Pasta with Red Onions and Spec, Porterhouse Steaks Florentine, and more are accompanied by full-page, vivid color photos making this an inviting addition to any ethnic cookery collection.

Fine Cooking Fresh
Editors of Fine Cooking
Taunton Press
Box 5507, Newtown, CT 06470-5507
9781600851094, $19.95 www.taunton.com

Over 350 recipes from Fine Cooking's Fresh magazine offers a pairing of local ingredients with recipe ideas and techniques for producing seasonal dishes. Packed with color photos and discussions of how to get the most flavor from fresh food selections, Fine Cooking Fresh is an outstanding survey recommended for any cookbook library.

Cookie Craft
Valerie Peterson & Janice Fryer
Storey Publishers
210 MassMoca Way, North Adams, MA 02147
9781580176941, $18.95 www.storey.com

At once a baking and decorating guide, COOKIE CRAFT is a fine pick for any library catering to home bakers, offering inspiration and tricks to turn the average cookie into eye-catching 'edible art'. Designs and techniques tell how to turn the cookie into a tasty piece of attractive art, and provide pictures to accompany recipes for the basic cookie and its artistic transformation. A fine guide to cookie decorating.

Made in Spain
Jose Andres with Richard Wolffe
Clarkson Potter Publishers
c/o The Crown Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, #B1, New York, NY 10019-4305
9780307382634, $35.00 www.clarksonpotter.com

MADE IN SPAIN: SPANISH DISHES FOR THE AMERICAN KITCHEN deserves repeated, ongoing recommendation as a powerful companion volume to the TV show, presenting both a culinary tour of the country and recipes reflecting local traditions. From Tolosa Black Beans to Shrimp Cooked on a Griddle, these are often surprisingly easy recipes home cooks can duplicate with confidence, paired with fine color photos and detailed dialogue on Spanish culture and cuisine. Highly recommended.

Annual Recipes 2009
Cooking Light
Oxmoor House
Box 2262, Birmingham, Al 35201-2262
0848732367, $34.95 www.oxmoorhouse.com

The annual recipe collections of Cooking Light are treasure troves modifying proven dishes to new standards, gathering recipes from the past year of Cooking Light and packing in more than 800 recipes reflecting world cuisines. The latest trends in healthy cooking accompany dishes modified to reflect new focuses and interests: any general-interest cooking collection will find it a popular lend with the name brand 'Cooking Light' fueling interest.


The Education Shelf

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

Strategies designed to deepen understanding of basic math concepts offer nine strategies students can use in problem-solving, from working backwards and finding patterns to using a simpler problem to understand foundation concepts. Math teachers will find Alfred S. Posamentier and Stephen Krulik's Problem Solving in Mathematics Grades 3-6 (9781412960670, $28.95) a fine collection of real-life, successful strategies perfect for blending into a classroom. The third updated edition of Carla F. Shelton and Alice B. Pollingue's THE EXCEPTIONAL TEACHER'S HANDBOOK: THE FIRST-YEAR SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER'S GUIDE TO SUCCESS (9781412969147, $35.95) offers a winning survey of step-by-step instructional practices for getting the most from a special ed classroom. From recognized disabilities and handling parents to plans for furthering professional learning and placing students in the least restrictive environment, this provides a winning set of different approaches. Kay Psenick's ACCELERATING STUDENT AND STAFF LEARNING: PURPOSEFUL CURRICULUM COLLABORATION (9781412971461, $27.95) tells how to use collaborative curriculum design to add new life and focus into ideas for improving student learning, From handling assumptions about learning and professional development to clarifying standards and working with students both singly and in groups, this is a fine collaborative development focus. The third updated edition of Pam Robbins and Harvey B. Alvy's THE PRINCIPAL'S COMPANION: STRATEGIES FOR MAKING THE JOB EASIER (9781412965507, $40.95) provides principals with resources to address the modern challenges of leading a school into the next level of achievement. It comes from an educational leadership consultant and an experienced principal who examines leadership skills, vision, teacher assessment strategies and more, offering research-based ideas keyed to specific and common issues. Cathie Summerford's ACTION-PACKED CLASSROOMS, K-5: USING MOVEMENT TO EDUCATE AND INVIGORATE LEARNERS, 2ND EDITION (9781412970914, $31.95) tells how to blend movement and music into a classroom to help kids stimulate their brains and increasing learning ability. Games and activities for teachers in K-5 settings make for a fine tool packing in sample activities in math, language, health and more. Paul D. Houston, et.al. edit LEADERS AS COMMUNICATORS AND DIPLOMATS (9781412949446, $28.95), an outstanding sixth volume in a series on educational leadership. It offers school leaders approaches to change and empower leadership strategies and is packed with tips from successful leaders. Linda Denstaedt, et.al.'s WINNING STRATEGIES FOR TEST TAKING GRADES 3-8 (9781412967037, $28.95) is filled with insights on how to teach basic test preparation skills. Presented here is a 3-week unit of test-taking skills maximizing classroom time and using engaging strategies for all kinds of tests. Cathie Summerford's ACTION-PACKED CLASSROOMS, K-5 (9781412970914, $31.95) appears in its 2nd updated edition covering using movement to educate learners. Games and activities form the foundation for a research-based guide offering movement objectives tied to standards-based instruction for active learning. The second updated edition of Lorraine O. Moore's INCLUSION STRATEGIES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (9781412971089, $28.95) provides teachers, parents and child care providers with an outstanding set of early childhood keys to helping beginning learners. This updated edition offers the latest details on IDEA 2004, resource listings of organizations, and many reproducible handouts for students and parents alike. The 3rd updated edition of Carolyn Warner's PROMOTING YOUR SCHOOL: GOING BEYOND PR (9781412958134, $35.95) is a powerful handbook for any educator or school leader seeking techniques for strengthening the partnership between schools and the community. Examples from successful schools pair with discussions of educational priorities in a fine survey. All are fine picks for any educator's library or libraries catering to educators.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Spiritual Survival in a Radically Changing World-Time
William Patrick Patterson
Arete Communications
773 Center Boulevard Box 58, Fairfax, CA 94978-0058
9781879514874, $25.00 www.gurdjieff-legacy.org

'The Fourth Way' is a spiritual teaching for modern times and directly confronts technology and its potential for damaging spirituality. G.I. Gurdjieff's teaching of The Fourth Way is the focus of a guide presenting not just the concept, but how it works in the real world. Case history examples pack a survey of philosophy and ideas perfect for any spirituality collection, including new age libraries.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Escape from Hell
Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle
TOR Books
175 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
0765316323, $24.95 www.tor-forge.com

Any library or individual owning and enthusiastic about Niven and Pournelle's INFERNO will relish ESCAPE FROM HELL, a survey of science fiction writer and Dante's hell survivor Alan Carpenter, who is haunted by his trials and who must return to hell to liberate souls trapped there unfairly. His return to Hell may lead him into a trap he can't escape from this time, in a harrowing suspense fantasy perfect for prior fans.

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

From a computer war game so realistic and addictive that people are too busy playing it to begin a real war to a secret organization that uses a form of telepathy to cause commanders to be unable to think of command words, Christopher Anvil's War Games (1416556028, $22.00) is a satisfying collection of examinations of the many faces of war - with a healthy dose of humor thrown in. Science fiction libraries will find this an excellent and memorable acquisition. Hal Colebatch and Paul Chafe and Matthew Joseph Harrington's MAN-KZIN WARS XII (1416591419, $23.00) tells of conquerors at uneasy truce with humans, and expands on the world and concepts created by best-selling writer Larry Niven. From a human secret agent and her kzin companion who infiltrate a planet newly occupied by the kzin to the kzin's involvement in a cache of anti-matter, these are outstanding, rich stories perfect for prior fans and libraries catering to them. Poul Anderson's DAVID FALKKAYN: STAR TRADER (1416555201, $22.00) tells of a flamboyant member of a star trading team, David, who has his own new ship and an unusual crew to help him. Joining the complete publication of Anderson's Technic Civilization series, it makes for a powerful story of a young star trader's journeys. Andre Norton's SEARCH FOR THE STAR STONES (1416559994, $24.00) is not a new title but the combo of the originally published ZERO STONE and sequel UNCHARTED STARS under one cover. Newcomers in particular will relish having both books together in the blended story of Murdoc Jern, who uncovers an alien device in a ring and a long-vanished alien race's hidden powers. His journey will change his life. Sharon lee and Steve Miller's DUAINFFY (1416555528, $24.00) tells of one Rebecca, a ruined woman involved in a terrible accident with a drunken man that leaves her handicapped. Her new quiet life as a herbalist and gardener is shaken when she is allowed to view two very different futures: one as an abused wife, one as a princess - and makes some choices that will send her on an unexpected path.


The Aviation Shelf

Flying Across America
Daniel L. Rust
University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
9780806138701, $45.00 www.oupress.com

FLYING ACROSS AMERICA: THE AIRLINE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE tells of a different history of flight, which once was considered an exhilarating adventure. Commercial aviation evolved from the 1920s to modern times, and this history adds luxurious color photos and descriptions to cover the changing face of flying as faster planes and onboard amenities were developed. From artistic illustrations and advertising reproductions to lively surveys of changing perceptions of flight as a travel option, this is a fine addition to any general-interest collection.


The Nautical Shelf

Paradise Cay Publications
Box 29, Arcata, CA 95518-0029
www.paracay.com

Lin and Larry Pardey's COST-CONSCIOUS CRUISER: CHAMPAGNE CRUISING ON A BEER BUDGET (9780964603653, $29.95) follows the ideas of their successful SELF-SUFFICIENT SAILOR and CAPABLE CRUISER, offering sailors plans for getting away, keeping costs and maintenance time under control, and building up to cruising longer distances. From comparisons of gear considered 'necessary' by sailors to understanding maintenance costs involved, COST-CONSCIOUS CRUISER is a key acquisition for any sailor who dreams of cruising. Michael Greenwald's THE CRUISING CHEF COOKBOOK, 2ND EDITION (0939837463, $19.95) has been in print for over 20 years and is a cookbook for sailors, packing nautical wisdom with short stories and a wealth of recipes for cooking under sail. An outstanding nautical cookbook reference and a 'must' for any cruiser.


The Photography Shelf

The Nikon Creative Lighting System
Mike Hagen
Rocky Nook
26 West Mission St Suite 3, Santa Barbara CA 93101
9781933952413, $34.95 www.rockynook.com

THE NIKON CREATIVE LIGHTING SYSTEM USING THE SB-600, SB-800, SB-900, AND R1C1 FLASHES is for photographers already seasoned in basics but who need lessons on flash photography and advanced light systems. Step-by-step methods for using the latest Nikon flash units teach all the steps needed to achieve amazing flash photos. Any library strong in photography basics needs this.

Lighting and the Dramatic Portrait
Michael Grecco
Amphoto Books
c/o Watson-Guptill
770 Broadway, New York NY 10003
0817442278, $29.95 www.amphotobooks.com

Photographer Michael Grecco's images are used to supplement a photography course in book form, discussing celebrity and editorial photography with an eye to revealing everything from the basics of cameras and hardware choices to how he departed from photojournalism. An outstanding survey carries readers on a journey of insight and progressive education using the photographer's experience and eye.

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

Kirk Tuck's MINIMALIST LIGHTING: PROFESSIONAL TECHNIQUES FOR STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY (9781584282501, $34.95) tells how to create pro-quality studio results without a huge fiscal investment. From using the power of window light for 'free' light setups to handling both commercial modifiers and simpler home-supply store items, this is a fine winner. Bill Hurter's MASTER POSING GUIDE FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS (9781584282518, $34.95) tells how to build a good relationship with couples and blend visual design with image management for best results. Both book are strong picks for any serious photography library: they abound with color examples and specifics key to a photographer's success.


The Science Shelf

Remarkable Creatures
Sean B. Carroll
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
222 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116
9780151014859, $26.00 www.hmhbooks.com

REMARKABLE CREATURES: EPIC ADVENTURES IN THE SEARCH FOR THE ORIGINS OF SPECIES offers the stories and biographies of three men - Darwin, Wallace, and Bates - who returned from their explorations each formulating the theory of evolution, blending these early explorers with experiences of later expeditions and pioneering naturalists in two centuries of scientific inquiry and discovery. General interest collections strong in lay science will find this a lively survey.

The Crowded Universe: The Search for Living Planets
Alan Boss
Basic Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016-8810
9780465009367, $26.00 www.basicbooks.com

Humankind is at a turning point in the search for extraterrestrial life and here astronomer Alan Boss argues that in coming years we'll find living planets - and find them to actually be common-place. Radical new ideas about planetary formation and discoveries of universe inhabitants make for a case for staying in the space race and make for a lively survey recommended not only for high school to college-level science libraries, but for general-interest collections as well.

The Art and Politics of Science
Harold Varmus
W.W. Norton
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780393061284, $24.95 www.wwnorton.com

Harold Varmus is a global scientist whose work strives to bridge science and society to solve global challenges, and readers have a treat in store with a memoir detailing his remarkable careers and choices. He didn't decide he was drawn to medicine until he was a year into a PhD in English literature - his shift to medical school brought him into the forefront of cancer research, but later he changed again from an academic scientist to a political one. A delightful survey of his life and influence evolves.


The Native American Shelf

University of Oklahoma Press
2800 Venture Drive, Norman, OK 73069
www.oupress.com

FORGOTTEN FIRES: NATIVE AMERICANS AND THE TRANSIENT WILDERNESS by Omer C. Stewart (9780806140377, $24.95) is edited with introductions by Henry T. Lewis and M. Kat Anderson, and provides a powerful survey of American Indians by one of the first anthropologists to recognize that Native Americans made a strong impact across a range of environments. Original research and insights first presented in the 1950s still hold true today in a powerful collection recommended for anthropology and college-level Native Studies collections. Garrett Epps' PEYOTE VS. THE STATE: RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ON TRIAL (9780806140261, $19.95) details the six-year battle between two men with different visions of religious freedom. Al Smith was a substance-abuse counselor to Native Americans, Dave Frohnmayer was an Oregon attorney with his hands full politically and personally. But both found themselves at the U.S. Supreme Court asking about the rights of Native Americans to worship God through the use of peyote. This account of a basic Native struggle is a 'must' for any college-level Native American collection.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Murder, She Wrote: A Slaying in Savannah
Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
NAL
c/o Penguin Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
9780451225054, $21.95 www.penguin.com

A SLAYING IN SAVANNAH is part of a best-selling series of murder mysteries and deserves a spot in any general lending library, particular those strong in Southern culture. Jessica learns an old friend has passed away and left her millions - but she has to use the money to help a literacy fund she once helped establish years ago - and solve a mystery within a month. A dangerous set of interactions evolves.

Berkeley Prime Crime
375 Hudson Street, New York NY 10014
www.penguin.com

Linda O. Johnston's DOUBLE DOG DARE (9780425222324, $6.99) tells of Kendra's struggle with a missing P.I. boyfriend and sidekick, her involvement with his eccentric family, and her search to discover the truth: was he kidnapped or murdered, or just run away? J.M.C. Blair's THE EXCALIBUR MURDERS (9780425222539, $6.99) is set in the time of King Arthur and tells of Merlin's investigation into the murder of one of Arthur's squires. Superstition and danger run rampant as Merlin battles time to find the truth. Terri Thayer's STAMPED OUT (9780425223291, $6.99) provides a 'Stamping Sisters' mystery, first in a new series, and tells of April, ready for a fresh start in her life. Her work with her father on the restoration of a famous mansion seems like a fine project - until murder evolves. Jeffrey Cohen's A NIGHT AT THE OPERATION (9780425228159, $7.99) provides a fine double feature mystery telling of a missing ex-wife and some dangerous rumors about her possible murder. To clear his name, Elliot finds himself involved in an increasingly dangerous case just as his theater starts to fall apart.


The Language Studies Shelf

Lost Languages: The Enigma of the World's Undeciphered Scripts
Andrew Robinson
Thames & Hudson
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10110
9780500288160, $29.95 www.thamesandhudsonusa.com

Any collection strong in language development and linguistic history needs LOST LANGUAGES. It begins with the stories of three great decipherments - Egyptian hieroglyphs, Minoan Linear B and Mayan glyphs - and considers the remaining enigmatic scripts of the world. The latest scholarship in decipherment as well as the competition for success receives a vivid blend of scholarly analysis and history.

Finding Our Tongues
Dean Falk
Basic Books
387 Park Avenue South, New York NY 10016
9780485002191, $26.95 www.basicbooks.com

Science, social science and language libraries alike at the high school to college levels will appreciate FINDING OUR TONGUES: MOTHERS, INFANTS & THE ORIGINS OF LANGUAGE. It provides a new theory of communication: that parents all over the world in all cultures use 'baby talk' to communicate with their children, and that it's this language that formed the foundation of human language. His discussion of 'motherese' is a delightful piece of original research.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
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