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The Bookwatch

Volume 3, Number 4 April 2008 Home | BW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Parenting Shelf Music Shelf
Art Shelf Computer Shelf Science Shelf
Christian Studies Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf Education Shelf
Religion/Spirituality Shelf Law/Justice Shelf Military Shelf
Health/Medicine Shelf Cookbook Shelf Jobs/Careers Shelf
Business Shelf Travel Shelf Antiques/Collectibles Shelf
Audiobook Shelf Judaic Studies Shelf Literary Shelf
Theatre/Cinema Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf  


Reviewer's Choice

Zero Days
Barbara Egbert
Wilderness Press
1200 - 5th Street, Berkeley, CA 94710-1306
9780899974385, $15.95 www.wildernesspress.com

In 2004 the authors began a six-month journey to hike the length of the pacific Crest Trail with their ten-year-old daughter. Their family adventures comes to life in ZERO DAYS, which recounts their physical and mental challenges, the special obstacles and benefits which were derived from making a family effort, and their newfound discovery of family values. An inspiring read of physical and mental challenge, ZERO DAYS is a wonderful addition to any general-interest library, whether it be a collection specializing in outdoors and nature books or one catering to parents.

Where Men Hide
James B. Twitchell
Columbia University Press
61 West 62nd Street, New York, NY 10023-7015
9780231137355, $19.95 www.columbia.edu/cu/cup

Ken Ross' black and white photos pepper an excellent survey of male habitats and their diminishing appearance and qualities, considering the history of 'virtual caves' men have gone to escape, bond, or conduct business. Major historical and literary figures and their escape routes are considered in a survey of mythical and historical places which considers the past and present of male haunts and retreats. Any library strong in sociology at the college level will find this an important acquisition.

The Way of the Explorer
Dr. Edgar Mitchell with Dwight Williams
New Page Books
Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
9781564149770, $16.99 www.newpagebooks.com

In February 1971 Apollo 14 astronaut Edgar Mitchell sensed the deliberate plan in the creation of the cosmos and space: for over thirty years he would explore the mystery of human consciousness, leaving NASA to form the Institute of Noetic Sciences and researching a theory that could explain consciousness and science alike. His memoir comes to life in THE WAY OF THE EXPLORER: AN APOLLO ASTRONAUT'S JOURNEY THROUGH THE MATERIAL AND MYSTICAL WORLDS, which appears in a revised edition to appeal to new audiences.


The Parenting Shelf

Key Porter Books
Six Adelaide Street East, 10th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5C 1H6, Canada
www.keyporter.com

Two excellent picks offer parents a fine set of activities guides perfect for sharing in play. Dr. Roni Cohen Leiderman and Dr. Wendy Masi's 365 ACTIVITIES YOU AND YOUR CHILD WILL LOVE: PLAY IDEAS TO THRILL YOUR THRIVING PRESCHOOLER! (9781552638611) packs in hundreds of ideas for kids between the ages of 3 and 6: play topics which improve logical thinking, introduce kids to science and promote a better vocabulary, and teach math, reading, and more. Parents will find these tips easy to duplicate and offer a rich introduction into the learning potentials of play. Gymboree's A TO Z ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS: ENRICH YOUR CHILD'S WORLD OF PLAY WITH FUN ACTIVITY CARDS (9781552639276) offers a series of creative activities and illustrations on thick activity cards accompanied by a play guide. Ages 1-4 years will find these activity cards bright, durable and compelling.


The Music Shelf

The Musician's Guide to the Road
Susan Voelz
Billboard Books
c/o Watson-Guptill
770 Broadway, New York NY 10003
9780823077762, $16.95

Touring musicians and those wishing a glimpse into the experiences of an artist's life on the road will find Susan Voelz's THE MUSICIAN'S GUIDE TO THE ROAD: A SURVIVAL HANDBOOK AND ALL-ACCESS BACKSTAGE PASS TO TOURING a fine reference reflecting the author's years of road experience with John Mellencamp and other famous acts. The focus is on how to prepare for and conduct a tour, and covers everything from leasing a tour bus and understanding bus etiquette to getting paid, road romances, and a return to off-road living. Any musician contemplating hitting the road, and any library catering to musicians, must have this.

Greenwood Press
88 Post Road West, Westport, CT 06881
www.greenwood.com 1-800-225-5800

The two-volume collaborative work of Scott Schinder and Andy Schwartz, ICONS OF ROCK: AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF THE LEGENDS WHO CHANGED MUSIC FOREVER (9780313338465, $175.00) is a top pick for any college-level music library strong in contemporary music. Part of the 'Greenwood Icons' series, it offers a comprehensive encyclopedia of the musicians who 'changed music forever', ranging from Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry to David Bowie, Bob Dylan and more. Each featured musician receives extensive notes relating their body of work and contributions to the atmosphere of popular music as a whole, making for an invaluable survey for scholars, students, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the history and history-makers of rock music. Also very highly recommended as a companion acquisition for American Music History reference collections is the Greewood Press edition of ICONS OF R&B AND SOUL: AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF TH ARTISTS WHO REVOLUTIONIZED RHYTHM (9780313340451, $175), compiled and edited by Bob Gulla and providing an excellent, two-volume, in-depth survey of musicians and their contributions to changing the atmosphere of rock and soul music. Each featured musician receives a biographical coverage, a history of hits, social issues of their times affecting their music, a discography and more. An outstanding survey recommended for any music library strong in popular and soul music.

Herbert von Karajan: A Life in Pictures
Jurgen Otten
Amadeus Press
c/o Hal Leonard
19 West 21st Street Suite 201, New York NY 10010
9781574671650, $49.95 www.hallleonard.com

HERBERT VON KARAJAN: A LIFE IN PICTURES is a recommended pictorial biography which shares the experiences of a flamboyant conductor, and which is a recommended pick for any music library in general and particularly those catering to classical music fans. Photos follow the career of the conductor, from his childhood to his last days, and follow his rise to fame and the appearances that made him famous. It's a gorgeous presentation indeed, suitable for coffee tables and library shelf alike.


The Art Shelf

Edge of the Sublime
Jamie Bennett
Hudson Hills Press
Box 205, Manchester, VT 05254
1555952844, $50.00 www.hudsonhills.com

American enamelist Jamie Bennett established an international reputation in 1986 when he produced a line of jewelry using electroformed shapes and rich colors and blended in cultural influences from Morocco, Turkey and more. This catalog represents a retrospective exhibition sponsored by Fuller Craft Museum of Brockton, Massachusetts and pairs three introductory essays with a discussion of the artist's work and life. An exhibition history and bibliography round out the presentation of color photo displays, making for a top pick art libraries in general and those interested in jewelry will find engrossing.


The Computer Shelf

Cisco Networking Simplified, 2nd Edition
Jim Doherty, Neil Anderson & Paul Della Maggiora
Cisco Press
800 East 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240
1587201992, $39.99 www.ciscopress.com

Cisco reference libraries and those catering to Cisco operators will find engrossing this updated visual explanation of modern networking technologies in general and Cisco's networking capabilities in particular. Students and IT professionals receive a visual display packed with color diagrams and clear explanations which examine networking from small to large systems, discussing how they work, how to build and design superior networks, and how to secure them. Highly recommended for any college-level collection where Cisco networks and systems are discussed.

Networking with Microsoft Windows Vista
Paul McFedries
Que Publishing
c/o Pearson Technology Group
801 East 96th Street, #300, Indianapolis, IN 46240-3759
0789737779, $39.99 www.quepublishing.com

Computer libraries strong on Windows Vista networking for beginners will relish this fine guide to creating, configuring and administering a small network using Windows Vista computers, making it a pick capable of crossing boundaries into the small library's reference holding as well. From how to assess and purchase network hardware to putting routers, cable and connections to work, Networking with Microsoft Windows Vista holds everything needed to create a secure computer network, and includes intermediate networking tasks from making remote connections to troubleshooting typical problems.

Software Teamwork
Jim Brosseau
Addison-Wesley
75 Arlington Street, Suite 300, Boston, MA 02116
0321488903, $39.99 www.awprofessional.com

SOFTWARE TEAMWORK: TAKING OWNERSHIP FOR SUCCESS is a practical guide to improving the human interactions which go into software development. Years of work with a range of teams contribute to tester/developer author Jim Brosseau's expertise and insights. His book shows how to take small, tested routines and strategies and apply them to the whole team and its wider purposes, making for a set of realistic development routines which provide solid results. Business and computer libraries alike need his approach to software team development.


The Science Shelf

Digital Astrophotography
Stefan Seip
RockyNook
26 West Mission Street Suite 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-2432
9781933952161, $29.95 www.rockynook.com

DIGITAL ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY: A GUIDE TO CAPTURING THE COSMOS covers all the basics of astrophotogaphy, from choosing equipment and obtaining sharp images to taking lovely night shots with a digital camera and tripod setup and using a webcam to get planet images. All levels of astrophotography are covered in a guide perfect for both photography and science libraries at all levels of interest, with color examples throughout supplementing step-by-step directions, tips, and overviews.

Exploding Disk Cannons, Slimemobiles and 32 Other Projects for Saturday Science
Neil A. Downie
Johns Hopkins University Press
2715 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218
0801885078, $19.95 www.press.jhu.edu

Laser light shows, the rice grain ski jump, and other offbeat science experiments provide Saturday scientists with new ways to test theories. Here are a range of wacky offbeat science experiments and projects many an adult is sure to appreciate, also: from magnetic valveless valves to a Victorian amplifier. This pick is recommended for middle to high school libraries and for any public library seeking something different - with a broader appeal - in the way of science project handbooks.

Maxwell's Equations and the Principles of Electromagnetism
Richard Fitzpatrick
Infinity Science Press
11 Leavitt Street, Hingham, MA 02043
9781934015209, $69.95 www.infinitysciencepress.com

College-level and advanced electromagnetism courses and electrical engineers alike will find Maxwell's Equations and the Principles of Electromagnetism an excellent introduction to Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves. It provides a survey of vector field theory and covers everything from retarded fields to antenna theory and Faraday rotation, pairing discussions and science with plenty of examples and calculations suitable for college-level students.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Before Dallas
Nicholas P. Cafardi
Paulist Press
997 Macarthur Boulevard, Mahwah, NJ 07430
0809105802, $27.95 www.paulistpress.com

The American Catholic church faces its greatest challenges from the clergy sexual abuse scandal and its ongoing impact in modern times, even though it has long recognized the problem over its long history. Canon law has been devised to handle such cases, but modern Church leaders favor therapeutic solutions over such precedents - and BEFORE DALLAS: THE U.S. BISHOPS' RESPONSE TO CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN examines these solutions and their lasting effects on victims, social and spiritual mores alike.


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

Bear/Inner Traditions
One Park Street, Rochester, VT 05767
www.innertraditions.com

John Michell's THE DIMENSIONS OF PARADISE: SACRED GEOMETRY, ANCIENT SCIENCE, AND THE HEAVENLY ORDER ON EARTH (1594771987, $16.95) describes the new science of a geometrical code of 'harmonies and proportions devised by the priests of ancient Egypt and underlying sacred structures from ancient to Christian times. Author John Mitchell is a pioneer researcher and specialist in ancient science: his book is a top pick for New Age libraries interested in sacred geometry. Melissa K. Nelson's ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS: INDIGENOUS TEACHINGS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE (1591430798, $18.00) will appeal both to New Age and Native American collections, following the relationships between biological ecosystems and human cultures and using indigenous storytelling traditions to present ideas from the annual Bioneers conference, a yearly meeting of environmentalists and social visionaries. Teaching follow ideas on community, creation, kinship and ecology and make for an eye-opening survey of sacred geography and a spirit-driven world. John Chambers' VICTOR HUGO'S CONVERSATIONS WITH THE SPIRIT WORLD: A LITERARY GENIUS'S HIDDEN LIFE (1594771820, $18.95) is for collections strong in either New Age spirituality or parapsychology. It focuses on Victor Hugo's exile on the island of Jersey, where he and his friends escaped the reign of Napoleon III and where he transcribed hundreds of channeled conversations with various incarnate energies from beyond. New age collections will find it an intriguing addition.

Schiffer Publishing
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com

Three outstanding new 'Ghost' titles are top picks for any collection strong in ghost accounts and spirit exposes. Dr. Hans Holzer's THE SPIRIT CONNECTION (9780764328923, $14.95) teaches the scientific method behind the premise that the 'other side' exists, providing the insights of an early ghost hunter who has written over a hundred books on the topic. Documented cases and supportive scientific facts lends to Dr. Holzer's view of passing. Alexandra Holzer's GROWING UP HAUNTED: A GHOSTLY MEMOIR (9780764328954, $14.95) comes from the daughter of the famous ghost hunter and relates her 'haunted life' with her father and her countess mother. Their lives and belief systems permeated her life: any already fascinated by Dr. Holzer's discoveries will find these insights on his life and approach equally fascinating. Mimi Uptergrove's ANN ARBOR AREA GHOSTS (9780764328503, $14.95) is for any Michigan collection or any ghostly library holding interested in regional oddities. It offers tips on the histories and mysteries of Ann Arbor area ghosts, charting stories narrated by residents and peppering black and white photos throughout. All are top picks for any library where ghost stories are appreciated by patrons.


The Education Shelf

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

Current research shows a positive relationship between successful professional learning communities and student achievement, and Shirley M. Hord and William A. Sommers's LEADING PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES (9781412944779, $31.95) is directed to educators who wish to develop a PLC program to enhance both. Chapters include quotes, common obstacles, and learning activities to reinforce lessons in leadership and school culture for students and educators alike. An excellent guide highly recommended for working professional educators. The second edition of Mike Milstein and Doris Annie Henry's LEADERSHIP FOR RESILIENT SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES (9781412955942, $33.95) is a practical, powerful guide to creating healthier school environments, offering an interactive workbook format packed with successful strategies. The workbook builds on the first edition, updating exercises, case studies, and reproducibles in a workbook format perfect for practicing school leaders and teachers. A fine pick for any teacher's library. Lew Smith's SCHOOLS THAT CHANGE (9781412949521, $38.95) profiles some eight schools cross the country using specific examples and insights on how change happens. From measuring change and analyzing why some schools change while others don't to developing professional approaches to foster change, this guide will reach principles and school leaders interested in using solid strategies for effecting change. Robert Ramsey's DON'T TEACH THE CANARIES NOT TO SING: CREATING A SCHOOL CULTURE THAT BOOSTS ACHIEVEMENT (9781412948944, $28.95) is an outstanding analysis of what 'school culture' is, how it works, and why it's important to develop. Student performance and staff efforts pair with parental engagement and community support in such a process, creating a 'culture' which is dynamic, interactive and positive: here's how to build it, with real-world examples adding vision and insights. Cicely Anne Rude's HOW TO SUCCEED AS A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER: EVERYTHING YOU NEED FROM START TO FINISH (9781412944755, $23.95) packs in details to help substitute teachers create a positive learning experience in a new or temporary classroom setting. From eight key tips for classroom management to details on networking, pay, permits and more, substitutes receive plenty of tested and real-world examples both inside and outside the classroom environment. Roger Pierangelo and George Giuliani's 100 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR EDUCATORS (9781412917902, $25.95) is for K-12 special education teachers and any teacher interested in the process: it uses an easy question/answer format to examine concepts of special education strategies, program eligibility, safeguards, transitions from school to adult life, and evaluation procedures. The result is an essential pick for any library including special education topics in its collection. Randi Stone's BEST PRACTICES FOR TEACHING WRITING: WHAT AWARD-WINNING CLASSROOM TEACHERS DO (9781412924610, $22.95) gathers models for success from classrooms and tested best practices for elementary to high school learners, condensing these tips into a guide which shows how to successfully teach all levels of students. Ideas and lesson plans that produce clear results make for an excellent teacher's handbook and education library reference. Allan G. Harrison and Richard K. Coll edit USING ANALOGIES IN MIDDLE AND SECONDARY SCIENCE CLASSROOMS (9781412913331, $36.95) and comes from a team of science experts who offer over 40 teacher-friendly analogies for biology, chemistry, physics and earth and space studies. Teachers not only receive analogies: they receive details on how they work, when, why, and how to use these models to further an understanding of scientific foundations. JOYFUL LEARNING: ACTIVE AND COLLABORATIVE LEARNING IN INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS (9781412941747, $30.95) by Alice Udvari-Solner and Paula Kluth provides a resource for K-12 teachers who wish to create an active, collaborative learning environment. Here is a blend of classroom theory with applied facts, using classroom-tested examples and clear guidelines to help teachers create and assess the results of such an environment. From assisting individual learners to integrating results into a wider classroom atmosphere, JOYFUL LEARNING offers many specifics, making it a perfect pick for practicing teachers. Rona F. Flippo's PREPARING STUDENTS FOR TESTING AND DOING BETTER IN SCHOOL (9781412953740, $33.95) is another essential pick for any education collection. It packs in charts, checklists, Internet resources and sample exercises for teachers to use with students, using research-based practices to help students develop more effective study and organizational skills. From preparing for SAT and other exams to taking tests more effectively, PREPARING STUDENTS FOR TESTING is packed with clear strategies making this a 'must' both for practicing educators and education libraries catering to them. Susan Penny Gray and William A. Streshly's FROM GOOD SCHOOLS TO GREAT SCHOOLS: WHAT THEIR PRINCIPALS DO WELL (9781412948999, $31.95) provides school leaders with a formula for examining school leadership and change. From qualities which are shared by superior schools and leaders to applying leadership principles and school-tested routines, FROM GOOD SCHOOLS TO GREAT SCHOOLS is packed with insights.


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Spiritual Relationships
Paramhansa Yogananda
Crystal Clarity Publishers
14618 Tyler Foote Road, Nevada City, CA 95959
9791565892248, $8,85 www.crystalclarity.com

Learn how to attract better friendships and mates using the ancient yoga ideas by Yogananda in SPIRITUAL RELATIONSHIPS: THE WISDOM OF YOGANANDA, VOLUME 3, a thoroughly 'user friendly' guide to how yoga principles can actually help relationships grow and thrive. Paramhansa Yogananda's keys to understanding yoga's underlying philosophy teaches how to cure bad habits, expand love boundaries, and understand relationship problems. New age libraries and Metaphysical Studies reference collections will welcome the focus.

Remembering in a World of Forgetting
William Stoddart
World Wisdom Inc.
1501 E. Hillside Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
9781933316468, $21.95 www.worldwisdom.com

REMEMBERING IN A WORLD OF FORGETTING: THOUGHTS ON TRADITION AND POSTMODERNISM includes nine previously unpublished articles by Stoddart, extracts from previously unpublished private writings, and a biography of Stoddart, edited by Mateus Soaresde Azevedo and Alberto Vasconcellos Queiroz, as it explores Tradition and the truths of intellect and religion. Any serious spirituality or philosophy library will find it packed with words of wisdom and insight.

A Christian Pilgrim in India
Harry Oldmeadow
World Wisdom Inc.
1501 E. Hillside Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
9781933316451, $22.95 www.worldwisdom.com

A CHRISTIAN PILGRIM IN INDIA: THE SPIRITUAL JOURNEY OF SWAMI ABHISHIKTANANDA offers an excellent set of insights into the spirituality and writings of a missionary and ashram pioneer which builds on the biographical studies of Le Saux and probes the insights of his legacy. Libraries strong in Eastern religion and missionary experience will find it an excellent survey packed with quotes and source material references.


The Law/Justice Shelf

American Juries: The Verdict
Neil Vidmar & Valerie P. Hans
Prometheus Books
59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2119
9781591025887, $32.95 www.prometheusbooks.com

While the right to a trail by jury of peers is a basic American freedom, in reality civil juries have been found to be biased, irresponsible and incompetent. This volume reviews some fifty years of civil and criminal juries and considers arguments pro and con about the civil jury system. The verdict is a surprising support for the jury system process, comes from scholars of the jury system, and provides both background history and modern perspective, analyzing the key facts central to the jury's decision-making process. This is a key title for any high school to college-level collection strong in American social and political history and civil rights, or basic law.


The Military Shelf

Commander in Chief
Geoffrey Perret
Farrar Straus Giroux
19 Union Square West, New York NY 10003
9780374531270, $15.00 www.fsgbooks.com

COMMANDER IN CHIEF: HOW TRUMAN, JOHNSON, AND BUSH TURNED A PRESIDENTIAL POWER INTO A THREAT TO AMERICA'S FUTURE is a powerful history linking expanding presidential powers to unwinnable wars. The three selected presidents profiled here each share the attribute of confronting wars that no American force could win. How they reacted would change the shape of politics, executive powers and freedoms in America, making COMMANDER IN CHIEF a top recommendation above the usual military library. Public libraries also will find the blend of military history and biography, with its focus on civil liberties, to be essential reading.

Wars of the Americas, 2nd Edition
David F. Marley
ABC-CLIO
Box 1911, Santa Barbara, CA 93116-1911
9781598841008, $195.00 www.abc-clio.com

WARS OF THE AMERICAS: A CHRONOLOGY OF ARMED CONFLICT IN THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE appears in its 2nd updated edition to appeal to a range of collections, from public libraries strong in military history and specialty military history collections to general-interest collections. There are thousands of entries in two complete volumes covering important battles and confrontations of every major war in the Western Hemisphere for the last 500 years, with over 200 sidebars of detailed information on leaders and equipment, 90 maps following battles and invasions, and nearly three hundred illustrations of campaigns and everyday life. The result is an outstanding collection.


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Nutrition by the Numbers
Christopher E. Ramsden, MD
Applied Nutritional Biochemistry
1136 Bellewood Square, Atlanta, GA 30338-4047
9780979651502, $18.95 www.theNQI.com

Nutritional biochemistry is here provided in a language any lay reader can understand as it covers the NQI food ratings, which are tied to a food's molecular contents. Dr. Ramsden's eating guide uses a scientific rating system to reveal how nutrition may actually be measured - and provides charts and chapters backing his ideas. Any library interested in nutritional analysis will find this most accessible.

Do No Harm
Stewart Justman
Ivan R. Dee Publisher
1332 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60622-2694
1566636272, $26.00 www.ivanrdee.com

DO NO HARM: HOW A MAGIC BULLET FOR PROSTATE CANCER BECAME A MEDICAL QUANDARY explores a modern medical detective mystery revolving around finasteride, a 'magic bullet' proven to reduce the incidence of prostate cancer dramatically. The same clinical trial also showed it was associated with a higher rate of aggressive cancer, negating its benefits. DO NO HARM is more than study of one drug's pros and cons; it outlines the drug marketing and research industry and the medical dilemmas of treatments which harm as well as help. Both general interest and medical libraries will find it an excellent choice for either leisure readers or medical students.

10 Steps to Better Living With Diabetes
Ginger Kanzer-Lewis, RN, BC, EDM, CDE
American Diabetes Association
1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311
1580402593, $16.95 www.diabetes.org

When a person is first diagnosed with diabetes it brings many changes and demands a healthier lifestyle - which often holds its own challenges. TEN STEPS TO BETTER LIVING WITH DIABETES provides the newly diagnosed diabetic with an easy A-Z focus on how to take control of health. Case studies, charts, letters from diabetes pros and patients, and a host of resources eliminate much of the confusion a diagnosis typically brings, making this a pick any public lending library needs.

Acupressure Taping
Hans-Ulrich Hecker, MD and Kay Liebchen, MD
Healing Arts Press
c/o Inner Traditions
Box 388, Rochester, VT 05767
1594771480, $16.95 www.HealingArtsPress.com

Any who suffer from chronic pain know that drugs and physical therapy - the common treatments for ailing backs - often don't do the job. Here's a guide to a new method of pain treatment - acutaping - which offers an easier alternative, involving an elastic cotton tape placed over painful muscles and joints. The taping directions here are designed to stimulate related acupuncture points as well as apply acupressure and massage science to the mix. Any bodywork health library needs this.


The Cookbook Shelf

The Professional Bartender's Handbook
Valerie Mellema
Atlantic Publishing Company
1405 SW 6th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471
9780910627955, $21.95 www.atlantic-pub.com

Collections catering to culinary professionals, especially bartenders, will find here an excellent handbook which offers tips and tricks to running a bar, big or small. From recipes for nearly 1,500 different cocktails, shooters and even some non-alcoholic drinks to tips on developing drink promotions and refining presentation, The Professional Bartender's Handbook should be on the shelves of any library catering to food professionals.

Little Box of Quilter's Chocolate Desserts
That Patchwork Place
Martingale & Company
20205 - 144th Avenue, NE, Woodinville, WA 98072-8478
9781564777959, $19.95 www.martingale-co.com

Pair chocolate dessert recipes with the quilt blocks that inspired them and you have a fine blend of some 20 chocolate pies, cakes and more that go well with 20 block 'recipes' of easy diagrams. Cooks will find this as appealing as quilters, making this a fine gift-giving choice for that quilter-cook who loves both hobbies.

Tibetan Cooking
Elizabeth Esther Kelly
Snow Lion Publications
605 West State Street, Box 6483, Ithaca, NY 14850
1559392622, $19.95 www.snowlionpub.com

TIBETAN CUISINE is the first book of Tibetan cuisine to offer a range of dishes from traditional home cooking to celebratory recipes for religious ceremonies. From a Jalapeno and Blue Cheese condiment dish to easy Egg Soup and Steamed Greens, dishes are accompanied by discussions of Tibetan culture and ceremonies.


The Jobs/Careers Shelf

Getting a Job in Architecture and Design
David W. Patterson
W.W. Norton & Company
500 - 5th Avenue, New York NY 10010
9780393732177, $25.00 www.wworton.com

Some designers look for jobs and some get good ones, so any collection catering to job seekers and design or architecture pros needs Getting a Job in Architecture and Design, a survey of the special hunting techniques applicable to architects and design students alike. From basic industry job possibilities to researching companies and preparing resumes, Getting a Job in Architecture and Design provides industry-specific tips not available elsewhere.


The Business Shelf

Looks
Gordon L. Patzer, Ph.D.
Amacom
1601 Broadway, New York NY 10019
0814480543, $23.00 www.amacombooks.org

College-level collections strong in social science, business and psychology alike will appreciate LOOKS: WHY THEY MATTER MORE THAN YOU EVER IMAGINED, a review of the history and modern research surrounding appearance. From how medical personnel give more attention to healthy babies to how teachers except better-looking children to perform better, LOOKS delves into the underlying influences on success - and dispels many myths. General-interest collections will also find it a popular pick.

The World's Business Cultures and How to Unlock Them
Barry Tomalin and Mike Nicks
Thorogood
c/o Stylus Publishing
P.O. Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172-0605
1854183699, $24.95 www.thorogoodpublishing.co.uk

Why do business negotiations between people of different cultures often turn into disasters? Even between countries which seem similar, such communications often fail - and so here a model is presented for unlocking all world business cultures, based on a blend of knowledge about cultural information, behavior patterns, values, preferences and common areas of cultural difference affecting communication. Chapters offer a step-by-step survey of knowledge and cultural awareness covering behavior patterns and common communication challenges, and come from a cross-cultural consultant and media coach who provide experienced insights. Business libraries will find this an essential pick.

Optimizing Luck
Thomas Meylan and Terry Teays
Davies-Black Publishers
1055 Joaquin Road, 2nd Floor, Mountain View, CA 94043
9780891062226, $27.95 www.daviesblack.com

Disasters happen and the key to business success often lies in being flexible enough to respond to emergencies. OPTIMIZING LUCK provides the tools and techniques for creating a corporate culture that nurtures customer satisfaction and peak performance regardless of emergencies and changes. The authors have created one of the longest-lasting astronomy satellite projects and in this profile they combine their science knowledge with business management techniques to provide an analysis of business success.


The Travel Shelf

The Traveler's Web
Randolph Hock
CyberAge Books
c/o Information Today, Inc.
143 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, NJ 08055
9780910965750, $19.95, www.infotoday.com 1-800-300-9868

Any traveler knows the internet is packed with important destination resources; but the trick is wading through the Web to locate the best information - and that's where THE TRAVELER'S WEB: AN EXTREME SEARCHER GUIDE comes in. Chapters provide both general and country-specific guides to travel by plane, train, ferry or foot, and offer special sections for seniors, handicapped and special needs travelers. Explanations of different kinds of reservation sites and processes offers clear definitions of opportunities around the world.


The Antiques/Collectibles Shelf

Authenticating Ancient Indian Artifacts
Jim Bennett
Collector Books
P.O. Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002-3009
9781574325553, $29.95 www.collectorbooks.com

Any collection strong in Native American history, studies or early artifacts will welcome AUTHENTICATING ANCIENT INDIAN ARTIFACTS: HOW TO RECOGNIZE REPRODUCTION AND ALTERED ARTIFACTS. Color photos of artifacts accompany clear directions on the entire authentication and identification process, making for a fine choice for college-level archaeology collections as well.

Complete Price Guide to Watches, 2008
Richard E. Gilbert, Tom Engle, Cooksey Shugart
Tinderbox
c/o Collector Books
Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002-3009
1574325922, $29.95 www.tinderboxpress.com

Thousands of price changes in watches new to this edition make the No. 28 version of COMPLETE PRICE GUIDE TO WATCHES an essential reference for any collection seeking the latest, updated values. Here is an annual 'mini-encyclopedia' packed with over 1,200 pages featuring over 10,000 watches. Small black and white photos accompany detailed descriptions of makers, clues to watch dating and valuation, insights on production standards and manufacturing, and listings of all kinds of watches divided by type, from wrist watches to pocket watches. A 'must have' for any serious watch collector or library catering to such.

A Guide Book of Lincoln Cents
Q. David Bowers
Whitman Publishing
2101 Clairmont Road Suite C. Atlanta, GA 30329
0794822649, $19.95 www.whitmanbooks.com

Coin collectors who are gathering Lincoln cents have lots to work with and understand: it's the country's longest-running coin series. This official guide covers its history, rarity, values, grading and many varieties as the coin nears its 100th anniversary and most importantly, discusses some of the greatest challenges to coin collecting. Tips on buying, selling, and grading a Lincoln cents collection makes for a fine market analysis for all dates and mintmarks, and even includes an appendix on error coins. Any library strong in coin collecting at any level must have this reference.


The Audiobook Shelf

At Knit's End
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee
Highbridge Audio Books
201 Sixth Street SE, Suite 220, Minneapolis, MN 55414
9781598875201, $19.95 www.highbridgeaudio.com

AT KNIT'S END: MEDITATIONS FOR WOMEN WHO KNIT TOO MUCH is narrated by the author and provides an excellent survey of humorous and experienced 'meditations' for any avid knitter listener. Her reflections on a knitter's odd habits and tangled life are spicy and funny and translate exceptionally well to audio format, making this a top pick for any library catering to both knitters and audio listeners.

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

Robertson Dean lends an experienced and smooth voice to this story of Mark in Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins's The Jesus Chronicles: Mark's Story (9780143142478, $34.95), who about to witness some of the most pivotal events in human history on Jesus' last day alive as a man. In the years following Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection Mark finds himself following the words and teachings of one Peter, becoming a disciple of Jesus and his works. MARK'S STORY follows his life and brings the Biblical saga to life. Sonja Lyubomirsky's THE HOW OF HAPPINESS: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO GETTING THE LIFE YOU WANT (9780143142973, $34.95) is narrated by the author and draws on research with thousands of men and women, offering up a concrete plan to increase daily happiness both long- and short-term. From a self-quiz which helps hone values to ideas of intentional activities to achieve a happier life, psychologist Lyubomirsky provides an assessment and program backed by science, not theory. Any audio collection will find it a popular lend. Stuart Woods' BEVERLY HILLS DEAD (9780143142898, $29.95) receives Tony Roberts' excellent Broadway acting background as it tells of one Rick, a former Beverly Hills police officer immersed in Hollywood glamour and style, who runs into a Red Scare and a search for espionage behind Hollywood's facade. Underworld events and shady happenings mark a vivid story that comes to life in audio. Michael Pollan's IN DEFENSE OF FOOD: AN EATER'S MANIFESTO (9780143142744, $29.95) receives actor Scott Brick's excellent narrative skills as it provides a survey of 'real food' of the past, its need for defense - or not - and the changing dietary challenges Americans face as they shop for and choose foods. From the political and social impact of Western dietary habits to connections between higher nutrition awareness and lowered health, IN DEFENSE OF FOOD is an ear-opening manifesto.

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

Ed Greenwood's DARK LORD (1423348915, $38.95) provides an excellent narration by veteran Christopher Lane as it tells of author Rod, who finds himself trapped in his own world after he loses control of his scene and creation. It's up to him to embark on a journey to fight a self-created darkness in DARK LORD, the first installment in The Falconfar Saga. Karen Marie Moning's THE HIGHLANDER'S TOUCH (1423341406, $29.95) benefits from veteran narrator Phil Gigante's voice as it tells of Lisa, a 21st-century woman who falls into another century into the hands of a mighty Scottish warrior with immortal powers. Tragedy, battle and romance blend in a thought-provoking timeslip fantasy perfect for science fiction and fantasy collections. Raymond Aaron and sue Lacher's DOUBLE YOUR INCOME DOING WHAT YOU LOVE (1423359801, $26.95) receives Jim Bond's fine rendition as it reveals the investment coach's tricks for making more money from a better pursuit. Six pathways to achievement are revealed in a system that shows how to set goals in all six categories every month - and how to identify what a life mission could be. The result is a survey which sets out, refines and organizes tools for a better income and lifestyle alike. Laurell K. Hamilton's A LICK OF FROST (1423340396, $36.95) receives veteran Laurel Merlington's smooth and gripping style as it tells of Meredith Gentry, caught between faerie and human worlds. How can a princess in faerie world and a private investigator in another be crowned queen and continue to fill roles in both worlds? A fine blend of fantasy and intrigue will delight any collection strong in either fantasy or mystery audios. Linda L. Richards' DEATH WAS THE OTHER WOMAN (1423349695, $29.95) provides veteran narrator Joyce Bean's smooth and compelling style as it tells of one Kitty, who needs a job and finds her hands full as a secretary to a tough PI in a challenging world. Kitty's efforts to keep her boss - and her salary - safe result in some dangerous action perfect for fans of the gritty hard-boiled detective listen.

Fifth Horseman
James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Time Warner Audio
135 West 50th Street, New York NY 10020
1600242525, $14.98 www.twbookmark.com/audiobooks

Carolyn McCormick's background as an actress lends drama and style to her audio narration of another Women's Murder Club mystery, this revolving around a young mother's sudden death in a hospital and a spurt of hospital deaths which brings the Club on the case. A dangerous court battle and a dangerous underlying set of influences brings murder and apocalypse to the forefront in a fine thriller suitable for any audio listener.

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

Joyce Meyer's NEW DAY NEW YOU: DEVOTIONS FOR ENJOYING EVERYDAY LIFE (1600240348, $29.98) receives Sandra McCollom's fine voice as it provides a review of daily strategies for keeping touch with God. Her devotional collection offers added impact in audio format and is a pick for Christian listeners and libraries. Ian Rankin's THE NAMING OF THE DEAD (1600240976, $14.98) receives James Gale's award-winning voice and theatre training as it tells of Inspector Rebus, who begins work on a simple suicide case during a pre-conference dinner at Edinburgh Castle and finds his probe leads to some dangerous and unexpected venues of higher power and murder. Politics and drama come to life in this audio drama, a recommended pick for any collection strong in audio murder thrillers.


The Judaic Studies Shelf

Abraham's Journey
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik
KTAV
930 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
9781602800045, $25.00 www.ktav.com

ABRAHAM'S JOURNEY is the ninth in the series MeOtzar HoRav: Selected Writings of Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik, and focuses on the life and spirituality of the founding father of the Jewish people. His history and faith is revealed through an analysis of Biblical verses, rereadings of classical commentary, and revelations that will please any Judaic studies library.


The Literary Shelf

Jack Kerouac's American Journey
Paul Maher Jr.
DaCapo Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
11 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142
1560259914, $16.00 www.thundersmouthpress.com

JACK KEROUAC'S AMERICAN JOURNEY: THE REAL-LIFE ODYSSEY OF 'ON THE ROAD' is a 'must' for any library including Kerouac's fiction. It celebrates the 50th anniversary of ON THE ROAD and provides a biography of the book and its popularity, considering Kerouac's objectives, style, and influence and following his travels throughout the U.S. between 1947 and 1951. In providing a survey of the real people and experiences which helped shape ON THE ROAD, this offers many important keys to understanding and will prove an essential acquisition for high school to public libraries featuring Kerouac's works.


The Theatre/Cinema Shelf

An Actor's Work
Konstantin Stanislavski
Routledge
270 Madison Avenue, New York NY 10016
9780415422239, $35.00 www.taylorandfrancisgroup.com

Jean Benedetti provides the modern translation of this classic text on actor training, a recommended pick for any college-level collection strong in drama theory and actor training. His offers a more accurate new translation of the classic, critiquing Method acting and its legacy and putting Stanislavski's two-volume work back under one cover as he originally intended. The result is a clearer, more revealing legacy than the prior translation, and deserves a spot in any serious college-level acting library.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Techniques in Large Animal Surgery, 3rd Edition
Dean A. Hendrickson
Blackwell Publishing
2121 State Avenue, Ames, IA 50014-8300
0781782554, $100.00 www.blackwellpublishing.com

College-level collections strong in vet science will find this third edition of a classic surgery text is essential to covering the basic techniques of any large animal surgery, and packs in illustrated, step-by-step techniques for a range of domestic animals. From color illustrations, black and white diagrams and sketches, and equipment lists to descriptions of surgery indicators and new sections on minimally invasive surgery options, this is a technical vet's handbook no animal surgery student should be without.


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Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
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