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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
The Frantic Force
Norman Ball
Petroglyph Books
PO Box 367, Riverside, CA 92501
9780980039665, $14.95, www.normanbell.com
The world is filled with problems, and the only thing we have more of than problems is
solutions. "The Frantic Force" is a collection of essays from Norman Ball as he discusses the
many problems we face. From politics to civil rights, to family, and so much more on top of it,
Ball speaks honestly with a good deal of poignancy for readers. "The Frantic Force" is a choice
pick for anyone looking for humorous yet profound essays on the problems that seem to engulf
our world.
In the Mountains
Yuri K. Shestopaloff
AKVY Press
142 Kennard Ave, Toronto, ON, Canada, M3H 4M5
9780981380056, $9.95, www.shestopaloff.ca
The drive and determination of people sometimes cannot be deterred by the might of nature. "In
the Mountains" is a telling of true events of six mountaineers who travel the border between
Russia and Mongolia, and face the harshness of the winter temperatures that could very easily
turn fatal. With a bit of humor and dedication to life's drive, "In the Mountains" is a fine read for
those seeking stories of true adventure.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Online Book Marketing
Lorraine Phillips
360 Books, LLC
PO Box 105603, #22430
Atlanta, GA 30348-5603
www.3sixtybooks.com
9780982276556, $21.95, www.amazon.com
Just as booksellers must have an online sales ability if they are to survive in today's highly
competitive marketplace, so authors and publishers must have an online publicity, promotion,
and marketing ability if they are to compete successively in the modern world. That's why
Lorraine Phillips "Online Book Marketing: The Least Expensive, Most Effective Ways to Create
Book Buzz" is so timely and so badly needed. This 226-page compendium of observation,
commentary, tips, tricks, techniques, strategies and tactics, covers aspect of online marketing for
books and covers such important and necessary issues as creating a trustworthy brand; search
engine optimization; increasing book sales; establishing credibility; utilizing a web site, blogs,
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube; utilizing online articles, newsletters, audio podcasts,
and videos; maximizing online presence, and so much more. Deftly written and superbly
presented, "Online Book Marketing" should be considered mandatory reading for any author and
all publishers seeking economic viability and financial success for their literary efforts and
publishing endeavors.
The Self-Help Shelf
The IKE Disease
Roger D. Casterline
Eloquent Books
845 Third Avenue, 6th Floor - 6016
New York, NY 10022
9781606937969, $9.95, www.eloquentbooks.com
When you know everything, there's clearly nothing more you can learn from anyone. "The IKE
Disease: Your Name is Tracy" is a parental motivational book for dealing with the dreaded IKE
disease, the 'I Know Everything' disease. Symptoms include being hard to reach and reason with,
but Roger Casterline has plenty of wisdom for breaking through dense skulls and getting some
more wisdom into an overinflated teen ego. "The IKE Disease" is thoughtful and strong reading
for any parent dealing with the dreaded teenager.
7 Pathways to Hope
Adele M. Gill
Millennial Mind Publishing
c/o American Book Publishing
5442 So. 900 East, #146
Salt Lake City, UT 84117-7204
9781589828056, $22.00, www.american-book.com
There are many paths to health. "7 Pathways to Hope" is a faith-driven inspirational guide from
Adele M. Gill who advises readers on how to improve their physical and mental health, to find
hope, and to find faith. Drawing on some medical research on a bigger picture as a whole, as well
as some memoir, "7 Pathways to Hope" is a fine assortment of reading to be considered by
Christian readers who are trying to piece together their lives more effectively.
The Road
Gus Takkale
General Store Publishing House
499 O'Brien Rd., Box 415
Renfrew, ON, Canada, K7V 4A6
9781926962122, $19.95, www.gustakkale.com
Finding one's own path through life can prove rough, but embracing change makes following that
road all the easier. "The Road: A Journey Through the 5C's of Change" is a self-help guide from
Gus Takkale as he guides readers through his own simple wisdom and knowledge as he advises
readers how to find their own hunger and passion for life and dispel whatever may be holding
them back. "The Road" is a simple and to the point read with plenty of advice, highly
recommended.
Learn from Yesterday, Live for Today, Hope for Tomorrow
Barry Parker
Stardust Press
9780976407652, $12.95, www.barryparkerbooks.com
Life goes on, no matter what happens. "Learn form Yesterday, Live for Today, Hope for
Tomorrow" is an inspirational book from Barry Parker who gives readers plenty of general
information on their own pursuits of happiness, in how to pursue their own realistic dreams of
happiness, and set your own terms for victory in life, and the power of positive thinking in
attaining their own youth. "Learn from Yesterday, Live for Today, Hope for Tomorrow" is filled
with thoughtful wisdom and is very solidly recommended reading.
The Hardline Self-Help Handbook
Paula Renaye
Diomo Books
9780967478654, $19.95, www.diomobooks.com
Sometimes it's not always about kind words and gentleness. "The Hardline Self-Help Handbook:
What Are Willing to Do to Get What You Really Want?" is a guide to pushing yourself through
what you don't really want to do, and the power of self tough love. Paula Renaye hopes to inspire
people through ramming through what they need to do with their life, no matter how much they
may dread it. "The Hardline Self-Help Handbook" is of note to anyone who has determined
positive thinking alone isn't going to save them, and wants to push themselves towards the next
step.
Life's Bridges
Lloyd Lowe St., and Ethan Bonar
Brown Books Publishing Group
16200 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 170
Dallas, TX 75248
9781934812587, $25.95, www.brownbooks.com
The American dream is still attainable, but the road is long and hard. "Life's Bridges: Building
Your Bridge to Financial Wealth" is an inspirational guide to financial prosperity from Lloyd
Lowe & Ethan Bonar. A guide to personal finance, they suggest planning a plot to their dreams,
creating a secure path, and reminding that it's never too late to start, and never too late to reassess
one's plans. With plenty of sage wisdom for successful business and life finance, "Life's Bridges"
is an excellent read for anyone who wants to keep a successful financial path through their
life.
No Nonsense Retention
Jeff Kortes
Human Asset Management
PO Box 320294, Milwaukee, WI 53132
9780615404561, $14.95, www.humanassetmgt.com
You can have the best people in the world but if they ditch you because you're an insufferable as
a boss, there's truly no point. "No Nonsense Retention: Painless Strategies to Retain Your Best
People" is a guide to keeping your talent being talented for you. Jeff Kortes, three decade veteran
of human services, advises managers to avoid the things that drive people off. Little things add
up, money isn't everything, size doesn't matter, and how the replacement search will cost you far
more than you think. "No Nonsense Retention" is a must for any business which succeeds or fails
on the power of their people.
Someone to Talk To
Samantha M. White
Yankee Drummer Press
40 Speen Street, Suite 106, Framingham
MA 01701-1898
VBW Publishing
PO Box 9949, College Station, TX 77842
9780983214205, $14.95, www.yankeedrummerpress.com
It can be hard to put the pieces together after the loss of a soulmate. "Someone to Talk To:
Finding Peace, Purpose, and Joy After Tragedy and Loss" is an inspirational memoir from
Samantha M. White, as she reflects on a major tragic chapter in her life which led her to losing
two very close loved ones, and facing betrayal by another. Honest and forward, she comes at
readers with hope that there is something to hope for even after the destruction of one's life.
"Someone to Talk To" is touching and poignant reading, very much recommended for those who
have lost what they hold dear.
Fully Engaged
John Busacker
info@summersidepress.com
B&B Media Group (publicity)
ajjennings@tbbmedia.com
9781609361150, $14.99, www.sumersidenorth.com
Speed isn't everything, and when that's realized, life becomes a lot easier to live. "Fully Engaged:
How To Do Less and Be More" is a motivational book from John Busacker as he advises readers
on how to sit back, realize what matters, streamline your life to free oneself of unnecessary
complications connected to all of it, and embrace what remains as what truly matters and is
worthy of your time. "Fully Engaged" takes a less is more approach to life and advises readers to
the philosophy well, highly recommended.
The Cookbook Shelf
All American Vegan
Jennifer & Nathan Winograd
Almaden
6114 La Salle Ave., #836, Oakland, CA 94611
9780979074332, $29.95, www.allamericanvegan.com
Tofu and a breed of lettuce only grown in Madagascar are not the only options for a vegan diet.
"All American Vegan" is a guide to animal-free cooking that manages to be your standard
American cooking. Just without that meat stuff. Emphasizing the power of substitution and that
going vegan is easier when a meat eater can keep eating their favorite foods, the authors offer
plenty of typical vegan food that is far from what is associated with the bizarre and foreign things
often thumped by hippies and what comes to mind when one thinks vegan. "All American
Vegan" is filled with dishes of every sort of traditional American cuisine, plenty of Vegan
thought and opinion, and arguments why you should become vegan, worth considering for
anyone trying to make the leap to veganism.
Gluten-Free Baking
Phil Vickery
A Firefly Book
PO Box 1338, Ellicott Station
Buffalo, NY 14205
9781554078110, $24.95, www.kylecathie.com
Gluten is something not everyone can digest easily, and it has locked off huge portions of food to
many who are intolerant. Baking is no longer restricted with "Gluten-Free Baking" is a guide for
those who are gluten intolerant to make a huge array of gluten free desserts that are as varied as
anyone else. These dishes will catch the fancy of even those without gluten intolerance will lick
their lips, as Phil Vickery offers many baked goods and sweets that many would hate to live
without. "Gluten-Free Baking" is a strong pick for anyone who loves baking and they themselves
or someone they love is faced with a gluten intolerance.
The Needlecraft Shelf
Everything Crochet
Carol Alexander & Connie Ellison, editors
Annie's Attic
c/o DRG Public Relations
306 E. Parr Rd., Berne, IN 46711
9781596353619, $19.95, www.annieattic.com
Crochet can be a very fun and productive hobby, although getting into it can be intimidating.
"Everything Crochet" is a start up book for those entering crochet as Carol Alexander and Connie
Ellison explain the basics of crochet, what you need to get started, and how to ease into learning
the tricks that allow you create many projects. With the aims of walking novices through more
than the bare basics, they also cover some intermediate and advanced techniques. "Everything
Crochet" is a to the point and comprehensive start up guide for those who want to hit the ground
running with this needlecraft.
The Travel Shelf
Travel Dreams Sold Here
Graydon Gwin
Lyneildon Publishing
111 N. Taylor Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122
9780615360133, $24.95, www.gwins.com
A good vacation is more than a plane trip, hotel, and head back. "Travel Dreams Sold Here:
Crafting an Extraordinary Vacation" is a guide book for those who want to turn their next
vacation into a truly unique experience. Graydon Gwin loves travel among all else, and he offers
his vast experience in seeing the world to show people what he believes are what's needed to
have a truly magnificent adventure around the world, as he discusses lodging, drinks, dining,
transport, and everything else. "Travel Dreams Sold Here" is a thoughtful compilation that
shouldn't be overlooked for anyone who wants their next trip to be something special.
Israel for Beginners
Angelo Colorni
Gefen
600 Broadway, Lynbrook, NY 11563
9789652294838, $16.95, www.gefenpublishing.com
A land filled with irritable people with guns who are never satisfied with anything. Clearly, this
is the holy land. "Israel for Beginners: A Field Guide for Encountering the Israelis in Their
Natural Habitat" is a work of humor and travel as Angelo Colorni hopes to provide readers with a
truly unique embrace of culture that is the people of Israel. With humor from one who has been
living among these strange creatures for nearly forty years, "Israel for Beginners" is a must for
anyone who wants to understand there's more to Israel and Jerusalem than a religious
pilgrimage.
The Political Science Shelf
The Evolution and Destruction of the Original Electoral College
Gary & Carolyn Alder
GCA Ventures
4046 S. 700 W. SLV, UT 84123
9781460979419, $9.95, www.freedomformula.us
What is the electoral college and what has happened to it? "The Evolution and Destruction of the
Original Electoral College" is an elaboration of what the electoral college is, its purpose, and how
its spirit has been corrupted in the modern day by political parties throughout history. A
worthwhile read that describes the electoral process as a whole and what needs to be known
about the problems that we face today, "The Evolution and Destruction of the Original Electoral
College" is a worthy read for those seeking political understanding in today's world.
Save Our System
L. Lynn Clelnad
Two Harbors
212 3rd Avenue North, Suite 290
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Smith Publicity (publicity)
1930 E. Marlton Pike, Suite I-46
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9781936401383, $16.95, www.twoharborspress.com
When politicians are more concerned with staying in power than serving the people, we have an
issue. "Save Our System: Why And How 'We The People' Must Reclaim Our Liberties Now" is a
political call to arms against the career politicians who are corrupting our system and the reality
of many topics in our political discourse. Placing the blame on both parties, he says more than
ever the people's voice needs to be heard. "Save Our System" has a strong message that any
political reader should seriously consider.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Rite of Passage
Victoria Hewitt & Matthew Hewitt
Dalata Press
PO Box 5243, Paris, KY 40362
9781456381615, $12.95, www.thedenebianempire.com
As we thrust forward in advancement, we may very well be taken aback. "The Denebian Empire:
Rite of Passage" is another entry in the Denebian Empire series, a series that blends science
fiction and the medieval. With plenty of intrigue, it follows the unique genre blend with heavy
intrigue in politics, romance, and deception everyone turns. For any fan of science fiction and
fantasy, "Rite of Passage" is a very much recommended pick for those who want a book that will
prove very difficult to put down.
Chaos Unleashed
Barry Hoffman
Edge Chronicles
5307 Arroyo St., Colorado Springs, CO 80922
9781934267240, $12.99, www.shamrachchronicles.com
It's a tough burden but rising to the challenge of protecting one's home is a burden many will
gladly take. "Chaos Unleashed" is the third entry into the Shamra Chronicles following Dara, as
Chaos, an unusual force that exists both as a concept and a true force that is besieging the land.
Dara as she tries to find those who will stand with her will soon find the sad truth is that it will
ultimately all fall on her. "Chaos Unleashed" is a fast paced and deftly crafted fantasy aimed at
young adult readers, that is sure to keep them reading for hours.
The White Light Dawn
L. Bourgaize
Troubadour
c/o Matador
sarah_taylor@troubador.co.uk
9781848765573, $8.99, www.troubadour.co.uk/matador
The everyday grind is not for some people, who want everything they can to change. "The White
Light Dawn" is the fantasy story of a gang of friends who strike out to have said fun, which may
not be fun for everyone they encounter. Offbeat and edgy, they meet plenty of like-minded
individuals and soon find themselves up against what will not only change them, but the world
around them. "The White Light Dawn" is an exciting read that won't be easy to put down, highly
recommended.
Blood Hunter
J. S. Marich
Asylett Press
3616 Devils Three Jump Road
Little Plymouth, VA 23091
9781934337905, $12.16, www.asylettpress.com
As we manage to deal with civil rights to other homo-sapiens, it becomes even more murky when
you add undead rights to the equation. "Blood Hunter: The Eden Blackwell Series" is set in the
near future where vampires, werewolves, and zombies have been exposed to exist and Eden
Blackwell, a young vampire takes up a job as a consultant and vampire hunting much to the
dismay of the other creatures of the night. With a certain flavorful humor and speaking with a
twist of civil rights, "Blood Hunter" is a very much recommended read for those in search of
paranormal fantasy.
Soul Born
Kevin James Breaux
Dark Quest Books
23 Alec Drive, Howell, NJ 07731
9780983099321, $14.95, www.darkquestbooks.com
For success, some can be driven to topple empires. "Soul Born" tells the story of rising magician
Opal, driven to be recognized for her arcane talents. When a warlord seeks to destroy her land,
Opal doesn't despair and instead embraces the opportunity. But no road to recognition is easy, as
she finds allies in elves and hardened war veterans to claim her place. "Soul Born" is a fast paced
and fun world of fantasy, highly recommended reading.
Homecoming
Malcom Dylan Petteway
Rage Books
11906 Oakwood Dr., Woodbridge, VA 22192
9780984364503, $14.50, www.ragebooks.net
Those with the power to decide Earth's fate have been battling for its existence unbeknownst to
everyone who calls it home. "Homecoming" is the first book in the "Osguards: Guardians of the
Universe" series from Malcom Dylan Petteway, telling of an ongoing struggle between the
Osguards who try to protect sixty galaxies from the tyranny of the Kulusk. As vengeance flares
up, it will be up to one Michael Genesis to stand for the Osguard and save the Earth from certain
destruction by the Kulusk empire. "Homecoming" is a fast paced work of science fiction intrigue,
highly recommended.
The Money/Finance Shelf
Women and Money
Patricia M. Annino
Prince Lobel
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 2200
Boston, MA 02114
9781461042327, $21.95, www.princelobel.com
More than ever, America's money may be in the hands of women. "Women and Money: A
Practical Guide to Estate Planning" is a guide to inheritance and women, as Patricia M. Annino
advises women on the legal issues that come in inheritance and understanding the issues that
come with female inheritance, and how to set up legal contingencies for this new money. With
sage advice that anyone should consider, "Women and Money" is a must for any woman who
doesn't want to bungle the money that is coming to them.
Bride and Groom Money Talk FAQ
Taffy Wagner
Money Talk Matters
4677 Ireland Court, Denver, CO 80249
9780976742197, $9.95, www.moneytalkmatters.com
The honeymoon is over once the bills start to roll in. "Bride and Groom Money Talk FAQ:
Financial Advice for Brides and Grooms" is a guide to managing that surge of bills that comes
with being newlyweds, paying for the wedding and other taxes of matrimony. Taffy Wagner
comes to readers with plenty of personal finance advice on how to make this not the source of
constant stress in a young marriage. "Bride and Groom Money Talk FAQ" is a must for any who
wants to avoid spending their married life debt ridden.
The Poetry Shelf
The Unemployed Man Who Became a Tree
Kevin Pilkington
Black Lawrence Press
115 Center Ave, Aspinwall, PA 15215
9780982636466, $14.00, www.blacklawrence.com
Unemployment makes the search for a purpose in life all the more vital. "The Unemployed Man
Who Became a Tree" is a collection of poetry from Kevin Pilkington, who muses on the world in
general and the search for meaning, the efforts to find one's roots in the world and much more.
"The Unemployed Man Who Became a Tree" is a fine assortment of poetry, very much
recommended. "The Distance Between Fog and Times Square": After I moved into my first/
apartment, every time the phone/rang I expected it to be/the voice of a woman sounding/like slow
approaching fog/or a thousand Playboy/magazines. For months/I slept alone under an
old/skylight on the top floor/of a five flight walk up./Every time it stormed raindrops hitting the
glass/sounded like a typewriter/working on another story/until there was a sixth floor./I soon
learned what was real/in the city and what was fake./The ten-inch statue in a shop/window along
times square/could never be the statue in a shop/window along Times Square/could never be the
Statue of Liberty/but did turn out to be the next woman/holding up her arm to hail a cab.
The Woman Who Married Herself
Donna Spector
Evening Street Press
7652 Sawmill Road, #352, Dublin, OH 43016-9296
0982010559, $15.00, www.eveningstreetpress.com
You can love yourself and still have plenty leftover for everyone else. "The Woman Who
Married Herself" is a collection of poetry from Donna Spector as she presents a slew of poetry
with a light hearted yet poignant nature of life and everything else behind it. With plenty to
consider, "The Woman Who Married Herself" is a fine assortment of verse, very much
recommended reading. "Weeds": Weeds crowd together at the end of my yard./Hundreds of them
rustle impatiently/as they strain to climb over the frail wire fence/or knock it down. The weeds
care/little for limits, disdain spring grass/mowed into startling neatness by three smug boys/who
shave the lawn right up to the fence, /stop, haul mowers into an old, black truck/and take off,
they never notice weeds/ lurking like ominous neighbors.
Lines of Flight
Catherine Chandler
Able Muse Press
467 Saratoga Avenue #602, San Jose, CA 95129
9780986533839, $15.95, www.ablemusepress.com
The things preventing us from flourishing are the things we must overcome for our own joy.
"Lines of Flight" is a collection of poetry from Catherine Chandler, her debut, in which she
engages in her art form in order to capture the cruelty of life, and the greatness we aspire to be,
and the beauty that's around us as we struggle. "Lines of Flight" is an excellent debut, and makes
for a very highly recommended poetry anthology. "Gathering": My house was full an hour ago,/a
symphony of harmony and laughter./I shiver at the sound of what's come after--/music, calando,
low/echoes off the walls, a slow/rumor in the wind of real weather/warning me that I must hold
together,/as I arpeggio.
Houses
CB Follett
Arctos Press
PO Box 401, Sausalito, CA 94966
9781893670709, $12.00, www.arctospress.com
What we call home calls many emotions, but no two are the same. "Houses" is a collection of
poetry from CB Follett who discusses the manners of houses, and their many constructions, and
what they mean for us. "Houses" is a thoughtful read with plenty to consider for poetry fans,
highly recommended. "The House Built of Mirrors": This house seemed a natural/but it did not
last. Once/It was completed she could not stand to be inside where all/her selves glittered back at
her/mimicking her every move and she was secretly glad when a/tempest of wind blew them/into
shards of ground cover.
Cloud Birds
Sheila Packa
Wildwood River Press
1748 Wildwood Road, Duluth, MN 55804
9780984377725, $15.00, www.wildwoodriver.com
The changing of seasons, the changing of life seems to move so much faster in the north. "Cloud
Birds" is a collection of poetry from Shelia Packa, a Finnish American woman who calls
Minnesota home, viewing the changing of nature and life as she sees it and always moving.
"Cloud Birds" is an excellent compilation of poetry driven by both humanity and the beauty and
uncertainty of nature. "Cloud Birds": we live on both sides of the border/in two countries/in and
outside each other/bone and blood/in disguise without intention or force/without
blandishments/blown by wind/silent like shadow crossing and crossing/over the boundaries
without end/borne by moon or sun/burnished by wing.
Somewhere Over the Pachyderm Rainbow
Jennifer C. Wolfe
BlazeVox
303 Bedford Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216
9781609640576, $16.00, www.blazevox.org
Some people have become very frustrated with today's political right. "Somewhere Over the
Pachyderm Rainbow: Living in an Elephant-Controlled 2010 Electoral Diorama" is a collection
of politically charged poetry, criticizing the media, criticizing the fear mongering, and going far
away from rational politics. "Somewhere Over the Pachyderm Rainbow" is very much
considering for anyone who wants a particular brand of charged poetry over today's volatile
poetry scene.
The Bright Side of Life
Richard Langon Cook
Peppertree Press
1269 First Street, Suite 7, Sarasota, FL 34236
Sue Engelhart (publicity)
4335 Olive Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231
9781936343638, $12.95, www.peppertreepublishing.com
Even when life is at its bleakest, it's important to look for that shining thing in it all to remind
you it can get better. "The Bright Side of Life" is a collection of poetry from Richard Langdon
Cook as he comes at readers with a more jovial variety of poetry and dedication. A traveler of the
world, his wisdom rings true, and makes "The Bright Side of Life" very much worth considering
for those looking for poetry that will bring smiles. "Thought for the Day": Humpty Dumpty sat
on a wall,/Drinking beer, and having a ball./Was he pushed, or did he leap?/Or, maybe he just
went to sleep!
Jonestown
Carmen Gillespie
Lotus Press
PO Box 21607, Detroit, MI 48221
9780979750939, $18.00, www.lotuspress.org
With a certain dedication to the world of literature and poetry, Carmen Gillespie provides deft
verse that speaks with the passion and excellence of a master. "Jonestown: A Vexation" is her
latest collection of verse as she asks many questions, answers many questions, and finds that the
answers we find only leave us with even more questions. "Jonestown" is an excellent compilation
that belongs in any community and college library modern poetry collection. "Haiku for the
White Knight": His knighthood was a/sword heavy and lowering/towards their outstretched
necks.
Early/Late
Philip Fried
Salmon Poetry
PO Box 7, Chester Springs, PA 19425
9781907056574, $21.95, www.salmonpoetry.com
What was once invincible now is most decidedly not. "Early/Late: New & Selected Poetry" is a
compilation of poetry from Philip Fried, drawing from his four previous volumes of poetry as
well as several new poems. A common theme in Philip Fried's work is the shaking of what we
once held as a constant in our society, and how nothing is no longer sacred. "Early/Late" is filled
with thoughtful and entertaining verse, well worth considering. "Identity Theft": Reader, good
citizen, watch as I pickpocket/my own ID, to impersonate myself/on paper. Home in on the waltz
of mark and dip,/with distraction's music wheezed out by the stall,/as the score, lifted, glides
from shot to drop./To cop--yes me, I'll step in to make the collar,/and relying on your witness
report, indict/myself. Case closed. No, that's when true crime begins ---/from behind high-tensile
steel bars, I can deploy/dumpster-divers to ransack for bits of self,/shoulder-surfers to nab every
skein of code,/phishers to spoof a PayPal account. I'll commit/ frauds in Philip Fried's name. I'll
be victim, cloned/identities, grifter... You be the faceless witness.
All Seeds & Blue
Stella Vinitchi Radulescu
CW Books
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781936370313, $18.00, www.readcwbooks.com
To understand the common, sometimes we need to look to the uncommon. "All Seeds & Blue" is
a collection of poetry from Stella Vinitchi Radulescu, as she touches on many topics with many
opinions that can bring another angle and thought to the table through her verse. "All Seeds &
Blue" is a worthy collection of poetry, well worth considering. "In Return": I stepped into the day
weightless deathless//a sound on the brink//of nowhere//the cracked mouth://numbers go back to
the earth//full ear in return//from coast to coast seeds and limbs to be called daughters &
sons//stripped to this music.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The Ocean Forest
Troy D. Nooe
Ingalls
PO Box 2500, Banner Elk, NC 28604
9781932158915, $14.95, www.theoceanforest.com
The truth comes with its own high cost. "The Ocean Forest: Murder in Myrtle Beach" is a
mystery following Frankie McKeller who when attending a wedding, finds a murder, and will
learn far more than he wants about the southern town of Myrtle Beach, his friend and the stench
of corruption that lurks all around the area, particularly in the Ocean Forest Hotel. A riveting
work of thriller and mystery, "The Ocean Forest" is a very much recommended read for those
like a good dose of personal intrigue.
Shadows of New York
Teel James Glenn
Books for a Buck
9781602151451, $15.99, www.booksforabuck.com
Heroics are nothing without substance, and one man may have the substance without the heroics.
"Shadows of New York" is a pulp fiction inspired adventure from Teel James Glenn, as he
presents the story of a world falling apart an dhow one man seeks his own justice in the slums
and corruption that soak the slums. "Shadows of New York" is a fun and fast paced read that
should be considered for any pulp fiction read. Also from Glenn is "Deadline Zombies"
(9781602151260, $15.99), another pulpy American 1930s adventure, this time dealing with the
slightly unusual and paranormal.
The Cleveland Creep
Les Roberts
Gray & Company
1588 E. 40th St., Cleveland, OH 44103
9781598510713, $24.95, www.grayco.com
What you leave behind may not be the most honorable of legacies. "The Cleveland Creep" is a
mystery following Cleveland private eye Milan Jacovich as he follows the death of 28 year old
Earl Dacey, who with his passing left behind many voyeuristic videos. As he looks deeper, he
finds foul play and the web of unsavory characters in the adult entertainment industry and
organized crime. The aging detective must pull in favors to find something resembling justice,
and makes "The Cleveland Creep" a fun and fast paced mystery thriller, highly
recommended.
The Truth of Yesterday
Josh Aterovis
P.D. Publishing
PO Box 70, Clayton, NC 27528-0070
9781933720814, $22.99, www.pdpublishing.com
The past never completely rest and leaves our life. "The Truth of Yesterday" is a mystery
following detective Killian Kendall as he looks into his lover Micah's past and finds crime and
the murder of Micah's own ex. As he tries to maintain his own friendships and the lives of his
friends, Killian has a lot more to worry about that solving an old cold case, as the murderer is
going to learn he's being hunted. A work of mystery, romance, and much more, "The Truth of
Yesterday" is an excellent pick for any fiction and mystery collection looking to cater to both
general and gay readers.
Running with No Feet
Jemmie Adams
Midnight Publishing
PO Box 4434, Jersey City, NJ 07304
9780615219134, $12.95, www.runningwithnofeet.com
Power and intelligence are not even matches. "Running with No Feet" is a thriller from Jemmie
Adams as he tells the story of Steve Birdoff, an intelligent man who realizes quickly that he is
working for a ruthless sociopath, and realizes to escape with his family and his life, he must tread
lightly as everywhere he turns power is out to crush him. Creating a war of wisdom and power,
"Running with No Feet" is a thoughtful and fast paced read that won't be easy to put down.
The Christian Studies Shelf
With God All Things Are Possible
Tim Clark
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 West 86th Street, Suite H
Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781457502224, $14.95, www.withgodallthings.com
Faith can push people to many great things. "With God All Things Are Possible!" is an
inspirational memoir from Tim Clark, a man who was born with one arm, no legs, and despite
this, managed to become quite accomplished in athletics in spite of normally crushing disability.
Dedicated to faith, he shares his story and hopes people will take it to rise above what anyone
expects for them as well. "With God All Things Are Possible" is a choice pick for anyone
seeking an inspirational tale.
Breaking the Romans Code
Michael Wood
Tubi Publishing
c/o SJ Miller Communications
10 Turning Mill Lane, Randolph, MA 02368
9781936565092, $12.95, www.bookpr.com
It has been said in many ways, but according to Michael Wood, this particular proverb is the only
one that truly matters. "Breaking the Romans Code" is an analysis of the book of Romans from
Wood, a cryptographer with a good deal of international acclaim. Through his studies, the ten
commandments and other Biblical ordinances all fall to Jesus's golden rule, Do unto others, or
'love thy neighbor as they self' as the ultimate biblical commandment. With much research,
"Breaking the Romans Code" is well worth considering for any student of the book of Romans
and the New Testament in general.
Effortless Change
Andrew Wommack
Harrison House
PO Box 35035, Tulsa, OK 74153
9781606831861, $14.99, www.harrisonhouse.com
When the self fails, sometimes God can lend a helping hand. "Effortless Change: The Word is
the Seed That Can Change Your Life" is an inspirational book of faith that encourages readers to
take God with them as they try to improve their lives, where alone they have strayed from their
path. With some sage advice to Christian readers, "Effortless Change" is a must for any believer
who wants to improve their life and holds themselves powerless as to how.
The Living and True God
Luis F. Ladaria
Convivium Press
7661 N. W. 68th Street, Suite 108
Miami, FL 33166
9781934996065, $52.95, www.conviviumpress.com
Hold no gods before me yet the trinity is a huge aspect of the Christian faith. "The Living and
True God: The Mystery of the Trinity" discusses Christianity and the development of the concept
in the early Christianity, as well as the mystery of God and his role in this trinity of faith. A
translation from Spanish from Christian thinker Luis F. Ladaria, this study is an absolute must for
students of theology, be they professional or simply curios non-specialist general readers. "The
Living and True God" is an excellent pick, very much recommended reading for community and
college theology collections.
Red Like Blood
Joe Coffey & Bob Bevington
Shepherd Press
PO Box 24, Wapwallopen, PA18660
9780983099079, $13.95, www.shepherdpress.com
You can turn away from it all, but it'll eventually call back to you. "Red Like Blood:
Confrontations with Grace" is a memoir from Joe Coffey & Bob Bevington, two men of God
who hope to bring readers down and dirty brushes with God's grace and what it did for them.
Down to earth and reading that hopes to remind us that God's there no matter how far we go from
the path, "Red Like Blood" is strong reading that shouldn't be overlooked by others who have lost
their way from God and want help finding their way back.
The Fiction Shelf
You Never Know
Lilian Duval
Wheat Mark
610 East Delano Street, Suite 104
Tucson, AZ 85705
9781604945201, $21.95, www.lilianduval.com
Money is something awesome to have, but it is not the cure of all wounds. "You Never Know"
tells the story of Tobias who through all his troubles he believes he finds his salvation in his
sudden lottery win. But his blessing may soon collapse on himself, as he realizes what is truly
important and must act very fast to make the most of it all. "You Never Know" is a solid novel of
money and how much value it has in our lives.
When Color Fades
C. J. Clark
Langmarc Publishing
PO box 90488, Austin, TX 78709-0488
9781880292419, $16.95, www.langmarc.com
The truth is sometimes the last thing you want. "When Color Fades" tells the tale of Annabelle, a
woman who with the lost of her husband, and the fading of her own mind from Alzheimers, is in
a race to protect the already fractured relationship with her own daughter. In a rush against her
daughter and her own loss of mind to take a box and destroy the remnants of a grim secret that
she holds could make her lose her daughter to hatred. But the truth cannot be hidden forever, and
it will have untold impacts on Annabelle and her daughter's lives. "When Color Fades" is a
touching read that is very much worth considering for literary fiction collections.
Lunar Savings Time
Alex Epstein
Clock Root Books
c/o Interlink
46 Crosby Street, Northampton, MA 01060
9781566568524, $13.00, www.clockrootbooks.com
When you ask what if, you are starting on a whole slew of possibilities. "Lunar Savings Time" is
a collection of short fiction from Alex Epstein as he asks these questions, and creates stories of
people, famous and legendary throughout history. With a Jewish influence throughout, he creates
questions and thoughts that will bring thought to people of any faith. An excellent compilation,
"Lunar Savings Time" is very much recommended reading.
Mandate of Heaven
Louise Goueffic
Sapien Books
PO Box 906, Lakefield, ON Canada K0L 2H0
9780986772320, $25.95, www.sapienbooks.ca
The right to rule is a struggle that has been fought of millennia and still lives on in every day life.
"Mandate of Heaven" is a novel spun out of the ideas that have formed our society. As
modernism seeks to change things, it is threatened by an ancient order which seeks to return to
the patriarchy, slavery, and feudalism that made up the world for thousands of years. Spinning a
unique tale of life and our progress or lack there of, "Mandate of Heaven" is a unique read very
much worth considering.
Flowers for Her Grave
Jean Sheldon
Wellworth Publishing
c/o Bast Press
PO Box 2043, Hillsboro, OR 97123
9780972354196, $15.95, www.wellworthpublishing.com
There are things never spoken of for a good reason. "Flowers for Her Grave" tells the story of a
small town's long held secret, a murder twenty years ago. The murder revives interest in the dark
secret, as many people have different theories of what happened all those years ago. As two
sleuths want to find the truth once and for all, their travels may lead to them joining the dead
body they are trying to investigate. A fun and fast paced small town mystery, "Flowers for Her
Grave" is a fine read and very much recommended.
Sullivan's Secret
Robin Murphy
Plain & Simple Books
66513 Schoolhouse Rd., North Bend, OR 97459
9781461091363, $14.95, www.plainandsimplebooks.com
Communing with the spirits may leave you with some very unwanted responsibility. "Sullivan's
Secret" follows Marie Bartek as she rediscovers her talents to communicate with spirits. Working
with friends in a paranormal society, she finds that her skill leaves her with the responsibility to
stop murders from sweeping her town and she has to put out her own neck to stop the hysteria.
"Sullivan's Secret" is a fascinating read that will be hard to put down.
The Mahogany Door
J. Mark Boliek
Split Rail
68 Stoneridge Rd., Durham, NC 27705
9780983290001, $24.95, www.laurengallegos.com
Friendship can stay true through the worst of it all. "The Mahogany Door" follows amnesiac JT
Davis and his two friends as in the efforts to restore memory lead them through a Mahogany door
and into a fantasy world that will challenge their very concepts of reality and test their friendship
to the fullest as they look for a way to return and make things right. Complete with a CD with
music designed to go along with the book, "The Mahogany Door" is a fun fantasy aimed at young
adult readers, very much recommended reading.
Hassie Calhoun
Pamela Cory
Scarletta Press
10 South Fifth Street, Suite 1105
Minneapolis, MN 55402
9780982458471, $16.95, www.scarlettapress.com
Fame and success don't come together so easily. "Hassie Calhoun" is a novel from Pamela Cory
following the titular character as her innocence is challenged by the corrupting nature of Vegas.
Torn between two men and unsure of which path to walk, her life spirals more out of her control,
as the author creates a riveting tale of Rat Pack era Vegas and the fate of many women driven for
success and split by love. "Hassie Calhoun" is an exciting work of historical fiction, very much
recommended reading.
Shooting Star
Michael Embry
Wings Press
403 Wallace Court, Richmond, KY 40475
9781613099902, $16.95, www.wings-press.com
Talent presents the expectation of performance, which can lead to much stress. "Shooting Star"
follows Jesse Christopher, high school basketball star who is recently transferred to a new
school. With the pressure to succeed on him, he also must manage to blend into his new school.
A fine story that will resonate with many other young adults trying desperately to make it in their
new school, "Shooting Star" is very much recommended reading.
Four Women From Ravensbruck
Roberta Kalechofsky
Micah Publications
255 Humphrey St., Marblehead, MA 01945
9780916288570, $18.00, www.micahbooks.com
The atrocity had no singular location. "Four Women from Ravensbruck: 5 Stories from the Shoa"
is an assortment of short stories surrounding the terror of the Holocaust. From the women's
concentration camp of Ravensbruck, to the fate of the infamous Erich Musham, faith, and the
aftermath of everything when the nightmare finally ends. A choice assortment of short fiction,
"Four Women from Ravensbruck" is a strongly recommended pick for any short fiction
collection with a nod to Holocaust Studies, highly recommended.
The Kennedy Club
G. P. Schultz
Shadow Mountain Press
PO Box 7873, Overland Park, KS 66207
9780962632440, $24.95, www.gpschultz.com
Ideals are a great thing, and it is all too hard to stick to them when times get tough. "The
Kennedy Club" is the story of the titular club, a group formed in Harvard university, hoping to
live up to the ideals of JFK. They decide to rally behind their Jack, to one day earn him the
highest office in America. But the road to the presidency is one of betrayal, as Jack must juggle
love, his ambitions, and navigate the nasty world of politics, and answer the question of if it's
worth it. "The Kennedy Club" is a riveting read that should prove hard to put down.
The Eternal Waltz of Jacqueline Kennedy
Kristin Elizabeth Marshall
Sheaf House
3641 Hwy 47 N, Charlotte, TN 37036
9781936438006, $22.00, www.sheafhouse.com
What was once great was ever so brief. "The Eternal Waltz of Jacqueline Kennedy" is a bit of
fiction, taking the role of Jackie Kennedy, wife of JFK. Hoping to retreat to a more serene era,
she tells the story of facing loss and the crushing destruction of our dreams, trying to cope with it
all. "The Eternal Waltz of Jacqueline Kennedy" is an excellent read for anyone who wants a story
of love, dreams, hopes, and much more, and facing the loss of it all.
The Dave Riley Show
David Riley
Timescape Books
PO Box 8191, Avon, CO 81620
9781461090748, $7.95, www.amazon.com
A little humor gets enhanced by an offbeat concept. "The Dave Riley Show" The Best Show That
Never Happened" is a series of skits and stories from David B. Riley as he spins a story of a talk
show, college, and much more. For those looking for a simple dose of humor, "The Dave Riley
Show" may be just what their looking for.
Strange Weather
Angela N. Hunt
Hunt Press
12811 Pacific Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90066
9780979067471, $22.95, www.huntpress.com
One's old past has an annoying tendency to re-emerge. "Strange Weather" follows Sabine Parsons
as she tries to move on with her life, finding friendship and seeing the world. But her
codebreaker past and her connections to the supernatural will not stay under forever. As her past
begins to come back at her and her dreams once again wreak havoc on her life, "Strange
Weather" tells an exciting and escalating story that grows in scope, leaving readers trying to find
what happens next.
Confusing the Seasons
Dan Cavallari
Brown Tie Publishing
16 1/2 W. Elm Ave., Flagstaff, AZ 86001
9780615437088, $15.00, www.danielcavallari.com
You cannot forget what was part of you for so long. "Confusing the Seasons" is the story of Einar
William Coates trying to come to terms of the life of widowhood, watching as his children tear
each other apart and his struggles to help them. A story of coping with solitude, facing the
weaknesses in yourself and others, "Confusing the Seasons" is a touching read of life and its
realities, highly recommended.
Norah
Cynthia G. Neale
Lucky Press
PO Box 754, Athens, OH 45701-0754
9780984631711, $18.95, www.luckypress.com
Being Irish and a woman wasn't the worst thing to be in the 19th-century, but it was far from the
best either. "Norah" is a novel following how one woman came into New York in the 1850s and
tried to make her way through society that views women as second class citizens and the Irish as
even worse. Having pride in her heritage, her journey is driven by her determination, and makes
for a highly entertaining piece of historical fiction. "Norah" is quite the inspired read, highly
recommended.
The Circle Cast
Alex Epstein
Tradewind Books
202-1807 Maritime Mews
Vancouver, BC Canada V6H 3W7
Orca Book Publishers (distributor)
PO Box 468, Custer, WA 98240-0468
9781896580630, $12.95, www.orcabook.com
The Sorceress Morgan Le Fay is often painted as a villain in Arthurian legend, but what painted
her in this role? "The Circle Cast: The Lost Years of Morgan LeFay" follows the young woman
after she swears vengeance on Uther Pendragon who killed her father. With vengeance in mind,
she masters sorcery and makes her own way, only to have her plans for revenge derailed by what
may be love. "The Circle Cast" is an excellent work of Arthurian fantasy, highly
recommended.
Be Fast or Be Gone
Andreas Scherer
Pro Chain Press
3460 Commission Court, #301
Lake Ridge, VA 22192
9781934979075, $23.95, www.prochain.com
Sometimes the best way to show an important message is storytelling. "Be Fast or Be Gone" is a
business novel as author Andreas Scherer paints her story of racing against time and moving
through the business world. Mike Knight's son is afflicted with brain cancer, and only the
Supragel drug, not properly tested and available for human use yet, is the only thing that may
save him. Knight joins Altus Labs, the business behind the drug, and tries to do all he can to push
the product through before it is too late. Discussing the urgency of business and with plenty of
principles that can be applied to real business, "Be Fast or Be Gone" is a riveting novel and
business lesson combined into one intriguing package.
Oliver Pepper's Pickle
John C. Picardi
Camel Press
PO Box 70515, Seattle, WA 98127
9781603818575, $18.95, www.camelpress.com
When it comes to getting your life on the right track, sometimes you have to embrace the
madness around you. "Olive Pepper's Pickle" follows Oliver Pepper as his life explodes around
him as he loses his job, wife, and his world that doesn't make a lick of sense. Finding new love in
a middle school principle, Oliver's life seems to be growing more problematic, but the
importunity to make a difference in the lives of others may give Oliver what he needs to fix his
own life. "Oliver Pepper's Pickle" is a humorous and fun read that will ring very true with those
facing their own midlife crises.
The Meowmorphosis
Franz Kafka & Coleridge Cook
Quirk Classics
215 Church Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9781594745034, $12.95, www.quirkclassics.com
Being adorable still has its challenges. "The Meowmorphosis" is quirky spin on Franz Kafka's
famed novel The Metamorphisis, as Gregor Sama tries to come to terms with his new form as an
excessively cute man sized baby kitten. In line with other Quirk Classics line, the story keeps the
spirit of Kafka's original with some very intriguing diversions from the original work. "The
Meowmorphosis" is an intriguing and very highly recommended read for both fans of Kafka with
a sense of humor and other twists on classic literature.
And Yet They Were Happy
Helen Phillips
LeapFrog Literature
PO Box 2110, Teaticket, MA 02536
9781935248187, $14.95, www.leapfrogpress.com
When your world is collapsing around you, there is nothing preventing you from finding
something to call happiness. "And Yet They Were Happy" is a novel from Helen Phillips as she
presents a story of a world not too unlike our own that is covered by the most terrible of things,
but still holding people who make it all worth living, and the lessons that life is always worth
living. "And Yet They Were Happy" is a unique and recommended work of literary fiction, a
choice pick.
The Marriage Bundle
Earlene Gleisner
White Feather Press
PO Box 667, Laytonville, CA 95454
9780984527519, $19.95, www.standinginbalance.com
Strong bonds remain strong even as we move past our mortal coil. "The Marriage Bundle" is the
first novel in Earlene Gleisner's Sacred Bundles series, speaking on the power of relationships
across time, telling the story of one Selena Howells, a psychic, and Amach, her spirit guide.
When the spirit bond was broken, Selena's life moved on, but the sudden return of Amach to her
can only spell trouble. "The Marriage Bundle" is a must for any spirituality reader who also has a
love of fiction.
Captured Prey
Craig Odanovich
Emerald Book Co.
PO Box 91869, Austin, TX 78709
Gulotta (publicity)
341 Lexington Street, Newton, MA 02466
9781934572788, $14.95, www.emeraldbookcompany.com
When you have a taste for adventure and lust, the adventure will sometimes never end. "Captured
Prey" is the second entry into the Black Widow Trainer series from Craig Odanovich. Following
the continued adventures of Misty, who has embraced her sexuality as a personal trainer who
pulls no punches in what she wants. Being dragged into political intrigue, she will soon realize
that nothing so good can last forever and choices will change her life forever. "Captured Prey" is
an enticing and exciting read with plenty of unique and memorable characters, very highly
recommended.
The Meagre Tarmac
Clark Blaise
Biblioasis
PO Box 92, Emeryville, ON, Canada, N0R 1C0
9781926845159, $16.95, www.biblioasis.com
As the world shrinks, culture shifts. "The Meagre Tarmac" is a collection of short stories discussing the concerns and challenges that people in the Indian culture face as meetings with America grow more and more common. From the clashes of differing opinions of family, the guilt of success, the drive to succeed, and the threats to tradition that lurk everywhere, for better or for worse. "The Meagre Tarmac" is a must for any short fiction readers who enjoy stories that tackle social issues.
Acorn's Card
Stephen Poleskie
Onager Editions
PO Box 849, Ithaca, NY 14851
9781600475580, $12.00, www.stephenpoleskie.com
Perspective can bring a whole new understanding to it all. "Acorn's Card" is a collection of three
stories from Stephen Poleskie who tells of stories of coming to know the world around you after
being so used to something else, and finding the power to understand and find your path in it.
Moving with many intriguing concepts and characters, "Acorn's Card" is a choice fiction
collection, recommended.
The Silver Mist
Martin Treanor
Better Karma Publishing
30 Amberwood Pkwy, Ashland, OH 44805
9780982842683, $10.99, www.betterkarmapublishing.com
One being different does not disqualify them from life's lessons. "The Silver Mist" follows Eve
Hayes, down syndrome-afflicted individual who through meeting Esther, finds that in spite of her
disorder, she has much to learn and is taken on a spiritual and enlightening journey. Touching on
spirituality and those with mental disabilities, "The Silver Mist" is a touching and unique read,
highly recommended.
To the Virgins
Wade Morgan
Memdewee Books
9781449573270, $15.95, www.amazon.com
Friendship can stay alive, even as oceans split them apart. "To the Virgins" follows a group of
friends as they exchange letters, telling of how three went off to the serve in the military and one
pursued academics under pressure from his family. A unique coming of age tale that doesn't
skimp on the dirt in the name of humor, "To The Virgins" is worth considering for those seeking
general fiction set in the 1950s.
Bald Spots & Blue Suits
Henry Henkel
Other Islands Press
128 South Mill Road, Princeton, Junction, NJ 08550
9780974973340, $24.95, www.bobfagan.com
Change is something we can't run from forever, and in some cases, it's something we openly
embrace. "Bald Spots & Blue Suits" is a collection of short stories from Henry Henkel as he
offers stories of those who are trapped in their lives, wanting to escape, as they face the cruelty of
their success and other twists and turns of life and everything else. "Bald Spots & Blue Suits" has
many intriguing concepts and paints a very thoughtful picture of characters with said
concepts.
The Trigger
Hon Hoh
Living Impact
c/o The B&B Media Group
109 South Main Street, Corsicana, TX 75110
9780578071954, $19.99, www.tbbmedia.com
Evil has gathered its armies; now it's Good's time to respond. "The Trigger" is an end-times novel
as Hon Hoh brings his own version of the apocalypse to light as three Christians from around the
world have a mission of mission to reach the last group who has not been touched by the gospel,
as this will allow the second coming to finally commence. But Satan's way is defiance and until
the bitter end, he resists in ways that will leave millions dead. "The Trigger" is a fast paced novel
of revelation, a top pick for those who enjoy Christian fiction, highly recommended.
The Angel & The Brown-Eyed Boy
Sandy Nathan
Vilasa Press
PO Box 1316, Santa Ynez, CA 93460
9780976280903, $12.95, www.talesfromearthsend.com
When Earth is at its lowest, it may take an outsider and then some to rout Armageddon. "The
Angel & The Brown-Eyed Boy" tells of Eliana, a girl who seems lost at the conflicting nature of
humanity that seems to want to protect her as much as end her. Set in a near but far future of the
22nd century where technology faces outlaw and one man hold the world under his thumb, "The
Angel & The Brown-Eyed Boy" blends the paranormal, science fiction, and Armageddon styles
well for a riveting read.
Halloween Night Fever
Dan Graffeo
Aventine Press
750 State St., #319, San Diego, CA 92101
9781593307097, $12.95, www.halloweennightfever.com
There are some things that can be put off. Fighting off legions of undead is not one of them.
"Halloween Night Fever" is a prequel to Dan Graffeo's previous novel 'End of the Long Walk',
telling the story of Cindy Daniels and her agreement with the Pniese. Choosing her boyfriend
over her agreement, she soon finds Halloween is no easy night to get a date when you have to
deal with the evil that lurks in the darkness, and if not evil, just plain weird. "Halloween Night
Fever" is a charming read of facing the undead, and proves to be quite fun.
The Hat
Babette Hughes
Sun Stone Press
PO Box 2321, Santa Fe, NM 87504-2321
9780865347847, $26.95, www.sunstonepress.com
Love blossoms anywhere, even in the conflicts of the mob. "The Hat" tells the story of Kate
Brady, a young girl who is just trying to get by before being swooped up into the fast world of the
Jewish mob. A darling of bootlegger Ben Gold, she finds her eyes are set on the bookkeeping
Bobby Keane, but finds there is much to be paid by everyone around her in her pursuits of
happiness. With no shortage of intrigue to keep the reader reading, "The Hat" is a crime drama
set in the Jewish mob that shouldn't be overlooked.
The Memoir Shelf
What About the Boy?
Stephen Gallup
Lestrygonian Books
11229 Carmel Creek Road, Ste. 3
San Diego, CA 92130-2628
9780615431536, $13.95, www.fatherspledge.com
Something close to normalcy is all what many people want. "What About Boy?: A Father's
Pledge to His Disabled Son" is a parental memoir from Stephen Gallup as he faces the problems
that his son faces, who didn't seem to be developing as a boy his age should. Through it all, he
pledged never to give up, and this lead them down a road against all odds. "What About the
Boy?" is a story of never-ending parental devotion and how sense is empowered when facing
disabilities.
A View of the Lake
Beryl Singleton Bissell
Lake Superior Port Cities
PO Box 16417, Duluth, MN 55816-0417
9780942235746, $16.95, www.lakesuperior.com
Less is more, especially when you drive for the simplicity of it all. "A View of the Lake" is a
memoir of taking that smaller life from Beryl Singleton Bissell. She moved from a bustling city
to a small rural town and reflects on the massive change of life she faced, where life centers
around a central Big Lake. Poignant and thoughtful, "A View of the Lake" is a read very much
worth considering for anyone seeking a small town memoir with a contrast with the big city.
Fire Men
Gary R. Ryman
Tribute Books
PO Box 95, Archbald, PA 18403
9780982256596, $10.95, www.fire-men-book.com
To battle the force of destruction itself can be something so very daunting. "Fire Men: Stories
From Three Generations of a Firefighting Family" is a familial memoir from Gary R. Ryman as
he tells his story of how he, his son, and his father have made their line of fire fighters, telling the
stories that can only come from a growing line of fire fighters. Thoughtful and profound, "Fire
Men" is an excellent read and very highly recommended reading for those seeking memoirs and
stories about fire fighting.
The Burning Spirit
Banzai Vitale
2 Moon Press
307 W. Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068
9781935805687, $11.99, www.800publishing.com
Doing the most dangerous parts of Hollywood introduces you to your spiritual side quickly. "The
Burning Spirit: The Spiritual Adventure of a Hollywood Stuntman" is a spiritual memoir from
Banzai Vitale, still working Hollywood stuntman, as he shares his journey of spirituality, as he
shares much of his spiritual musings of life and what he has learned as he has proceeded through
life. Personal and poignant, "The Burning Spirit" is a solid work of spirituality and metaphysics,
a pick for students of both.
Someone's Son
Brenda Rhodes
Winepress Publishing Group
1730 Railroad St., Enumclaw, WA 98022
9781606150177, $15.99, www.winepresspublishing.com
Society's pressures can lead you to implode. "Someone's Son: A Mother's Fight for Her Gay,
Drug-Addicted Son" is Brenda Rhodes reflecting on the fall of her son and what led to it. Stating
her pain of watching that bright future fall apart, she regretfully recounts the tale of a story of life
falling apart, a life broken down by society and judgment, and one that is not his alone. With
faith, she encourages others to remember that every person you see down on their luck and facing
life's demons is not just a druggie, but is someone's child. "Someone's Son" comes with a
powerful message and very highly recommended reading.
Grip
Nina Hamberg
Route 1 Press
PO Box 3353, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
9780982754702, $12.50, www.routeonepress.com
Strength and determination know no gender. "Grip" is a memoir of Nina Hamberg of how she
found her own strength and assumed complete control of her life. A student of the martial arts,
she realized she always had a taste for the bad boys, and reads her story that with her own
traumatic past, she now knows control and won't let anyone dictate her life. Her story is designed
as an inspiration to women who struggle to feel safe gain, so they may once again love. "Grip" is
an exciting read, with plenty of inspiration who want to know the power that comes with control
of one's own destiny.
Grace in High Heels
Shannon Perry
Chae Music
PO Box 2346, Cypress, TX 77410-2356
9781460916568, $10.69, www.shannonperry.com
Why do we claim to be so smart when we do so many stupid things? "Grace in High Heels:
Real-Life Reflections of Humor, Hope and Healing" is an inspirational memoir from Shannon
Perry, who offers many recollections of her life and everything else of the mistakes we all make,
and how our own spirit and a little help from the man up there can help us overcome our own
stupidity and mistakes, to find something we can call happiness and fulfillment. "Grace in High
Heels" is a choice pick for any Christian woman who struggles to understand why things happen
the way they do.
My Two Wives and Three Husbands
S. Stanley Gordon
Savant Books
2630 Kapiolani Blvd #1601
Honolulu, HI 96826
9780982998786, $16.95, www.savantbooksandpublications.com
Love can come in many forms, and when you finally find something that resembles true love,
you might be left very surprised. "My Two Wives and Three Husbands: A True Love Story" is a
memoir from S. Stanley Gordon as he recounts his personal adventures in show business and life
and how after many wrong turns, he's solved the most enigmatic problem in anyone's life. "My
Two Wives and Three Husbands" is humorous and touching reading, very much
recommended.
Honor Thy Daughter
Marilyn Howell
MAPS
309 Cedar Street, #2323, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Gulotta (publicity)
341 Lexington Street, Newton, MA 02466
0979862264, $16.95, www.maps.org
No parent wants to outlive their child, and when it's a long drawn out cancer, it's especially
agonizing. "Honor Thy Daughter" is a memoir from Marilyn Howell as she looks back at the
terrifying aspect of losing her thirty-two year old daughter to colon cancer. A story of failed hope,
she recounts her families journey of trying to give the best fight they could, and the absolute
devastation of loss. Sure to grant a kindred spirit to those who have also lost young loved ones to
cancer, "Honor Thy Daughter" is a very much recommended read.
Dam Foolishness
Raff Ellis
Cune Press
PO Box 31024, Seattle, WA 98103-9939
9781885942227, $27.95, www.cunepress.com
Small town America has its own charm... and its own problems. "Dam Foolishness & Other
Recollections" is a memoir from Raff Ellis as he discusses his own charming picturesque life in
the town of Carthage, an isolated small town in New York state that maintained its charm and
livelihood even after the businesses abandoned it to its fate. With humor and charm, "Dam
Foolishness" more than explains life in small town America, what it leaves on its people, and
what it means for the American spirit.
My Secret Life
Martha Nix Wade
Winters Publishing
PO Box 501, Greensburg, IN 47240
Adventures in Media, Inc (publicity)
4927 Bridgeville Lane, Spring, TX 77388
9781883651459, $9.95, www.winterspublishing.com
There are many problems that come with being a child star, and when you have sexual abuse
with it, life can seem truly cruel. "My Secret Life: A Truthful Look at a Child Actor's Victory
Over Sexual Abuse" tells Martha Nix Wade, known for her roles on the Waltons and Days of
Our Lives when she was much younger, she speaks on what this tragic cocktail brought her as
she came into adulthood and how she finally earned her triumph in her search for happiness. "My
Secret Life" will speak loudly to those who have faced sexual abuse.
Tiger Mother
Derrick Lin
Monex Press
321 Maple St., Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
9780578078939, $14.95, www.tigermothersob.com
Parenting like a drill sergeant has more than a few downsides. "Tiger Mother: Son of a Bitch" is
a memoir from Derrick Lin who recalls his own experience being brought up under a strict parent
who more than crossed over that line of strictness and abuse. Lin writes with anger, and humor to
cope with it, but mostly anger, as he decries this method of upbringing. "Tiger Mother" is worth
considering for anyone who may have felt they were brought up by a parent who crossed the
line.
Reiser's Ramblings
Bernard Reiser
Reiser Relief Inc.
9780615364780, $16.95, www.reiserrelief.org
Where there is a need for faith, he met that need. "Reiser's Ramblings: A Collection of Columns
by the Founding Pastor of Epiphany Parish in Coon Rapids, Minnesota" is a collection of
thoughts from Bernard Reiser as he recollects his own journey forward, founding a parish in a
growing Minnesota town and traveling the world to spread goodwill and faith to those around the
world. Working with victims of poverty and disaster in Haiti, "Reiser's Ramblings" is a story of a
good man with the drive to bring more good through the world, highly recommended.
The Sports Shelf
Hell on Two Wheels
Amy Snyder
Triumph Books
542 South Dearborn Street, Suite 750
Chicago, IL 60605
9781600785252, $24.95, www.triumphbooks.com
It may be the most vicious test of endurance sanctioned. "Hell on Two Wheels: An Astonishing
Story of Suffering, Triumph, and the Most Extreme Endurance Race in the World" is a memoir
of this riveting event that happens every day. The concept is simple, a nonstop race across the
continental United States from the Pacific Coast to Annapolis, Maryland. The grueling race has
no stages like the Tour de France, and is a straight race where sleep and rest is not a luxury that
can be afforded by many who participate. Amy Snyder hopes to understand those who pursue
such a devastating race, and makes for a riveting and unique read on the extent people will push
themselves for victory. "Hell on Two Wheels" is a must for anyone curious on endurance sports
and bicycling in general, highly recommended.
It's Not About Winning
Jack Rightmyer
Vitesse Press
32 Main Street, PMB 367
Montpelier, VT 05602
9780941950428, $12.95, www.vitessepress.com
Victory is sweet, but sweetness alone isn't enough to call sustenance. "It's Not About Winning:
One Runner's Reflections on Fatherhood, Coaching, and Athletics" is a combination of memoir
and coaching guide as he recalls his status as a coach to many young athletes as well as a father,
two jobs similar in that they call for imparting good values and ethics. With a certain and direct
assortment of values for fatherhood and sports leadership, "It's Not About Winning" is worth
considering for any coach or father of an athletic child, highly recommended.
The Buddhist Studies Shelf
The Great Golden Garland of Gampopa's Sublime Considerations on the Supreme Path
B. Simhananda
Orange Palm Publications
235 Rene Levesque Boulevard, Suite 310
Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2X 1N8
9780980969498, $39.95, www.palmpublications.com
Contemplation is not something you can read and learn, it is something you must read and gain
an understanding by yourself. "The Great Golden Garland of Gampopa's Sublime Consideration
on the Supreme Path" is a collection of spiritual writings from B. Simhananda as he looks to the
lessons of Gampopa and how to absorb his teachings more completely in one's life. "The Great
Golden Garland of Gampopa's Sublime Consideration on the Supreme Path" contains plenty of
wisdom for spirituality and Buddhist readers to consider in own search for learning and
understanding in our very confusing and hard to understand world.
The Hunting/Fishing Shelf
At the Rail
Bill Roecker
Oceanic Productions
PO Box 6033, Oceanside, CA 92052-6033
9780983034308, $39.95, www.fishingvideos.com
The bigger the fish, the bigger the trophy. "At the Rail: Long Range Fishing" is a guide for
fishing tuna, wahoo, yellowtail, and dorado, these massive fish available only from the biggest
fishing holes of them all - oceans. With stories from many fishermen with great experience at
these spots, tips and tricks for improving your results in the waters, and much more, Bill Roecker
applies his more than half a century of experience. "At the Rail: Long Range Fishing" is a
strongly recommended pick for anyone who is going out on the water and wants to make sure
they come back with some tuna.
The Comix/Graphic Novel Shelf
Real Bears Eat Takeout
Seth Campos
Mubby Books
PO Box 2186, Redmond, WA 98073-2186
9780982541708, $11.95, www.mubbybooks.com
With a certain charm and innocence, Seth Campos gained quite a few fans with his first
compilation of comics, "Welcome to Beeky Airlines". "Real Bears Eat Takeout: A Carl and Ben
and Beeky Collection" is the followup of the work, continuing the adventures of the three as they
embark on failed political endeavors, works of art, and deal with the common challenges of
human-bear-bird relations. "Real Bears Eat Takeout" is a top pick for anyone looking for some
fun and simple work with plenty of laughs.
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Not Bad for a Human
Lance Henriksen & Joseph Maddrey
Bloody Pulp Press
9780983432500, $24.99, www.notbadforahuman.com
The stories of Hollywood are not always stories of the blockbuster megastars, but just as well
those who have quite prolific careers. "Not Bad for a Human" is a memoir of long time star of
screen Lance Henriksen who has acted in nearly two hundred films throughout his career and has
worked with countless individuals throughout his storied career, including a good deal of some
of those megastars of the screen, as well as the megastars of behind the screen. A man driven by
creative expression, "Not Bad for a Human" is a story of art, Hollywood, and just about
everything else that leads up to the creation of both.
Moon Over Vaudeville
Maureen McCabe
Moon Over Vaudeville LLC
PO Box 757, Bellingham, WA 98227
9780983357506, $24.95, www.moonovervaudeville.com
There has always been a place for the charismatic actor, but vaudeville was one place they could
have really shined. "Moon Over Vaudeville" is the telling of the careers of two driven actors in
this period, Weldon Barr and Honey Dalzell, drawn from a scrapbook by one of their descendants
in Maureen McCabe, who presents an intriguing study of their careers and proves to be a very fun
and very highly recommended read for those with a strong interest in the truly unique flavor that
vaudeville has and hasn't been replicated since.
Short Film Distribution
Jason Moore
Mercury Learning and Information
22841 Quicksilver Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
9781936420148, $41.95, www.merclearning.com
The short film has made a bit of a return thanks to the rise of the internet. "Short Film
Distribution: Film Festivals, the Internet, and Self-Promotion" is a guide from ambitious
directors who want to get their work out there and seen. In today's internet powered world, using
social media has proven a powerful tool in promotion, but the film festival still maintains its
power. Explaining distribution, how to approach it for your film, festivals, broadcasting, and how
to do it all yourself. "Short Film Distribution" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone who
wants to get their work an audience and where to go from there. Also included is a DVD, filled
with resources to help film-makers pursue the methods explained in the book.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Hirschsprung's Disease
Nicole B. Murphy
Hirschsprungs Help Inc.
62166 Cody Jr. Rd, Bend, OR 97701
9780983210313, $27.95, www.hirschsprungsdiseasehelp.com
There is nothing more terrifying than having no knowledge of what plagues you and your family.
"Hirschsprung's Disease: Solving the Puzzle" is a guide to this disease that claims great grief in
families that many people are not even truly aware of. The disease is a paralysis of the bowels
and can prove fatal if not treated early in life. Nicole Murphy, a mother of a child with the
disorder, writes with a thoughtful blend of memoir and insight, with plenty of practical wisdom
and advice for anyone who is faced with this disorder in their child and wants to understand.
"Hirschsprung's Disease" is a strongly recommended addition to pediatric health collections,
highly recommended.
Still Hurting?
William B. Salt II
Parkview Publishing
PO Box 1162, Sanibel, FL 33957
9780982961209, $18.95, www.stillhurtingfindhealth.com
It's hard to go through life without facing some degree of unexplainable pain. "Still Hurting?:
Find Health" is a guide to identifying the symptoms that plague you and trying to find the cause
behind them. Discussing how to identify the source of the pain, what may be causing it, and
offering disorders that may be causing them and how to combat them. For those who are
struggling under much pain and trying to find the source of it all, "Still Hurting?" may be a good
source for those who exhausted other options.
Say Goodbye to Varicose & Spider Veins Now!
Greg Martin
Plentiful Publishing
650 Scranton Road, Suite C
Brunswick, GA 31520
9780983185901, $14.95, www.plentifulpublishing.com
Veins and other blemishes on one's leg can make one very self-conscious. "Say Goodbye to
Varicose & Spider Veins Now!" is a presentation of newly developed medical techniques
designed to combat these unsightly flaws on one's skin. Discussing the causes and offering his
solutions written in a way non-medical readers can understand, he seeks to help people of any
gender and race to combat their own varicose problems. "Say Goodbye to Varicose & Spider
Veins Now!" is worth considering for anyone who fears or is dealing with these health issues and
wants to arm themselves with knowledge.
The Pregnancy Power Workbook
Camilla Bicknell & James S. Betoni
Power Health Press
c/o Outskirts Press
10940 S. Parker Rd - 515, Parker, CO 80134
9780578079561, $29.95, www.powerhealthpress.com
Pregnancy is a parent's first brush with parenthood, and like parenthood, many women are
terrified of screwing it up. "The Pregnancy Power Workbook" is a workbook designed to help
future mothers cope with the hysteria and fears that can consume them during those 9 months
and the time surrounding it. Walking women through the pre-planning stages before conception,
advising it when applicable, though the nursing stages of recovery and topics including breast
feeding. "The Pregnancy Power Workbook" is an excellent manual to help through the
tumultuous times of motherhood.
The Diet is Dead
Daniel Reynen
WeBeFit Personal Training
1277 1st Street, Suite 1, Key West, FL 33040
Smith Publicity
1930 E. Marlton Pike, Suite I-46
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9780967281988, $24.95, www.webefit.com
Gimmicky diets are not the answer for better health. "The Diet is Dead: Why Traditional Diets
Fail and How You Can Succeed" is a guide to diet, as a general lifestyle choice, and succeeding
in weight loss. Daniel Reynen walks readers through understanding the ins and outs of creating a
lasting change in their life, stating that no two bodies are exactly the same, and therefore
everyone loses weight differently. "The Diet is Dead" is a thoughtful and direct exploration what
needs to be done for weight loss.
The LGBT Studies Shelf
Queer
Kathy Belege & Marke Bieschke
Zest Books
35 Stillman Street, Suite 121
San Francisco, CA 94107
9780981973340, $14.99, www.zestbooks.net
Queer is a word for something out of the ordinary, and being different can be the most troubling
thing to cope with. "Queer: The Ultimate LGBT Guide for Teens" is a guide for teenagers
coming into their sexuality and finding that the ordinary isn't for them. The authors write on how
teens can cope with their new found sexuality, coming out to friends and family, facing those
who would discriminate against you, being safe, and much more. "Queer" is a strong pick for any
teen, and a worthy gift for those who one might believe aren't cut out for vanilla
heterosexuality.
The Social Issues Shelf
Russian Roulette
Martin Magoun
Wharfrat Books
PO Box 177, Groton, VT 05046
9780983103400, $17.76, wharfratbooks.com
Depression is not an illness that kills you directly, it just simply makes you wish you were dead.
"Russian Roulette: Depression, Suicide, Drugs" is a reflection on depression from Martin
Magoun as he discusses depression and what it does to people. Hoping to reflect on his own
experiences, explaining how it cripples people, the anxiety of even facing treatment, and offering
his own myths and truths about the disorder, "Russian Roulette" is a driven call to action about
depression, something he believes to be very misunderstood in our society.
The Jobs/Careers Shelf
Inside a U. S. Embassy
Shawn Dorman
FS Books
2101 E Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20037
9780964948846, $22.95, www.afsa.org
Spread throughout the world, what is the role of the United States Embassy? "Inside a U.S.
Embassy: Diplomacy at Work" explores United States Embassies throughout the world,
explaining the day to day tasks of an embassy, as well as what one would expect if they chose to
pursue a career in foreign service, from how to get started and what must be understood in a
sometimes dangerous job. "Inside a U.S. Embassy" is an excellent and thoughtful read shedding
light on an exciting career that has much potential.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
Guided Afterlife Connections
Rochelle Wright
Greater Reality Publications
2 Payne Place, Normal, IL 61761
9780980211122, $14.95, www.greaterreality.com
You don't need a medium to reach out to something truly loved. "Guided Afterlife Connections"
is a collection of stories of those who have reached out to lost loved ones after they passed on
and have received messages and encounters which have given them the strength to continue on
despite their grief and trauma of their loss. For those who want to understand that there is
something beyond it all to remember, "Guided Afterlife Connections" is a choice for those who
have faced a recent loss of a loved one.
Gaia's Quantum Leap
Marko Pogacnik
Lindisfarne Books
610 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230
9781584200895, $20.00, www.lindisfarne.org
The future of the Earth also holds the future of mankind. "Gaia's Quantum Leap: A Guide to
Living Through the Coming Earth Changes" discusses the future of the Earth, as Marko Pogacnik
describes his vision of the future which is anything but apocalyptic. Through some metaphysical
studies on spirituality and a reverence for the spirit of the earth, "Gaia's Quantum Leap" is an
excellent pick for any student of the metaphysical who wants another take of the Earth of
tomorrow.
The Bluff Detector
W. Thomson Martin
Agio Publishing House
151 Howe Street, Victoria
BC, Canada, V8V 4K5
9781897435267, $19.95, www.agiopublishing.com
Throughout our lifetimes, we try to make sense, and often leave more confused. "The Bluff Detector: Stories, Dreams, and Rivers of Change" is a collection of musing, memoir, and mythology from W. Thomson Martin as he bears his thought and soul about the world, as the retired microbiologist shares the scope of his life and everything with it with a bit of knowledge on the scientific and not-so scientific. "The Bluff Detector" is a fine assortment of work, very much recommended reading.
The Civil War Shelf
Civil War Speeches
Maureen Harrison & Steve Gilbert, Editors
Excellent Books
Suite 108A-204, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008-2999
9781880780336, $24.95, www.excellentbooks.com
Passion was something neither side truly lacked during the American Civil War. "Civil War
Speeches" is a two volume set. "The North" (9781880780329, $24.95) focuses on the words by
many important figures who waged intellectual warfare for the Union, including Abraham
Lincoln's famous a house divided against itself cannot stand speech, among others as well,
twenty in total. "The South" (9781880780336, $24.95) does the same for the Confederacy with
seventeen speeches that range from the inaugural address of Confederate president Jefferson
Davis to parting words to those who fought dearly for it, such as Robert E. Lee. Both volumes
are a fascinating study in speech and the power of words in American history, and both will
prove an excellent addition to community library history collections with a focus on the
American civil war.
The Parenting Shelf
Messengers in Denim
Parnell Donahue
Mapletree Publishing Company
c/o Windriver Publishing
72 N Windriver Rd, Silverton, ID 83867-0446
9781600651069, $14.95, www.windriverpublishing.com
Learning and teaching know no age. "Messengers in Denim: The Amazing Things Parents Can
Learn from Teens" is an inspirational discussion form Parnell Donahue as he advises parents and
teens on how a dialogue on man levels can teach both parents and teens alike and that not trying
to be a one way flow of information can lead to a more harmonious house, and that it's more than
what parents say that teens take to heart, it's what they do. "Messengers in Denim" is a thoughtful
parenting book that is very much recommended reading.
The Supportive Foster Parent
Kalyani Gopal
Friesen Press
Suite 300-852 Fort Street
Victoria, BC Canada V8W 1H8
9781770674264, $27.98, www.friesenpress.com
It can be daunting to be a foster parent, offering care to a child who is faced with the anxiety of
their situation. "The Supportive Foster Parent: Be There for Me" is a guide for those who have
taken the mantle of foster parents and caring for some of the 700,000 American children in the
foster care children. Being supportive is more important than ever, as difficult as it might be as
children pass through your care for weeks, months, or years. "The Supportive Foster Parent" is
well worth reading for foster parents or those who want to help the cause of children.
In Search of Fatherhood
Kevin Renner
Inkwater Press
6750 SW Franklin Street, Suite A, Portland, OR 97223-2542
9781592995776, $19.95, www.inkwaterpress.com
What is the role of the father? It is a question that has been driving men mad for centuries. "In
Search of Fatherhood" is a collection of interviews from Kevin Renner as he sought fifty adult
women from around the world in order to get an understanding of how the father is in our lives,
be it for better, worse, and everything in between. Drawing on both their stories and his own
recollections of fatherhood as a son and a father, "In Search of Fatherhood" is an excellent pick
for anyone who also wonders what is the role of fatherhood.
The Magic Bowl
Baruch Kushnir
Price World Publishing
1300 W. Belmont Ave., Suite 20G
Chicago, IL 60657
9781932549645, $19.95, www.priceworldpublishing.com
Potty training is an adventure that any parent simply dreads. "The Magic Bowl: Potty Training
Made Easy" is an advice guide for parents trying to train their children in understanding the need
to go the bathroom. This book is designed as a companion volume to the included Magic Bowl
DVD, both proving to be excellent handbooks and guides together making the most of it. "The
Magic Bowl" is a must for any parent dreading this task and looking for all the help they can
get.
The Art Shelf
Symbology
Michelle Snyder
White Knight Studio
20 Nicod St, Arlington, MA 02476
9781456548445, $29.95, www.whiteknightstudio.com
A picture is worth a thousand words, and symbolism allows for thousands more. "Symbology:
Decoding Classic Images" discusses the countless symbols throughout the world, common traits
that many shapes, animals, and other concepts mean within an image, Michelle Snyder discusses
symbolism throughout history and how many cultures can view things differently. The dragon is
a creature of destruction in western society, while the East often sees it as a form of good luck.
"Symbology" is a fascinating read that offers many color illustrations throughout, a must for
anyone who wants to gain greater understanding of symbolism.
The Agriculture Shelf
Food, Farming, and Freedom
Rashid Khalidi
Just World Books
PO Box 5484, Charlottesville, VA 22905
9781935982050, $23.95, www.justworldbooks.com
Even as the world rapidly advances forward, the importance of agriculture cannot be forgotten.
"Food, Farming, and Freedom: Sowing the Arab Spring" discusses the serious issue of how mad
greed is consuming the Middle East, focusing on the bottom line and leaving the rural areas of
their countries to fend for themselves without aid, and the future that these practices will reap. A
food crisis has occurred and will happen again, and Rashid Khalidi brings western readers a
picture of the Middle East that is not often seen - a Middle East that could be facing famine.
"Food, Farming, and Freedom" is an excellent study, very much recommended reading for
community and college international issues collections.
The Business Shelf
Small Business Legal Forms Simplified
Daniel Sitarz
Nova Publishing Company
1103 W. College St., Carbondale, IL 62901
9781892949622, $29.95, www.novapublishing.com
When your running a small business, it can prove difficult to deal with the wave of paper work
coming against you. "Small Business Legal Forms Simplified" is a guide to preparing your own
legal forms as a small business. Daniel Sitarz continues his small business legal expertise in
advising these managers to deal with the many legal papers that will come their way and how to
deal with them in a way that avoids future legal complications. "Small Business Legal Forms
Simplified" is done in Sitarz and Nova Publishing's normal format, including a CD with many
resources, a strongly recommended pick.
The Environmental Studies Shelf
Sustainometrics
W. Cecil Steward & Sharon B. Kuska
Ostberg
c/o Greenway Communications
25 Technology Parkway South, Suite 101, Norcross, GA 30092
9780984613656, $39.95, www.greenway.us
The wildness of excess cannot continue forever. "Sustainometrics: Measuring Sustainability" is a
book that analyzes the ideas behind sustainability, stating that many human activities in our
world cannot continue forever and these abuses can threaten survival for many. Not just an
environmental debate, W. Cecil Steward & Sharon B. Kuska discusses there are many angles to
sustainability, and along with the environmental, there are cultural, technological, economic, and
political issues that must addressed in our future. "Sustainometrics" is a wide reaching
understanding of society and how long the status quo can be maintained without something being
done, highly recommended for community and college social issues, economics, and
environmental collections.
Global Warming
Sneed B. Collard
Lifelong Learning, Inc.
40 Second Street East, Suite 249, Kalispell, MT 59901
9780978536770, $18.00, www.projectcriss.com
A million problems, a million solutions, it can prove quite confusing. "Global Warming: A
Personal Guide to Causes and Solutions" discusses the causes and the many solutions proposed
for these problems. Science has the verdict, but money seems to drive the debate more than
finding anything that resembles a solution. Sneed B. Collard hopes to explain the many potential
solutions, with the strengths and weaknesses of each of them in a plain and easy to understand
format. Presented with full color photographs throughout, "Global Warming" is a strong pick for
those who want to gain a greater understanding for the problem as a whole.
The Economic Studies Shelf
Gods of Money
F. William Engdahl
Progressive
PO Box 126, Joshua Tree, CA
9781615778058, $24.95, www.engdahl.oilgeopolitics.net
Money is power, and ridiculously so. "Gods of Money: Wall Street and the Death of the
American Century" is F. William Engdahl's analysis of the rise of money's power in American
society, how money pushed America to take unpopular actions, how money has led to millions of
deaths, and led them to control the American political system, and how they very well seem
unstoppable. These gods, as some view themselves, prove to be the topic of "Gods of Money",
and it proves to be both a fascinating and frightening read.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
A Dog to Remember
June Greig, author
Gina Duffy, illustrator
Evergreen Bay Publishing
PO Box 49, East Longmeadow, MA 01028
9780615443393, $9.99, www.adogtoremember.com
It can be hard to move on from the loss of a pet, especially when one is at a young age. "A Dog to Remember" is an excellent picture book for young readers coping with the loss of a canine friend. A charming book of illustrated short passages for easy reading, it speaks to all ages but is especially ideal for young dog lovers who may be having their first experience with death. "A Dog to Remember" is a fine study, very much recommended.
The Automotive Shelf
Don't Let Your Mechanic Pick Your Pocket!
George A. Moyer
Auto Info Advantage
PO Box 688, Ringoes, NJ 08551
9781456319557, $12.95, www.mechanicscam.com
It's easy to get nickel and dimed when you're clueless on the details. "Don't Let Your Mechanic
Pick Your Pocket!" is a guide written by a retired mechanic aimed at helping less informed
drivers avoid being robbed at the mechanic. With advice on spotting the signs of being cheated
and how to work with a dishonest mechanic, "Don't Let Your Mechanic Pick Your Pocket!" is
worth considering for any who will be facing auto repairs in their future.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
Some Things Made Plain
Theresa Kirk
Knowledge Power Communications
25379 Wayne Mills Place, Suite 131
Valencia, CA 91355
9780981879024, $19.95, www.knowledgepowerbooks.com
Simplicity is serene and very attractive in today's complicated world. "Some Things Made Plain:
Inspirational Words of Revelation" is a collection of faith-driven wisdom and inspiration from
Theresa Kirk as she encourages readers to find the virtues we all share, to look to the word of
God and themselves in order to find that path in our life which is often difficult to fall. With a bit
of humor blended in, "Some Things Made Plain" is an inspirational text faithful readers should
very much consider.
Peace at the Edge of Uncertainty
Neil Hanson
High Prairie Press
20443 Goldenrod Lane, Parker, CO 80138
9780982639108, $17.95, www.neilhanson.com
No one knows everything, and coming to terms with such a frightening aspect is key to finding
peace. "Peace at the Edge of Uncertainty" is an inspirational spirituality book from Neil Hanson,
states that not only is uncertainty not worth fearing, but it should be embraced. His wisdom
speaks with some ideas that at first sight, aren't clear, but he does well in clarifying and providing
sound advice. "Peace at the Edge of Uncertainty" states that certainty is a myth, and makes for a
thoughtful and uplifting read.
The Relationship Shelf
All-in-One Marriage Prep
Susanne M. Alexander
Barringer Publishing
c/o Marriage Transformation
25241 Chatworth Drive
Cleveland, OH 44117-1837
9780982510995, $17.95, www.barringerpublishing.com
Marriage is quite the leap to make, and can be very intimidating. "All-in-One Marriage Prep: 75
Experts Share Tips & Wisdom to Help You Get Ready Now" is a collection of wisdom and
thought from Susanne M. Alexander as she walks couples through the many angles of marriage
with a very Christian element throughout. For any Christian couple who is considering tying the
knot and trying to gain a greater understanding of the weight of marriage, "All-In-One Marriage
Prep" is worth considering for them.
Rick and Jane Learn to Listen & Talk
Al & Autumn Ray
Marriage Team
PO Box 873086, Vancouver, WA 98687-3086
9781452812878, $14.95, www.marriageteam.org
Communication is the greatest aspect of a great relationship. "Rick and Jane Learn to Listen &
Talk: The First Step to Intimacy" is a book filled with marriage advice to creating good
communication skills at any stage of a relationship, working on the same page, and remembering
that your wife or husband is on your team, and it's best to work towards both of your best
interests. "Rick and Jane Learn to Listen & Talk" is a strong pick for anyone who feels the love is
there but the talking is not.
The Soulmate Experience
Mali Apple & Joe Dunn
A Higher Possibility
369B Third Street, Suite 541
San Rafael, CA 94901
9780984562206, $16.00, www.thesoulmateexperience.com
Someone who is everything to you and for it to be the other way as well is a magnificent feeling.
"The Soulmate Experience: A Practical Guide to Creating Extraordinary Relationships" is a guide to finding this bond with another, and understanding when you've found it. With many
principles to be applied to everyday life, Mali Apple & Joe Dunn share their own experiences
and how it can be achieved by anyone. "The Soulmate Experience" is a fine read that is well
worth reading for those who think there is something greater than love.
The Psychology Shelf
Fetish, Cult, and Disenchantment
G. V. Loewen
Old Moon Academic Press
PO Box 493, Alcoa, TN 37701
9780982899724, $49.99, www.oldmoonacademicpress.com
What we create has more to it than we understand. "Fetish, Cult, Disenchantment: Sociological
Studies of the Projected Self" is a collection of ponderings on the sense of self from G. V.
Loewen. As he presents his thoughts and opinions on life and why we push ourselves the way
that we do. As we push ourselves through our lives we try to further our view of the world
looking for a sense of purpose. For those who want a collection of psychology and philosophy,
"Fetish, Cult, Disenchantment" may be well worth considering, highly recommended.
James A. Cox
Editor-in-Chief
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com
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