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Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
The Wisdom of the Four Wise Men
Steven Paglierani
Emergence Alliance Publishing
55 Old Nyack Tpke, Ste 608, Nanuet, NY 10954
9780984489510, $29.95, www.fifthwiseman.com
There is a modern day information overload, and it can quite difficult to face. "The Wisdom of
the Four Wise Men: Finding Personal Truth in the Too-much Information Age" is a series of
questions and tests levied at the reader as Steven Paglierani challenges the reader to find what
they personally want out of life, using the concepts of Feelings, Ideas, Fact, and Stories to weave
into advice on finding the truth you want and understanding the nature of humanity. "The
Wisdom of the Four Wise Men" is an excellent read that should be worth considering for any
spiritual reader.
The Smart Guide to Wedding Weekend Events
Sharon Naylor
Smart Guide Publications
2517 Deer Creek Drive, Norman, OK 73071
9780978534127, $18.95, www.smartguidepublications.com
A wedding is more than simply a ceremony in today's world. "The Smart Guide to Wedding
Weekend Events" is a guide to being a more intuitive self-wedding planner to work around the
multi-day celebration of a wedding. Sharon Naylor, long time wedding planning expert, advises
readers on how to tailor the experience to fit what they want and need, from events that invite
families to maintaining privacy when everyone has a camera phone and Twitter. "The Smart
Guide to Wedding Events" is a strongly recommended read for anyone who wants to make their
wedding as perfect as it possibly can be.
The Travel Shelf
Enjoying India
J. D. Viharini
Tara Satara Press
PO Box 1056, Fairfield, IA 52556
9780981950303, $19.95, www.tarasatarapress.com
With one billion people, there is a whole lot of culture to embrace in India. "Enjoying India: The
Essential Handbook" is a guide filled with simple and recommended wisdom as J. D. Viharini
walks readers through the best ways to enjoy the cities and culture of the this massive country
well. From overcoming language barriers, cultural taboos, safety concerns, and many more,
"Enjoying India" is a strongly recommended read for trying to avoid the pitfalls of culture
shock.
French Feast
William Rodarmor
Whereabouts Press
2600 Tenth Street, Suite 260
Berkeley, CA 94710
9780982785218, $14.95, www.whereaboutspress.com
Food is more than sustenance. "French Feast: A Traveler's Literary Companion" is a collection of
contemporary literature surrounding the fine dishes of France, in ways that one would never
expect. Food is a major force in life, and William Rodarmor compiles this collection to show that
that it is a major force in writing as well. "French Feast" is insightful and a must-read for anyone
with a love of international literature as well as French cuisine.
The Memoir Shelf
At Home in the Elk River Valley
Mary B. Kurtz
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608449446, $14.95, www.marybkurtz.com
Those who still call the hills and valleys home have plenty of character unlike what you'll find in
the cities. "At Home in the Elk River Valley" is a memoir from Mary B. Kurtz as she reflects on
life's many twists and turns and her home in the Elk River Valley, stating her encounters with her
family, the people of the town and their unique occupations, and much more. A taste of mountain
life, "At Home in the Elk River Valley" is a riveting read that is very much recommended
reading.
Becoming Patrick
Patrick McMahon
Deep Root Press
PO Box 161082, San Diego, CA 92176
9780982801901, $15.00, www.deeprootpress.com
The things we do to our mothers are terrible, but it cannot be helped. "Becoming Patrick" is a
memoir of Patrick McMahon as he speaks on his own path through life. Searching for his birth
mother and coming out of the closet both slagged his adoptive mother with major bombshells, as
he tries to reconcile his world with who he is. A moving memoir of life and how it surprises us
and our loved ones, "Becoming Patrick" is a fine and very much recommended read, not to be
overlooked.
Why I Hated Pink
Maryellen D. Brisbois
Vantage Point
419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9781936467013, $17.95, www.vantagepointbooks.com
With will and determination, breast cancer can be beaten. "Why I Hated Pink: Confessions of a
Breast Cancer Survivor" is a memoir from Maryellen D. Brisbois who touches on her own
endeavors to recover from her breast cancer diagnosis. At first skeptical of the support of the
Breast Cancer support community, she found her support in her own way and began to
understand the joy of life. "Why I Hated Pink" is a fine memoir for anyone who is faced with
their own struggle for life.
A Song at Twilight
Nancy Paddock
Blue Road Press
34402 15th Street, Janesville, MN 56048
9780979650949, $18.00, www.blueroadpress.com
Alzheimers is almost a living death. "A Song at Twilight: of Alzheimer's and Love" is a memoir
of Nancy Paddock as she recalls the challenge and tragedy of facing two parents whose minds
were rotting away from Alzheimers. Speaking thoughtfully to others who are facing such a
tragedy and hoping to share strength with them, as well as provide a small tribute to her lost
parents. "A Song at Twilight" is a solid and much recommended read, not to be overlooked for
any Alzheimers memoir collection.
Notes from the Firehouse
D. E. McCourt
McCourt Movers
4 Suntaug St., Lynnfield, MA 01940
9781452872391, $12.95, www.notesfromthefirehouse.com
The most daunting thing about running into a burning building isn't the fire; it's everything else.
"Notes from the Firehouse" is the memoir of veteran fire fighter D. E. McCourt, coming down
from a family of fire fighters. From living in the twilight to help people to dealing with people
distraught as everything they've worked for has gone up in flames and much more, "Notes from
the Firehouse" is a moving and exciting memoir about the things people don't think comes into
play when you run into fires for a living.
Bermuda Shorts
James J. Patterson
Alan Square Publishing
PO Box 341909, West Bethesda, MD 20827
9780982625125, $22.00, www.alansquarepublishing.com
Through paradise, we can earn what we truly value above all. "Bermuda Shorts" is a memoir
from James J. Patterson as he reflects on his life's journey and how he came to see the world as
he does. From advice on love, to taking a casual approach to life and all of its gravity, and the
evolution (or lack thereof) of American culture. With a strong dose of humor and some off beat
wisdom, "Bermuda Shorts" is a fine assortment of thought and wisdom, very much
recommended.
Mind Your Own Life
Aaron Anson
Balboa Press
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403
9781452532899, $19.95, www.balboapress.com
Man is not an island, but there is more interference between it all than is really necessary. "Mind
Your Own Life" is a memoir from Aaron Anson as he reflects on his own journey through life
and what he has learned through it all. With a simple dose of life and wisdom as he searches for
his own happiness, he hopes his own journey will inspire others to make their own trip through
the days more productive in procuring that contentment. "Mind Your Own Life" is worth
considering for memoir collections.
Eat Bananas & Follow Your Heart
Mark J. Ehlers
Bookstand Publishing
305 Vineyard Town Center, Suite 302
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
9781589099135, $19.95, www.bookstandpublishing.com
Looking death in the eye, all you can do is keep on living. "Eat Bananas & Follow Your Heart:
Essays on Life, Politics, Baseball, & Religion" is a personal and frank memoir of Mark J. Ehlers
as he discusses his passion with humility and humor. Charming with plenty to consider, "Eat
Bananas & Follow Your Heart" is a fine pick that should most definitely not be passed over for
any memoir collection, highly recommended.
The Religion/Spirituality Shelf
The Descent of Religion
Liz Carr-Harris
Greyfox Publishing
5577 Smith Avenue, Suite 110, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5H 2K7
9780986729201, $19.95, www.greyfoxpublishing.com
Something greater than man has been on minds ever since they've had the cognition to imagine
such things. "The Descent of Religion: Its Evolution from Nurturing to Bullying ...and Back!"
discusses the creation of religion from the perspective of evolution and the research of Liz
Carr-Harris who blends science and philosophy to try to understand man and his creation of
religion. With strong thought and plenty to consider, "The Descent of Religion" proves to be a
fascinating and highly recommended read.
Illuminated Spirit
Dan & Jackie Deprospero
Koryu Books
PO Box 4464, Warren, NJ 07059-0464
9781890536114, $19.95, www.koryu.com
Archery has more to it than hitting a target accurately. "Illuminated Spirit: Conversations with a
Kyudo Master" discusses the spirituality behind the Japanese discipline of archery, Kyudo.
Through it all, Dan & Jackie Deprospero discuss the values and lessons one can teach themselves
through the martial art. An intriguing way to approach spirituality with a dose of history and
tradition blended in, "Illuminated Spirit" is a fine and very much recommended read, not to be
missed.
The Christian Studies Shelf
40 Days to Better Living
Barbour
PO Box 719, Uhrichsville, OH 44683
B&B Media Group (publicity)
109 South Main Street, Corsicana, TX 75110
9781616262648, $7.99, www.churchhealthcenter.com
Through good health, one can do wonderful things. "40 Days to Better Living: Optimal Health"
is an inspirational guide from The Church Health Center in Memphis, Tennessee. Stating how
many under them managed to find health once more through a combination of faith, nutrition,
exercise, and good support, "40 Days to Better Living" is very much recommended reading for
any Christian looking to use their devotion to God for devotion to better health.
Governed by the King from the Inside Out
Raymond Blanchey
LoRay Publishing
PO Box 583382, Minneapolis, MN 55458-3382
97809830008309, $9.95, www.loraychristianpublishing.com
When our lives are so chaotic, it can prove so difficult to find a strong connection to our lives
and reality. "Governed by the King from the Inside Out" is a call to let God take control of your
life and how to better help him take the reins for a more complete bond with Christ. With a
certain flare and devotion, Raymond Blanchey speaks clearly and gives advice any dedicated
Christian should consider. "Governed by the King" is a worthy addition to Christian self-help
collections.
The Path to the Cross
Barry Applewhite
Biblical Concepts Press
3016 Plumtree Lane, Plano, TX 75074-3147
9780983065845, $11.99, www.barrybiblicalnotes.com
The path and ideals of Christ were overpowering. "The Path to the Cross: The Journey of Jesus
That Shook the World and Still Demands a Response" is Barry Applewhite's own interpretation
of the life of Christ and what it should mean to our own lives. Taking it tale by tale, it is a
spiritual reading of the honesty of Christ and the difficulty of emulating him. "The Path to the
Cross" is a top pick for anyone who wants a thoughtful take on the life of Christ.
Finding Redemption in Everyday Life
Lela Gillow Buchanan
Intermedia Publishing Group
PO Box 2825, Peoria, AZ 85380
9781935529859, $13.99, www.intermediapub.com
Nothing is perfect, and it helps to quickly realize that. "Finding Redemption in Everyday Life" is
a guide to daily redemption and faith. With strong spirituality and faith in God, Lela Gillow
Buchanan comes at readers with simple and practical wisdom that shouldn't be overlooked.
"Finding Redemption in Everyday Life" is a recommended pick for anyone looking to raise their
spirits for years to come, and find something worth saving in everyday life.
The 10 Kidmandments
Jeffrey B. Oddo
Strong Books
PO Box 715, Avon, CT 06001-0715
Jenee Arthur Agency (publicity)
3400 Harbor Avenue SW #209, Seattle, WA 98126
9781928782278, $19.95, www.the10kidmandments.com
A parent's job is to prepare their child for the daunting task of living life. "The 10
Kidmandments: The Principles for Raising Successful Children" is a Christian driven parenting
guide from Jeffrey B. Oddo as he advises readers on helping children find their purpose, keeping
the outlook sunny, keeping good health, and finding faith and success wherever they go. "The 10
Kidmandments" is an excellent and very much recommended pick for Christian and parenting
collections, with plenty of wisdom that should be considered.
The Health/Medicine Shelf
Healthier without Wheat
Stephen Wangen
Innate Health Publishing
1229 Madison St., M Suite 1220, Seattle, WA 98104
9780976853794, $19.95, www.healtheirweithoutwheat.com
Gluten intolerance can lead to a long list of other health problems in some individuals. "Healthier
without Wheat: A New Understanding of What Allergies, Celiac Disease, and Non-Celiac Gluten
Intolerance" is a guide to disorder of gluten intolerance. National expert on gluten intolerance
Stephen Wangen offers advice on how to realize when gluten intolerance can become an issue
for an individual, and how to combat it more effectively and avoid certain products. "Healthier
Without Wheat" is worth considering for anyone who suspects gluten intolerance problems in
their diet.
Aging
Barry Klein
Todd Publications
PO Box 1752, Boca Raton, FL 33429
9780915344055, $12.95, www.toddpub.info
You can fight off aging, but you can't stop it. "Aging: The Road to Prevention, Wellness &
Fitness, Eat Healthy, Exercise Daily" is Barry Klein's advisory to fighting off the ravages of time.
Good health is not one thing, it is a combination of many things and embracing it all is very
much needed to succeed and flourish well into senior citizen status. Sprinkling some humor into
the bigger picture, "Aging" is a fine read with plenty to consider, highly recommended.
The Fat Chick Works Out!
Jeanette DePatie
Real Big Publishing
174 W. Foothill Blvd., Suite #233
Monrovia, CA 91016
9780983343707, $19.95, www.thefatchick.com
Anyone of any size can work out, you just need to find the work out that works. "The Fat Chick
Works Out!: Fitness That's Fun and Feasible for Folks of All Ages, Shapes, Sizes, and Abilities!"
is a health guide to exercise as self proclaimed fat chick Jeanette DePatie advises readers on how
to get to exercise and stick to it. With fifty exercises that focus on practicality and getting going,
"The Fat Chick Works Out!" is an exercise guide that realizes you aren't going to be a Greek god
overnight, recommended.
The Fiction Shelf
Sticking Points
Shirley Kurtz
DreamSeeker Books
c/o Cascadia Publishing House
126 Klingerman Road, Telford, PA 18969
9781931038812 $18.95 www.CascadiaPublishingHouse.com
The first volume of the DreamSeeker fiction series, Sticking Points is a novel following an
woman who, amid her domestic and cooking duties, is beside herself with philosophical
contemplation of the Biblical narrative. She turns the stories of Abraham and Isaac, Cain and
Abel over and over in her mind, questioning a religious narrative that involves so much
horrifying violence. At last she finds herself compelled to express her criticism of such cavalier
treatment of human life in supposedly holy texts - what does this in turn say about church
doctrine, and the church itself? A moving work that smoothly blends religious philosophy and
the rigors of day-to-day domestic life into a thoughtful whole, sticking points leaves an
unforgettable impression.
Warped Intentions
S. B. Redd
MavLit Publishing
PO Box 1103, Irmo, SC 29063
9780983115267, $14.95, www.maverick-books.com
The intentions of a new entrant into your life should rarely be taken at face value. "Warped
Intentions" follows reporter Garner Davis, who enters into a new relationship with Vernise
Aikens and finds his investigative skills compromised. As he tries to understand the conflict of
lust and reason, he asks many questions we face in today's world. "Warped Intentions" is an
excellent read that shouldn't be immediately overlooked for general fiction readers.
Crowns and Rose
K. L. Green
Rubeus Books
4631 Pipeline Rd., Victoria, BC Canada V8Z 5M6
9780986644177, $19.99, www.amazon.com
For power, killing a cousin is nothing. "Crowns and Roses : Shakespeare's Tales of the
Lancasters and the Yorks" is a retelling of medieval political intrigue. Spinning this tale of war
and subterfuge into a more modern tongue while maintaining the spirit behind it all and making it
read well into a novel form from the usual theater presentation. "Crowns and Roses" is a fun and
riveting read that will entertain for hours for fans of stories surrounding the power hunger of
nobility.
Dying Within
Patricia Kelly
Renewal Publishing
PO Box 536, W. Hempstead, NY 11552
9781450770149, $25.00, www.amazon.com
The darkness of life resonates strongly. "Dying Within" is a novel of high school sweethearts torn
by the cruelty of life and what comes their way. Although they have love that is strong, it faces
the worst that mankind can offer and they may find happiness if they can endure their way
through all of it. "Dying Within" is a fine read that shouldn't be overlooked by general fiction and
romance collections, highly recommended.
Jane Was Here
Sarah Kernochan
Grey Swan Press
c/o Kelley & Hall (publicity)
5 Briar Lane, Marblehead, MA 01945
9780980037722, $24.95, www.greyswanpress.com
When the mystery you're trying to deduct is your own existence, it can prove to easily spiral out
of control. "Jane Was Here" is a novel from Sarah Kernochan, following simply Jane as she
comes to a small New England town and the spirals of reality and thought that come at her in
very small bits of familiarity. As she realizes who she is and what her town means to her, she is
frightened but must dig ever deeper. "Jane Was Here" is a riveting work with plenty of mystery
and paranormal blended in to entice readers further.
Hustle
Jason Skipper
Press 53
PO Box 30314, Winston-Salem, NC 27130
9781935708346, $18.95, www.press53.com
In search of our dreams, we'll do anything we can to make them more of a reality. "Hustle" is the
debut novel of Jason Skipper as he weaves the story of three generations trying to make their way
towards what they want to make of their lives. The grandfather has the weight of his past deeds
on him, seeking redemption. The father has lost sight of what love is, and the son wants to make
his love of music something greater than hobby. Weaving the tale together well, "Hustle" is a
fine tale of family, dreams, and what we will do for them, highly recommended.
The Fall from Paradise Valley
Virginia Nosky
Champagne Books
6709 East Valley, Vista Lane,
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
9781926996011, $15.95, www.virginianosky.com
Ennui can lead those with nothing to fear down a very dark path. "The Fall from Paradise Valley"
tells a story of women drifting from their lives after having everything they thought they could
ever want handed to them. From affairs that can destroy families and careers, facing the reality of
their lives, and breaking the facade of happiness, "The Fall from Paradise Valley" is a riveting
read of the charm of life gone awry.
Green Girl
Kate Zambreno
Emergency Press
154 W. 27th Street #5W, New York, NY 10001
9780983022633, $16.00, www.emergencypress.org
Attention is something we both shun yet want at the same time. "Green Girl" follows young
Ruth, an American girl in London who is trying to find her way through life's many twists and
turns. As through young adulthood we try to assess what we do with our lives, Ruth's story is no
different, as she finds herself pulled in many directions and left with far too many questions
trying to make sense of it all. "Green Girl" is an excellent and very much recommended read for
general fiction collections.
True Surrealism
Christopher Klim
Hopewell Publications
PO Box 11, Titusville, NJ 08560-0011
9781933435244, $13.95, www.hopepubs.com
We're all just doing the best to increase our odds of life. "True Surrealism" is a collection of short
stories from Christopher Klim who crafts stories of people who can't seem to get anything right,
being dominated by all those around them, yet still find success in their own way, and coming to
terms with what they are and where they are going. "True Surrealism" is a fine collection that
shouldn't be overlooked, and will entertain and provoke thought.
Temptation to Sin
Ju Ephraime
Envision
23 Kimberly Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516
9780972878982, $7.99, www.envisionschoolpublishing.com
Vengeance can go sour so quickly. "Temptation to Sin" is a novel spinning the tale of the
unfulfilled Shannon, who leaves her long time childhood sweetheart to find another. The
vengeful Brent seeks revenge for another, and aims for Shannon. But what was once vengeance
turned into so much more'. "Temptation to Sin" proves to be a unique and thrilling work of
romance, highly recommended.
Solitaire
Kelley Eskridge
Small Beer Press
150 Pleasant Street #306, Easthampton, MA 01027
9781931520102, $16.00, www.smallbeerpress.com
With no connection to reality, one must learn anew. "Solitaire" from Kelley Eskridge is set in a
world where the world is controlled by an administration, and Jackal Segura is destined to
become the next person to control it all. Standing against it, she is shoved into simulated solitary
confinement, simulating years with no contact. Upon emergence, she relearns the world, this time
as a human being instead of one being sent to the top. "Solitaire" is a riveting and original read,
very much recommended.
Klara
Joseph Leary
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
9781608446674, $14.95, www.dogearpublishing.net
Scars of the past heal very slowly when they are truly found in atrocity. "Klara" follows the
titular protagonist as she comes into middle age in a Ukrainian village in Chicago in 1977. When
an elderly woman enters the scene, she is perceived as crazy, but Klara will soon enough learn
that her madness shouldn't be dismissed as simply such. "Klara" is a riveting and moving read of
ethnic life and the long effects history has on people.
The Chapbook
Charles Bane
Curbside Splendor
2816 N. Kedzie, Chicago, IL 60618
9780983422815, $14.99, www.curbsidesplendor.com
Curiosity of the world and our own happiness sometimes are at odds with each other. "The
Chapbook" is a collection of poetry from Charles Bane, Jr. He asks many questions of life and
time, as we search for those moments where life becomes clearer. "The Chapbook" is a fine
assortment of verse, very much recommended reading. "Cycle": The sun is cracked and spills
itself,/and stains the border of the western sky/and we must find a bed where I may pour in you/a
sea of stars from which light comes,/unshadowing the hillsides of your near/form and
spreading,/becomes the original poem.
The Aries Obsession
Daniel VanTassel
Vellum
PO Box 415, Round Top, NY 12473
9780982628737, $12.95, www.vellumpublishing.com
A daughter is worth more than the world. "The Aries Obsession" is an espionage thriller of the
cold war. Stoney Johnstone, a top agent, finds that as the balance of the world lies in coups that
may spiral the world into war, he finds himself more concerned with the disappearance of his
daughter. With the help of a psychologist, he finds he might have the power to save his daughter
without plunging the world into chaos. "The Aries Obsession" is an excellent pick for fans of spy
novels, recommended.
Men with Broken Faces
James Ostby
Dog Ear Publishing
4010 W. 86th Street, Ste H, Indianapolis, IN 46268
Smith Publicity (publicity)
1930 E. Marlton Pike, Suite I-46, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
9781608448562, $14.99, www.dogearpublishing.net
War does terrible things to people. "Men with Broken Faces" is a novel of World War I
following Morgan Feeney from his basic training camp to the tragedy of the post war life. James
Ostby tells the story of this all too true in history of people who faced the crippling nature of war,
from the true physical deformities to the lives that were forever shattered, and how we struggle to
find a truly happy ending. "Men with Broken Faces" is a profound and recommended read.
Crooked Creek
Maximilian Werner
Torrey House Press
PO Box 750196, Torrey, UT 84775
9781937226008, $15.95, www.torreyhouse.com
Running forever gets you nowhere fast. "Crooked Creek" is the story of the Wood family as they
face the trials and tribulations of life. Going to the Heber Valley in Utah, they expect a much
better life, and instead find that challenges will follow them anywhere and the only way to
improve the self is to face crises head on. "Crooked Creek" is filled with fine wisdom and
intriguing storytelling, very much recommended reading.
Men as Trees Walking
George Imbragulio
Vantage Point
419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9781936467044, $15.95, www.vantagepointbooks.com
People as a whole are slow to change. "Men as Trees Walking " follows young woman Dulcie
Dykes as she flirts with crossing racial lines in Tyler Canfield . As the small town of Elliston
comes to term with its long rotting secrets boiling over, George Imbragulio tells a unique tale of
small town life facing the future. "Men as Trees Walking" is well worth considering for general
and historical fiction collections.
Two Thousand Eighty Four
W. Schoellkopf
Arbor Books, Inc.
19 Spear Road, Suite 205, Ramsey, NJ 07446
9780984199228, $17.95, www.arborbooks.com
With power does not come immunity the crumbling of the world around you. "Two Thousand
Eighty Four" is set in a near future America where the power lies with the wealthiest families in
America. George Duffet, one of the men of power, finds his family crumbling within from inner
turmoil. Marriages of power, secrets of homosexuality, and rebellion all threaten to destroy the
system that has kept it all together. "Two Thousand Eighty Four" is a fine spin of politics, power,
and greed, highly recommended.
The Antique Show
Kathryn Y. Pollard
Phyllis Scott Publishing
3431 Larga Circle, San Diego, CA 92110
9780615488219, $9.99, www.phyllisscottpublishing.com
Even in the oldest of junk, there's some gold hidden in it all. "The Antique Show" follows young
Natalie as she copes with life with her grandparents. She struggles to find her place and blend in
with a world that is so different from her own, until he sees that antique is something more than
just old junk. "The Antique Show" is a fun read of youth and finding something to enjoy, highly
recommended.
Ursula's Prism
Anna Block
Gihon River Press
PO Box 88, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
9780981990620, $17.95, www.gihonriverpress.com
When cruelty enters so early into your life, it can destroy your world. "Ursula's Prism: The
Holocaust through a Child's Eyes...A survivor's Story" is a guide of struggling to survive in the
concentration camp of Bergen-Belsen. Author Anna Block bases her work on a true story of
survival, of a young girl against all odds trying to succeed in a world that couldn't care if she
lives or dies. "Ursula's Prism" is a riveting work of fiction, highly recommended.
A New Song
Sarah Isaias
Derusha Publishing LLC
2637 East Atlantic Boulevard, #16749
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
9781935104056, $14.95, www.readanewsong.com
God has more power to unite than many realize. "A New Song" follows the union of a Muslim
poet and Jewish physician as they look for a lost poem which may have a hand in guiding
mankind towards its lost redemption. Facing off against extremists and violence, the search for
truth is never easy. "A New Song" is a riveting read that shouldn't be overlooked.
Zeina
Nawal El Saadawi
45th Parallel Communications
600 N. 36th Street, #212, Seattle, WA 98103
9780863564178, $14.95, www.saqibooks.com
The mistakes of the past may not be such mistakes after all. "Zeina" tells of a famed Egyptian
entertainer in the title, who finds her roots in being abandoned. Her lost mother grows to regret
her decision to abandon her daughter. Years later as the revolution in Cairo begins to gain fire,
the estranged mother and daughter may find what they've been looking for all this time. A tale of
regret written by an Egyptian who understands the loss and challenge that the modern Egyptian
faces in Nawal El Saadawi, "Zeina" is a top pick, very much recommended for world
contemporary fiction collections.
The Beneficiary
Larry L. Hines
Scriba Publications
1000 Town Center Drive, 6th Floor
Oxnard, CA 93036
9780578052366, $19.95, www.amazon.com
Corruption takes hold of one individual and spreads through the whole system. "The Beneficiary"
is Larry L. Hines using his own experience as a trial lawyer as he brings readers a legal thriller of
corruption and those who face it. Dillon Clark is an attorney with corruption surrounding him
from all sides. From the judge, from his opposition, even from his own client. "The Beneficiary"
is riveting with no shortage of twists and turns.
This Can't Be Life
Shakara Cannon
Infinite Source Publishing
5042 Wilshire Blvd. #16948
Los Angeles, CA 90036
9780983574804, $14.95, www.shakaracannon.com
Choices that will inevitably change our lives leave us with constant questions of which paths to
choose. "This Can't Be Life" follow Simone who has been blessed with a good life. Drawn
between an NBA star and one true love, she is split between what to choose. Other women too,
are split between the choices of their life and where to go . "This Can't Be Life" is a fine read and
addition to urban fiction collections.
That Paris Year
Joanna Biggar
Alan Squire Enterprises
PO Box 341909, West Bethesda, MD 20827
9780982625101, $25.00, www.alansquire.com
You learn much by traveling and seeing the world, but one particular year in Paris was
exceptionally educational. "That Paris Year" tells the story of six women who arrive in France
expecting some fun just for the heck of it. What they find is a gathering of France's greatest
writers of the twentieth century and they learn more than ever expected. As they reflect on their
journeys, theirs is a journey of art, eroticism, and everything else that makes up life. "That Paris
Year" is a fun, yet inspirational read, very highly recommended.
The House of Six Doors
Patricia Selbert
Publishing by the Seas
1187 Coast Village Rd., Suite I-530
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
9780578064406, $14.95, www.publishingbytheseas.com
For a shot at something better, a gamble is very much worth it. "The House of Six Doors"
follows Serena and family as they leave the Caribbean and try to find their place in America.
Coming from near homelessness, they struggle to survive. Author Patricia Selbert tells the story
of Serena and coming of age in a new land and what awaits her as she grows into a young woman
in Hollywood, California. "The House of Six Doors" is a fine pick for a literary coming of age
story.
Uncaged
Paul McKellips
Vantage Point
419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
9781936467099, $14.95, www.vantagepointbooks.com
The death of plagues is something that has not been seen in quite some time. "Uncaged" tells of a
such plagues coming upon the American people once more as the government tries to stand
before a disease that may cause the death of millions. With a growing conspiracy behind it all, it
may be up to Commander Campbell to find the truth and give humanity a chance against a
vicious death. "Uncaged" is an entertaining and riveting thriller, not to be overlooked.
Loyalty Binds Me
Joan Szechtman
Star Publish LLC
PO Box 122, Loretto, PA 15940
9781935188254, $15.95, www.starpublishllc.com
Immortality plays into our hands strangely. "Loyalty Binds Me" is a unique novel that spins into a
Richard the III alive in the twenty-first century. Wrapped into a centuries old problem and facing
what he's been running from for centuries. With a five hundred year old murder mystery turning
hot again, "Loyalty Binds Me" is a highly unique twist on historical fiction and mystery,
recommended.
Poison Makers
Jimmy Olsen
Hoffman House Press
505 Fourth Street South
PO Box 161, Hoffman, MN 56339
9780980183542, $19.95, www.jimmyolsen.net
From the death of an ambassador, he will find corruption that is rooted deep in society. "Poison
Makers" is a mystery and intrigue set in Haiti. Edgar Espinosa-Jones, called EJ by many,
explores Haiti and its culture to find the truth behind the murder of an American Ambassador.
Through voodoo and corruption with a sprinkling of zombies, "Poison Makers" is an intriguing
read that should be considered strongly for world fiction collections.
Love at Absolute Zero
Christopher Meeks
White Whisker Books
1507 Nolden Street, Los Angeles, CA 90042
9780983632917, $14.95, www.chrismeeks.com
Thermodynamics are nothing; it's that love thing that is so frustratingly hard to figure out. "Love
at Absolute Zero" is a novel following Gunnar Gunderson, a physicist on the verge of something
truly magnificent. But when he gains tenure, he seeks to find romance. But with the project
growing in severity and in a race against other scientists, adding love to his formula may have
been a mistake. "Love at Absolute Zero" is an excellent read that is very much worth considering,
highly recommended.
Invasion on the Mountain
Judith Edwards
Images from the Past
PO Box 137, Bennington, VT 05201
9781884592553, $12.50, www.imagesfromthepast.com
The New Deal shook up America in its attempts to rescue the nation from the depression.
"Invasion on the Mountain: The Adventures of Will Ryan and the Civilian Conservation Corps,
1933" is a novel telling of Will Ryan and Ascutney Mountain. When the New Deal shuttles in the
Civilian Conservation Corps, life on the mountain is going to become a lot more interesting.
"Invasion on the Mountain" is a fine read that is very much worth considering for historical
fiction collections.
An Irish Heartbeat
Paul Ferris
Grosvenor House Publishing
c/o Smith Publicity
1930 E. Marlton Pike, Suite I-46
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
www.grosvenorhousepublishing.co.uk
9781907652264, $14.99
Peace is fragile, and it takes only one mistake to shatter it. "An Irish Heartbeat" tells of British
Government Minister Cormac O'Reilly returning to Northern Ireland after two decades. But what
he left behind may shatter the peace that Northern Ireland has struggled for so long to craft. From
a former friend to lost love, he has to put it all together before none of it matters and violence
becomes the name of the game once more. "An Irish Heartbeat" is an excellent thriller, very
much recommended.
Down and Out in Manhattan
Irene Magers
Shady Tree Press
136 East 64th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10065
9780984121137, $13.95, www.shadytreepress.com
A leap of faith is sometimes forever worth it. "Down and Out in Manhattan" follows a woman
with the world thrown at her, Margaret Maghpye, as she embarks on post-termination escapades
to find something to love about life. On a Mexican cruise, she finds someone to call friend. But
whether is a few days friendship or something more is something she cannot yet determine.
"Down and Out in Manhattan" is a riveting read with plenty to consider, highly
recommended.
The House That War Minister Built
Andrew Imbrie Dayton & Elahe Talieh Dayton
Octavio Books
5410 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 507
Washington, DC 20015
9780983095804, $24.95, aidayton.com
As traditions fall and modernism rises, life between generations seems to radically change. "The House That War Minister Built" is a historical novel that traces the end of Iran's Qajar dynasty in the 1920s up through the modern era. Nargess and her family face a rapidly developing time, the fall of a medieval culture in the industrialized world through world conflicts to the tense era of post September 11th, 2001. "The House That War Minister Built" is an insightful and very highly recommended work of historical fiction.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The Dark Age
Jeff W. Horton
World Castle Publishing
PO Box 10652, Pensacola, FL 32524
9781937085049, $12.99, www.worldcastlepublishing.com
As the world falls to pieces, evil will flourish and only the bold will dare stand in its way. "The
Dark Age: Survivors of the Pulse" is set on a post apocalyptic Earth. Ferrell Young of the
Warrior Clan takes up a duty for the church to recover an important book. He races against
Barbaric warlord Kraken, who is looking to end any power to oppose him as lord of the world.
"The Dark Age" is a riveting blend of science fiction and fantasy, recommended reading.
Goodbye Milkyway
Dan Makaon
eFusion Publishing Group LLC
173 Cooquina Key Drive
Ormond Beach, FL 32176-8953
9780983378594, $27.95, www.danmakaon.com
Saving the planet might be too daunting of a task for one man. "Goodbye Milkyway: An Earth in
Jeopardy Adventure" speaks a massive tsunami that threatens the planet by striking at its axis.
Tom Calvano, a problem solver who has gotten results in the past finds he is tapped to solve this
catastrophe before it's too late. Humanity's salvation may lie in its most desolate continent,
Antarctica. A riveting read of science fiction and much more, "Goodbye Milkyway" is very much
recommended reading.
The Poetry Shelf
Dreaming of Kaleidoscopes
Chris Wind
Magenta
15 Lakeview Lane
Sundridge, ON Canada P0A 1Z0
9781926891132, $5.99, www.Chriswind.net
The senses make for a unique assault of verse. "Dreaming of Kaleidoscopes" is a collection of
poetry from Chris Wind, as he presents a decade and a half of poetry, presenting her unique
views and wisdom of the world and how it has developed over time. "Dreaming of
Kaleidoscopes" is a top pick of poetry and is very much worth considering. "Counterpoint": Two
lines of melody/refusing to coincide/collide/again and again/with each beat/they twist and
tangle/leaving all my notes/in knots.
Crack Willow
Shelby Allen
Cherry Grove Collections
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781936370306, $18.00, www.amazon.com
As the trees continue to grow, it's all too easy to forget one's own journey through it all. "Crack
Willow" is a collection of poetry from Shelby Allen, a lover of nature and poetry who has
received credit through many poetic journals. "Crack Willow" is a fine compilation of poetry,
highly recommended. "Red-Wing Blackbird": My parents need me to sing/and I know the
song.//I fill the nest singing:/notes they gave me//scrape my throat./Years fly while I hide//my
fighter epaulets.
Slipping Out of Bloom
Julie L. Moore
WordTech Editions
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781934999844, $18.00, www.amazon.com
Dedicated to her art, Julie L. Moore returns to readers with her second compilation of work,
"Slipping Out of Bloom". Following her previous volume, she presents more highly honored
work as she explores the wonder of the world we so often forget. "Slipping Out of Bloom" is a
fine assortment, not to be overlooked. "Shift": Sometimes/in a cool/slip of wind and/shift of
sunlight,/I mix my seasons up,/and in the midst of April/I expect to smell/earthen oils/simmering
golden/leaves on autumn lawns,/hickory/smoking from a brick chimney,/butter/stars baking/in
December,/perfume,/as sweet as the day/it was poured,/steaming off the feet of Messiah/come
again.
Take Out
Kim Bridgford
David Robert Books
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781936370085, $18.00, www.amazon.com
Fortune cookies are usually ignored, but there may be something deeper still behind it all. "Take
Out" is a compilation of poetry from Kim Bridgford as she presents her own unique musings
taking some fun inspiration from the so called wisdom in free cookies with Chinese food. "Take
Out" is worth considering, recommended. "A Slight Hesitation": This fortune, opposite of
courtesy,/.May conjure pictures of a miser's gold,/The trickling nuggets where a soul is sold,/The
archetypal warning against money.//Or else the glutton, tearing swinely flesh/And washing it all
down with swigs of wine./Or else the evil stepparent whose wish/Is that the children die in slow
decline.//Yet what is time is what is substituted?/We should think how we would prefer to spend
it,/Not squander what we have. We can't rescind it./Our attitude is what's evaluated./We should
be sharing, as we seize the day,/Not be nostalgic as we walk away.
The River is a Reason
Meredith Davis Hadaway
Word Press
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781936370184, $18.00, www.amazon.com
An editor of a poetry publication, Meredith Davis Hadaway's love of poetry is very much well
known. "The River is a Reason" is her second volume of poetry as she discusses a love of nature,
or more specifically, the waters of the woods. "The River is a Reason" is an excellent addition to
poetry collections. "Power Failure": No light in the library--/leather bindings hold/dust in the
dark//The clock stabs the room/with zero after zero.//I dream I drive my car through yellow
flowers.
Palaces of the Night
Gerry Grubbs
CW Books
PO Box 541106, Cincinnati, OH 45254-1106
9781936370252, $18.00, www.amazon.com
Cincinnati native Gerry Grubbs, poet Laureate of the Olympic Garage, brings a second volume of
work in "Palaces of the Night". He ponders the vastness of the universe and what it factors into
as a whole. "Palaces of the Night" is a fine read that should be given some consideration.
"Restless": I rise/To keep/From waking you//The wind itself/Wanders in the trees//Night is a
deep pocket/Full of lint and scraps of paper//And I wander/From room to room.
Hanging Men
Alvin O. Turner
Twin Territories
c/o Mongrel Empire Press
1108 West Main, Suite 103, Norman, OK 73069
9780983305231, $13.00, www.mongrelempire.org
Through history, we find relevance for our present and an understanding of our future. "Hanging
Men" is a collection of poetry from historian of Oklahoma Alvin O. Turner as he blends verse
and historical perspective into a delightful package. With plenty to consider, "Hanging Men" is a
volume that should very much be considered. "A Plot Unravels": Oscar Peeler soon revealed/his
role in the sorry affair, gaining/six months pay to show Miller around./He earned headlines and a
pardon of sorts/naming Berry Burrell as the man who passed/the money from West to
Miller.//That marked a new low in the downward spiral/of Burrell's sad life/from banker to
forger,/land title schemes with Miller,/then broker between the killer/and those who paid his
fee.
Embouchure
Kevin McNeilly
Nightwood Editions
PO Box 1779, Gibsons, BC Canada V0N 1V0
9780889712584, $18.95, www.nightwoodeditions.com
Art is art, even across mediums. "Embouchure" is a collection of poetry from Kevin McNeilly as
he spins the legacy of trumpet players around the turn of the twentieth century, he seeks to
capture their art in the form of poetry. "Embouchure" is a unique and very much recommended
volume, a top pick. "Hot Lips": A milk-toothed embouchure/goes for nothing;/too many cats/will
cut you hard before/flesh meets metal,/or breath can find the sweet/heart of a brassy bore./You
hit., you kill./The blue devils learned fast/from Oran what means what./He had his Satch licks
down,/but blew/another score,/free-floating over bear-/lines like a natural./Before
Christmas,/they'd wiped out the Molten band,/By New Year's/they'd all joined up again,/even
Walter./Nobody needs those fancy/arrangements:/creation can't be written out,/but drifts/like a
fleet melody/through heads and riffs.
The Singing Inside
Michael Miller
Birch Brook Press
PO Box 81, Delhi, NY 13753
9780984200313, $16.00, www.birchbookpress.info
The love of life comes in the form of life within life. "The Singing Inside" is a collection of
poetry from Michael Miller who constructs poetry of love in its many forms. With a certain
dedication, poignancy, and honesty, "The Singing Inside" is a fine volume of verse, not to be
overlooked. "Cage": I weave my hand into a bush with thorns/To help a yellow-throated
warbler/Trapped inside a cage of branches./When I touch its feathers/I feel a cold, stiff
body--/Black eyes lock into my heart./I ease the warbler out,/Cupping it in my nest of hand,/Then
spread my fingers, imagining it/Flying toward a white pine's top.
The Spiritual Life of Replicants
Murat Nemet-Nejat
Talisman House
PO Box 896, Greenfield, MA 01032
9781584980810, $14.95, www.amazon.com
The spiritual nature of our world and what it means has way too many spins and thoughts behind
it all. "The Spiritual Life of Replicants" is a collection of poetry from Murat Nemet-Nejat as he
speaks on spirituality with a unique brand of verse that questions anything and everything about
the world. "The Spiritual Life of Replicants" is thoughtful volume that should very much be
considered. "At the Gates of Heaven": 'I was expecting you sooner.'/'It's not easy to meet your
maker.'/'And what can I do for you?'/'Can the maker repair me?'/Would you like to be
modified?'/'No. Stayed.'/'What seems to be the problem'/'Death....'
Saint Monica
Mary Biddinger
Black Lawrence Press
115 Center Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15215
9780982876619, $9.00, www.blacklawrence.com
Dropped into the temptations of the modern world, it can be difficult to find a way. "Saint
Monica" is a collection of poetry from Mary Biddinger, speaking of the spirit of abuse victims
who yearn to take control of their own life once more. With a powerful message, "Saint Monica"
speaks of real issues and the lives that so many dismiss as statistics. "Saint Monica Gives It Up":
They say chastity is a gift,/like an extra thumb,/But they have never seen//Kevin McMillan
bare/to the waist in an apple tree/as Monica did//one Wednesday afternoon/ before dance
class/The bun in her hair nearly//unraveled itself./All of the birds around her/dipped to the
ground//in search of stray fire ants./Still, she clung/to her Saint Christopher//medal, taped
up/more kitten posters in her/school locker,//pounded the bread dough/a little bit harder./Twenty
years later now//and she still sees/him: grinding cross-sections/of a fallen oak, or//staggering
across a field to her/in pink moments/before the alarm clock's bare.
Reviving the Dead
Gary Fincke
Time Being Books
10411 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131
9781568091426, $15.95, www.timebeing.com
Through thought, we can strongly remember what has left us behind. "Reviving the Dead" is a
collection of poetry from Gary Fincke. Drawing on the grief from the death of his father, and he
brings readers poems that are dark yet hopeful for our future. "Reviving the Dead" is a simple
and profound read that would do well in any poetry collection, highly recommended. "When":
"When" became a children's story/Waiting to be spoken again.//As I told my children that
tale,/My voice sounded like a prophet's,/Unlocking fear's old jewelry box/That sat by their beds
like God.
Fragrant Flute of Fire
Saswati Das
Biplab Chattopadhyay
10635 Granby Way, San Diego, CA 92126
9780983410270, $5.38, www.saswatidas.com
A passion for life is a passion for its changes. "Fragrant Flute of Fire: Poems on Love... Life...
Revolution" is a collection of poetry from Asian American Saswati Das, as she speaks definitely
and inspirationally about love, friendship, and the way we burn through life. "Fragrant Flute of
Fire" is a moving read, down to earth and recommended. "Struggle": Struggle, Struggle is the call
of the day/Freedom, freedom is the song of the soul;/Sacrifice, the heart years for now-Liberty is
life's goal.
Words Collected on the Road to Silence
Margaret Coyle Irsay
One Body Books
1711 West 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032
9780978946814, $30.00, www.wabishi.com
To find one's own serenity and peace, one must walk through much and try to comprehend it all.
"Words Collected on the Road to Silence" is a collection of spirituality and poetry from Margaret
Coyle Irsay as she weaves in interpretive dance with her spiritual poetry via full color
photographs throughout. A unique experience, "Words Collected on the Road to Silence" is a
fine pick of wisdom, very much recommended.
The Self-Help Shelf
Have a Nice Conflict
Tim Scudder, Michael Patterson, & Kent Mitchell
Personal Strengths Publishing
PO Box 2605, Carlsbad, CA 92018
9781932627114, $19.95, www.personalstrengths.com
Disagreements happen, but it doesn't have to mean a declaration of war. "Have a Nice Conflict:
A Story of Finding Success & Satisfaction in the Most Unlikely Places" uses the fictional story of
John Doyle to tell the story of bad conflict management and how to turn it into a positive.
Drawing on the psychological practices of Dr. Elias Porter, the authors seek to empower readers
to become masters of their own conflict and control their own lives. "Have a Nice Conflict" is a
powerful read for anyone who wants to be able to diffuse life's conflicts more effectively.
You Might Be a Narcissist If...
Paul Meier, Lisa Charlebois, & Cynthia Munz
Langdon Street Press
212 3td Avenue North, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Dahlia Design Studio (publicity)
4342 Virgusell Circle, Carmichael, CA 95608
9781934938744, $13.95, www.langdonstreetpress.com
Having self worth is a good thing, but too much can lead to issues. "You Might Be a Narcissist
if...: How to Identify Narcissism in Ourselves and Others and What We Can Do About It" is a
guide to finding narcissism and understanding it. Narcissism can lead to stress on many fronts,
and learning to understand it and act accordingly can help communications and relationships.
"You Might Be a Narcissist If..." is a solid self-help guide, highly recommended.
In Search of the Self
Donald G. Oakley
Eyrie Press
1350 E. Flamingo Rd., #230, Las Vegas, NV 89119
9780961946555, $22.50, www.amazon.com
The question of 'who are you' is one deeper than simply responding with a name. "In Search of
the Self: The Riddle of Personal Existence" seeks to help readers ask such a question of
themselves and delve deeper into what it means to them and how to get a better understanding of
it all. Donald Oakley states we cannot conceive ourselves not existing, which leads us to more
questions and offers the immortality of the self and the soul. "In Search of the Self" is a
thoughtful question for those who question the essence of existence.
The Sports Shelf
The Little Black Bottle
Gerry Moore
Cycle Publishing
1282 7th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122
9781892495679, $18.95, www.cyclepublishing.com
Although the modern field of athletics is rife with accusations of steroid usage, performance
enhancing drugs are nothing new. "The Little Black Bottle: Choppy Warburton, the Question of
Doping, and the Deaths of His Bicycle Racers" looks to perhaps one of the earliest known sports
drug scandals. In the early days of bicycle racing, looking at famed trainer James Edward
'Choppy' Warburton, who was known for a little black bottle which had mysterious effects. Gerry
Moore launches an investigation a century later to find something of truth. "The Little Black
Bottle" is an excellent read of sports scandal and history.
The Business Shelf
The Intentional Networker
Patti DeNucci
Rosewall Press
5114 Balcones Woods Dr., 307-430, Austin, TX 78759
9780983546108, $19.95, www.internationalnetworker.com
When you zero in on networking, you get much more out of it all. "The Intentional Networker:
Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals, & Results in Business" is a guide to more efficient
networking in today's business world. From making more efficient connections, being selective
in your allies, an dhow to make these connections, Patti DeNucci advises readers on the power of
focused networking and how to make it a reality for one's own business. "The Intentional
Networker" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone who wants to boost their business's
networking power.
Mind Power
Ruth Barrons Roosevelt
Traders Press, Inc.
c/o W & A Publishing
1 Peregrine Way, Cedar Falls, IA 50613
9781934354193, $19.95, www.w-apublishing.com
Understanding the business world is the best way to play it. "Mind Power: Thought Techniques
for High-Powered Trading" is an advisory from Ruth Barrons Roosevelt for harnessing the power
of the mind to be a more effective trader. From understanding psychology and human nature, she
speaks on how to apply this to the market and using it well to win the day. "Mind Power" is a
must pick for anyone who wants to understand the psychology of trading, very much
recommended.
Grow Global
Jan Yager
Hannacroix Creek Books
1127 High Ridge Road, #110, Stamford, CT 06905
9781889262215, $31.95, www.hannacroixbooks.com
Worldwide expansion is a great way to secure a future for your business. "Grow Global: Using
International Protocol to Expand Your Business Worldwide" is a guide to embracing world wide
growth for one's business. Jan Yager offers advice on how to better expand one's business, the
international protocol, working with businesses across seas, traveling abroad, faux pas to avoid,
and much more. For anyone considering making their business international, "Grow Global" is
very much recommended reading.
IT Survival Guide
David Papp
PFH Publishing
PO Box 3642
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada T8H 2T4
9780986821301, $19.95, www.davidpapp.com
Understanding technology is a vital act in today's world. "IT Survival Guide: Conquering
Information Technology in Your Organization" is a guide for businesses who want to improve
their information and technology jujitsu, as David Papp walks readers through what needs to be
done to make the most of their businesses technology and how to stay on top of the latest
technological developments before they become over whelming. "IT Survival Guide" is a highly
useful resource, very much recommended.
The Pregnant Entrepreneur
Darla DeMorrow
Blue Tudor Books
307 Windor Ave, Wayne, PA 19087
9780983372301, $15.00, www.bluetudorbooks.com
Pregnancy doesn't mean you stop being a businesswoman. "The Pregnant Entrepreneur" is an
advisory guide for the recently expecting businesswoman who realizes her endeavors aren't going
to stop for nine months while she deals with the newest entry into her life. From making it so
your business runs well when you need to take your leave, to coming back after this tough
endeavor, "The Pregnant Entrepreneur" is a strongly recommended business preparation guide
for those expectant mothers.
The American History Shelf
An Elegant Wilderness
Gladys Montgomery
Acanthus Press
1133 Broadway, Room 1229
New York, NY 10010
9780926494473, $75.00, www.acanthuspress.com
Getting away from it all was not a twentieth century creation. "An Elegant Wilderness: Great
Camps and Grand Lodges of the Adirondacks 1855-1935" tracks the history with photographs
surrounding these sites throughout the wilderness. Discussing American leisure through the
middle of the nineteenth century to the pre-World War II twentieth century, it presents a picture
of nature as a getaway in itself. These many sites are complete with descriptions of the site, their
longevity, and much more. An intriguing look at their rise as urban life began to become more
and more all encompassing, "An Elegant Wilderness" is an excellent read, a top pick for those
seeking a coffee table book or for any American history collection touching on the culture of the
nineteenth century.
The Fashion Shelf
Practical Glamour
Constance Dunn
RLD Publications
9780978761028, $14.95, www.practicalglamour.org
It doesn't take hours to make yourself presentable to the world. "Practical Glamour: Presenting
Your Most Beautiful & Polished Self to the World" is a grooming advisory guide from
Constance Dunn. A focus on the everyday appearance, Dunn gives tips on everything from
nailcare, to a good wardrobe and the all important hair. For those who want to look like a star
everyday, "Practical Glamour" is very much recommended reading.
The Environmental Studies Shelf
Saving the Soil
Jerry Mader
Tolt River
PO Box 1075, Carnation, WA 98014
9780982024614, $39.95, www.toltriverpress.com
With a growing population, feeding that population has become more important than ever.
"Saving the Soil: The New American Farmer" discusses organic farming in the modern day.
Organic farming has caught the eye of many, hoping to create long sustained farming projects for
years to come. Advocating the organic path, drawing on the education of many involved, and
presents a how and why to go to Organics. "Saving the Soil" is an intriguing read for anyone who
wants to understand organics and what it means to the greater population.
The Gardening Shelf
Creating and Planting Alpine Gardens
Rex Murfitt
B. B. Mackey Books
PO Box 475, Wayne, PA 19087
1893443078, $22.50, www.mackeybooks.com
Rocks are not obstacles to your garden, they can be wonderful assists in your creation of gardens.
"Creating and Planting Alpine Gardens: How to Build Small Rock Gardens and Work with
Alpine Plants" is a guide to working with rocks and stones to create gardens that use them to
their advantage, creating the soil, and making truly magnificent gardens throughout. "Creating
and Planting Alpine Gardens" is a strongly recommended pick for anyone looking to make a
more perfect garden regardless of what their working with.
The Art Shelf
Perfectly American
Amanda Lett & Collaborators
Gilcrease Museum
1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road
Tulsa, OK 74127-2100
9780981979939, $24.95, www.oupress.com
America started to break from its European roots in culture fairly quickly. "Perfectly American:
The Art-Union & Its Artists" tells of a group of art aficionados and business people who came
together who began to encourage uniquely American art in 1842. Sending out monthly art
engravings throughout the country to subscribers, and encouraged home grown American art.
Compiling much of the art in these volumes and providing much commentary, "Perfectly
American" is an intriguing analysis of the growth of this group, highly recommended for any
community library art and American history collection.
The Education Shelf
Reach Out and Teach
Kay Alicyn Ferrell
AFB Press
2 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10121
9780891284574, $49.95, www.afb.org
Blindness can lead to many challenges in life, but it does not mean you don't have a life. "Reach
Out and Teach: Helping Your Child Who is Visually Impaired Learn and Grow" is an
educational guide to helping younger visually impaired people embrace early education and give
them the advantages they need to succeed. From coping with the disorder early on, the
importance of acting early, and how to deal with the stages of development, Kay Alicyn Ferrell
guides readers through everything they need to make sure their visually impaired child has the
best chance of success possible. "Reach Out and Teach" is an excellent addition to any parenting
or education collection.
The Economic Studies Shelf
Low-Wage Capitalism
Fred Goldstein
World View Forum
55 W. 17 St, 5th Fl, New York, NY 10011
0895671514, $19.95, www.workers.org
The wealth differential is almost as big as it has ever been. "Low-Wage Capitalism: What The
New Globalized, High-Tech Imperialism Means for the Class Struggle in the U.S." discusses this
very important debate in modern politics which pits technology into the socialism and capitalism
divide, which may lead to radical changes in the future as compromise seems to be fading away
as an option. "Low-Wage Capitalism" is an important addition to the discussion of wealth divide
and class warfare in today's world.
Financial Apocalypse
Bert Dohmen
Dohmen Capital Holdings
PO Box 492433, Los Angeles, CA 90049
9780578080550, $25.00, www.amazon.com
As the world's economy spirals out of control, understanding it is quite a rough endeavor.
"Financial Apocalypse: Predicting the "Unpredictable"" is a work on the business world from
famed economic adviser Bert Dohmen known for his rate of accuracy in business. He describes
the future of business and what needs to be done to make a profit in a crippled economy.
"Financial Apocalypse" is worth considering for those looking for an expert opinion on business
from a highly respected expert.
The Hunting/Fishing Shelf
Excellent Joy
Michael R. Rosmann
Ice Cube Press
205 North Front Street
North Liberty, IA 52317-9302
9781888160550, $21.95, www.icecubepress.com
In the modern world, you can go to the grocery store and buy a fish with little cost or effort. Why
do so many sit on boats for hours to do it themselves? "Excellent Joy: Fishing, Farming, Hunting,
and Psychology" is a work of memoir and psychology from Michael R. Rosmann, a psychologist
in trade as he opens readers up to the joys of hunting and fishing and why in today's civilized
world so many embrace their primal needs for recreation. With a bit of humor and memory,
"Excellent Joy" is a read with plenty to consider, highly recommended.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Rusty -n- Nikki
Janus Moncur
Mon Coeur Publishing
7777 East Atlantic Avenue, C-2#360
Delray Beach, FL 33482
9780978652920, $14.95, www.lovepetz.com
The loyalty of a dog is unmatched. "Rusty -n- Nikki: Doggie Lessons in Life and Love" is story
for pet lovers as Janus Moncur writes for her beloved dogs of being rescued from an unloved
family, and finding a new home, with new family, friends, and the love between a dog and their
new families. "Rusty -n- Nikki" is a strongly recommended pick for any dog lover.
The Automotive Shelf
Chevelle SS, third edition
Jeffrey Steffes
JC Publishing
PO Box 796, Watertown, MN 55388
9780972986946, $24.95, www.chevellfan.com
The muscle car has gone out of style in today's world that favors smaller and lighter weights, but
the style still lives on in the nostalgia of classic car lovers. "Chevelle SS: 1964-1972, A Muscle
Car Source Book" is a guide for owners and maintainers of the classic Chevelle and El Camino
owner who want to keep their beloved classic running smoothly as possible. With plenty of
technical information, interesting trivia, factory data, and much more, "Chevelle SS" is a useful
and very much recommended read for the classic Chevelle and El Camino keeper.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
A Cure to Die For
Stephen G. Mitchell
Creative Artists Publishing
2047 Last Chance Gulch, Ste. #338, Helena, MT 59601
9780983206002, $15.99, www.acuretodiefor.com
With cancer gone, there will be no need for constant treatment. "A Cure to Die For" follows the
invention of a theoretical cure for cancer, which comes under fire by corrupt pharmaceutical
companies who see only a decrease in profit. As a group of few struggle to survive obstacles of
man and nature to deliver something that could save millions of lives, "A Cure to Die For" is a
riveting thriller of corruption, heroism, with a bit of romance sprinkled in.
The Man with Pointy Teeth
M. Juanita Taylor
Weary Dog Books
431 West Price Street, Philadelphia, PA 19144
9781451573770, $12.00, wearydog@gmail.com
In the name of justice, we sometimes place our own necks on the line. "The Man with Pointy
Teeth" is a mystery novel following artist Caitlin as she studies the animals of her zoo. Spurned
by love gone wrong, she finds that she might be the target of an unusual killer. Finding help in
the strangest of places, "The Man with Pointy Teeth" is a riveting mystery with plenty of swerves
and excitement.
Cornstalked
Patricia Bremmer
Windcall Publishing
75345 Rd. 317, Venango, NE 69168
9780984593439, $13.99, www.patriciabremmer.com
Karma has a nasty way of catching up with people. "Cornstalked" is novel following Bruce, a
man with plenty of black clouds around his head. As he trespasses on a farmer's land, he finds
him and his associates under the gun, as a sniper is stalking them in a game of deadly cat and
mouse in a frosty field. An exciting novel of action and adventure, "Cornstalked" is very much
worth considering.
Hell Cometh
Todd Card
8 Publishing
PO Box 521, Carmel, IN 46082
9780983655848, $17.99, www.8publishing.com
Hell on earth lies closer than you'd expect. "Hell Cometh" is a unique novel of horror and despair
as Todd Card crafts a hell out of a small mining community called Wisdom. As the people of
Wisdom face the cruelties of their town as it begins to infect their quiet town with hell. As terror
and mind breaking affects strike at the people of the town, they will soon come to realize what
hell really is. "Hell Cometh" is a riveting spin of horror and doomsday, sure to please those who
like thrillers of good and evil and Armageddon.
The Criminology Shelf
Who Killed Betsy?
Derek Sherwood
Pine Grove Press
66 Bond St., Westwinster, MD 21157
9780615498119, $14.95, www.whokilledbetsy.org
Forty years cold, justice can still be found. "Who Killed Betsy?: Uncovering Penn State
University's Most Notorious Unsolved Crime" investigates this stabbing of a Michigan student in
the Pennsylvania university that has yet to be solved. Derek Sherwood provides new evidence as
he profiles who he believes is responsible for the crime and what has become of the search in the
past decades. "Who Killed Betsy?" is a riveting spin of real life mystery, highly
recommended.
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
Storming the Tulips
Ronald Sanders
Stonebrook Publishing
508 Kenilworth Lane, Saint Louis, MO 63011
9780983080008, $17.99, www.stonebrookpublishing.net
The desire to survive is great, even though death seems so easy. "Storming the Tulips" is an
assortment of stories from many survivors of the worst of the Holocaust, people who were
contemporaries of Anne Frank and here, they share their own stories of living under a gun and
doing things they wish to forget in their efforts to simply see another day. "Storming the Tulips"
is deftly translated by Hannie J. Voyles, and an excellent addition to any Holocaust studies
collection.
The Political Science Shelf
Behind the Desert Storm
Pavel Stroilov
Price World Publishing
1300 W. Belmont Ave., Suite 20G, Chicago, IL 60657
9781932549676, $19.95, www.priceworldpublishing.com
The politics of the Middle East are a fragile thing. "Behind Desert Storm: A Secret Archive
Stolen From the Kremlin That Sheds New Light on the Arab Revolutions in the Middle East" is
a discussion of the history behind closed doors from Pavel Stroilov in the last few decades of
conflict in the powder keg of a region. Going through documents from Russian archives, the
memoirs of Bush Sr., and much more for a very different picture than the one that is shown
publicly. "Behind Desert Storm" is worth considering for those looking for a different snapshot
of history, highly recommended.
The Humor Shelf
Blacklisted from the PTA
Lela Davidson
Jupiter Press
5202 S. 43rd Street, Rogers, AR 72758
9781936214433, $15.00, www.leladavidson.com
Motherhood has never been easy and a dose of humor with it all is sometimes all you need to get
by it all. "Blacklisted from the PTA" is the musings of Lela Davidson as she waxes philosophical
on the nature of the modern family and how we are expected to do everything in spite of having
no adeptness in skill at any of it. Assuring parents they are not alone in drowning in the sea of
responsibility, "Blacklisted from the PTA" is a treasure trove of fun for parents who are in
desperate need of some of it.
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
The Total Novice's Guide to UFOs
T.L. Keller
2FS Publishinig
PO Box 5481
Palm Springs, CA 92263-5481
9780982798805 $34.95 www.2FSPress.com
Black-and-white and color illustrations enhance The Total Novice's Guide to UFOs: What You
Need To Know..., a gigantic, in-depth compendium of fascinating material about what UFOs are,
why they come to this planet, who pilots them, and what impact that extraterrestrial life will have
upon the Earth's future. Written in plain terms to be accessible to readers of all backgrounds, The
Total Novice's Guide to UFOs includes case reports, spotlights on notable UFO incidents in
history (including the Roswell crash-retrieval and the 1952 Washington D.C. UFO event),
testimonies from amateur UFO hunters, revolutionary theories about how space travel and alien
presence on Earth can be scientifically possible, discussions on extraterrestrial intelligence, and
much more. The Total Novice's Guide to UFOs lives up to its title as a core volume ideal for any
metaphysical studies shelf.
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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