Return to home
page Book Reviews, Book Lover Resources, Advice for Writers and Publishers
Home / Small Press Bookwatch

Small Press Bookwatch

Volume 19, Number 7 July 2020 Home | SPBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Health/Medicine Shelf Education Shelf
Business Shelf Self-Help Shelf Money/Finance Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf General Fiction Shelf Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Metaphysical Studies Shelf Judicial Studies Shelf
Multimedia Shelf Biography Shelf International Studies Shelf
LGBT Studies Shelf American History Shelf Christian Studies Shelf
Holocaust Studies Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

Pedal Pushers Coast-to-Coast
Marianne Worth Rudd
www.thepedalpushers.net
Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781546278238, $29.45, HC, 356pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: For thirty-two years, Marianne Worth Rudd dreamed about cycling cross country, almost as long as she's known her husband, Terry. She thought the bike trip was about getting to the Atlantic. They expected snow, lightning, heat, and wind while bicycling cross country. That happened. What they did not expect was a car collision, a broken arm, or Hurricane Sandy. That happened, too.

"Pedal Pushers Coast-to-Coast" is the story of their 2012 cycling quest from the Pacific to the Atlantic, chronicling the challenges, joys, and surprises of their 4500-mile, twelve-week bicycle journey. Personal quirks became quirkier. Pain and grief unexpectedly seized the trip mid-way with a car collision and broken arm for Terry, but three months later, their quest resumed- on a snowy October day in northern Minnesota.

From once coast to another, Marianne (Mari) and Terry experienced not only the changing terrain and state borders, but an elation far more gratifying than just reaching destinations -- they discovered the curiosity and kindness of strangers, and the lasting impact. From simple gifts of root beer and oranges on a hot day, to shelter from a lightning storm and random invitations countrywide for meals and lodging, strangers offered unexpected generosity and care throughout their travels.

"Pedal Pushers Coast-to-Coast" chronicles a transcontinental cycling adventure marked by challenge, resilience, and hope, and illustrates the outpouring of kindness and generosity from strangers across the continent.

Critique: An inherently fascinating and engaging read from cover to cover, "Pedal Pushers Coast-to-Coast" will have a special attraction for anyone having dreamed of a similar excursion across the USA by bicycle. While certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community and academic library Sports Biography & Memoir collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated cyclists and armchair travelers that "Pedal Pushers Coast-to-Coast" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781546278221, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

Editorial Note: Marianne Worth Rudd is a veteran of self-supported bike touring in North America, Europe, and New Zealand. She's completed three cross-country U.S. bike trips-two with her husband, and one as solo cyclist. She maintains a website at www.thepedalpushers.net


The Health/Medicine Shelf

Life and Death
John Durbin Husher
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781491786789, $34.95, HC, 366pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: "Life and Death: The History of Overcoming Disease and What It Tells Us About Our Present Increasing Life Expectancy as a Result of Present Day Actions" by John Durbin Husher covers both Life and Death -- but is mainly about Life.

"Life and Death" covers the five worse causes of death in the history of mankind and what has been done to prevent a repeat of these causes. This is a story that covers the dramatic efforts since the eighteenth century by key individuals to overcome illness and extend the life of man. It also takes the reader up to the year 2015 and what is being done to overcome many of the everyday illnesses and the death threatening ones.

In this current age of a Covid-19 pandemic, many readers will find information that is valuable to them in taking actions to help prevent or resolve their medical problems.

Critique: A work of meticulously executed scholarship, "Life and Death: The History of Overcoming Disease and What It Tells Us About Our Present Increasing Life Expectancy as a Result of Present Day Actions" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to both community and academic library Health & Medicine collections and supplemental curriculum reading lists. It should be note for the personal reading lists of medical students, academia, members of the medical community, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Life and Death" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781491777800, $24.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Education Shelf

How to be a Legendary Teacher
Adam Prociv
https://www.adamprociv.com
Balboa Press
c/o Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100, Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
www.balboapress.com
9781504317207, $14.99, PB, 208pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Adam Prociv learned quickly that the energy he exuded in the classroom had a huge impact on the young children he was teaching. In "How to be a Legendary Teacher", he explores how educators can inspire students and help them learn, starting with the way they approach each day.

As a teacher, your primary role is to create good energy, which can be as simple as your body language. Ask yourself if you are a teacher you'd enjoy being taught by (and if the answer is no) then do some soul searching. Throughout this guide to being a better teacher, aspiring classroom instructors will learn how to: Spark meaningful conversations among students; Engage students in creative projects that promote learning; Decide if you went into teaching for the right reasons and if you should stay; Navigate the numerous obstacles to teaching.

The teaching game is a process of trial and error, and while some lucky souls have a natural flare for the profession, others don't. But just like anything in life, success doesn't necessarily come to those with the most talent but to those with the will and determination to be a legendary teacher.

Critique: Exceptionally thoughtful and thought-provoking, impressively informative, and thoroughly 'reader friendly' in tone, commentary, organization and presentation, "How to be a Legendary Teacher" is especially recommended reading for all classroom teachers preschool through university graduate level. While unreservedly and especially recommended for school district, college, and university library Teacher Education collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of education students, class room teachers, and school administrators that "How to be a Legendary Teacher" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

Editorial Note: With almost 15 years in early childhood education, and 8 years in primary education, Adam Prociv also maintains an informative web site at https://www.adamprociv.com


The Business Shelf

RedRock Leadership
Jeff Ruby
RRL Publishing
www.redrockleadership.com
9780578631974, $23.95, PB, 206pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: To survive the current pandemic driven economic distress, today's businesses don't need bosses -- they need leaders! Company success doesn't come from telling people what to do. True sustainable success is created from within, and to get there you need to transform your company culture.

Sales and Leadership Trainer and Coach Jeff Ruby has a process that works. The RedRock Leadership method shows business leaders (from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies) how to double, triple, and even quadruple bottom-line results. The key factor in creating that growth? Emotional intelligence -- but not just in one person.

RedRock's game-changing lessons include: How to leverage the power of emotions for your business, not against it; Why management is an outdated concept--and why no one is talking about it; Understand the six differences between heroic leadership and collaborative leadership and why collaborative leadership will take your company growth further; The unique four-point plan that starts with leaders and ripples down to your teams to revitalize growth and transform culture; The shocking common denominator between your top performers and your worst; plus even more tools, strategies, and step-by-step exercises from RedRock Leadership training programs used by hundreds of companies worldwide.

The underlying message of "RedRock Leadership" is that just because you are part of leadership doesn't mean you are a leader. But you can redefine what it means to be a leader with Jeff Ruby's authentic and insightful keys to collaborative leadership and forge the path to success in business and in life.

Critique: Expertly written, comprehensive, deftly organized and effectively presented, "RedRock Leadership: Transform Your Company Culture and Unleash the Potential for Exponential Growth!" should be considered an essential and core addition to community, corporate, college, and university library Business Management collections and MBA curriculum supplemental studies lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of business managers, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "RedRock Leadership" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: For Jeff Ruby, success is about being a leader. After a hugely successful sales career, Jeff founded RedRock in 2010 where he helps companies develop leadership and sales strategies. His dynamic speaking inspires clients and business leaders across the country, as well as sparking the RedRock Leadership Podcast. Jeff lives in the Tampa Bay area in Florida with his wife, two children, and their dog, Rosco. Interested readers can follow Jeff and RedRock at www.redrockleadership.com, on Facebook at @RedRockLeadership, or on Twitter and Instagram at @RedRockLeader


The Self-Help Shelf

Life Check: 7 Steps to Balance Your Life!
Robin Marvel
Marvelous Spirit Press
http://www.marvelousspirit.com
9781615995035, $26.95, HC, 104pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: "Life Check" by Robin Marvel provides her readers with simple, effective ways to balance their lives. "Life Check" encourages us to stop asking what if and start living the life we have imagined or dreamed of for ourselves. Freeing ourselves from the mundane routine of life by providing life tools that will get us rocking the boat, diving in and finding our passion for being alive!

Critique: Replete with inspiring quotes, thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, as motivating as it is insightfully practical, "Life Check: 7 Steps to Balance Your Life!" is a truly extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal Self-Help/Self-Improvement reading lists. It should be noted that "Life Check" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781615992041, $14.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.95).

Leadership Hero Code
Kristen Hemingway
Hemingway Strategies Publishing
https://hemingwaystrategies.com
9780578588391, $14.99, PB, 124pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: The principle message of Kristen Hemingway's new book, "Leadership Hero Code: Seven Principles for Thriving in Today's Workplace" is that truly effective leadership, both individually and collectively, is highly correlated with positive business performance and greater levels of employee engagement.

High-performing leaders tend to deplete two precious commodities: energy and time. Anyone in a leadership position or with leadership responsibilities are in solvable difficulties if they find themselves: Trying to keep up with constantly changing corporate initiatives; Addressing unexpected fire drills; Over-negotiating the political landscape; Working harder and longer hours; Micromanaging your team; Fighting the urge to completely disengage!

"Leadership Hero Code" offers practical and effective answers to these issues with: Real-life stories of leaders working from chaos and trauma to triumph; A workbook style format that promotes real-time inquiry and immediate change; Tangible experiments and sample conversations to bring directly to your workplace; Methodology that is backed by significant research and experience; A fun and engaging approach using characters that anyone can identify with.

Critique: Expertly written and thoroughly 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Leadership Hero Code: Seven Principles for Thriving in Today's Workplace" is an extraordinarily and effective practical instructional guide that is especially recommended for community, corporate, college, and university library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of MBA students, faculty, entrepreneurs, business managers, corporate executives, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Leadership Hero Code: Seven Principles for Thriving in Today's Workplace" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

Editorial Note: Kristen Hemingway is a veteran strategist and team leadership coach, on a mission to create skilled leaders who generate and demand positive change. Kristen builds off the Hemingway family legacy with a twist on Ernest's literary code hero to address today's leader - offering courageous skill-building to shift how you and your teams operate in change-filled times. She works with Fortune 500 companies, not-for-profit organizations, and innovators across a range of industries and maintains a web site at: https://hemingwaystrategies.com

Be the Hero of Your Life
J. Scott Macmillan
www.jscottmacmillan.com
Mobes Publishing
9781733409629, $24.95, HC, 218pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Whether due to fear, low self-esteem, or feelings of inadequacy, millions of people feel like their life isn't going anywhere. In "Be the Hero of Your Life: Ditch the Excuses, Take Your Hero's Journey, and Find Your Life's Purpose", life coach J. Scott MacMillan outlines a 5-step plan to overcome your fears and lead a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Using the hero's journey as a guideline for self-discovery, the reader will uncover and confront the root causes of your suffering. Step-by-step, the reader will learn to wield courage to overcome their deepest doubts and realize freedom, abundance, and authenticity unlike ever before.

MacMillan's 5 step process will shows how to: Navigate your way through the 12 stages of the hero's journey to find your personal treasure; Identify deep traumas and self-limiting beliefs so you can create a different future; Adopt an inside-out thinking pattern to align your present actions with your personal growth; Uncover your true life purpose so you can live into it every day: Harness quantum physics to create new realities through meditation and visualization.

Along the way, the reader is encouraged to use the hero's journey to create actionable life goals and move past their comfort zone and discover personal freedom. Just like the classic heroes, ever reader's life is an epic adventure; it just needs them to answer the call to action. It is time to embrace our power and become the hero of our own lives!

Critique: Expertly written, organized and presented, this new second edition of "Be the Hero of Your Life: Ditch the Excuses, Take Your Hero's Journey, and Find Your Life's Purpose" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended DIY instructional guide and manual for anyone seeking to improve the innate quality their life -- especially this time of pandemic and economic distress.

Editorial Note: J. Scott MacMillan is an author, entrepreneur, and certified NLP life coach. His coaching business, Hero Life, uses behavioral learning techniques, adult learning theory, and the hero's journey to help people learn new skills and apply critical thinking to daily life. Leveraging personal experiences and psychology expertise, MacMillan helps people overcome stuck periods, both in their personal lives and in business, to step into their true authentic self. He maintains a web site at www.jscottmacmillan.com


The Money/Finance Shelf

How Much Money Do I Need to Retire?
Todd Tresidder
http://financialmentor.com
Independently Published
9781939273062, $17.95, PB, 236pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: When it comes to finances and retirement, most so-called "experts" plug your numbers into a retirement formula to tell you how much money you need to retire. Unfortunately, the conventional approach is fundamentally flawed. If you fail to learn how retirement savings truly works, then you'll either underspend and be miserable or overspend and run out of money.

In "How Much Money Do I Need to Retire", author and former hedge fund manager Todd Tresidder takes you beyond the scientific facade of modern retirement planning. Todd has helped thousands of people find financial freedom through his website and podcast. Now you too can use his advice to take the guesswork out of your retirement planning.

"How Much Money Do I Need to Retire: Uncommon Financial Planning Wisdom for a Stress-Free Retirement" reveals: Why the best way to describe most retirement estimates is garbage-in/garbage-out; The five critical assumptions that can destroy your financial security; How to reduce the amount you need to retire by as much as $600,000; Three strategies to maximize spending today while protecting for the future; How to calculate the amount of money you really need to retire on the first try without software, online calculators, or being a math genius.

Critique: Expertly written and comprehensive, this compendium of financial planning advice and insights is thoroughly 'reader friendly' and 'user effective' in tone, commentary, organization and presentation -- making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Financial Management & Planning collections. It should be noted for non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "How Much Money Do I Need to Retire: Uncommon Financial Planning Wisdom for a Stress-Free Retirement" is readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Todd R. Tresidder's financial writing has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Smart Money Magazine, Investor's Business Daily, Yahoo Finance, Bankrate.com, and more. He is a former hedge fund manager who "retired" at age 35 to become a financial consumer advocate and money coach. He also maintains a website at http://financialmentor.com

Legacy
Leslie Quinsay
Darkwood Publishing
9781999177300, $14.99, PB, 152pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Estate planning is different when a family business is involved -- very different.

In "Legacy: A Guide to Successfully Transferring Wealth from One Generation to the Next", Leslie Quinsay shares insights using her educational background and CEO experience to help entrepreneurs, business owners and investors make the right decisions when estate planning is truly a family affair. This practical and expertly-crafted guide assists families to successfully pass their wisdom and wealth from generation to generation.

Real-life entrepreneur and investor stories provide the readers with the tools to: Organize thoughts and goals for successful estate and inheritance planning; Handle the "challenging" family conversations of money and wealth transfer; Know their company's worth and understand what can happen if it's not protected.

"Legacy: A Guide to Successfully Transferring Wealth from One Generation to the Next" includes both the human and monetary aspects of creating a comprehensive, family-friendly plan so that all family members are prepared when the time comes to put it into action.

Critique: An absolutely essential instruction guide and manual for the non-specialist general reader needing to create and have an estate plan in place or a succession plan for their family business, "Legacy: A Guide to Successfully Transferring Wealth from One Generation to the Next" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Financial Planning collections.

Editorial Note: Leslie Quinsay is an experienced investor and co-owner of a thriving family business for over 25 years. She has studied at top executive and management programs including Harvard University, York University and Ryerson. A Canadian Real Estate Magazine "Investor of the Year" award winner, Leslie provides expertise from the perspective of a business owner, entrepreneur and investor. Her extensive management background helped her realize the importance of family communication around the legacy they're creating. She calls this the "human side of connection" -- passing down lessons and wealth so that those next in line can enhance these efforts.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Buck: Heroic Dog Story of Adventure, Struggle & Love
Shirlee Lawrence-Verploegen
AuthorHouse
www.authorhouse.com
9781728335520, $23.99, HC, 222pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: In the pages of "Buck: Heroic Dog Story of Adventure, Struggle & Love", Shirlee Lawrence-Verploegen introduces the reader to Buck, a beloved pet dog owned by a rural family in Louisiana.

Buck is the main character in this story entertaining a multitude of people who pass through his life during the endless journey to survive hurricane Katrina and find a forever home. The Brown family's lives are about to be turned upside down too and filled with unforeseen challenge and misery.

The onset of a category five hurricane changes the lives of thousands of people and animals in the immediate area of Louisiana and Mississippi. During this time, pets were not accepted in shelters; so many animals were either left behind or became naturally lost and homeless.

Buck was no exception. His struggle for survival exemplifies the strength of a hero who takes on a storybook journey. He moves from starving and wounded to leading the pack -- a bonded collection of Buck and two additional homeless pups who need his wisdom and leadership. There are humorous times as these three amigos get into lots of trouble always looking for food and a better place.

This new journey gives Buck numerous temporary owners, each one with its own unique story and challenges. You might say Buck becomes notorious for the love of adventure and becomes good at it-almost famous; he even takes on a new profession using his discipline and intellect.

During all of this drama with Buck, the Brown family has its own share of change in their lives. Come with me as we move through the South which is entrenched in so much rich history that intertwines within our story, making it as realistic as being there.

Critique: The stuff of which Disney movies are made, "Buck: Heroic Dog Story of Adventure, Struggle & Love" is an inherently fascinating and engaging entertaining read from first page to last. While certain to be a popular addition to all community library Pets/Wildlife collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated dog lovers that "the stuff of which Disney movies are made" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781728335513, $13.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The General Fiction Shelf

No Reserves
M. L. Wright
Ms. Blueberry Publishing
9789887455707, $15.99, PB, 233pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Can you achieve true career success without losing too much of yourself in the process?

Madeleine has finally made it! She's landed her dream job as a jewelry specialist at the most prestigious auction house in the world, helping to sell the most sought-after gemstones to the fabulously wealthy and elite. But underneath the glossy exterior of dealing with rare and exotic jewels, Mad starts to suspect that there is something more sinister brewing and that this dream job may have repercussions that she never imagined.

Mad must use her determination and jewel expertise to survive a workplace jungle full of cutthroat, backstabbing coworkers and a truly terrifying supervisor, known only as "the Boss." She learns that in order to fulfill her dreams, she may need to make some compromises she never thought she would. Thankfully, she is surrounded by a hilarious circle of friends, a charming (and conveniently handsome) client, and an incredibly sexy auctioneer.

Critique: "No Reserves" showcases author M. L. Wright's genuine flair for the kind of narrative driven storytelling that is as original and deftly crafted as it is engagingly entertaining from first page to last. While especially and highly recommended for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "No Reserves" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Lighthouse Keeper
David Richards
www.davidrichardsauthor.com
Book Baby Publishers
9781098301453, $14.99, PB, 200pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Sam knows how the life he is currently living will end. But it isn't the life, or the ending, that he wants. So he makes a choice to try his hand as a lighthouse keeper's apprentice because the life of a lighthouse keeper promises responsibility and adventure. He will find adventure, the likes of which he could never have imagined. The journey that unfolds before him promises to change his life -- but only if he can survive it!

Critique: David Richard's "The Lighthouse Keeper: A Story of Mind Mastery" is an original and deftly crafted novel by an author with a genuine flair for the kind of narrative driven storytelling that will keep and engage the readers fully entertained attention from first page to last. While a very highly recommended addition to community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Lighthouse Keeper" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Lucky Brilliant
Maureen Sherbondy
https://www.maureensherbondy.com
Black Rose Writing
www.blackrosewriting.com
9781684335459, $17.95, PB, 186pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Fifteen-year-old Lucky Brilliant wants to change both the past and the future. After her charming father Chase Brilliant is murdered for his winning lottery ticket, Lucky learns that he was not the person she thought he was. Chase Brilliant turns out to be a liar and a cheater who leaves Lucky and her mother struggling to survive.

When Lucky begins to have psychic dreams that predict the future, she tries to prevent more terrible events from happening.

Best friends Eva, a fashionista, and Silas, a handsome eleventh-grader, help Lucky stay grounded so she can manage her household crisis. Just when life is improving, another shocking secret emerges.

Critique: Essential a novel of family, friendship, first love, and loss, "Lucky Brilliant is a deftly crafted and fully engaging read from cover to cover and replete with many an unexpected twist and turn. An ideal addition to the personal reading lists for ages 15-21, as well as highschool and community library YA fiction collections, "Lucky Brilliant" will leave readers looking eagerly towards author Maureen Sherbondy's next novel.

Just the Truth
Gen LaGreca
Winged Victory Press
www.wingedvictorypress.com
9780974457956, $14.95, PB, 238pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Set in Washington, DC, in the near future, a newswoman battles a powerful bureaucracy to keep journalism, a free press (and truth) alive.

"Just the Truth" vividly portrays the threats to a free press in the era of growing, unchecked government and the indomitable spirit of one journalist who risks her career, her reputation (and ultimately her life) to uncover a plot that just might subvert free elections in America.

Although a work of fiction in the form of a political thriller and murder mystery, "Just the Truth" aptly explores a pivotal issue facing America today in the age of Donald Trump his attacks on traditional journalism with unmerited accusations of 'Fake News'.

What is happening to truth in journalism? Are we in danger of losing it? "Just the Truth" is a riveting drama raises questions and issues that concern us all as it examines how abuses of power can undermine our foundational freedoms, and it promises to have a profound and lasting impact on its readers.

Critique: An inherently engaging and impressively presented novel that does for the contemporary politics of American Journalism was Sinclair Lewis' muck racking novels of the 20th Century meat packing industry, "Just the Truth" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections. Deserving of the widest readership possible, it should be noted for personal reading lists that 'Just the Truth" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

"FRISPECT" - Turn Friction into Mutual Respect
Sreedhar Kajeepeta
Bookstand Publishing
9781634988797, $22.95, HC, 124pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: "FRISPECT" is a work of fiction by Sreedhar Kajeepeta that is based on real-life incidents. The backdrop is modern-day corporate America but the novel is for anyone who loves to indulge in a bit of self-reflection, especially millennials in the workforce and their parents.

The story underscores and celebrates the power of harmony -- the power that transforms friction into mutual respect engendering the qualities of value-creation, introspection, compassion, and forgiveness to make us better and happier individuals.

Critique: Inherently entertaining, fully engaging, thoughtful and thought-provoking, "FRISPECT" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, community, and academic library collections. It should be noted for the personal lists of students and non-specialist readers with an interest in Business Conflict Resolution & Mediation, and also Business Processes & Infrastructure, that ""FRISPECT" - Turn Friction into Mutual Respect" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781634988780, $12.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).

Editorial Note: Sreedhar Kajeepeta has contributed to publications such as Information Week, Computerworld, CIO, and Enterprise Executive. Currently, Sreedhar is the Senior Vice President of Technology Strategy and Innovation at a leading regional bank. Sreedhar also founded Adunik, Inc, a company focused on delivering modern computing strategies and was the Global Technology Officer for both Fujitsu North America. To raise funds for education of the underprivileged, disaster relief, and medical research, Sreedhar auctions off his paintings through the Ajanta Foundation (https://www.facebook.com/AjantaFoundation), a non-profit organization he founded in 2015.


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

Break and Enter
Lori Matthews
Wild Coyote Press
https://www.24symbols.com/publisher/wild-coyote-press?id=201301
9781734450514, $12.99, PB, 332pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Alexandra Buchannan is a woman who uses her talents as a professional criminal to equalize the scales of what she likes to call, romantic justice. She's the woman many of us wish we had on speed dial, at least at some point in our lives! Your ex still has your favorite painting? He kept the bracelet he bought you for your 5th anniversary? They won't be his for long.

But Alex's latest job is her biggest challenge yet. Her target just hired a new security company, and the team's leader is as smart as he is sexy.

Mitch Callahan pushed his brothers to expand the family business into private security, and their first major client is a complete pain in the ass. It's no wonder the man has a target on his back, but nothing could prepare Mitch for how seductive his adversary is.

Mitch knows his ass is on the line, and he could drag Callahan Security down with him, but everything gets much more complicated as he begins to find Alex increasingly irresistible. But their game of cat and mouse quickly explodes into a million pieces as another player enters the game -- with intentions that are far deadlier.

Critique: The next installment of author Lori Matthews 'Callahan Security' series of novels, "Break And Enter" is a deft blending of romance, adventure and suspense, resulting in another simply riveting and thoroughly entertaining read from first page to last. While especially recommended for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists that "Break And Enter" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).

The Arlington Orders
Elliot Mason
https://www.elliotmasonbooks.com
Page Publishing Inc.
101 Tyrellan Avenue Suite 100 New York, NY 10309
www.pagepublishing.com
9781644628614, $23.95, PB, 422pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: In the dying days of the Civil War, an assassination attempt is made on Confederate president Jefferson Davis. Faced with this ongoing threat, the decision is made to evacuate the Southern capital of Richmond, Virginia. Everything must be moved, including the Confederacy's substantial gold and silver reserves, which must be kept out of Union hands. Thus, a covert plan is devised to transfer it to a secret location. However, during the move, the treasure vanishes without a trace.

One hundred and fifty years later, two historians, Des Cook and Madison Callum, stumble upon clues that could solve one of the war's greatest mysteries while leading them to the richest and most significant find in American history. But others are searching for it too and will do anything to obtain it. Now, Des and Madison find themselves entangled in a race that, if they fail to win, would not only result in their deaths but also change the very future of the country.

Critique: Although a deftly crafted work of fiction, author Elliot Mason's novel, "The Arlington Orders" is based on a real Civil War event known to historians as the Dahlgren Affair. An original and thoroughly entertaining read from cover to cover, "The Arlington Orders" will prove to be a welcome and enduringly popular addition to community library General Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Arlington Orders is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Coffee Cartel
Paul H. Barrett
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781532084751, $20.99, PB, 312pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: In the Straits of Florida, about 20 miles from Cuba, two fishing buddies are shocked when two intruders board their 55' Hatteras during the night. The intruders are ultimately shot and what follows is a suspenseful tale of a retired FBI Agent, Paul Pilot, and his discovery and involvement in a sinister plot involving modified cocaine, super addictive coffee and a group of ruthless villains.

Cutting edge surveillance technology, several assaults on Coffee Cartel operations and torturous interrogations end in the termination of one of the most sinister operations ever conceived.

Paul Pilot, while intensely involved, falls deeply in love with Sara Sonata (an ebony angel). Despite incredible odds, Pilot helps stop the Cartel's threat and he is ultimately presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the White House.

Critique: The stuff of which action/adventure movies are made, "The Coffee Cartel" by Paul H. Barrett is an inherently engaging and impressively original novel that will have special appeal to mystery buffs and suspense/thriller fans. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Coffee Cartel" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Hate's Recompense
Joseph H. Gibson
Independently Published
9780578618791, $11.99, PB, 282pp, www.amazon.cm

Synopsis: A true conflict of ideologies spawns a new civil war in the United States and the nation's salvation lies in the hands of technology. President Ronald Kahn faces a stiff reelection and moves to usurp the democratic process by executing cyber and bio-terrorism attacks on his own country in order to stay in power. Blaming Iran for the attacks, Kahn declares a State of Emergency and fabricates a second more lethal bio attack by Iran which he himself plans to execute with the help of an Artificial Intelligent Agent called, Athena.

Henry Little Hawk and Aleja Trujillo are resistance leaders fighting for the people and who learn the terrifying details about Kahn's plans -- with millions of American lives at stake. The two of them organize an uprising to arrest Kahn, but their efforts turn into a civil war with Kahn's followers. As the Resistance loses the battle to a much larger and better armed counter-force, their only hope of defeating Kahn is to free the original creators of Athena from Kahn's captivity and give them full reign to reprogram their brainchild to end Kahn's deadly politics. But is the country ready to relinquish control to a machine?

Critique: Deftly blending elements of science fiction, suspense, and action/adventure, "Hate's Recompense" showcases author Joseph H. Gibson's genuine flair as a novelist for originality and the kind of narrative driven and imaginative storytelling that readers will find inherently fascinating and thoroughly entertaining. While certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Hate's Recompense" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).

Spooky Action at a Distance
Felicia Watson
D. X. Varos, Ltd.
https://www.dxvaros.com
9781941072646, $17.95, PB, 268pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Lt. Naiche Decker has finally found a place to call home (complete with the father she never knew) on the ship he commands. Now her new home is going on a rescue mission to the farthest reaches of known space to look for a missing scientific expedition. Did the odd phenomena they were researching claim them or are they still lingering out there, just waiting for help to come?

Critique: "Spooky Action at a Distance" is the sequel to science fiction author's Felicia Watson's debut novel "We Have Met the Enemy" (9781941072370, $3.41 PB, $3.41 Kindle, www.amazon.com) and continues Lt. Decker's adventure saga as well as those who also serve about the Lovelace. A deftly written, thoroughly entertaining and original story that is very highly recommended for community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated SciFi fans that "Spooky Action at a Distance" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).

American Bloodline
Bob Nienaber
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781532068638, $23.99, HC, 224pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Charlie seems like a normal, modern guy, and up to now he didn't even know about his amazing genealogical bloodline, which reaches back to the lost tribe of Benjamin. After the Benjamins defeated the Romans, they left Israel and wandered through northern Germany.

Charlie is astonished to learn that his ancestors played a role in Charlemagne's ascension, William the Conqueror's rule over Normandy and England, and the founding of the American colonies. But the family's place in history isn't just impressive-it's otherworldly.

Along the way, there was a dose of the divine from Poseidon himself, injecting powers of mythical proportion into the bloodline. Now Charlie's own powers have awakened as he finds himself heir to wealth beyond his wildest dreams. He's always thought he was on the outside looking in, but now he learns that those set apart can become leaders, heroes, and world changers. Armed with his new knowledge, Charlie discovers that the very traits that made his family "different" also gave them strength and tenacity.

Critique: Offering an 'alternate universe' historical background, "American Bloodline: The Rightful Heir Reclaims Europe" by Bob Nienaber is an impressively original, inherently fascinating, and thoroughly entertaining read from cover to cover. While especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Science Fiction and General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "American Bloodline" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781532068621, $13.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

Quantum Leap
Rainie York
Xlibris Corporation
www.xlibris.com
9781796059014, $34.99, HC, 470pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Rebecca Jean longs for fewer rules and more control in her life, so she writes stories about Laney, the self-assured, with-it girl she wishes she could be. But one day, furious and frustrated, she writes a different kind of story. One of revenge.

When it unfolds exactly as she wrote it, her life is forever altered. She can't believe it's real. Really, how could it be? Even so, she writes another story. And then another. When they play out with unerring accuracy, she feels exhilarated and empowered, but also uneasy and a little guilty. What is happening? And there are consequences, a sort of quid pro quo of which she is the target.

Some stories take unforeseen twists. She is keeping secrets from her best friends. Laney steps off the page and takes up residence in Rebecca's head. When she finds herself having conversations with this disembodied voice, Rebecca worries she has gone completely bonkers. All she wanted was a little control in her life! Trapped in an escalating mess of her own making, she sees no way out.

Against the backdrop of high school dramas, best friends, first loves, and family, Rebecca searches for answers. What she finds will test her core beliefs. Will she be willing to accept what she must do to have true power over her own life?

Critique: A deftly crafted fantasy novel that showcases author and novelist Rainie York's flair for originality and the kind of narrative driven storytelling style that keeps her reader's riveted attention from first page to last, "Quantum Leap" is certain to be a welcome and enduringly popular addition to community library Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Quantum Leap" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781796059007, $23.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Metaphysical Studies Shelf

A Soul's Journey
G. C. DePietro
Independently Published
9781734330205, $9.95, PB, 172pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: As far back as G. C. De Pietro can recall creativity has been her healer, born prematurely and later diagnosed with a life-threatening childhood disease she spent much of her early youth in hospitals. After surviving several near death experiences she knew she would commit her life helping others.

As an art therapist De Pietro realized there were too many innocent children who had devastating stories to tell and had witnessed horrific events in their young lives. Thus, she wrote a book about her involvement with these children called Abandoned which is available on Amazon. It tells the story of boys forgotten and how the art therapy process helped them heal.

Looking for answers as to why this sort of thing had to happen, she began to investigate karmic patterns. After studying with Jungian analyst Dr. Roger Woolger, PH. D, Ms De Pietro became a certified Past Life Regression Specialist. She now combines Art Therapy with Past Life Regression Therapy to make a unique contribution to the transpersonal psycho-therapeutic community.

The underlying message offered by DePietro in her new book, "A Soul's Journey: The story of traveling through time to find the truth", is that recovered subconscious memories prove that death is not a punishment, but rather an opportunity to be reborn with new knowledge acquired from previous lives.

The liberating concept of reincarnation allows us to learn from our mistakes. The reasons why we keep coming back may surprise but more importantly learning how to move on and not get stuck in the karmic cycle is the quest as the readers of "A Soul's Journey" will discover in this particular soul's journey.

Critique: Impressively informative, inherently fascinating, exceptionally thoughtful and thought-provoking, "A Soul's Journey" is certain to be a welcome and enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Contemporary Metaphysical Studies collections in general, and Reincarnation supplemental studies lists in particular. It should be noted for personal lists of non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "A Soul's Journey" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).

All We Need Is Love: In Service to the Light
Michele D. Baker
Balboa Press
c/o Hay House, Inc.
PO Box 5100, Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100
www.balboapress.com
9781982234560, $11.99, PB, 142pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Michele Baker hears messages from angels, ancestors, spirit guides, and sentient beings from other worlds. The majority of the messages come from Archangel Michael, chief of the angels. But she has communicated with other extra-dimensional beings, too, and she's come to think of them as her team. She writes down what they say. She began recording the messages via automatic writing and was astounded when the words she was writing down began to come true. Archangel Michael and the other beings described to her how everyone on Earth (and beyond) is connected. They also explained that together, we are moving toward a higher level of consciousness. This process of enlightenment has been occurring for thousands of years, but as the joyous breakthrough gets ever closer, things are speeding up. In the pages of "All We Need Is Love: In Service to the Light" readers will join with an ordinary woman who has been chosen to share extraordinary information about how to navigate the tumultuous but exciting times ahead.

Critique: A welcome and impressively presented contribution to Angelic Literature and Metaphysical Studies, "All We Need Is Love: In Service to the Light" is an extraordinary and highly recommended addition to personal, professional, community and academic library collections. It should be noted that inspired and inspiring, "All We Need Is Love: In Service to the Light" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Judicial Studies Shelf

Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility
James H. Fierberg
www.lawyer-mentor-me.org
Archway Publishing
www.archwaypublishing.com
9781480880689, $35.95, HC, 284pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Like so much of today's polarized America, all practicing attorneys know that incivility within the profession has reached epidemic proportions.

James H. Fierberg spent almost forty years practicing law at the highest levels, and in "Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility" he suggests the profession can solve the problem by paying attention to something it has mostly ignored: mentoring lawyers.

In fact, he argues that mentoring programs can help to elevate save the profession and also remove some of the world's rampant toxicity.

In the pages of "Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility", Fierberg answers questions such as: How can firms urge an early and comprehensive mindful moral inventory of new attorneys?; What can firms do to help lawyers cultivate positive interpersonal skills and progress in the legal profession?; What can senior lawyers do to nurture a legacy for themselves, their firms, and their brands?

Mindful mentors must not only commit to teaching mentees -- they must encourage them to come to terms with exactly who they are, how they got to this point, and how they will establish themselves in the community of law moving forward.

Critique: Expertly written, organized and presented, "Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility" should be required reading for all law students and practicing attorneys. While an essential, core addition to college library Judicial Studies collections and university law school curriculum supplemental studies lists, it should be noted for students, academia, and members of the legal profession that "Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781480880696, $18.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).

Editorial Note: James H. Fierberg maintains two websites of interest to the readers of "Mentoring Lawyers: Finding Civility": www.lawyer-mentor-me.org and www.flaflexlaw.com


The Multimedia Shelf

The King of the Sea
Nandan Gautam
Independently Published
9789952834819, $34.00, HC, 376pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: A metaphysical novel by author Nandan Gautam, "The King of the Sea" is paired with two companion music albums and transports the reader into a new dimension, where reality lies suspended between the past and the future.

Push play and the reader/listener is beamed into "The King of the Sea" universe, shifting from the writer's inner journey towards the truth to a fictional character's similar quest. The memoir and the thrilling sea epic weave in and out, diving into the deepest layers of the subconscious with startling honesty and gut-wrenching emotionality, offering a wealth of insights into personal growth, self-revelation and ultimately, love.

Both albums The King of the Sea and The Divine Flaw are available to the reader via an exclusive weblink provided in the book itself. The music features Grammy Award Winning Drummer Antonio Sanchez, Pianist Rainer Bruninghaus, Keyboardist Tom Schuman, Drummer Chad Wackerman, Guitarist Amit Heri, Guitarist Tony Das and many more musicians who helped to make this a uniquely immersive experience.

Critique: Also readily available in a paperback edition (9789952834802, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99), "The King of the Sea" is a deftly crafted, unique and extraordinary literary experience, making it a fully entertaining, unique and extraordinary addition to personal, community, and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections.

Editorial Note: Currently residing in Baku, Azerbaijan, Nandan Gautam grew up in Bangalore, India. He completed his Liberal Arts degree from McDaniel College, Maryland, USA and worked at newspaper USA Today for a few years. He returned to India to study yoga and meditation for the next twenty years under spiritual master Bharat Thakur. His journey of self-discovery led him back to his first love - music, where he infuses his raw but ethereal vocals with hypnotic rhythms and harmonies specifically designed to calm, heal and transform the self.


The Biography Shelf

I Meant It for Good
Mary Rechkemmer-Meyer
https://maryrechkemmermeyer.com
Stonebrook Publishing
https://stonebrookpublishing.net
9781733995887, $16.95, PB, 100pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Life is full of twists and turns, and most people do their best to simply survive. But not Mary Rechkemmer-Meyer. Why survive when you can thrive? Suddenly a single parent, Mary lifted herself up and created the life she wanted for herself (a life of financial, personal, and spiritual success) despite the many obstacles she overcame along her journey that included a devastating cancer diagnosis.

"I Meant It for Good: A Memoir of Dreaming, Visualizing, and Becoming My Authentic Self" shows how to plan, dream, and visualize yourself into the life you want -- life that fulfills you in all six areas of life: spiritual, health & wellness, relationships, emotional, professional, and financial. Life doesn't happen to you, it happens through you, and Mary shows you how in her memoir.

Critique: Elegantly insightful, inspired and inspiring, "I Meant It for Good: A Memoir of Dreaming, Visualizing, and Becoming My Authentic Self" is that rare thing -- a quick and easy read that can affect and improve the quality of the rest of your life. While unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary American Biography collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "I Meant It for Good: A Memoir of Dreaming, Visualizing, and Becoming My Authentic Self" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).

Free and Fearless
Phil Moser
Independently Published
9781733086417, $24.95, HC, 158pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Philip Moser, a resident of Hamilton Indiana, was born on a family farm and has worked in the grocery business his entire life. He has worked his way up in the industry and now specializes in category management. He married to Marilyn Wells in 1978 and raised two daughters, Camille and Brittany.

"Free and Fearless: The Amazing Impact of One Precious Life " is the story of his daughter Brittany and how her short life truly made a difference to himself and many others.

"Free and Fearless" reveals to the reader: How precious the one life we have is and how we can affect the people around us; How keeping an open mind and a positive attitude can inspire us to do things we never thought possible: How to move out of what makes us comfortable and into a challenging existence which can turn every day into an exciting gift to be explored; How not to be controlled by fear, but to use our untouched abilities to seek unique, positive, and inspiring adventures we could never have imagined; To embrace change as a natural part of life. To enjoy every moment because there are no guarantees in this world; And finally, we won't be remembered by our things or our savings accounts, but how we made people feel when we interacted with them.

"Free and Fearless" is not about the grief of losing a child, but about making the most out of what we are given and living our lives positively and not out of fear. Brittany inspired her father, an ordinary farm boy, to explore life, to climb mountains, and to write this book. Her story must be told. It's the just right thing to do.

Critique: A candidly informative, exceptionally well written, and ultimately inspiring life story, "Free and Fearless: The Amazing Impact of One Precious Life" will prove to be a welcome and enduringly popular addition to community library Contemporary American Biography collections and will be of special interest to anyone having to deal with the medical issue of Addison's Disease. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Free and Fearless: The Amazing Impact of One Precious Life" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781733086400, $14.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).

Editorial Note: A portion of the proceeds from each sale of this book will be donated to the National Adrenal Disease Foundation (NADF) to help support those with Addison's Disease.


The International Studies Shelf

Why Cuba Matters
Nestor T. Carbonell
Archway Publishing
www.archwaypublishing.com
9781480888845, $34.99, PB, 576pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: As an eyewitness to Fidel Castro's rise to power in Cuba and other key episodes, in "Why Cuba Matters: New Threats in America's Backyard", author Nestor T. Carbonell sheds new light on how the ruler and his allies deceived and subjugated the Cuban people and defied twelve U.S. presidents.

Just as important (if not more so) Nestor reveals how the regime continues to pose a serious threat to the United States in collusion with Russia, China, and Venezuela.

"Why Cuba Matters" draws on declassified documents and reliable unpublished testimonies, as well as personal experiences, to delve into the Communist takeover of Cuba, which Nestor denounced while still on the island.

Nestor also ponders the causes and consequences of the botched Bay of Pigs operation, which he joined as a refugee.

From the battle to expel the Castro regime from the Organization of American States, which Carbonell helped achieve, to the Congressional Joint Resolution on Cuba, which he tenaciously pursued; from the looming Missile Crisis, which Nestor persistently flagged, to the myriad subversive activities he warned against and condemned.

"Why Cuba Matters" debunks the myths and fallacies surrounding the longest-running subversive tyranny in modern times and provides a critical analysis of the Castro-Communist regime while exploring the challenges and opportunities that will likely arise when freedom finally dawns in Cuba.

Critique: An impressively informative, exceptionally well written, organized and presented study that is enriched with eye-witness observations and insights, "Why Cuba Matters: New Threats in America's Backyard" is an extraordinary and unique contribution to the study of American/Cuban relations and America's foreign policy objectives and practices with respect to Fidel Castro and a communist Cuba. While very highly recommended for community, college, and university library collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, state department policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "Why Cuba Matters: New Threats in America's Backyard" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).


The LGBT Studies Shelf

Farm Boy, City Girl: From Gene to Miss Gina
John "Gene" E. Dawson, author
Tamara Dawson Bonnicksen, editor
MiRiona Publishing
9781734626001, $12.95, PB, 260pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: "Farm Boy, City Girl: From Gene to Miss Gina" is a three part memoir that details John "Gene" E. Dawson's life growing up in Depression-era Iowa in a poor farming Irish-Catholic family and his adult years spent living on the LGBTQ cultural edge in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and St. Louis. Deftly edited by Tamara Dawson Bonnicksen, "Farmy Boy, City Girl" is a remarkable autobiography that offers a rare glimpse into the Mid-20th Century history of both rural Iowa and of LGBTQ individuals in Middle America.

Part One, Farm Boy 1931 - 1949: Gene recounts his years growing up in the Great Depression, moving with his family from rental farm to rental farm until his parents could afford to purchase their own land and home. Life was difficult and often brutal for anyone during this time, but especially so for a gender-fluid gay child/teenager.

Part Two, Transition and Tragedy 1950 - 1959: Gene initially leaves the farm and begins transitioning into his new life as a gay man in the cities of Cedar Rapids and St. Louis, adopting the "city girl" persona of Gina. But the tragic accidental death of his mother forces him to move back to his family's home in Iowa where he faces gut-wrenching family drama and the loving burden of helping to raise his three younger brothers.

Part Three, City Girl 1960 - : Gene returns to Cedar Rapids before finally moving on to live an open, full existence as Miss Gina in St. Louis. Even in the city though, life was quite hard for openly gay men, and Gene recounts multiple harrowing tales involving the brutality of police, gay bar life, and the unsung heroism of Midwestern LGBTQ people -- years before the famous Stonewall riot of New York City.

Critique: A deftly crafted, exceptionally informative, engagingly compelling, and candidly personal account of a unique life lived out in interesting times, "Farm Boy, City Girl: From Gene to Miss Gina" is an exceptional, extraordinary, and unreservedly recommended addition to community, college, and university library American LGBT Biography collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Farm Boy, City Girl: From Gene to Miss Gina" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).


The American History Shelf

The Lincoln Family Photograph
Jay Peter Morgan
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781532094842, $43.99, HC, 166pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: Few days in American history have been as meticulously documented as Abraham Lincoln's last day. The bucket list was short. The day began as a peaceful spring day and Lincoln had put in motion a plan to have a joyous carriage ride with his wife, attend the theater, and spend the day enjoying his family. Gone was the melancholy that had engulfed the last few years. On this day, the President bounced out of bed, was jovial at breakfast, and uncharacteristically fussed over his appearance. He was usually unkempt and miserable, but had a special reason to appear dapper on this day.

On their carriage ride there is about an hour where the Lincolns are unaccounted for. Mary Lincoln claims they went toward The Soldier's Home -- but while historians disagree with her, they do not offer much of an alternative. Many historical accounts of Lincoln's last carriage ride contradict the very eyewitness accounts they source. Everyone knows the events of that night, and hopefully the photograph that is at the heart of Jay Peter Morgan's "The Lincoln Family Photograph: Moses in the Bulrushes" plausibly fills in the afternoon of Lincoln's last day.

Critique: An iconoclastic but inherently fascinating and deftly written historical study, "The Lincoln Family Photograph: Moses in the Bulrushes" is unreservedly recommended as a 'must read' for all Lincoln scholars. While it should be a part of every community, college, and university library collection, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Lincoln Family Photograph: Moses in the Bulrushes" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781532090585, $33.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Editorial Note: In 1993, Jay P. Morgan was an amateur antique collector and dealer when he acquired a pair of photographs that set in motion a new set of career paths that included amateur historian and author.


The Christian Studies Shelf

Hope Lies Ahead
James Banks & Geoffrey Banks
www.JamesBanks.org
Our Daily Bread
9781640700055, $14.95, PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: "Hope Lies Ahead: Encouragement for Parents of Prodigals from a Family That's Been There" is one family's story of God's goodness and redemption in unexpected places. James Banks shares his perspective as a dad watching his child self-destruct through substance abuse, and Geoff Banks writes as the prodigal who finds his way home. This back-and-forth approach candidly shares their experiences and addresses the spiritual and practical challenges families face. The father and son duo will point you to God for comfort, healing, and restoration during your own difficult prodigal journey. In whatever way your loved one is turning from the values and faith you hold, you will relate to the raw emotions of fear, despair, and relief. You will nod, cry, call out to God, and (most importantly!) you will find hope for tomorrow.

Critique: Unique, insightful, inspiring, "Hope Lies Ahead: Encouragement for Parents of Prodigals from a Family That's Been There" is an extraordinary, informative, and inherently fascinating read from first page to last. It should be noted for personal reading lists for those with an interest in Christian Self Help, Substance Abuse Recovery, and Christian Family & Relationships, that "Hope Lies Ahead" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Dr. James Banks' writings on prayer and faith have been translated into multiple languages, and has encouraged and inspired millions around the world. A pastor and church planter for 30 years, James is also a popular speaker at churches, conferences and retreats (to learn more visit his website). He is a graduate of Westmont College and holds advanced degrees from Princeton and Gordon Conwell Theological Seminaries. He maintains websites at www.JamesBanks.org and www.PrayersForProdigals.org, and has a Facebook Author Page.


The Holocaust Studies Shelf

The Numbers on My Parents' Arms
Jerry Bagel
iUniverse, Inc.
c/o Author House
www.iuniverse.com
9781532079696, $23.99, HC, 236pp, www.amazon.com

Synopsis: In June of 1991, sitting in his hospital room contemplating cardiac bypass surgery Jerry Bagel's father, Sam Bagel said, "Vus ich hot adorch geleibt!" (What I have lived through!)

Jerry wasn't sure at the time if he meant his recent heart attack but over time (and especially after researching his father's journey through life) it became clear to him. Jerry thought he knew his dad's plight only to realize some of his most horrible experience were known as the Holocaust -- but, as in so many similar cases, they had never brought to the attention of his father's son.

The adage of the first casualty of war is the truth hung in the balance with loss and trauma deserves its own sanctity. Helen Friedman and Sam Bagel walked through the shadows of death, lost their entire nuclear families, and like the Phoenix bird re-emerges from its own ashes, they too resurrected themselves to start a family, be happy and thankful people.

Critique: Rescued memories from a generation now passing from the world, "The Numbers On My Parents' Arms" by Jerry Bagel is an invaluable and enduringly appreciated contribution to the growing library of Holocaust memoirs, histories, and biographies so essential to making possible the aspiration of 'Never Again'. A thoughtful and thought-provoking read from cover to cover, "The Numbers On My Parents' Arms" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Holocaust Studies collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Numbers On My Parents' Arms" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781532079689, $13.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


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


Copyright ©2001

Site design by Williams Writing, Editing & Design