The Librarian's Review of Books

American Library Association. ALA Guide to Economics & Business Reference.

2012-01-16T09:49:00.024-05:00

ALA Guide to Reference series. American Library Association. 2011. c528p. index. ISBN 9780838910245. $65.00.

Focusing on print and electronic information resources that are fundamental to library services in economics and business, the content of this classified annotated bibliography is drawn from the American Library Association’s online Guide to Reference. Eight topical chapters showcase all types of economics and business information resources, covering Basic Industry Information, Company Information, Economic Conditions and World Trade, Functional Areas of Business, General Works, Occupations and Careers, Regional Economic Sources, and Specialized Industry Information. Each chapter is subdivided into multiple, alphabetically-arranged subcategories under which more than 690 print and electronic information resources alphabetically are presented. Entries feature abstracting services, atlases, bibliographies, databases, dictionaries, directories, encyclopedias, guides, handbooks, journals, indexes, internet websites, periodicals, and other types of library reference materials. Each entry describes the resource’s contents as well as sets forth its pertinent bibliographic information, such as its author(s), title, publisher, date of publication, Library of Congress and/or Dewey Decimal Classification number(s), International Standard Book or Serial Number, and Internet website. Unfortunately, the resources’ prices or costs are not noted. Compiled in North America, for use primarily in North American libraries, this reference guide will be of considerable interest to librarians, independent researchers, publishers, book dealers, business organizations, and other entities, searching for information on accounting, advertising, banking, business law, companies, economic conditions, electronic commerce, corporate officials, entrepreneurship, finance, investments, management, management information systems, marketing, occupations, specific industries, statistics, taxation, world trade, and other topics. Useful and valuable to readers, who may read it from cover-to-cover and/or peruse it by chapter, subcategory, and/or title, this publication could be improved if its topical classification scheme were modified and/or condensed to eliminate duplicate entries. With over 690 information resources featured in 1380 entries, resource entries are duplicated on average at least twice with the median being seven times. In addition to providing a title index, this guide should include a subject index and appendices of vendors and publishers with their ordering addresses. Part of the ALA Guide to Reference series, this “usably comprehensive” but “not exhaustive” (Preface, pp. xiii-xiv), authoritative repertory of mostly, recently-published, English-language, reference works is highly recommended for large public, academic, and special libraries in North America and elsewhere. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Shafer, Eileen. Royal Teas with Grace and Style.

2011-08-21T07:33:00.042-04:00

With art work and designs by Anna Griffin and photographs by Thom Rouse. Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.. 2011. c134p. photogs. illus. ISBN 978-1-4349-0467-6. $25.00.

For nearly two centuries, afternoon tea has been a tradition in countries associated with the British Empire. (p. 2) Individuals typically “took” afternoon tea or “low tea” between the hours of 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.. The light meal involved drinking tea and eating a snack consisting of sandwiches, breads, pastries, and cakes. Today teatime continues by means of informal breaks from work (ex. “coffee” breaks) and more formal afternoon teas usually taken in hotels, cafés, and teashops. (p. 10; Wikipedia contributors. "Tea (meal)." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 13 Aug. 2011. Web. 21 Aug. 2011.) In this beautifully- designed and presented book, which is intended for tea enthusiasts, individuals who are interested in hosting an afternoon tea, and those who are invited to tea (p. 5), Shafer, an interior designer, author, lecturer, tour guide, and former proprietor of Royal Tea Impressions, a teashop once located in the historic river towns of St. Charles and Geneva, Illinois (p. 5; back cover), guides readers through a proper afternoon tea fit for royalty. Helping readers prepare for an afternoon tea, which according to the author, requires time, effort, and atmosphere (p. 4), Shafer covers the subject in thirteen chapters, setting forth information about tea history, tea varieties, brewing tea, planning teas, invitations, menus, courses, appropriate venues, table settings, customs, manners, and recipes. While the first half of her book addresses preparations, the second part presents more than 50 recipes for tea savories (i.e. tea sandwiches), tea breads, tea cakes, and beverages. Here you will find step- by- step instructions for making traditional and non- traditional teatime fare, not limited to cucumber, salmon, ham, and egg salad sandwiches as well as scones, clotted cream, lemon curd, English shortbread, chocolate strawberries, lemon drop cookies, raspberry jam cookies, chocolate lady fingers, English trifle, chocolate pound cake, two tone cheese cake, fresh flower cake, liquid sugar, black ice tea, fruit sparkler, and citrus wine cooler. Filled with interesting and useful background information, advice, tips, quotes by famous authors and poets, recipes, and much more, this book will assist in enabling you to host a formal afternoon tea “fit for a queen” (p. 4), with the confidence, “grace,” and “style” that you will need to be successful. Artwork and engraved designs by Anna Griffin, with more than thirty color photographs by award- winning photographer, Thom Rouse (Professional Photographers of America Master of Photography degree; Master of Electronic Imaging degree, Master Craftsman degree; recipient of Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Photographer of the Year Awards, PPA; recipient, Illinois Photographer of the Year), further instruct and delight. Of interest to tea lovers, tea aficionados, and others, this book is recommended for many public libraries, even though it lacks a selected bibliography, back- of- the book index, glossary, and appendices, all of which would have been helpful to many readers. On a personal note: If you never have experienced a formal afternoon tea, I highly encourage you to do so. Your memories of afternoon tea will last a lifetime. Teas make great gifts and are excellent ways to celebrate the achievements of individuals or commemorate special occasions such as birthdays, engagements, weddings, graduations, anniversaries, and retirements. Many hotels and cultural institutions in the United States and Europe offer teas. For a list of hotels and institutions worldwide serving tea, try this Internet resource: Tea Guide. Always telephone in advance to verify locations, times, and other pertinent information. Reservations and appropriate attire may be required. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit Dorrance Bookstore to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon, Dorrance Bookstore

Golden, Michelle. Social Media Strategies for Professionals and their Firms: the Guide to Establishing Credibility and Accelerating Relationships.

2011-08-06T16:49:00.012-04:00

(Wiley Professional Advisory Services) Wiley. 2010. c366p. illus. index. ISBN 978-0-470-63310-6. $45.00. Google eBook. $29.99. Kindle Edition. B004CFBLCK. $45.00.

While new media oftentimes provide the fastest and most effective means whereby professionals may build their practices and reach audiences, many professional service firms have been hesitant to change their corporate marketing strategies and integrate social media into them. Golden (Owner, Golden Practices Inc.; Senior Fellow, VeraSage Institute), a recognized, practice management advisor and marketing specialist in social media use and strategy, particularly in the Certified Public Accountant field, has written an accessible, comprehensive guidebook to social media for professionals and their firms with an emphasis on the accounting and legal industries. She sets forth a one- stop, reference handbook that can be read from cover- to- cover or by chapter, as needed. Nicely- organized and presented, this book covers the what, why, how, and more of social media. In fourteen chapters, the author addresses various topics as they relate to social media, professionals, and their firms, including the basics, communication policies and guidelines, business purpose, integration, strategies, marketing tactics, case studies, tools such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and web blogs, social web writing and etiquette, as well as best practices. Filled with lessons, tips, tools, how- to information, guidance, practical approaches, and sound advice, this invaluable manual is likely to serve the needs of individuals and entities seeking to establish, develop, and maximize effective online presences, even though parts of it quickly may become outdated or obsolete due to changing institutional environments and/or evolving and/or emerging technologies. Sufficiently well- documented, with endnotes, a glossary, and a back- of- the book index, this book is highly recommended for students, professionals, and others. It belongs in large public, academic, and special libraries. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, Google Books

Hargreaves, Kenneth. Apples: the Whole Story.

2011-07-23T16:34:00.015-04:00

58p. Rose Dog Books. 2011. ISBN 978-1-4349-0573-4. $11.00. Pdf e-Book. ISBN 978-1-4349-4572-3. $6.00. Google e-Book $6.00.

Fruits are an important part of our diets. Everyone has his or her favorite fruit. Apples contain many nutrients and vitamins and come in many tasty varieties. Many Americans would agree that apples are the unofficial “national” fruit. In this brief publication that purports to present “everything you ever wanted to know about apples” (p. v), Hargreaves (Ph.D., Education, Capella University, expected 2012; Master of Education, American InterContinental University; Bachelor of Business Administration, American InterContinental University; owner of Hargreaves Gifts), a retired Navy Chief Culinary Specialist with more than thirty years work experience in the hospitality industry, attempts to set forth the “whole story” about apples. Not trying to create a traditional cookbook (p. v), Hargreaves mainly tells the story of apples from his personal perspective and experiences. In chapters one and two, he describes the history of apples and their many varieties, while in chapter three, the author discusses the life of apples-- how they are grown, harvested, and sold. Throughout his text, but mostly in chapters one and two, Hargreaves includes recipes, stories, and personal thoughts about apples and his life. Including more than thirty recipes, using apples as an ingredient, as well as a selected bibliography, this easy- to- read, enjoyable publication will be of use and interest to mostly general readers. Even though it contains typological and grammatical errors as well as lacks a table of contents, back- of- the- book index, and reproductions, all of which would have enhanced its purpose, this book may be recommended for some public libraries as a secondary resource. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit Dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon, Rose Dog Bookstore, Google ebookstore

Gilbert, Gareth E.. Global Impacts of Chernobyl Radioactive Fallout.

2011-05-21T15:36:00.017-04:00

54p. Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.. 2011. ISBN 978-1-4349-0999-2. $11.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-0999-2. (pdf e-Book) $6.00.

While the Chernobyl nuclear accident of 1986 is among the most well- known calamities of the 20th century, the extent of the spread of radioactive material throughout the world is less- widely reported. In this brief publication, which is intended for nonscientists, Gilbert (Ph.D., Ecology, The Ohio State University), an ecologist with 35 years teaching and research experience at his alma mater, provides a detailed analysis of the dissemination of radioactive fallout that resulted in increased levels of radioactivity in the crops and livestock in Europe, Asia, and North America. After setting forth a brief introduction to atomic theory, the nature of radioactivity, and the Chernobyl disaster, the author examines the dispersal of radioactivity and its impact on the food sources of Scandinavia, the British Isles, and Ireland. He covers the methods by which the affected countries attempted to combat the effects of radioactivity, including fallout countermeasures. Gilbert concludes his book with a chapter entitled, “Odds and Ends,” detailing specific, associated events, not limited to the dispersal of fallout by birds, the contamination of honey, and the accident’s impact on abortions and food preparations. Informative and understandable, this publication fulfills its purpose as a guide for laypersons hoping to learn more about the impacts of Chernobyl and its global consequences. It will be of interest to general readers. Primarily because it lacks a much- needed, back- of- the- book index, selected bibliography, and footnotes or endnotes in standard formats, it is not recommended for purchase by most libraries. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit Dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon, Dorrance Bookstore

Hay, Deltina. The Social Media Survival Guide: Strategies, Tactics, and Tools for Succeeding in the Social Web.

2011-04-17T08:22:00.019-04:00

2nd edition. Quill Driver Books. 2011. c456p. illus. appendices. CDROM. index. ISBN 978-1-884995-70-5. $24.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif95.

Today it is not enough to have a business email address and website. While content still matters, it is only part of the equation. It takes the power of social media to revolutionize your business and leverage it for success by interacting, sharing, and collaborating in the Social Web. (p. 21) How do you harness this force in the Social Web without completely wasting your time? In this major revision of her previous book, entitled A Survival Guide to Social Media and Web 2.0 Optimization, Hay (graduate education in computer science, applied mathematics, and psychology; President, Dalton Publishing; Owner, PLUMB Web Solutions and Social Media Power; Deltina.com, PlumbSocial.com; Socialmediapower.com), a writer, publisher, veteran Web developer, and pioneer of social media and Web 2.0, presents a no- nonsense, hands- on, nuts- and- bolts, real- world, practical guide to successfully building and optimizing your presence in the Social Web by means of social media strategies and tactics, social media plans, RSS feeds, blogs, WordPress websites, podcasts, vidcasts, webcasts, social networks, micro- blogs, social bookmarking, crowd- sourcing, media communities, widgets, badges, social media newsrooms, social tools, and more. Each chapter is generously- illustrated with numerous, pertinent screenshots of the strategies, tactics, and tools set forth by the author. Not intending her publication to be about social media marketing or web tools, Hay conceived this resource in terms of the goal of helping readers build a solid foundation in the Social Web using Web 2.0 tools that have weathered the social media storm. (p. 22) After reading chapters 1 and 2, which discuss creating a social media strategy and preparing for it, readers can read the various chapters on an as- needed basis or the entire book. While the majority of the fifteen chapters cover social media tools and services--not limited to Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Delicious, Digg, Flickr, YouTube, Scripd, and SlideShare—as they relate to the author’s goal, the final three chapters address pulling it all together, looking to the future of the Social Web, and measuring your success in the Social Web. Four appendices and a companion resource CDROM supplement and complement Hay’s text. Of interest to do-it-yourselfers, small business owners, independent professionals, authors, publishers, marketers, PR professionals, students, and anyone who needs to grow his or her presence in the Social Web, this nicely- presented, well- written, informative, useful, worthwhile, and significant book is an absolute must-read for the aforementioned individuals, possessing a beginner- to- intermediate knowledge of the Social Web. It is very highly recommended for many large public, academic, and special libraries. Review copy. Availability: Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Lorenz, Joan F.. Click 2: to Your Pathway.

2011-02-26T12:59:00.019-05:00

Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. 2006. c115p. ISBN 978-0-8059-7105-7. $13.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-4980-6. Sony e-Book. $8.00.

Are you always misplacing or forgetting your Internet logins, usernames, ids, and/or passwords? Perhaps you have attempted to keep track of this information, but have failed to find a good way of organizing it? In this computer password logbook and Internet address book, Lorenz, a resident of New Jersey, who has worked for thirty-five years in the food industry, attempts to help you work “smarter, not harder, in your professional” and/or personal lives by creating an “easy-to-access storage place for your passwords” for “computer programs and other things.” (Publisher’s synopsis) Including a brief one-page “don’t and do,” two lined pages for documenting your favorite websites, and a page of suggestions for passwords, this directory is arranged alphabetically. Each lettered section is four pages and consists of variously labeled entries in which you can record the Date, Program, ID, User Name, and/or Password(s). Each lettered section includes four different types of entries. The four types of entries enable you to log the following information by entry:

1. Date, Program, ID, User Name, Password; or
2. Date, Program, Password, Program, Password; or
3. Date, Program, User Name, Password, Password, Password; or
4. Program, Password;

The first and third types of entries are repeated twice per lettered section, whereas the second is featured once and the fourth is reproduced ten times. While this product evidences the author’s thoughtful attempt at helping you stay organized in the computer age, its presentation and design are improvable. Firstly, the multiple types of entries and their purposes may need to be explained in a brief introduction. Secondly, the labels in the entries may need to be revised to better reflect changes in the computer world and on the Internet. Thirdly, all the pages of this directory should be numbered. Only some pages are numbered. All pages of this directory also should be lettered. Only the first pages of lettered sections are lettered. Fourthly, the title and subtitle of this organizer could be better chosen to explicitly set forth its purposes. Finally, this directory ideally should be published as a World Wide Web application, in an expandable, printed format (ex. loose-leaf binder), and/or as downloadable, editable computer applications or documents that can be used on a variety of computers and mobile devices. Whereas some individuals may find this printed organizer helpful, others may not. This product is not recommended for libraries for a variety of reasons, many, but not all, of which are mentioned above. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit Dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon.com, Dorrance Bookstore, Sony Reader Store

Griffey, Jason. Gadgets and Gizmos: Personal Electronics and the Library.

2011-01-29T17:21:00.018-05:00

American Library Association TechSource. 2010. 35p. bibliog.. illus. ISBN 978-0-8389-5809-4. $43.00. Item Number 7400-8094. (ALA e-Editions) $33.00. 978-0-8389-5809-4. (Kindle e-Book) $23.00.

Perhaps you may not have realized it, but we are living in the midst of an ongoing information revolution, in which personal electronics or “gadgets” and “gizmos” are key components that have tremendous potential to transform societies and institutions such as libraries. In this book, which was published as an issue of Library Technology Reports (Vol. 46, No. 3), Griffey (Head of Library Information Technology, University of Tennessee, Chattanooga; author of Mobile Technology and Libraries and with Karen A. Coombs Library Blogging; columnist for American Libraries “Perpetual Beta” and the ALA TechSource blog), a well- known library technology expert, provides a guide to several “current,” relatively inexpensive-- most are less than $300 and none are greater than $500—personal electronic products and how they fit into any library’s plans for a high- tech future. The author examines a handful of personal electronic products in terms of their features, performance, functionalities, costs, and applications for libraries. Focusing heavily on electronic book readers or e-readers, he also includes various multimedia devices for “capturing and consuming” as well as odd or unusual technologies. Some of the categories of gadgets reviewed by Griffey include e-readers, video cameras, audio recorders, scanners, and multimedia players. The author covers many of the most popular products such as Sony e-readers, the Amazon Kindle, the Barnes & Noble Nook, the Flip, the Sony Bloggie, the Zoom H2, the iPod Touch, the Apple iPad, and more. While he mainly scrutinizes personal electronic products of significance to libraries, librarians, and their patrons, he also references pertinent software applications and Internet websites. Professional and technical in approach, but understandable to anyone who may have a basic to intermediate knowledge of personal electronic products and their applications, this publication will be of interest to librarians and others. An important resource for librarians and their staffs, it is highly recommended for public, academic, and special library collections. Review copy. Availability: ALA Online Store, Amazon, Amazon (Kindle edition), Barnes & Noble

Laughrun, Bette James and Nelson, Kathie. I Want What She’s Got: the Secrets of Creating and Outrageous Life.

2011-01-29T16:44:00.021-05:00

With foreword by Brian Klemmer. PCG Legacy. 2011. c127p. illus. bibliog.. ISBN 978-0-826665-8-6. $14.95.

Are you burned- out? Perhaps you feel as if you are living your life in a perpetual holding pattern, your life does not matter, and/or you are waiting to die and have stopped living? Have you settled for less than your dreams or ideal life? Bette Laughrun, a co- author of this book, experienced many of these feelings and thoughts in response to certain situations in which she found herself while mothering five children, being married, enduring various family crises, experiencing a divorce, and pursuing her personal and professional dreams and aspirations. In this self-help publication, Laughrun, founder of a leadership development group that educates faith communities and organizations on how to live healthy lives of contribution, meaning, and purpose (ThePeopleBuilders.com) and manager of a successful nutritional cleansing business, with her daughter Nelson, founder of Connect-works (www.KathieNelson.com), attempt to help readers recharge, re-fire, and revive. They ask women to seek answers to seven crucial questions that will help them create “outrageous” lives, in which they seize their unique potentials and achieve personal and professional growth and success (p. 9). These questions and their answers relate to a woman’s purpose, gift mix, relationships, contribution, self-care, vision, and spirituality. In nine, revealing and inspirational chapters, Laughrun with Nelson describe how they have answered these questions in terms of their own lives and they set forth what they have learned. They also provide readers with additional clarifying questions to answer. The final chapter includes Nelson’s Outrageous Life Assessment as well as an Outrageous Life Design Tool that involves rating aspects of your life, envisioning your own outrageous life, and closing the gap between your perceived and ideal lives. Of interest to women and some general readers, this guide, which includes a list of resources and references its website, is recommended for public library collections. On a personal note, I do not find that the title and subtitle of this book aptly represent its content. The subtitle may indicate this publication’s subject matter to a better extent. However, the word “outrageous” may carry many negative connotations in readers' minds and may not be the best choice. Review copy. Availability: Amazon

Tassey, Mary Ann. Medical Records Journal: Your Personal Medical History.

2011-01-23T12:27:00.017-05:00

Dorrance Publishing Co.. 2010. c77p. ISBN 978-1-4349-0549-9. $11.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-7058-9 (pdf e-book). $6.00.

Many people agree that it’s a good idea to keep track of your health records and those of your family members, if you are a caregiver or likely to become one. These medical records are called personal health records (PHRs) and they are distinguishable from those held by your doctors, which may be referred to as your medical records or electronic medical records (EMRs). You will want to have copies of your personal health records and those of the people for whom you are or are likely to become a caregiver for a variety of reasons, not limited to: perhaps you or a family member will change doctors, move, get sick while on vacation or traveling, and/or end up visiting an emergency room. If any of these situations occur and you have your personal health records and/or those of your family members with you, you and/or they may get faster, safer medical care. (Caroline Rea and Paul Lehnert, “Home Medical Records: Overview,” Updated May 1, 2008, Article on Webmd.com) In her publication, Tassey, a resident of Weirton, West Virginia and the mother of seven children, created this “medical records journal,” so “everyone can keep his or her medical records and appointments together.” By means of her book, the author attempts to help individuals compile and/or create their personal health records. Tassey’s publication is divided into two parts. In the first section, she features general information on good health and disease prevention. She covers the top three “killers” (p. v) of Americans—i. e. cancer, heart disease, and stroke—the causes of these killers, who is at risk for them, and ways to avoid them by staying physically fit, eating carefully, and taking preventive measures. She presents some, but not all, screening guidelines as well as information on cholesterol, blood pressure, the food pyramid, metabolism, and vitamins. In the second part, Tassey includes forms that can be used to compile a personal health record, which she calls a “medical records journal” or “personal medical history.” She sets forth forms for keeping track of doctors’ visits, medical tests, and prescriptions. Most forms are seemingly tailored for medical specialists but a few are generic. Each form is labeled Cardiologist, Family Practitioner, Gynecologist, Neurologist, Oncologist, Opthalmologist, Orthopedic, Pediatrician, Urologist, or Physician. Each form leaves room for compiling the doctor’s name and contact information, testing information (type, date, location, result), general notes for testing, medications prescribed (name, date, dosage), and general notes. While Tassey’s book evidences her thoughtful effort at helping readers compile their personal health records (PHRs) or those of others, there are many ways in which it needs to be improved. Firstly, the author needs to include a one- page form that enables individuals to summarize their health information so that it can be disseminated easily and/or copied and carried with persons. This summary form should contain information pertaining to the individual’s emergency contact(s), primary care physician, health insurance, health problems, medications, allergies, family medical history, health care agent(s), and more. Secondly, Tassey needs to provide a comprehensive chart that sets forth screening and immunization guidelines for all age groups. The author needs to better document and present her publication by providing footnotes/endnotes as well as a glossary, bibliography, and index. The first part of Tassey’s book on health and disease is too short and incomplete. It should be expanded and reformatted with numbered, clearly delineated chapter headings. Many of this publication's forms have more than one page number on them. This book needs to be repaginated with incorrect page numbers removed. Finally, Tassey needs to recommend that readers obtain copies of their medical records from their doctors. She needs to include chapter(s) and/or appendix(ices) on the types of more extensive personal health records that readers should keep and how they can do this. Of interest to general readers, this publication may be of limited use to some individuals, but is not recommended for most library collections for many reasons, several of which are described above. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.. Availability: Amazon, Dorrance Bookstore

Connellan, Tom. The 1% Solution for Work and Life: How to Make Your Next 30 Days the Best Ever.

2010-12-12T09:13:00.010-05:00

Peak Performance Press, Inc.. Dec. 2010. c157p. illus. ISBN 978-0-9769506-2-2. $19.95.

Ever wonder how you can boost your performance, make your job and/or life better, become more successful, and/or ultimately happier? Winners of all kinds understand the power of 1 percent. In the case of Olympic athletes, 1 percent distinguishes the “exceptionally exceptional” from the “exceptional” competitors, the medal winners from the non-medal winners, whereas for the average person, it may seem more elusive. (p. 9) In this publication, based upon his own research and that of others, Connellan (Ph.D.; author of Bringing Out the Best in Others!), a former Program Director, company founder and CEO, as well as best selling author of ten books and numerous journal articles, sets forth what 1 percent means for an ordinary person, someone who can not be 100 percent better than everyone but can be 1 percent better at 100s of things if (s)he commits to improving. (pp. 9-10) In seven chapters that function as a call to action as well as a comprehensive plan for achieving results, the author retells the story of Ken, an average person, who reaches a turning point in his life after observing how his son’s soccer coach Jim was able to improve his son’s soccer team. Ken discusses the turnaround with Jim, who then sends him to learn from five successful 1 percenters-- a sales executive, college physics professor, prominent business owner, practicing psychologist, and former Olympic tri-athlete. These noteworthy individuals impart to Ken (and readers) their secrets, thereby providing him (and readers) with the knowledge and tools that he (and readers) needs to succeed. Packed with much useful and wise advice as well as many actionable ideas, derived from solid research in the social sciences and sciences, this inspirational, self-help guide, presented in the form of a story, will show readers how to power up and keep going at permanently higher levels in just thirty days. Of interest to anyone who wants more from work and life, it is highly recommended for all readers and most public library collections, even though it lacks a selected bibliography, footnotes/endnotes, and an index, all of which would have augmented the story and assisted readers.
Advance Readers Copy. Availability: Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Polanka, Sue, Ed.. No Shelf Required: E-Books in Libraries.

2010-11-28T12:31:00.012-05:00

American Library Association Editions. 2010. c.194p. illus. index. ISBN 978-0-8389-1054-2. $65.00. Item Number: 7400-0542 (e-book, ALA e-Editions). $52.00. B0043VE3J6 (Kindle Edition). $52.00.

Existing for more than 10 years, electronic books are going mainstream. A relatively new phenomenon for many librarians and publishers, they raise many issues and challenges. In this compilation, Polanka (Head of Reference and Instruction, Wright State University Libraries, Dayton, Ohio; M. L. S., Kent State University School of Library and Information Science; “Off The Shelf” Column Writer, Booklist’s Reference Books Bulletin; Moderator, No Shelf Required blog), a reference and instruction librarian with extensive experience in public, state, and academic libraries, as well as a variety of professionals share their expertise about e-books. In nine chapters, contributors examine electronic books in relation to the Internet, student learning, school libraries, public libraries, academic libraries, and the publishing industries. They discuss topics, not limited to the history of e-books, their types, technologies, devices and software applications, pricing models, data standards, usage statistics, preservation, and future. A must-read for librarians and professionals involved with the collection development, acquisition, cataloging, and/or preservation of electronic books, this nicely- presented and well- documented publication, with easy-to-read, insightful essays by experts, provides a significant, solid foundation for further practice and research. It is strongly recommended for many school, public, and academic library collections as a primary professional resource that can be read in its entirety or by chapter, as needed. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Amazon (Kindle Edition), Barnes & Noble.com

Buse, Fred. A Caregiver’s Tips: My Wife Had Alzheimer’s Disease.

2010-11-28T09:26:00.013-05:00

Rose Dog Books. 2010. c69p. ISBN 978-1-4349-9791-3. $11.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-4123-7 (pdf ebook). $6.00. B003DYGOGE (Kindle Edition). $6.00.

When Dorothy M. Buse’s mother was moved into the Alzheimer’s unit of a small assisted living home, Dot told her husband Frederic W. Buse, the author of this book, that if she got the disease too, she did not want to be put into a similar facility. Buse promised his wife that he would not do so. (pp. 7-8) In 1997, Dot was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She died nine years later in June 2006. In this brief, well-written story, Buse (New York Maritime College, Marine Engineering, 1958), a retired engineer from Ingersoll Rand Company and the writer of many book chapters and industrial journal articles, sets forth his personal account of his journey coping with his wife’s Alzheimer’s disease. The author shares his “experiences, ideas,” and any “insight gained” (introduction), hoping that his many tips (over one hundred) “may help other caregivers who choose” to care for “their loved ones at home.” (back- of- the book summary) In five chapters, averaging eleven pages each, Buse describes the onset of his wife’s Alzheimer’s and many other relevant topics including diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, legal matters, social security, medical bills, Medicare, support organizations, patient behaviors, physical and emotional changes, the progression of the disease, hygiene, food and meals, medications, hospice care, his wife’s death, memorial services, and after-death issues. While this publication is not by standard definitions authoritative, since it is told from a layperson’s or an ordinary person’s viewpoint and it lacks appropriate documentation such as a selected bibliography, endnotes/footnotes, and appendices of additional resources, it’s first- hand account and seemingly practical advice may be helpful in some ways to caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients, who may be looking for an understandable guide that they can read in one sitting or a few hours. The back- of- the book “table of contents” by chapter, which lists the subjects covered in each chapter by heading but lacks pagination, may be used to record the page numbers upon which certain topics are discussed and/or to take notes. Reasonably well- presented and compassionately retold, but by no means authoritative or comprehensive, this book will interest mostly early stage Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers. It is recommended for some public libraries as a supplementary resource only and should not serve as a substitute for other publications and advice written for caregivers that cover the disease and patient care from the most authoritative, comprehensive, and updated viewpoints. Patients and their caregivers always should consult the most appropriate resources and experts for the best, most comprehensive, and up- to- date information and advice when coping with major medical issues and life events. Review book. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon.com (print), Amazon (Kindle Edition), Rose Dog Bookstore

Book Review: Klaben, Gary. Changing the Conversation: Transformational Steps to Financial and Family Well-Being.

2010-10-17T14:38:00.011-04:00

Navigator Press. 2010. c.299p. bibliog.. ISBN 978-0-9828009-0-4. $24.95.

Let’s face it. Most of us probably “have issues” with money. Money oftentimes gets in the way when it should not. It has an enormous power over us. It causes dysfunctional behaviors, debauches, defiles, and demoralizes. In short, money can enslave us, if we let it become our master. (p. 267-74) In this book, which was written in the wake of the financial crisis of 2008, during the 2008-09 recession, Klaben (President, Owner, Financial Advisor, Coyle Asset Management, Glenview, IL; President, Protinus; Master of Science, Financial Services, The American College, 1995; Chartered Financial Consultant, The American College, 1989; Bachelor of Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, 1979), a renowned financial advisor and consultant, sets forth a “call to action” for individuals, families, and businesses, arguing that our conversations about money need to change, if Americans are to achieve a better future. (p. 33) Intending a “journey from dependency to mastery,” the author compiles a series of “conversations” that are meant to function as a “how-to guide to financial realization” (p. 21), a comprehensive strategy for multigenerational financial security and well-being. Each “conversation” or chapter focuses on how individuals, families, businesses, and the world are changing. They were written to help us anticipate future changes, prepare to manage them, and even lead. (p. 32) Kleban discusses a variety of topics, not limited to financial awareness, KASH (knowledge, attitude, skills, and habits), choosing one’s path, how the brain learns, setting goals, the psychology of money, the importance of financial mentors and mentoring, risk management, the significance of understanding and taming complexity, navigating life’s storms and currents, retirement, true worth, property, passing wealth to future generations, and growing greatness. Sufficiently well-documented, based upon the notion of the three stages of life—youth (i.e. learning), middle age (i.e. earning), and old age (i.e. yearning)-- and filled with excellent advice, drawn from many of the author’s own personal and professional experiences, this thought-provoking and noteworthy publication, dealing with the emotional (non-financial) aspects of money, will serve as a must-read for most of us and the precursor to transforming our financial livelihoods and legacies. (p. 282-3) Appealing to general and some specialized audiences, it is highly recommended for most public library book collections. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Book Review: Rosen, Martin B. and Leibowitz, Abbie, M.D.. The Healthcare Survival Guide:

2010-10-03T09:10:00.017-04:00

Cost-Saving Options for the Suddenly Unemployed and Anyone Else Who Wants to Save Money. Health Advocate Publishing. 2009. c.75p. illus. ISBN 978-0-9840696-0-6. $6.95. Kindle Edition (e-Book). $2.95

Written with the goal of helping Americans “’survive’” the current healthcare system that is not yet affordable, transparent, or accessible, this brief, clearly-presented, easy-to-read, practical publication, by Rosen (Cofounder, Chief Marketing Officer, and Executive Vice President, Health Advocate, Inc.), an accomplished marketing executive with broad-based experience in brand building, and Leibowitz (Cofounder, Chief Medical Officer, Executive Vice President, Health Advocate, Inc.; M.D.; Board Certified, Pediatrics; Fellow, American Academy of Pediatrics), a nationally recognized authority on managed care, clinical management, quality assurance, and medical data and information systems, purports to be a complete guide for unemployed workers who have lost their employer-based health insurance, those persons struggling to find affordable healthcare, and others striving to save on their medical costs. Divided into eleven short chapters averaging five pages each, it covers COBRA, low-cost health insurance and medical services, government programs including Medicaid and Medicare, comparison shopping for coverage, cost-cutting strategies, reducing your medical bills, discounted and free medications, taking charge of your health, and much more. Its attractive graphics, charts, illustrations, and periodic updates complement and supplement the text, which is available free for a limited time from the book’s companion website. Timely, informative, useful, and inspiring, this publication is highly recommended as a very basic resource for most, if not all, public library collections. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Book Review: Deysine, Maximo. The Old Man’s Passion for Medicine: Would a 1920 Medical Graduate Feel Just as Proud?

2010-10-03T08:00:00.014-04:00

Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.. 2010. 124p. ISBN 978-1-4349-0521-5. $14.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-1966-3. (eBook) $9.00.

In this fiction book, which may be autobiographical, Deysine (M.D., University of Buenos Aires, Argentina; resident, St. Raphael’s Hospital, New Haven, CT and Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY; Fellow, American College of Surgeons; Board Certified, Surgery and Thoracic Surgery), now deceased (1931-2009) but formerly a professor of surgery, practicing physician, and author of many books, reflects upon the good and bad aspects of the United States’ healthcare system. Using various literary devices, including an old photograph and two main characters, the author introduces readers to his thoughts about its current and future conditions. Deysine’s story begins when the “old man,” the author’s main voice and stand-in, a distinguished surgeon practicing medicine somewhere in the United States, encounters an old photograph of medical students from the Class of 1921 in his basement library. The photograph inspires the aging physician to ask himself the question: would these young doctors “feel just as proud” today about their profession and the status of the healthcare system? While the old man concludes that they would (p. 4), he forgets the question arising from the photograph until Franco Tosato, a freelance reporter seeking to write a lengthy exposé on the “real” status of medicine in the United States, approaches him for an extended interview over several months of shadowing the surgeon. (p. 26) Distrustful of reporters, the old doctor agrees to the interview, provided that he will be able to make reference to the history of medicine and how the discipline has improved. (p. 27) Intent on promoting the history of medicine and its advances (p. vi), he believes that such knowledge is crucial to understanding its current state of affairs (p. 27) During ensuing encounters, many of which are described in chapters entitled “Getting to Know Each Other,” “At the Doctors Lounge,” “The Transplantation of a Foreign Surgical Resident,” “The Hernia,” “Coronary Care,” “Enter the Merchants,” “Thickening the Plot,” the old surgeon, the reporter, and supporting characters discuss many pertinent topics, not limited to informed consent, malpractice, advertising, religion and the practice of medicine, on being an immigrant doctor, the training of doctors, advances in medicine, healthcare administration, the disempowerment of medical staffs, medical billing and record keeping, medical bureaucracies, and doctor- patient relationships. Ending on a hopeful, utopian note, the story indicates ways in which the status of medicine and the healthcare system may be improved and ultimately perfected. Constituting one successful doctor’s assessment of and vision for medicine and the delivery of healthcare services in the United States, this publication will interest doctors, healthcare professionals, some general readers, and others. Concise, well- written, thoughtfully- conceived, artfully- presented, and enjoyable to read, it is highly recommended for public libraries and some special library collections. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon.com, Dorrancebookstore.com

Burnett, John and Carroll, Becky. How Marketing Can Help Lawyers Make More Money: Targeted at Solo and Mid-sized Practices. (Book Review)

2010-09-06T07:39:00.017-04:00

Outskirts Press, Inc.. 2010. c.235p. illus. ISBN 978-1-4327-4579-0. $35.95. ISBN 1432745794 (e-Book). $5.00.

Strategic marketing may not be highly regarded by many law firms. Yet, in today’s brutally competitive marketplace, strategic marketing may be crucial to survival and prosperity. This reality may be particularly true for solo and mid- sized law firms that neither have the resources nor the motivation to learn and implement strategic marketing. In this noteworthy publication, Burnett (President, John Burnett Marketing; Professor Emeritus, Marketing, University of Denver; author of twenty books on marketing- related topics and sixty- five journal articles; Doctor of Business Administration, Marketing, University of Kentucky, 1976), a consultant specializing in strategic marketing for small to medium- sized, businesses, non- profit organizations, and law firms, and Carroll (Community Manager, Verizon, San Diego, California; Founder and President, Petra Consulting Group/Customers Rock!; author of the business blog Customers Rock!; Instructor, “Marketing via New Media,” University of California, San Diego; M.B.A., California State University), a long- time customer advocate, consultant, speaker, and more, provide a comprehensive examination of strategic marketing for solo and mid- sized law practices. In twelve chapters, they cover all topics relating to strategic marketing, including but not limited to, marketing planning and research, situational analysis, S.W.O.T., target market(s), clients and their decision- making processes, legal products, pricing in the legal sector, distribution channels, integrated marketing communications, personal selling for lawyers, social media marketing, budgeting for legal marketing, and evaluation of strategic marketing and marketing initiatives. Written by experts, this book is authoritative, intelligently- conceived, and reasonably well- presented, even though it lacks a selected bibliography, footnotes or endnotes, a back-of-the book index, and a glossary, all of which should have been included as necessary aids for readers. It features many diagrams that help to illustrate and augment the text. Of interest to mostly lawyers, legal marketers, and some business professionals, this informative, go- to resource belongs in some public and special library book collections serving the needs of the aforementioned groups. Highly recommended. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, Outskirts Press (eBook)

Hultin, Lisa and Hultin, Claire. Love, Sex & Deception: the Chronicles of Online Dating. (Book Review)

2010-08-22T08:25:00.018-04:00

Morgan James Publishing. 2010. c.218p. ISBN 978-1-60037-775-4. $17.95.

In light of the fact that online dating has moved into the mainstream, with more than 800 dating sites and 60 million subscribers (p. 4), this publication written by a daughter and mother, who have dated online, compared notes, and “actually survived!” is timely and relevant. By Lisa Hultin (B.A., Telecommunications, Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia; freelance writer, Tao Entertainment and LoveSexandDeception.com), a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, and Claire Hultin (freelance writer, Tao Entertainment; author of The Doctrine of Lucid Dreaming; writer of socio-political excerpts for Srilankaguardian.org; founder of www.dreaminglucidly.com; owner of Electronic Novelties, LLC), a resident of Los Angeles, California, it purports to be an entertaining read as well as an informative guide consisting of stories, advice, tips, and tricks for online daters and others. It also is intended to serve as a “‘comfort book’” for persons who may be in “‘dating limbo,’” while experiencing the cyber world of online dating. (p. 1) Covering online dating as well as in-person dating, since many online dating experiences evolve in the latter, it is organized into themed chapters covering the “new frontier,” sexuality online, dates who lie, college kids and online dating, disaster dates, scammers, illegal activities, swingers, manners, good protocol, and more. Each chapter includes an introduction written by the authors, their commentary and responses, as well as online dating stories contributed by individuals, most of whom are women and many of whom reside in larger cities in the United States, not limited to Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York. Presenting eye-opening views of what daters most likely will encounter when they plunge into cyber dating, the contributions are real, anecdotal, seemingly truthful, and sometimes emotionally evocative. They cover the gamut of online dating experiences. From them, you may learn how to protect your affections, trust, and time, positive strategies for finding true love and avoiding deception as well as the do’s and don’ts of online and in-person dating. While this book is entertaining and to some extent informative and educational, it needs better documentation and presentation. Firstly, in some cases, the stories only are signed with contributors’ first names and locations. In other cases, contributions are anonymous or signed with first names only. While this obviously protects the identities of storywriters and encourages their more complete and truthful disclosures, confessions, and recollections, it also leaves readers in the precarious position of having to judge whether what they are reading is in fact “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth,” as they would say in a law court. Secondly, this book lacks footnotes or endnotes, a bibliography, and an index, all of which should have been included for readers. Finally, it includes many spelling errors. Written by authors who have gained their expertise from firsthand experiences and including contributions by participants, it mainly will interest readers who have experienced online dating or want to learn more about it. Not a reference book or how-to-manual, it is recommended as a supplementary resource for many public libraries, particularly for those found in large and medium-sized cities, where the online dating and in-person dating scenes may be more active and developed. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

King, R. August. Night Shift Diary.

2010-08-15T08:42:00.012-04:00

Dorrance Publising Co., Inc.. 2010. c.47p. ISBN 978-1-4349-0665-6. $9.00. ISBN 978-1-4349-5439-8 (e-Book). $5.00.

In this very brief publication, King (LPN, RN, M.B.A.), a critical care nurse for eighteen years and now involved in healthcare business and finance, remembers working as Licensed Practical Nurse on the Intensive Care Units in several hospital settings while she was studying to become a Registered Nurse. She publishes her memories in the form in which she found them while “spring cleaning” the storage space under the roof of her garage, her diary that she kept from June 1975 until April 1982 in which she recorded personal and professional milestones, the latter in the form of “nursing notes.” Honest and insightful, King’s entries recount what it was like to be a nurse as well as care for critically-ill patients on a regular basis. Covering diverse topics with much humor, signs of growth, and increasing confidence, she describes being rotated from one unit to another, becoming an ICU nurse, caring for her sick mother, interacting with her coworkers and doctors, patients’ families, administering treatments, observing various operations, and more. Lacking a glossary of terms, abbreviations, and acronyms, which would be helpful for readers unfamiliar with some of the medical terminologies used by the author, this book, nevertheless, will be of interest to general readers and those individuals considering healthcare careers, perhaps in nursing. It is recommended for some public libraries as an enjoyable, supplementary resource. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.. Availability: Amazon.com, Dorrance Bookstore

Slack, Ed. Two Legged Snakes: Understanding and Handling Manipulative People.

2010-08-15T08:24:00.009-04:00

Simple Truth Publishing. 2010. c130p. illus. bibliog. ISBN 978-0-9825514-1-7. $12.95. ISBN 9780982551424 (e-Book). $7.99.

Most of us probably do not like reading about troublesome situations and/or people, but every once in a while a reality check is a good thing, particularly if it can help us avoid bad experiences. In this humorously- and generously- illustrated (more than eighty illustrations), self-help publication, Dr. Ed Slack (B.S., Psychology, & M.S., Clinical Psychology, California State University, Sacramento; Ph.D, Clinical Psychology, Sierra University, Sacramento), a psychologist with more than 25 years experience working with people who are both manipulative and gifted, discusses a kind of person you may have encountered with disastrous consequences, the “two legged snake.” According to the author, the two legged snake (TLS) or bipedal snake (BS) is a manipulator, who comes in all forms and from all walks of life. Slack describes this kind of individual in terms of various categories, not limited to the Primary and Secondary (pp. 7-10) as well as the Day to Day (D2D) and Public Level. (p. 23) Beyond the aforementioned classifications, Slack discusses the 13 different forms or types of two legged snakes: the Charmer, Backstabber, Bombast Entertainer, Bilker, Decorated, Misdirector, Rhetorical, Situational, Media Maven, Lost, Lifer, Justified, and the King Cobra. (pp. 24-38) Intending to help readers and non-readers identify the various kinds of manipulators, the author also presents the types of people or “fans” who surround them, the persuasive techniques used by bipedal snakes, and their biting styles. He offers advice and tips for handling and dealing with TLS and for “making the world a less snaky place.” Addressing persons who are going through difficulties as well as everyone, since we all have “snakes in our heads,” the author sets forth keys for perceiving and overcoming deception. He suggests how readers can make good choices, not be deceived, and gain the skills to realize when they are being duped. Helpful and thoughtful, albeit on levels that may be superficial to some individuals, this humorous, fast-paced guide on a serious subject by an experienced expert will interest general readers and others. Offered for purchase with a back-of-the-book, selected bibliography and a reproducible two legged snake spotters’ checklist as well as with a downloadable bonus chapter and a money back guarantee on the book’s website, it is recommended for many public libraries as fun, supplementary, introductory, self-help manual. Review Book. Availability: Amazon.com, Twoleggedsnakes.com

Linenberger, Michael. Master Your Workday Now! Proven Strategies to Control Chaos, Create Outcomes and Connect Your Work to Who You Really Are.

2010-07-11T07:04:00.013-04:00

New Academy Publishers. 2010. c.344p. illus. bibliog.. index. ISBN 978-097493044-2. $19.95.

Many of us are familiar with this scenario. You just have walked in the door at work and turned on your computer. Not only are you faced with your boss standing at your office door or cubicle but your inbox and voice mail box are full again and the pile of work from yesterday that was sitting on your desk remains even though you stayed late last night trying to eliminate it. Overwhelmed, you take a deep breath. You feel like you have too much to do in too little time. Where to begin? How to begin? These are two questions passing through your mind. In this nicely- presented and expertly- argued self help book, Linenberger (management consultant and technology professional for more than 20 years; formerly, Vice President, Accenture; Head, U.S. Peace Corps’ technology department; author of three books including Total Workday Control Using Microsoft Outlook, 2nd Edition), an efficiency expert and renowned international consultant, speaker, and seminar leader, attempts to help those suffering from the abovementioned scenario, “workday chaos.” He presents his brilliantly- conceived “Workday Now” system for anyone who wants greater results at work, less stress, and deeper satisfaction from his or her employment situation and thereby life in general. Explaining how work is largely a mental game, Linenberger argues that “urgent” tasks that must be completed by the end of the workday should take precedence over merely “important ones” or less time-sensitive endeavors. In his breakthrough “Workday Mastery Pyramid,” modeled after psychologist Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, he advocates getting control of your workday by managing Urgency Zones, creating your outcomes by using Now Goals and Goal Activation, and connecting your work with who you are and what will fulfill you. In each of the three sections of his book covering the control, create, and connect sequences of his Pyramid, the author presents specific strategies and tools for helping you reach the top. You will learn how to utilize the “urgency zone” concept to create a Workday Mastery To-Do-List, overcome email overload, create Now Goals, Activate Goals, connect with yourself and your life’s work, and more. For the most part fast-paced, easy-to-read, and understandable, this somewhat lengthy publication contains many helpful value-added features not limited to illustrations, diagrams, and two appendices containing a quick start Workday Mastery Toolkit and a list of recommended print and non-print resources. The author also provides downloadable tools and templates on his masteryourworkday.com website that enable you to implement his system while additional resources such as a daily planner are being published. For anyone who wants to transform his or her work and thereby personal lives as well as bring the two closer together, this book will appeal to general and specialized readers. It is highly recommended for many public, academic, and special libraries. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Iapalucci, Havilah Diane. Come Travel with Me! An ESL Language Discussion Textbook for International Students.

2010-06-12T13:35:00.009-04:00

Rose Dog Books. 2010. c268p. illus. ISBN 978-1-4349-9680-0. $23.00.

Here Iapulacci (B.A., History, Minor, Education, Rutgers University; Teaching Certificate, High School Social Studies; author of Impressions of Modern Korea: An ESL Language Discussion Textbook (2008)), a teacher who was born and raised in New Jersey, has created a publication with several purposes. Firstly, she has written a textbook for students learning English. The result of the her experiences teaching English as a Second Language in Washington, D.C., New York City, New Jersey, Afghanistan, Korea, and China, it helps students learn the spoken language of English by means of thirty short readings, called “topics,” organized chronologically according to the author’s lifetime experiences. Vocabulary lists as well as comprehension and discussions questions end each chapter. Secondly, Iapalucci nurtures students’ travel inspirations. According to the author, all students relish the subject of travel. Topics cover many locations, not limited to cities and attractions in New Jersey, California, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Iran, Turkey, Greece, Italy, England, New York, Washington, D.C., Virginia, South Korea, North Korea, and China. Finally, the author presents her text as a memoir. Educated to teach high school social studies, Iapalucci wore many professional hats. She served as a language instructor in the Peace Corps in Afghanistan and then became the Supervisor of American Ambassador John Volpe’s household in Rome, Italy. She was hired as the Legislative Aide to Republican Congressman Burt Talcott of California. She taught history in Allendale, South Carolina and more. Fore the most part, this book fulfills its many purposes, but it could be made better. As a textbook, it could be improved by boldfacing vocabulary words in the readings rather than listing them at the end of topics. Also, the author could include a bibliography of related print and electronic resources, maps, and an index. The illustrations, which are located in the center of the book, need to be interspersed with the text at the appropriate points or referenced in the prose. Additional photographs pertaining to the various countries where Iapalucci lived or visited would be welcome and useful for fostering conversations. Some of the aforementioned suggestions also would inspire students’ love of travel as would more information about the histories and cultures of the featured nations. As a memoir, Iapalucci’s text is detailed, honest, and compelling, but it passes over many personal issues and stories that the author could have addressed. Appropriate for students and some general readers, this publication may be a suitable and worthwhile purchase for some libraries. Recommended. Review copy. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon.com, Rose Dog Bookstore

Dowd, Nancy, Evangeliste, Mary, and Silberman, Jonathan. Bite-Sized Marketing: Realistic Solutions for the Overworked Librarian.

2010-05-30T07:48:00.016-04:00

American Library Association. 2010. c.140p. index. ISBN 978-0-8389-1000-9. $48.00.

Writing upon the premise that worthwhile, ten-minute, marketing fixes for libraries are unattainable, but that library marketing does not have to be grand, here Dowd (Director of Marketing, New Jersey State Library, Trenton, NJ), Evangeliste (Director, User Services and Outreach, Musselman Library, Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA), and Silberman (Owner, Fearless Future; Graphic Designer, American University Library, Washington, D.C.) show how library marketing can be integrated into the everyday work experiences of librarians and library staff and still be manageable. They have created a book presenting ideas and strategies to help librarians and others articulate the value of libraries. Based mainly upon word-of-mouth marketing but incorporating other marketing techniques, including storytelling, electronic resource marketing, public relations, outreach, advocacy, Web 2.0 tools, design, branding, best practices, and more, the authors present an assortment of simple and cost-effective marketing solutions for small to medium-sized libraries. Easy-to-read, insightful, and nicely-presented, with lists, examples, worksheets, and more, this publication, which functions as a quick informative resource rather than a detailed how-to manual or comprehensive reference book, will be of interest mostly to public librarians and others desiring to articulate the value of libraries and library services. Recommended. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com
, Barnes & Noble.com

Hooper, Brad. Writing Reviews for Readers’ Advisory: a Booklist Publication.

2010-04-04T16:09:00.011-04:00

With a chapter by Joyce Saricks. American Library Association. 2010. c.109p. bibliog.. appendices. index. ISBN 978-0-8389-1017-7. $45.00.

Based upon his many years of experience writing book reviews and presenting review writing workshops, Hooper (B.A., European History, and M.L.S., Master’s of Library Science, Eastern Illinois University; graduate work, European history, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; author of The Short Story Readers’ Advisory (2000), The Fiction of Ellen Gilchrist (2005), Read On … Historical Fiction (2006), and The Fiction of Alice Munro (2008)), an Adult Books Editor at Booklist, the flagship review journal for public and school librarians, which is published by the American Library Association, has provided a concise, how-to manual for writing reviews. Used mostly by librarians, prior to the time that publications are published and afterwards, by librarians, other professionals, and members of the general public, reviews are instrumental resources for providing readers’ advisory, building library collections, and promoting libraries, institutions, and publications. Varying in length, they are distinguishable from criticism and written annotations and are comprised of two crucial elements: a section telling readers what the publication is about and another setting forth why it is good and/or not-so-good. Consisting mostly of eight chapters, each averaging ten pages, the author’s book covers most aspects of reviews and reviewing. In the first three chapters, which are introductory and provide the overall context for writing reviews, Hooper covers marketing through reviewing, distinguishes reviews from criticism, and discusses the two kinds of reviews, pre- and post- publication reviews. In the main part, comprised of chapters four through six, the author then presents the components of nonfiction and fiction reviews, the features of good reviews, and the characteristics making good reviewers. In chapter seven, Hooper provides advice and guidelines for organizing and leading review writing workshops. Chapter eight, a contribution by Joyce Saricks (B.A. University of Kansas; M.A., Comparative Literature, University of Wisconsin-Madison; M.A., Library Science, University of Chicago), a professor, librarian, author, and authority on readers’ advisory services in public libraries, covers a subtopic of writing reviews, writing audiobook reviews, which has unique aspects due to the format of the publications being reviewed. In two appendices, Hooper further supplements his text by discussing writing annotations and his favorite reviewers and their reviews. Filled with much useful, excellent, and pertinent information, tips, advice, ideas, and many examples of Hooper’s published book reviews, this concise, thoughtfully- presented, nicely- organized, general, and sufficiently well- documented, nuts-and-bolts, how-to book, by an experienced professional, with a chapter contribution by a noted expert, will appeal to librarians, writers, book review bloggers, and others interested in writing book and audiobook reviews for websites, book clubs, newsletters, newspapers, magazines, professional journals, and other publications. It is recommended for public and academic library book collections. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Papafagos, Diane. An Easy Computer Guide for Seniors and Beginners.

2010-03-15T21:41:00.007-04:00

RoseDog Books. 2005. c.108p. illus. index. ISBN 978-0-8059-9407-0. $13.00. ISBN 978-0-8059-9407-0. $8.00 (E-book).

In this computer guide, intended for seniors and beginners, now retired Papafagos, with over twenty-four years of experience working with computers at Sweet Home Schools in Amherst, New York, The Research Triangle Institute in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, and Lockheed Martin in Rivera Beach, Florida, introduces readers to computers, word processing, the Internet, and e-mail by means of easy-to-understand instructions and short, graphic dialogue boxes displayed in a step-by-step manner. Using the Microsoft Windows 2000 operating system and Microsoft Word, the author covers the aforementioned subjects in forty-one, brief chapters, averaging 2 pages each. In the first two sections of her publication, which comprise almost three quarters of her book, Papafagos sets forth information on the Windows operating system and word processing. She discusses numerous topics, not limited to computer hardware and maintenance, navigating within Windows, changing settings, the control panel, keyboarding shortcuts, formatting documents, saving, editing, and printing documents, working with multiple programs or documents, and manipulating computer files. In the last twenty or thirty pages, the author then proceeds to cover the Internet, searching the Internet, and Email. Her chapter on email is the longest one in the book at eleven pages, but it is not necessarily the best. It presents information on composing email, sending, receiving, replying to, and forwarding email, using the address book, uploading and downloading attachments, chat rooms, message boards, and newsgroups. While this publication has many features that make it a good guide for beginners, it also has other characteristics that limit its effectiveness and usefulness. Concise, clear, well-written, and adequately- illustrated, it also is slightly disorganized, outdated, and in need of additional content. The author needs to consider revising the order of the chapters so a more intuitive approach is taken. She should consider grouping chapters by sections and moving some chapters such as the one on “Internet Favorites” to appendices. Papafagos needs to adopt standard book publishing conventions, including a table of contents, sections, and numbered chapters. She needs to redo the index and reorganize it so that index terms do not consist of chapter headings beneath which subheadings are found. Index terms should be keywords that are filed alphabetically. The author also needs to update this edition to cover newer operating systems, software programs, and Internet applications. A chapter on Microsoft Excel would be useful. Papafagos may need to modify the book’s title or include more content for seniors. Its current title is slightly misleading since the book has not been customized for older readers. Finally, the author needs to include screenshots that are better labeled, a back-of-the book glossary of computer terms, a select bibliography, and appendices. This reference guide by an experienced computer professional will best serve readers who only possess basic computer skills and are learning computers on older operating systems and by means of older software packages. In need of reorganization, updating, and revision, it is not recommended for libraries. Review Copy. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: RoseDog Books

Irwin, Tim. Derailed: Five Lessons Learned from Catastrophic Failures of Leadership.

2010-02-28T07:55:00.021-05:00

Thomas Nelson, Inc.. 2009. 217p. illus. index. ISBN 978-1-5955-5274-7. $24.99.

In this well-written, thoughtfully-conceived, and nicely-illustrated publication, which includes several pertinent chapter heading quotes, diagrams, tables, and cartoons, Irwin (Ph.D, industrial/organizational and clinical psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta; M.A. and B.A., University of Georgia, Athens; licensed psychologist; Adjunct Professor, Psychology, University of Georgia and Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, Florida; Managing Partner, IrwinInc.; http://www.DrTimIrwin.com), author of Run with the Bulls without Getting Trampled, speaker, and authority on leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and executive selection, sets forth his findings and views on executives who “derail” (like trains) in workplaces, a process which may occur suddenly or over time as a consequence of many misguided actions. According to the author, many extremely talented and competent leaders oftentimes fail due to flaws in their characters that indicate their lack of authenticity, self-management, humility, and courage. In fifteen chapters, comprising four major sections, Irwin presents profiles in derailment, describes the process of derailment, and sets forth ways to stay on the rails for the short term and long haul. In the first part, covering the failures of six well-known executives of major corporations in separate chapters that serve as case studies—Robert Nardelli, Carly Fiorina, Durk Jager, Steven Heyer, Frank Raines, and Dick Fuld—the author attempts to humanize the phenomenon and make it universally relevant. In the second section, he describes the five stages of derailment: failure of self/other-awareness, hubris, missed early warning signs, rationalizing, and finally derailment. The third part provides some how-to information for “staying on the rails” by developing your character. The final chapters cover five critical lessons Irwin has learned on the subject and “habits of the heart” that must be cultivated including openness, self/other awareness, listening to early warning signs, accountability, and resiliency. The author has drawn upon his background as a clinical and industrial/organizational psychologist and his twenty years experience as a management consultant in order to produce this authoritative, superior publication. Interspersed with many personal stories and anecdotes, this timely, invaluable, useful handbook is sufficiently compelling and engaging, even though the first part is not investigative journalism and relies on the summation of available public information. (p. xvi) For the most part, Irwin’s presentation of the material is intelligent and well done, although his failure to number sections and chapters may disconcert many readers. Intended for business leaders, this book will interest individuals of all types. Sufficiently well-documented with endnotes, but not a select bibliography, it is highly recommended for many public and some academic and special libraries. As a Nelsonfree product, it is available for free in audio book and ebook format from the publisher’s website once the printed version has been purchased. Additional no cost resources, not limited to a Derailed assessment, newsletter, audio and video downloads, are available on the book’s website, http://www.derailedleader.com . Review copy. Note: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, Bookschristian.com,Thomas Nelson, Inc.

Del Russo, Dawn. 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle: A Cheeky Book with Tidbits of Advice for a Glamorous Lifestyle.

2010-02-07T15:14:00.026-05:00

With illustrations by Barbara Ann Scarrillo. BookSurge Publishing. 2009. 110p. illus. ISBN 978-1439256336. $14.99.

In this publication, Del Russo (Fashion Merchandising and Design, Parsons School of Design, 2002; B.S., Business Management, Wagner College, 2001; contributing fashion writer for select online magazines), an up-and-coming fashion stylist and founding owner of a successful, storefront and online, clothing and accessory boutique Bella Dawn, with the assistance of Scarrillo (Fashion Institute of Technology; Owner, Brushstrokes), a graphic designer from New York City with over twenty years experience, provides a pocket-sized, guide book for women, who may be searching for budget friendly glamour and quick, easy ways to go beyond their everyday fashion, beauty, and/or lifestyle routines. By means of 101 tips, each of which is boldly-presented and colorfully-illustrated on a separate page, the author sets forth practical and realistic advice that may have financial consequences. Covering clothing, jewelry, accessories, cosmetics, hair, personal hygiene, self-presentation, health, body, mind, work, home, travel, entertainment, and more, Del Russo focuses on outward and inward aspects of glamour, thereby broadening the scope of the subject and suggesting that there is more to the topic. For the author, glamour is more than skin deep. It goes beyond appearances and constitutes a mindset and way of life. While many of Del Russo’s recommendations may relate partly to socially- and culturally-accepted standards of decorum and fashion—ex. Tip #23 Wear deodorant … (p. 31)—and others are not new but rather longstanding and true—ex. Tip #13 Find a little black, “‘must-have”’ dress …(p. 21)—most if not all her “tidbits” are original, to the extent that they combine fashion, beauty, and/or lifestyle tips into unique statements. For example, on the subject of shoes, in Tip #42, Del Russo proclaims, “Slip into a pair of designer pumps. … Every girl should own at least one pair, right?” Yes, true, probably every “girl” or woman should own a pair of pumps, a well-known, widely-disseminated fashion principle. Del Russo further implies by the wording of Tip #42 that if you can not afford to own more than one pair of pumps, than at least buy a designer brand. The author believes quality matters and it usually is an excellent indicator of beauty and style, although not the only factor. For all women, but particularly for younger, single women, who may be “home alone on a Friday night” and more able to “dress red carpet style” (Tip #69, p.77) without a husband and/or children around, this well-presented, nicely-illustrated, unique, delightful, easy-to-read book serves as a useful, fun, beauty guide. While it is not comprehensive, it may serve as a good, first start for many women, who may need a little fashion, beauty, and/or lifestyle help to move beyond the everyday. A great personal gift, it also belongs in some public libraries as a complimentary, fashion, beauty, and/or lifestyle resource as well as an enjoyable read. Recommended. Review copy. Amazon.com, Bella Dawn.com

Makous, Norman, M.D.. Time to Care: Personal Medicine in the Age of Technology.

2010-01-31T08:25:00.026-05:00

With Bruce Makous. TowPath Publications. 2009. 464p. illus. bibliog.. index. ISBN 978-0-9776686-1-8. $14.95.

Due to millions of dollars being spent on unnecessary tests and incorrect treatments, technology- based healthcare in the United States has caused an economic squeeze that already has led to rationing of medical care and services. Here Makous, a noted, now retired, extensively trained and credentialed, primary care cardiologist, who practiced in Philadelphia, PA until 2000 (M.D., University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, WI, 1947; American Board of Medical Specialties Certification, Internal Medicine, 1957; Subspecialty Certification, Cardiovascular Disease, 1961; faculty of The University of Pennsylvania Medical School, 1959-1995, and Thomas Jefferson Medical University, 1994; formerly, Regional President, American Heart Association; Distinguished Achievement Award, American Heart Association of Pennsylvania; author of "The Road Taken" (2006); http://www.normanmakous.com), with the enthusiastic, thematic and directional support of his son Bruce, a leading healthcare fundraiser and published author (Riding The Brand (2004) and Virtually Dead (2006); http://www.brucemakous.com), proposes that the patient-doctor relationship that was displaced by technology be returned to its central, fundamental position in the delivery of medical care and services in order to humanize treatment, improve the quality of care, reduce unnecessary spending and ineffective practices, increase doctor-patient satisfaction, and result in a happier and healthier society. In six parts, comprised of seventy-one, short, easy-to-read, conversational chapters, Makous discusses his medical education and healthcare services before the technological revolution, dramatic shifts in medicine resulting from technological innovations, the impact of these changes and developments in the field of cardiology, involvement by the government, hospitals, insurers, and others in the delivery of medical care and services, insights into the future of the medical system, and more. By means of his holistic approach to the subject, the author provides a wide ranging overview of the healthcare system as well as many explicit and implicit ideas and suggestions for making it better. Some of the subtopics he covers include, but are not limited to, the fundamental tenets of medical education and practice, the art of diagnosing, the art of educated guessing, shotgun testing, hospital practices, private practices, turnstile practices, medicine as an art and science, taking medical histories and doing medical examinations, patient-doctor communications and relationships, doctor-doctor communications and relationships, choosing a doctor, psychiatric cardiology, the “laying on of the hands,” follow-up visits, house calls, patient worlds, patient views, lifestyles, and expectations, screenings, emergency rooms, treatment standards and guidelines, age bias, end of life issues, advance directives, technology upgrades, new drugs, paradigms of medical science, the medical reimbursement systems, doctors as servants of many masters, referrals, malpractice issues, universal care, and rationing. Filled with dozens of case anecdotes, evidencing the historical and contemporary, crucial role that the doctor-patient relationship has played and serves in the delivery of excellent healthcare in the United States, this sufficiently well-documented—it includes a glossary of medical terms, diagrams, photographs, the author’s curriculum vitae, and a list of additional readings, but lacks footnoting and endnoting of the text-- compelling, fascinating, convincing, noteworthy publication, based on sixty years of medical practice by an expert physician-consultant is a must-read as the nation continues to struggle with healthcare reform. For general and more specialized readerships, it will be of particular interest to patients, aspiring physicians, practicing physicians, healthcare professionals, lawmakers, and others, who have significant, immediate stakes in the nation’s medical system. It should be required reading for all of the abovementioned persons and other individuals, who care about the current and future status and quality of healthcare delivery and services in the United States. Strongly recommended for many public, academic, and special library book collections. Advance Reading Copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, and NormanMakous.com

Redman, Peggy. How to Get the Job You Desire.

2010-01-16T06:02:00.010-05:00

Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.. 2009. c28p. ISBN 978-0-8059-5637-5. $14.95.

In this extremely brief publication, Redman (Owner of Peggy’s Job Preparatory Services; B.S. degree, Business Management, Concentration in Human Resources, Hampton University, Hampton, VA), a business owner with recruiting and job placement experience at Ortho Pharmaceutical Corp. and other companies, publishes a very concise guide to obtaining the job that you desire. Dividing into her book into seven chapters, the author covers the basic elements of a job search including job applications, cover letters, résumés, references, interviews, and keeping the job once you get it. Subtopics are not limited to follow-up methods, samples, tips, interview questions, proper dress, and more. This publication’s chapters are too short, averaging only three to four pages each. The longest chapter is the one on interviews, which extends over eight pages. Chapters also may consist entirely or predominantly of examples and blank forms. The chapter on references consists entirely of a blank form while the ones on job applications, résumés, interviews, and keeping the job include some additional content besides examples and blank forms. The chapter on interviews contains the most value-added advice and input from the author. The “mini dictionary” comprising the last chapter may be too general for more experienced job seekers to the extent that it defines words and concepts that may be familiar to them. Lacking sufficient advice and input from the author, a bibliography, and an index, this book will be of interest to general readers, who only may want to read a very concise guide or basic outline for conducting a job search. This publication also best suits job seekers, who may not mind paying more than fifty cents per page for a guide which functions more as a workbook than as a reference resource. Mostly due to its briefness, lack of sufficient value-added content, and costly price, this publication is not recommended for most libraries. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Amazon.com, Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc. Online Bookstore

Jacobs, Lynn F. and Hyman, Jeremy S.. Professors’ Guide to Getting Good Grades in College.

2010-01-01T16:15:00.008-05:00

Harper-Collins Publishers. 2006. 352p. index. ISBN 978-0-06-087908-2. $15.95.

Today because more people have college diplomas, obtaining a college diploma is not enough. College students face extremely competitive job markets and graduate school admissions criteria. Excellent college grades matter and are crucial. In this enjoyable, easy-to-read, first book to reveal insider secrets about how college professors grade, Jacobs (PhD, Institute of Fine Arts, New York University; Department Chair and Associate Professor, Art History, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville) and Hyman (Project Manager, Professors’ Guide LLC; www.professorsguide.com), who between them have taught over 10,000 college students at a total of eight universities, offer authoritative, practical tips, techniques, strategies, and methods for succeeding at each of the five grade-bearing moments in a college semester: the start, the class, the exam, the paper, and the last month. In fifteen chapters, organized chronologically according to the major grade-bearing moments of the semester, they discuss every aspect of college grading, not limited to common myths about grades, how professors grade, picking courses, determining an action plan for the first week, taking excellent lecture notes, preparing for, attending, and participating in class, studying for exams, going over exams, writing college papers, visiting the professor, and acing the final. Fast-paced, each chapter, which is started with an concise introduction and ended by a complete review section, is interspersed with value-added sidebars, such as top ten lists, do’s and don’ts tables, instructional boxes, professors’ perspectives, remembrances, opinions, extra pointers, case notes, and more. Serving as a significant how-to guidebook as well as a useful reference resource, this publication may be read from cover-to-cover or consulted by chapter as needed. While it may be most relevant for college students who will be taking a significant number of courses in the humanities and social sciences, this must-read by insider experts should be required reading for those aspiring to attain a college degree or degrees in any major. It also will be of interest to high school students planning to go to college and lifelong learners returning to school. Highly recommended for large, public and undergraduate, academic libraries as well as for school media center collections. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Fitzpatrick, Joe (Author) and Potter, Steven (Photographer). Strictly Sundays: Making Every Cook a Hero on Sundays.

2009-12-13T16:58:00.008-05:00

Book Publishers Network. 2009. c.152p. photogs. index. ISBN 978-1-935359-19-7. $19.95.

In this generously-illustrated publication (27 color reproductions), Fitzpatrick (www.strictlysundays.com), also known as the “Blue Collar Gourmet,” a real estate agent living in the Puget Sound area of Washington State, who cooks on Sundays for his wife, children, and grandchildren, compiles the recipes that have won him accolades from his family, friends, and coworkers. Dividing his cookbook into six chapters, the author presents recipes for many types of foods with the exception of desserts. He covers appetizers, main dishes, salads, soups, side dishes, and salsas. The chapters featuring main and side dishes are the longest, whereas the ones on salsas and soups are the shortest, with the fewest recipes. Most of the recipes that Fitzpatrick sets forth are comprised of vegetables, meat, seafood, and/or pasta. Covering basic, American, old-fashioned dishes that every amateur chef probably should master as well as more sophisticated, contemporary, innovative creations, the author includes many recipes for comfort food, “real food that fills the belly, satisfies the soul, and wins the day,” (back cover) as well as for gourmet concoctions. Some of the down-home dishes Fitzpatrick showcases include Buffalo wings, beef and pork pot roasts, cabbage rolls, corned beef and cabbage, lasagnas, chicken cacciatore, goulash, fish and chips, Caesar salad, potato salad, clam chowder, chili, scalloped potatoes, macaroni and cheese, garlic bread, baked beans, and more. The author’s gourmet-style fare are not limited to mustard seed pancakes with salmon and caviar, lamb stew, butter poached lobster, and salmon in cranberry Dijon sauce. The author’s creations are accompanied by the recipes for their marinades, sauces, and toppings. While many of Fitzpatrick’s masterpieces include ingredients that are commonly found in most supermarkets, others may have more exotic constituents or are comprised of wine or beer. The author unfortunately does not list possible, alternative substitutions, nor does he set forth the serving sizes for all his recipes. With the exception of the aforementioned exclusions, this book is nicely-illustrated and presented as well as sufficiently-documented. Instructions are complete, concise, and easy-to-follow. This publication will interest beginner and intermediate cooks. Written for men, it makes a great gift for the man, who may want to learn how to cook or who wants to cook for his loved one(s), thereby becoming a “hero on Sundays,” weekends, special occasions, or whenever. Women also will find this cookbook useful and worthwhile, even though many of the recipes may not be suitable for everyday meals. Highly recommended for many public library book collections. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Koepsell, David. Who Owns You? The Corporate Gold Rush to Patent Your Genes.

2009-12-07T20:21:00.010-05:00

Wiley-Blackwell. 2009. 187p. index. ISBN 9781405187312. $79.95. ISBN 9781405187305. $24.95

“Who owns you?” According to Koepsell (Assistant Professor, Philosophy Section, Faculty of Technology, Policy, and Management, Technology University of Netherlands, Delft; Senior Fellow, 3TU Centre for Ethics and Technology, The Netherlands; Ph.D, Philosophy, State University of New York at Buffalo, 1997; J.D., SUNY at Buffalo School of Law, 1995; B.A, Political Science/English, State University of New York at Buffalo, 1990; author of several books including The Ontology of Cyberspace as well as scholarly articles; www.davidkoepsell.com), an author, attorney, philosopher, and educator, whose research has focused on the nexus of science, technology, ethics, and public policy, you may be surprised and alarmed to learn that biotechnology companies, universities, and other research institutions now own the exclusive rights to many parts of you. As the aforementioned entities rush to patent the human genes comprising the human genome—the genetic code that largely defines the distinct features of humans, of which one-fifth is fully patented-- gene patenting threatens to infringe upon the rights of individuals and hinder scientific and technological progress. It also violates international agreements and is contrary to historical and legal norms. In this noteworthy publication, the author provides the first, nearly comprehensive study of the practices and implications of gene patenting. Koepsell maintains that gene patenting is harmful and needs to be reexamined. Using scientific findings, philosophical conclusions, and ethical determinations based upon his examination of the ontology of genes, the author advocates immediate legal reform. Among other solutions, he argues in favor of partly revoking intellectual property laws in order to establish the naturally-occurring, human genome as a “commons by necessity” that will not be patentable by companies, universities, or other research institutions. Divided into nine chapters, covering the science of genes, their ontology, the legal dimensions of gene ownership, intellectual property laws, pragmatic considerations, and more, this accessible, expertly-argued, insightful, nicely-presented, sufficiently-documented, interdisciplinary study on the practices and implications of gene patenting will interest general readers as well as students, scholars, and professionals. It will serve as a significant resource for further understanding, knowledge, and research. This book belongs in many large, public, academic, and law library book collections. Highly recommended. Review copy. Availability: Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Gazdig, Joan. The Kingdom of Hungary (‘Ten Arrows’ United Military Strength): the Beautiful Mistress.

2009-12-02T06:44:00.003-05:00

Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.. 2009. c.136p. illus.
ISBN 978-0-8059-7758-5. $21.00.

Generously- illustrated with many photographs and other reproductions (thirteen black-and-white and eighty-six color), this brief publication by Gazdig, a family genealogist, retired legal secretary, and Hungarian- North American, whose father, uncle, and their two cousins immigrated to “the new world,” (p. 2) provides an overview of Hungarian history and heritage. In fifty-one, very short chapters that average two pages in length, the author covers diverse subjects, not limited to her family’s ancestry, Hungarian history, Hungary’s kings and queens, soldiers, statesmen, liberators, famous buildings, monuments, composers, painters, wines, foods, customs, dogs, and more. While this book may serve as an introductory guide, it lacks the comprehensiveness and depth of coverage that are found in general reference resources. Also, the author uses her text as a means for arguing that Hungarian lands and cultural artifacts that were lost during and after various wars should be restored to the “kingdom” of Hungary, as it originally came to be established as early as 896 C.E.. Devoting the first three chapters of her publication to family matters, Gazdig sets forth how her family’s history fits into her approach. According to the author, her father, uncle, and their cousins immigrated when their land was dismembered by the signing of the Treaty of Trianon (June 4, 1920) in Paris after World War I. (p. 2) Gazdig prepared her text “out of respect” for her father and his desire to re-live his past and introduce his children to his ancestors as well as to “help others to re-live their heritage.” (pp. ix-x) Lacking scholarly documentation such as footnotes, an index, and a selected bibliography, but including a “Dates to Remember” timeline as well as excerpted addresses by statesmen and a message delivered by Pope John Paul II (b. May 18, 1920- d. April 2, 2005) to the Hungarian nation in August 2000, this book will best suit readers who may have some prior knowledge of Hungary, its cultures, heritage, history, peoples, and more. Sufficiently well- illustrated and thoughtfully- conceived, but not authoritative, it is recommended as an additional, supplementary resource for some large, public and special libraries serving the needs of immigrants, ethnic groups, genealogists, and others. Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team. Availability: Dorrancebookstore.com

Barash, Susan Shapiro. Toxic Friends: the Antidote for Women Stuck in Complicated Friendships.

2009-11-26T11:45:00.017-05:00

St. Martin’s Press. 2009. c.288p. photogs. bibliog.. ISBN 978-0-312-38639-9. $24.99.

In this noteworthy study drawing upon popular culture and extensive personal interviews with 200 women of various backgrounds and ages as well as with experts in the fields of psychology and counseling, Barash (Professor, Critical Thinking/Gender Studies, Marymount Manhattan College, 1992- ; M.A., Writing, New York University; B.A., Writing, Sarah Lawrence College; bestselling author of Tripping the Prom Queen; author of eleven books including this one; www.susanshapirobarash.com), a nationally-recognized gender expert, explores the ten types of female friends—the Leader, the Doormat, the Sacrificer, the Misery Lover, the User, the Frenemy, the Trophy Friend, the Mirroring Friend, the Sharer, and the Authentic Friend. She helps women recognize and understand them as well as develop means for assessing them and moving forward with problematic female relationships. Barash accomplishes the aforementioned tasks, by dividing her book into three parts based upon a continuum of types of female friends: female friends that are tolerable, intolerable, and worth keeping. According to the author, most women may be able to tolerate Leaders, Doormats, Sacrificers, and Misery Lovers, while they may decide to ditch Users, Frenemies, and Trophy Friends. Women may keep Mirroring Friends, Sharers, and Authentic Friends. Covering each type of woman friend in a separate chapter, while noting how the types may overlap, Barash sets forth the characteristics of each, first hand accounts of the natures of the type of friend, examples drawn from newspapers, books, and movies, current research, the pros and cons of staying in the type of friendship, and more. Including the questionnaire she administered to her interviewees as well as its percentage results by answer, Barash further references her work with a bibliography. Nicely- presented and sufficiently- well documented, even though it lacks footnotes, an index, and some “characters” are composites, this in-depth exploration of female friendships and useful, self-help guide will interest women readers, students, scholars, and others. Accessible, easy- to- read, with a reader’s guide at the end of the book, and scholarly, it belongs in large, public and undergraduate, academic library book collections. Highly recommended. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Harrison, Matt. The American Evolution: How America Can Adapt to the Political, Economic, and Social Challenges of the 21st Century.

2009-11-11T14:31:00.009-05:00

Prometheus Institute Press. 2009. c.244p. illus. index. ISBN 978-0-615-28204-6. $14.00.

In uncertain times, America faces many, difficult, new challenges. Here Harrison (B.A., Business Administration in Political Science, University of Miami; candidate, J.D./Master of Public Policy, University of Southern California; author of over 200 articles, publications, and other features), founder and Executive Director of The Prometheus Institute (www.theprometheusinstitute.org), a nonprofit public policy institute dedicated to discovering independent policy solutions to pressing national issues and creatively marketing these ideas to Americans, asks whether the United States can adapt to economic, demographic, technological, and security challenges in the twenty-first century. What specific policies will facilitate the national evolution? Synthesizing evolutionary science, quantum mechanics, systems theory, complexity economics, and other emerging sciences of progressive change, the author attempts to provide fresh insights on issues, not limited to the global financial crisis, the war on terror, immigration, trade, education, technology, social policy, job creation, constitutional law, elections, and more. For Harrison, many of the United States’ most challenging problems can be solved by the American people and the process of maximizing individual choices. Basing his ideas upon the evolutionary process of differentiation, selection, and amplification, the author shows how evolutionary choice theory can be used to determine solutions. Nicely organized and well documented, with a table of contents, nine chapters, footnotes, and two appendices, this insightful publication, which is not comprehensive or definitive, lacks a selected bibliography that would have been useful to readers. Its sometimes humorous diagrams and illustrations by Michael Kelliher (www.emKel.com) supplement and complement the text by making it more understandable and accessible. Intended mostly for general readers, but also appropriate for some college students, it is recommended for some public and undergraduate, academic, library book collections as an additional resource. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Van Allen, Susan. 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go.

2009-11-01T14:52:00.022-05:00

Travelers’ Tales Guides. Travelers’ Tales. Oct. 2009. c.448p. illus. index. ISBN 978-1932361650 (Trade Paper). $18.95.

In this trim- sized (5.5 X 7.5 in.), relatively compact, uniquely- anecdotal, informative guide book intended for women, but also appropriate for men, who are traveling to Italy for the first or twenty-first time, Van Allen (author writing about Italian travel for over twenty-five media outlets including National Public Radio, Town & Country, Student Traveler, the Chicago Daily Herald, and CNN.com; author of monthly Letters from Italy column on the Divine Caroline website; former staffer for the Emmy winning sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond; based in Los Angeles; www.susanvanallen.com), an Italian-American who has been journeying to Italy since 1976 to visit relatives and explore the country, writes about her personal experiences as well as those of her friends. With passion and humor that clearly evidence her love for Italy, its cultures, and peoples, the author culls the overwhelming amount of information on Italian travel into a reasonably- sized publication consisting of thirteen sections, one hundred chapters, and at least two appendices, covering all types of Italian adventures and experiences. With women predominately in mind, Van Allen describes and recommends museums, palaces, gardens, beaches, beauty treatments, spas, caffés, restaurants, winebars, shopping, biking, hiking, skiing, boating, yoga, cooking classes, Italian crafts, fine arts, language courses, entertainment, and more. She also provides many practical details and helpful tips in relatively short, concise chapters, each of which is supplemented by “golden days” or daily itineraries, lists of websites, and recommended readings. While this publication is not available as an ebook and lacks reference maps, photographs, an Italian-English glossary, and tear-out pages, all of which would have been helpful, value-added features, it does contain much useful, insightful, nuts-and-bolts information for women travelers and others visiting Italy. Sufficiently- documented, nicely-presented, and well- organized, this delightful, easy-to-read book is highly recommended for chick-lit readers as well as general audiences. It belongs in many public library collections as an additional travel resource. Review copy (Uncorrected galley). Availability: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com

Annino, Patricia M. Cracking the $$ Code: What Successful Men Know and You Don’t (Yet).

2009-10-18T20:03:00.012-04:00

BookSurge Publishing. 2009. 81p. bibliog. ISBN 978-1-4392-4742-6. $15.95.

In this publication, Annino (B.A., Smith College, 1978; J.D., Suffolk University, 1981; LL.M , Taxation, Boston University, 1982; partner, Boston law firm of Prince Lobel Glovsky & Tye, L.L.P.; author of many articles and publications, not limited to Women & Money, A Practical Guide to Estate Planning and Women in Family Business. What Keeps You Up at Night?), a nationally recognized authority on estate planning with more than 20 years experience serving the estate planning needs of families, individuals, and owners of closely held businesses, sets forth a to-the-point, easy-to-read guide for women professionals, business owners, executives, and others hoping to jumpstart or get-ahead with their careers and earn more money. The author sets forth important “code cracking” lessons, strategies, and tips that successful men know, but women have to learn. In seven chapters, each of which is ended by a list of strategies covered within the chapter, Annino discusses knowing your worth, setting goals, getting and negotiating a contract, partnering, creating a professional image, taking risks, persisting, and many subtopics, not limited to delegating, marketing yourself, branding yourself, playing outside the box, finding mentors, building business, becoming web savvy, improving your time management skills, being creative, and more. She fills each chapter with many valuable insights gained from years of practicing law. While numerous other books have been written for women on the topics of moving forward and getting ahead professionally, this book distinguishes itself in terms of its no-nonsense, concise, personal approach to the subject by a woman who has ascended from the lower ranks of a business organization by means of experience. Lacking an index but including a table of contents and list of selected, recommended resources, this nicely-organized, well-written, and sufficiently well-documented, publication will interest mostly general readers and some women in business hoping to find a clear, quick, and sound introduction filled with useful advice. Not comprehensive or definitive, it belongs in many large public library collections as a supplementary resource. Review copy. Availability: Amazon.com.

Arnold, Henry O. and Pearson, Ben. Kabul 24: the Story of a Taliban Kidnapping and Unwavering Faith in the Face of Terror.

2009-10-04T16:22:00.017-04:00

Thomas Nelson. 2009. 282p. photogs. ISBN 978-1-5955-5022-4. $14.99.

Here Arnold (co-writer and producer of the film The Second Chance; screenplay writer, God’s Ambassador; author of Hometown Favorite), co-writer and co-producer of Kabul24 (Kabul24Movie.com), the documentary film upon which this book is based, and Pearson (photographer; filmmaker; co-writer and director of the cinematography for The Second Chance), director of Kabul24, retell the riveting, harrowing story of the capture and imprisonment of eight Western Christian aid workers and their sixteen, Muslim, Afghan coworkers—all of whom were employees of the international, humanitarian organization Shelter Now International (www.shelter-now.org)-- by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Beginning in August 2001, imprisoned for 3 months during one of the most volatile political windows in recent history, just before and after the 11th September 2001, the SNI eight— Peter Bunch, Dayna Curry, Katrin Jelinek, Heather Mercer, Margrit Stebner, Georg Taubmann, and Diana Thomas—teachers, engineers, nurses, students, and artists who were from countries of Western origin including Australia, Germany, and the United States, suffered interrogations, trials, the bombing of Kabul by Allied forces, and more during 105 days in captivity behind enemy lines. They had answered God’s call to help Afghan refugees rebuild their lives following decades of war, but became pawns used by extremists during the religious and political upheavals in Afghanistan just prior to and following 9/11, when they were declared a threat to Islam and the influence of the Taliban regime. Based upon primary source material drawn from raw film footage taken during the summer of 2003 and Eberhard Muehlan’s Escape from Kabul (Sydney: Strand Publishing, 2003), a collection of interviews with the former hostages conducted in 2002, letters, and court documents, this recollection primarily is an account of faith during extreme adversity when the aid workers sensed that they had been abandoned by the world. Intended to be inspirational rather than authoritative or scholarly, this easy-to-read, fast- paced, interesting, and poignant, publication, reads like a well-written novel, evoking many, perhaps mixed, emotions on behalf of readers. Retold from a seemingly objective, evangelical, Christian perspective, it develops to different extents the participants’ personalities and the events surrounding their imprisonment. The amazing and dramatic rescue of the eight SNI employees by American Special Forces, retold in the last chapter of the book, entitled “Life or Death,” proves to be particularly engaging and thought-provoking. Lacking documentary features such as footnotes, a selected bibliography, and an index, this book, which does include more than twenty, captioned, black-and-white photographs, is recommended for general audiences and public library collections. Availability: Barnes & Noble.com, Amazon.com

Sansevieri, Penny C.. Red Hot Internet Publicity: an Insider’s Guide to Promoting Your Book on the Internet.

2009-09-19T15:11:00.018-04:00

Newly Revised Edition. Cosimo. 2009. c279p. illus. ISBN 978-1-60520-724-7. $18.95.

As early as 2006, book publicists and marketing experts noted that traditional types of book publicity and marketing were defunct, having been replaced by various forms of communication on the Internet. Here Sansevieri (M.B.A., Katholieke Hogeschool Leuven, Belgium; CEO and founder, Author Marketing Experts, Inc.; best-selling author of five books; internationally recognized book marketing and media relations expert; inventor, Virtual Author Tour), a top hands-on visionary, industry leader, and Internet publicist previously hired by four of the largest New York book publishers to mentor their staffs and leading authors, provides an easy-to-read, understandable, updated guide to Internet publicity and marketing for book authors and other interested professionals. Arranged into chapters covering all forms of social media, it addresses publicity and marketing issues as they relate to online book tours, author websites, linking and affiliate programs, search engine optimization, keywords, author blogs and blogging, tagging, podcasting, social networking, microblogging, virtual book events, virtual networking, online syndication, automating your marketing, email newsletters, e-books, press releases, and more. While not presented as a hands-on, how-to-manual, with step-by-step, nuts-and-bolts screenshots, this insightful, helpful and noteworthy overview by an expert on promoting your book (and yourself) online is packed with information, advice, and many useful value-added features, not limited to article contributions by insiders, sidebars, bonus chapters, a selected bibliography of print and online resources, and worksheets. Worthwhile, well- presented, and nicely- organized, it will be of significance, interest, and usefulness to book authors and other professionals who desire to self-promote and market on the Internet. Highly recommended for specialized and general readers, this reference publication belongs in many public library collections. Uncorrected proof. Availability: Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Foreman, George with Abraham, Ken. Knockout Entrepreneur.

2009-08-24T05:25:00.081-04:00

Thomas Nelson Publishers. Sept. 2009. c227p. photogs. ISBN 978-0-7852-2208-8. $22.99.

Here former Olympic gold medalist in boxing (1968) and two-time, World Heavyweight Champion (1973, 1994), Foreman (also a best-selling author of ten books; founder, George Foreman Youth and Community Development Center, Houston, TX; ordained minister; philanthropist; father of ten children), a successful entrepreneur whose portfolio includes the infamous George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine, George Foreman Knockout Cleaner, a clothing line with Casual Male, and more, shares his personal secrets, principles, and strategies for business success. Defining the successful, “knockout” entrepreneur as a visionary and risk-taking, doer, who wants to succeed, is willing to do the hard work, and seizes the opportunity to grow and prosper, the author sets forth his way of doing business, which serves as the model for the “knockout” entrepreneur. In fourteen chapters that are filled with recollections of his lifetime experiences as a boxer and businessman, Foreman sketches a plan for achieving success that is based upon a plethora of real-world experiences, sound advice, good judgments, and faith in oneself and God. While the first several chapters provide the foundations for becoming successful, the remaining sections encompass ways to overcome obstacles and continue to achieve. The author covers topics not limited to recognizing and seizing opportunities, building a “corner” team, persevering, pursuing the counterintuitive, facing deal breakers, public relating, knowing your foes, overcoming obstacles, making the most of what you have, continuing to the play the game, celebrating success, and more. He ends each chapter with a list of knockout ideas in the format of questions to further stimulate readers. Nicely- presented, well- organized, and insightfully- written, this inspirational and sometimes humorous publication by one of the world’s most beloved athletes and personalities actively will engage general readers and business audiences. Unfortunately, given Foreman’s emphasis on the importance of reading for success (pp. 180-4), it lacks a selected bibliography and back-of-the book index but does include endnotes. After being purchased in print, this Nelsonfree book is available as a free, downloadable audiobook and ebook from the publisher’s website. Recommended for public library collections. Availability:Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Hay, Deltina. A Survival Guide to Social Media and Web 2.0 Optimization: Strategies, Tactics, and Tools for Succeeding in the Social Web.

2009-08-17T21:24:00.027-04:00

Wiggy Press, an imprint of Dalton Publishing. 2009. c416p. illus. index. ISBN 978-0-9817443-8-4. $24.95.

With the development of the constantly evolving Internet and its new technologies, more individuals and businesses are realizing that success on the Internet requires maximizing their presences in the Social Web. Here Hay (graduate education in computer science, applied mathematics, and psychology; principal owner, Dalton Publishing, and Social Media Power; founder, PlumbSocial.com; regular contributor to many journals and online news sites), an author, programmer, publisher, social media consultant, Web 2.0 developer, and dynamic presenter, provides an outstanding guide to social media and Web 2.0 optimization. Writing for authors, business owners, entrepreneurs, public relations specialists, marketing professionals, publishers, students, and others, she shows readers how to apply and integrate social media tools not limited to blogs, RSS feeds, content management systems, podcasts, videocasts, webcasts, social networks, microblogs, social bookmarks, crowd-sourcing technologies, media communities, widgets, badges, and social media newsrooms. By means of various chapters that are filled with numerous real-world examples and step-by-step screenshots, the author covers the aforementioned nuts-and-bolts technologies of the new, open-source Internet, but she also goes well beyond the basics. Setting forth proven strategies and tactics, future technologies, measurement tools, and more, Hay provides more in depth guidance from a business perspective. While her book can be read from cover-to-cover, it also can be consulted on an as-needed, chapter-by-chapter basis. It includes many useful, value-added features such as detailed appendices and a companion CD with bibliographies, directories, forms, links to other resources, and worksheets. Easy-to-read, but not a beginner’s guide, this expertly-presented, comprehensive, extensive publication will best serve readers who have some background knowledge of the social web and its tools. A significant, worthwhile resource, it belongs in many large public library collections. Highly recommended. Availability: Amazon, Barnes & Noble.com

Lowe, Janet. Google Speaks: Secrets of the World’s Greatest Billionaire Entrepreneurs, Sergey Brin and Larry Page.

2009-08-02T14:47:00.007-04:00

John Wiley & Sons. 2009. c315p. ISBN 978-0-470-39854-8. $19.95.

In fewer than 15 years, Google built the largest index of Web pages, dominated the Internet search industry, grew into a giant with a 1.5 million square foot headquarters in Mountain View, California plus two dozen other U.S. offices and technical centers in more than 30 countries, and became a global household name. Here the bestselling author of numerous popular business books, Lowe (Ben Graham on Value Investing, Bill Gates Speaks, Dividends Don’t Lie, with Geraldine Weiss, Jack Welch Speaks, The Man Who Beats the S&P, The Rediscovered Benjamin Graham, Ted Turner Speaks, Warren Buffett Speaks; articles appeared in more than 100 publications; frequent guest on CNBC, CNN, FOX Business Network, and PBS; former financial editor of the San Diego Tribune) retells the amazing story behind the revolutionary, public corporate colossus (more than 20,000 employees) with a market capitalization of around $123 billion and about $16 billion in annual advertising revenues. With access to family, friends, employees, and company records, the author unofficially examines the founders’ personalities and values as well as Google’s vision, culture, business strategies, new business models, philanthropic projects, future, and more. Presenting more than a mere company profile, Lowe also addresses the criticisms and controversies surrounding Google as the primary portal to the World Wide Web, including copyright infringement, antitrust issues, personal privacy, and intellectual property concerns. Nicely-written and organized, this well-presented book provides a concise overview. Lacking a bibliography and a back-of-the book index but including a historical timeline, glossary, and footnotes, it belongs on the shelves of many public libraries where general readers can read about the secretive company that has become the prototype for a successful, twenty-first century business entity. Recommended as a good introduction but not as a definitive publication. Availability: Barnes & Noble.com, Amazon.com

Beverley, James A.. Nelson's Illustrated Guide to Religions: a Comprehensive Introduction to the Religions of the World

2009-07-04T20:32:00.006-04:00

Thomas Nelson Publishers. 2009. c.850p. illus. photogs. index. ISBN 978-0-7852-4491-2. $39.99.

While the title and subtitle of this book suggest that it consists of a large number of illustrations and serves as a basic introduction to world religions, they are somewhat misleading since this publication is quite scholarly in its presentation and content. Here Beverley (Professor of Christian Thought and Ethics, Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, Ontario; Associate Director, Institute for the Study of American Religion, Santa Barbara, CA; author of Religions A to Z, Christ and Islam, Islamic Faith in America), a leading, evangelical, Christian scholar, attempts to present a comprehensive, detailed, up-to-date text that provides descriptions and evaluations of more than 200 religions, sects, and cults from a Christian perspective. In alphabetically- arranged chapters, varying considerably in content, depth, length, organization, and scope, the author examines hundreds of religions and sectarian movements that fall within nineteen broad categories (Baha’i, Branch Davidians, Buddhism, Christian Science, Christian Sectarian Groups, Hinduism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Judaism, Mormonism, The New Age, Orthodoxy, Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, Satanism, Scientology, Sikhism, Unification Church, and Witchcraft). He oftentimes inventories the principles and beliefs of each religion and religious movement, analyzes and critiques each, and provides critical opinion and commentary on controversial issues. Beverley sets forth additional information by means of colored photographs, detailed timelines, sidebars, biographies, question-and-answer sections, lists of recommended printed and online resources, and appendices. Well-documented, with a concise, sizable, 109- page index, this research-oriented survey may be used as a guide that can be read from cover-to-cover and/or as a reference tool. Written by a leading expert on religions, it is recommended for laypersons with some knowledge of religions as well as for graduate students, scholars, and theologians. Large public, academic, and special libraries may consider this a worthwhile purchase for supplementing book collections covering world religions, religious movements, sects, and cults.

Dezsi, Tina and Bandola, Lia. The Power of Women United: Confidence Born of Strength and Wisdom.

2009-06-29T20:55:00.011-04:00

The Ultimate Publishing House (TUPH). 2009. 223p. illus. ISBN 978-0-9819398-1-0. $34.97.

Did you know that (according to Catalyst research and advisory group) women comprise 46% of the North American workforce, but they occupy only 6% of the highest-paying positions in the largest 500 companies? While there may be many explanations for this phenomenon, the causes ultimately may be rooted in the fact that many women face unique challenges in their professional and personal lives that involve balancing their many professional and personal responsibilities within environments that were created by and developed for men. Here Dezsi and Bandola, business founders of the Canadian women’s networking organization The Power of Women Exchange (POWE; http://www.powe.ca), compile inspirational, self-help essays written by twenty, successful, entrepreneurial women as well as themselves who forged their own paths. Working in many different business fields including bookkeeping, business training, communications, consulting, direct sales, event planning, health industries, information technology, legal services, marketing, personal coaching, and real estate investing, contributors share their unique stories as well as impart advice to readers. In their concise and nicely written contributions, they cover diverse topics of interest to women, not limited to adopting positive body language, building powerful relationships, capitalizing upon one’s value, developing confidence, discovering one’s true self and passion, dressing for success, earning respect, embracing change, finding mentors and role models, following one’s dreams, juggling work and family lives, moving beyond one’s comfort zone, networking, overcoming fear, public speaking, utilizing technology in the pursuit of success, and more. Each chapter is ended by a one-page biography about its author and a black-and-white photograph of her. Contributors’ biographies include references to their authors’ businesses and websites. Intended as a “reference guide” for women as well as “a source of motivation and encouragement,” this book provides a lot of practical information, many tools, and valuable advice. It is highly recommended for women entrepreneurs as well as for others. A worthwhile purchase for many public libraries in the United States and Canada—C. A. Lajos

Kennedy, Susan and Baker, Karen. The Job Coach for Young Professionals: the Workbook for Landing the Right Job.

2009-05-25T15:16:00.018-04:00

Intern Bridge, Inc.. 2009. 144p. ISBN 978-0-9799373-5-4. $19.95

Here experienced cofounders of Kennedy Baker Associates (now known as Career Treking, LLC)-- a career coaching organization designed to assist entry level job candidates though the job hiring process—Kennedy (B.A./B.S. Psychology/Elementary Education) and Baker (Bachelor’s degree) partner with Intern Bridge, a leading college recruiting research and consulting firm, to provide recent college graduates and young professionals who have been working for a few years with an empowering, interactive handbook filled with useful resources that will assist them in finding the right jobs in any job market. While college graduates usually are able to find employment after they graduate, the high turnover rate of 64% within the first three years of employment indicates that many young professionals graduate without the life skills that they need to begin and develop their professional careers. Here Kennedy and Baker walk young job hunters through the job search process and help them master skills they will need throughout their professional lives. Organized into 4 parts presenting the proven strategies that the authors have used to coach entry level job candidates as part of their job coaching business, this guide sets forth four steps to being successful: Assess Oneself, Prepare Oneself, Sell Oneself, and Succeed. While this workbook is not divided into chapters, its arrangement follows the aforementioned steps. The authors cover most relevant topics, not limited to envisioning one’s future, completing skills and values inventories, researching jobs, industries, and companies, setting goals, developing one’s story, writing resumes, cover letters, and thank you notes, interviewing, networking, creating a job search action plan, securing the right job, and managing one’s career. Filled with examples, diagrams, worksheets, reproducible forms, and more, this publication unfortunately lacks an index and a select bibliography of helpful, proven, printed and online resources for job seekers. Concise, clear, well- organized, and easy-to-read, it will benefit many college graduates, young professionals, and even experienced workers. Highly recommended for general readers and many public library collections (even though it primarily is intended for personal use and consumption)—C. A. Lajos

Green, Tena. Your First Year as a Principal: Everything You Need to Know that They Don’t Teach You in School.

2009-05-05T18:33:00.002-04:00

Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc. 2009. 288p. illus. bibliog. index. ISBN 978-1-60138-220-7. $24.95.l

Here former substitute secretary, teacher’s aide, and intervention specialist Green, who also is a novelist (The Catalyst, A Woman’s Touch, X-30), provides first-year principals and some principals in their positions longer with a guide to surviving and making their first years as school leaders easier and more effective. Green attempts to present new school executives with all the information that they did not learn in school as well as with the advice of veteran principals. In Chapters 1-3, she lays a plan for new school administrators, discussing how they need to assess the situations in which they find themselves, analyze the gaps between where their schools are and where they should be, and move forward to initiate and effect changes. In Chapter 4, Green briefly covers laws and litigation affecting the administration of schools, including the No Child Left Behind Act (2007), the Individuals with Disabilities Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. She includes a section on politics in education and the influence of various entities such as legislatures, special interest groups, tax payers, the media, superintendents, teachers unions, parents, private enterprises, and more. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 encompass various topics not limited to the responsibilities of principals-- dealing with teachers, parents, students, and the media—closing the gap, and end results. Chapter 8, the longest chapter, organized in a question- and- answer format, enables Green to set forth the advice of veteran principals in response to her questions on many subjects. Not a how- to- or step- by- step manual, this book provides new school leaders with the general overview and preliminary guidelines that they need to get their jobs done and be successful. It also presents some great advice from experienced school leaders. Well- researched and concisely written by a non-educator who has worked in schools in a variety of roles, this publication will serve as a useful companion to providing valuable insight and peace-of-mind. New principals should read it from cover-to-cover and learn as much as they can from it. While some new school administrators may wish to keep a copy of this publication on or close to their desks, the format and content of this book may make it slightly unwieldy as a reference tool or handbook. Recommended for first- year principals as well as for school and public library book collections-C. A. Lajos

Blacharski, Dan. The Savvy Business Traveler's Guide to the Customs and Practices in Other Countries

2009-05-05T18:32:00.002-04:00

Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc. 2008. 288p. photogs. index. ISBN 978-1-60138-013-5. $24.95.

Here world traveler, author of six books, and professional freelance writer, Blacharski (http://www.blacharski.net) attempts to provide mostly business travelers from the United States but also Americans traveling abroad for pleasure with a comprehensive, concise guide to the business customs and practices in over 40 different countries worldwide. Dividing his book into seven sections, in chapters one through four, Blacharski first offers some sound advice to American business travelers. He stresses that in foreign countries business is never just business but may be personal and involve an understanding that business is about more than the bottom line. It may involve eating and drinking the oftentimes difficult- to- stomach foods and beverages of host countries. Blacharski advocates adopting an open attitude and willingness to try to assimilate with foreign cultures. Courteous business travelers also will attempt to learn a few words of the languages in which their foreign business counterparts converse as well as respect local customs and practices regarding bribes, gifts, religion, etiquette, and more. The author extrapolates on how a little common sense goes a long way toward being courteous and successful. He emphasizes that in the global economy, the American “way” is being displaced by many ways about which knowledge and insight are needed. The remaining sections of Blacharski’s guide cover the business customs and practices in various geographic areas of the world-- Asia and the South Pacific, Central and Eastern Europe, Western Europe, the Americas, and Africa and the Middle East—while separate chapters examine the business dos and don’ts in specific countries or in the case of South Africa, regions. Each chapter includes sections on the economy, greetings, foods, religions, etiquette, business practices, and common customs. Traveler’s Tips interspersed throughout the text as sidebars present the first-hand experiences and advice of Blacharski and others. Not exhaustive in scope or depth and seemingly based upon the author’s first-hand experiences, Blacharski unfortunately omits many countries to which U.S. travelers may embark. Some of the more important countries not covered include Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, Nepal, Yugoslavia, Albania, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador, Cuba, Morocco, Tunisia, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Iraq, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, and more. A bibliography of print and Internet resources should be added as well as appendices and a glossary defining unfamiliar cultural and religious terms. Finally, while the pictures accompanying this publication are attractive, they should be in color and appropriately placed at the beginning of chapters rather than at their ends. A useful but not definitive, authoritative guide to world business etiquette, travel, intercultural communications, and corporate cultures, this book will serve as a starting point for many travelers. Recommended for general business audiences and many public library collections-C. A. Lajos

Biase, Anita. Your U.S. Citizenship Guide: What You Need to Know to Pass Your U.S. Citizenship Test with Companion CD-ROM

2009-05-05T18:31:00.003-04:00

Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc. 2008. 288p. bibliog.. index. ISBN 978-1-60138-135-4. $24.95.

This is a very useful publication for individuals thinking about, beginning, or completing U. S. naturalization, the process of becoming a United States citizen. Here Blaise (freelance writer; former teacher and author of a story in Chicken Soup for the Souls of Mothers and Sons) divides her book into three parts that are intended to make the oftentimes daunting, overwhelming, and lengthy process of naturalization seem less intimidating, simple, and achievable. In Part 1, she guides readers through what they need to know to become U.S. citizens and explains the processes they will have to complete to achieve citizenship. Blaise covers the definition of a citizen and explains the various types of applicants for citizenship. She discusses eligibility requirements as well as methods for obtaining a green card. She examines the application for citizenship (Form N-400), the citizenship test, the interview before an immigration official, and what happens after the interview. In Part 2, Blaise provides a study guide to the citizenship test, including chapters on American history and government, English- language skills, the U.S. Constitution, and the New Citizenship exam. In her final chapter of Part 2, the author presents case studies of individuals who successfully became U. S. Citizens. Blaise’s book also consists of nine appendices, a selective bibliography, glossary, and back- of- the book index as well as a companion CD-ROM that features the Form N-400 (Application for naturalization) with instructions, a 10-minute multimedia presentation on the naturalization process, naturalization guides, study materials, and more. Featuring many supplementary resources, the appendices and CD-ROM nicely complement and enhance the text. While not necessarily a definitive work, this well- organized, concisely- and clearly- presented publication belongs in most public libraries and many school libraries. Recommended-C. A. Lajos

Jobe, Marjorie. Business Law Battle Plan for Entrepreneurs: Protect Your Company from Lawyers, Lawsuits and Legal Disasters.

2009-04-14T21:29:00.004-04:00

Jobe Publishing Company. 2009. c320p. index. ISBN 978-0-615-23364-2. $39.95. ISBN 978-0-615-26398-4. $29.95. paper.

In this guide which is intended to serve as a basic introduction or refreshing review for entrepreneurs and their managerial staffs, business attorney Marjorie Jobe (University of Houston, J.D., University of Missouri, B.A.; Admitted 1987) makes her case that following the rules and “doing the right thing,” even though they may be legally and ethically mandated, may not be enough to protect business owners and their businesses from lawsuits, claims, and investigations by individuals, other businesses, and the government. Jobe argues that in this litigious age in order to minimize the risks of lawsuits and stay out of state and federal courts, business owners and their businesses also must secure the services of competent legal counsels as well as adopt continuously reviewed and revised “legal battle plans” that determine certain strategies, policies, and practices for running businesses. Comprehensive in scope but not depth, each chapter of this publication introduces a new topic pertaining to establishing and maintaining “business law battle plans” and is concluded by Points to Remember, Legal Cases, and Questions for Your Lawyer sections as well as a List of Resources available in print or online. Chapters cover diverse subjects, not limited to business entity formation, government investigations, marital property agreements, asset protection, business insurances, contracts, taxes, intellectual property, employment laws, human resource management, cyberspace liability, hiring and firing practices and procedures, what to do when you are being sued, and how to proceed if you decide to sue. Concisely, articulately, engagingly, and expertly presented by a legal insider who writes for new and seasoned entrepreneurs who may not have experienced the legal system and its many injustices, this informative, useful, and essential resource belongs on the desks of most, if not all, entrepreneurs and their managerial staffs as well as in most public library collections. Strongly recommended—C. A. Lajos Availability: Amazon.com,Barnes & Noble.com

McKain, Scott. Collapse of Distinction: Stand Out and Move Up While Your Competition Fails.

2009-03-22T20:02:00.003-04:00

Thomas Nelson Publishers. 2009. 250p. photog. illus. bibliog.. index. ISBN: 978-1-5955-5185-6. $24.99.

In this reasonably- concise and masterfully- presented publication consisting of nine chapters, all but the last of which include an Executive Summary, McKain (Vice Chairman, Obsidian Enterprises; Vice Chairman, Durham Capital Corporation; Chairman, McKain Performance Group, Inc; Cofounder and Principal, The Value Added Institute; author of ALL Business is Show Business and What Customers REALLY Want) identifies the ubiquitous phenomenon which he terms the “collapse of distinction,” its causes, and ways individuals and organizations can differentiate, stand out, and get ahead while their competitors fail. According to McKain, the “collapse of distinction,” copycat uniformity, or overwhelming sameness is a product of capitalism, affecting individuals and organizations to the extent that it results from incremental advancements, new competitors, and familiarity that breeds complacency and boredom in an individual’s and/or organization’s customers. When customers are faced with a plethora of choices that all look the same or similar they inevitably choose the ones that are different, perceiving them to be better because they are different. This causes individuals and businesses to eventually fail, if they can not distinguish themselves. While in the first part of his book, McKain outlines the phenomenon, its causes, and how customers respond to it, in chapters 5, 6, 7, and 8, the author outlines differentiation and the 4 cornerstones for achieving distinction: clarity, creativity, communication, and customer- experience focus. Engagingly written from the gut but also based upon the author’s lifetime experiences and knowledge of the business world and business theory, this text by an expert will prove to be a “must read” classic with significant content. It also is well-documented with endnotes and several value-added features, not limited to diagrams and sections at the end of each of each chapter providing action steps, questions, and ideas, a selected bibliography including outstanding business and professional development books as well as pertinent blogs, and a reference to the website created by the author to accompany this publication and disseminate cutting-edge information. As a “Nelsonfree” product, purchasers get three formats for the price of the printed one. A free ebook and the mp3 audio version may be obtained by downloading them from the publisher’s website after entering some data and answering a simple security question. Well worth its cost, it is enthusiastically and highly recommended for general and specialized audiences as well as for many library collections not limited to those of public libraries--C. A. Lajos

McGraw, Robin. What's Age Got to Do With It? Living Your Happiest & Healthiest Life

2009-01-27T20:22:00.002-05:00

Thomas Nelson Publishers. Dec. 2008. c218p. ISBN 978-1-4002-0214-0. $24.99.

Here Robin McGraw, “New York Times”- bestselling author (Inside My Heart; From My Heart to Yours) and wife of the celebrated talk show host Dr. Phil McGraw, presents her way for living her healthiest, happiest life so far. Experiencing the untimely death of her mother, who suddenly died at fifty-eight years old from a heart attack caused by heart disease, at thirty-two years old, McGraw decided not to relive her mother’s life of self-neglect. Believing that by taking care of herself she was not being selfish but rather the best wife, mother, and woman that she could be, she chose to live her healthiest life possible and thereby in her view, her happiest. In this self-help guide that does not purport to provide professional advice or services—in fact, there are two cautionary disclaimers printed in this book, one at the front, on the verso of the title page, and one at the back of the book-- McGraw imparts worthwhile information to other women concerning aging, fitness, nutrition, skin care, menopause, hair, makeup, fashion, faith, and more. Each of the aforementioned main topics includes McGraw’s experiences, knowledge, and tips. In question-and-answer formats at the end of each chapter, members of McGraw’s team of experts, who have assisted her-- a personal trainer-nutritionist, aesthetician, pharmacist, doctors, psychologist, celebrity make-up artist, fashion guru, and hair colorist-- answer questions that her fans may have asked her over the years. Four pages of endnotes follow the text, which unfortunately, lacks a bibliography, appendices, index, pictures, diagrams, and other features that could have added to the content. While this book is dedicated to “every woman … who seeks to live with dignity and grace,” many women may not be inclined to read it. Marketed toward, but not entirely intended for middle- aged and slightly younger women, this publication constitutes a personal and general as opposed to “authoritative” and objective resource on the subjects presented within its pages, particularly since it seems to be more focused on McGraw’s “way” or “brand.” Despite its focus, many readers may find this book readable, engaging, inspirational, and useful. Recommended for general readers and most public library collections serving the needs of women-- C. A. Lajos