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This month’s selection ranges from historical fiction, to science fiction and speculative fiction; from Te Rauparaha to post-apocalyptic futures and strange creatures loose in Miramar.
Wulf / Hamish Clayton.
Early nineteenth-century New Zealand, the great chief Te Rauparaha has conquered tiny Kapiti Island, from where Ngati Toa launches brutal attacks on its southern enemies. Off the coast of Kapiti, English trader John Stewart seeks to trade with Te Rauparaha, setting off a train of events that changes the course of New Zealand history. Narrated by two English sailors on board Stewart’s ship, these events are eerily resonant of a more distant memory, stretching back into mythology, of the charismatic leader Wulf and an ancient lament. (Book cover)
Unnatural selection : a novel / Philip Eastwood.
Loki Blake has never seen the sun, the sky or the stars. No one has. For centuries they’ve been hidden by an oily blanket of cloud the never breaks or disperses. This is the city of Luxor. Long ago when oceans flooded and fossil fuels ran out Luxor rose out of the chaos, becoming the most powerful city in the world, thanks to its industries, fuelled by the fat of animals. As the fumes from burning tallow spread outward, so did Luxor’ s influence. Now Loki’s going to a place beyond the tallow clouds, to a faraway colony of Trasmundo to search for strange and mythical animals, trying to save them from extinction before the clouds of Luxor’s industries spread further. But someone wants Loki to fail and they’re prepared to kill. (Book cover)
A foreign country : New Zealand speculative fiction / edited by Anna Caro and Juliet Buchanan.
Strange creatures are loose in Miramar, desperate survivors cling to the remains of a submerged country, humanity’s descendants seek to regain what they’ve lost, and the residents of Gisborne reluctantly serve alien masters. The visions of New Zealand, and beyond, painted in this collection of short stories are both instantly recognisable and nothing like the place we know. (Book cover)
From under the over coat / Sue Orr.
This collection of vivid, accessible, contemporary stories can be read purely for the immense pleasure they offer. However, the stories can also be read for the way they explore elements from earlier works: from Maori myth and fairy tale to masterpieces by writers such as Katherine Mansfield, James Joyce and Anton Chekov. (Book cover)
Dolci di love / Sarah-Kate Lynch.
The Tuscan town of Montevedova is famous for its rolling green hills, long lazy lunches and delectable cantucci biscuits. It even has its own patron saint. But Manhattan workaholic Lily Turner is not interested in any of that. She’s only there to find her cheating husband. What Lily doesn’t know, however, is that beneath the cobbled lanes of this charming hilltop village, an underground network of ancient widows is working tirelessly on finding her a happy ending, whether she wants it or not. (Book cover)
Fosterling / Emma Neale.
A young man is found unconscious in a remote forest. He is over seven-feet tall, his skin covered in thick hair, which reminds onlookers of an animal’s pelt. When has wakes in a city hospital, he is eerily uncommunicative. Speculation begins. (Book cover)
Hokitika town / Charlotte Randall.
Hokitika, 1865, at the height of the Gold Rush. In a town with a hundred pubs, young Halfie, aka Harvey, Thumbsucker, Bedwetter, Cocoa and Pipsqueak, gets by as best he can. Most of the time he hangs around the Bathsheba pub, washing dishes, running errands and making the odd coin. When you’re a coin boy you see a lot of life and from low down. But how much do you really understand. What’s going on in young Halfie’s world? (Book cover)
Bound / Vanda Symon.
A brutal home invasion shocks the nation. A man is murdered, his wife bound, gagged and left to watch. But when Detective Sam Shephard scatches the surface, the victim, a successful business, is not all he seems to be. And when the evidence points to two of Dunedin’s most hated criminals, the case seems cut and dried, until the body count starts to rise. (Book cover)
Being Daisy / Kate Spencer.
Being Daisy is an emotionally charged slice of life for an irrepressible young woman who roller coasters her way through ten years of married life with humour and optimism. Her journey typified that of many 60’s brides who sought more than just a husband as they embarked on married life in the middle of free love and the background drone of The Rolling Stones. (Book cover)
The flax trader : a historical novel / Brad Bradley. A historical novel based on the adventurous life og Jon W. Harris, earliest settler of Poverty Bay.
Going to sea at an early age, he works as a convict overseer in NSW where he encounters the infamous Rev. Samuel Marsden and suffers his first tragedy. Later trading around the coast of New Zealand, he marries high-born Tukura. The clash of Harris’s rationality with religious and superstitious beliefs in Maroi and European society leads to dire consequences, as his world is turned upside down by the deaths and betrayal of the women he loves, and finally the Hauhau and Te Kooti rebellion. (Book cover)
Wellington City Libraries has a monthly radio show on Wellington Access Radio. For a recent show (16th April), we interviewed Al Fraser, maker of beautiful taonga puoro (maori musical instruments) and multi-talented Wellington musician.
He’s a musician on the The Woolshed Sessions, Tahu, Reo and Rosy Tin Teacaddy and we chat about music, making music and making musical instruments…
Songs featured in the podcast came from these albums:
The Woolshed Sessions – “Our World”, Tahu – “Mataa”, plus “Te Take o Te Raku” and “Reo” by Reo
The World Cinema Showcase is on now at the Paramount Theatre until the 30th of April. To supplement your viewing experience, here are some links to items in Wellington City Libraries’ collections relating to five of the films being showcased:
Freakonomics, described by Variety magazine as “A revelatory trip into complex, innovative ideas and altered perspectives on how people think”, is based on the 2005 bestselling book of the same title by Steven D Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner (subtitled “a rogue economist explores the hidden side of everything”), which incidentally had a follow-up in 2009 entitled Superfreakonomics: global cooling, patriotic prostitutes, and why suicide bombers should buy life insurance. If these strike a cord with you then visit the Freakonomics website for more, including their blog on, well, just about everything.
Waiting for Superman is a documentary (not a Lois Lane biopic sadly) which looks at the failures of the American public education system. Several keen students are hopeful of getting a place in the Harlem Success Academy, a charter school for the poorest children in the area. Entry is determined by lottery – if they cannot get in they will have little chance of furthering their education elsewhere. This doco has been very successful and has earned a lot of praise. It also has its critics, who claim that it is inaccurate. Anyway, it is by Davis Guggenheim, who also made An Inconvenient Truth (conveniently in the library), and a surprising number of TV dramas (including Deadwood, also in the library).
Who is Harry Nilsson (And Why is Everybody Talking About Him?). In fact, Harry Nilsson (1941 to 1994) was a singer and songwriter who wrote such varied hits as ‘Makin’ Whoopee’ (remember this from The Fabulous Baker Boys with Michelle Pfeiffer and the Bridges?), ‘Many Rivers to Cross’, and ‘You Put the Lime in the Coconut’ among many others. At the risk of becoming far too trivial, he also composed the music for the 1980 film Popeye starring Robin Williams (again, conveniently in the library).
Continuing the popular music theme, Lemmy is a biopic about Lemmy Kilmister, the frontman for Motörhead (and previously the bassist for epic space rock hair band, Hawkwind). Lemmy is 65, and has led a life of rockstar excess for decades. This rockumentary is three years of the full Lemmy experience, both on-stage and off-. There are interviews with loads of his fans, including Dave Grohl, Dee Snider, Metallica, Joan Jett, and even Jarvis Cocker (all of whom are, of course, in the library).
Reign of Assassins is a bit like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (remember how cool that was the first time) in that it is set in Ye Olde time China, stars Michelle Yeoh and has epic martial arts. A married couple are each unaware that their spouse is a highly-skilled assassin. Not only that, but they are mortal enemies! In addition to the Mr & Mrs Smith twist there is also a little Romeo & Juliet thing happening. Romeo Smith & Juliet Smith? Maybe not. Anyway, watch it for the fights!
Karori Library will be open this Friday night just for high school students or those aged 13-18* (with some library staff to pass around the free pizza and lollies).
There will be free internet and gaming available : Guitar Hero, Kinect and Wii – and since it’s the last day of term to there will be some live music too. Further details are available on the Teen Blog!
*bring your YA card or your school ID.
Think about a different angle this month with new books about how economic theory can help your relationship, understanding how today’s 20-somethings are approaching becoming adults, exploring child-free living, uncovering how people become the best in their field, and discovering how the philosophy of Viktor Fankl can help us find meaning in our lives today.
Prisoners of our thoughts : Viktor Frankl’s principles for discovering meaning in life and work / Alex Pattakos
“World-renowned psychiatrist Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning is one of the most important books of modern times. Frankl’s personal story of finding a reason to live amidst the horrors of the Nazi concentration camps has inspired millions. In Prisoners of Our Thoughts, Dr. Alex Pattakos – whom Frankl urged to write this book – elaborates seven “core principles” based on Frankl’s philosophy and demonstrates how they can help us find meaning in our everyday lives and work. This second edition features new stories and examples of people who have applied the principles in the book or who exemplify them; new practical exercises and applications; and a new chapter, “The Meaning Difference“,” which summarizes research demonstrating the critical role of meaning in improving the quality of people’s lives, increasing happiness, promoting health and wellness, and achieving their highest potential.” (Book cover)
Not quite adults : why 20-somethings are choosing a slower path to adulthood, and why it’s good for everyone / Richard Settersten and Barbara E. Ray
“Why are 20-somethings delaying adulthood? The media have flooded us with negative headlines about this generation, from their sense of entitlement to their immaturity. Drawing on almost a decade of cutting-edge research and nearly five hundred interviews with young people, Richard Settersten, Ph.D., and Barbara E. Ray shatter these stereotypes, revealing an unexpected truth: a slower path to adulthood is good for all of us. Not Quite Adults is a fascinating look at an often misunderstood generation. It’s a must-read for parents, teachers, psychologists, sociologists, and anyone interested in today’s youth culture.” (Book cover)
Spousonomics : using economics to master love, marriage and dirty dishes / Paula Szuchman and Jenny Anderson
“Relationships are complicated, and they don’t come with a user’s manual. Until now. Enter “Spousonomics” – a fun, original relationship guide which offers a brilliant, fresh twist to standard advice by showing how economics – that’s right, economics – is the key to happiness. For example…Comparative advantage – or why you should do the dishes. Splitting chores 50/50 is the surest path to inefficiency. Stick to what you’re good at, and ‘trade’ relations will improve dramatically; The Laws of Supply and Demand – or how to kick-start your sex life. If having sex carries too many costs – too much time or energy – you won’t do it enough. Lower your costs to get the bed springs bouncing again!; and, Moral hazard – or why your marriage is not too big to fail. If you’re too forgiving there’s a good chance your partner will feel that he or she can operate without consequences. Beware! Brilliantly researched and cutting through the noise of emotion and tired cliches, “Spousonomics” offers sound, practical advice that will help you to get your relationship back on track – and maximize returns on the biggest investment of your life.” (Book cover)
Complete without kids : an insider’s guide to childfree living by choice or by chance / Ellen L. Walker
In Complete Without Kids, Licensed Clinical Psychologist Ellen L. Walker examines the often-ignored question of what it means to be childfree, by choice or by circumstance, in a family-focused society. Recognizing that there is no one childfree adult, the author guides the reader through the positive and negative aspects of childfree living, taking into consideration the different issues faced by men or women, couples or singles, whether gay or straight. As a woman who is childfree by choice, Walker draws upon her personal experience while also offering the reader numerous interviews with other childfree adults, revealing behind-the-scenes factors that influenced their personal journeys. She approaches the tough-decision making process of whether or not to have children from a biological, historical, and societal perspective. Offering support, guidance, and thought-provoking questions, Complete Without Kids is a productive guide for any reader considering the childfree path.” (Book cover)
Bounce : how champions are made / Matthew Syed
“Just what does it take to become the very best? Matthew Syed uncovers the ‘hidden logic of success’ behind the careers or world-beaters from David Beckham and Serena Williams to Mozart and Picasso. Looking at the latest in sports science, neuroscience, psychology and economics, Matthew reveals the idea of Godgiven talent to be a myth, and that the key to achieving greatness lies in hard work, and the right attitude and training. Along the way Matthew explains how memory and inspiration prime our brains for success, why top sportsmen are able to see and perceive faster than the rest of us, and how genes are starting to matter – but not in the way you might think.” (Book cover)
More new graphic novel picks. This time around topics include: war correspondants, head injuries, Israel, life on the reservation, and a retelling and reimagining of the great eastern myth, Mahabharata. Have a read below:
Scalped. [6], The gnawing / Jason Aaron, writer ; R.M. Guéra, artist ; Guilia Brusco with Trish Mulvihill, colorists ; Steve Wands, letterer.
Fifteen years ago, Dashiell “Dash” Bad Horse ran away from a life of poverty and hopelessness on the Prairie Rose Indian Reservation in search of something better. Now he’s come back home armed with nothing but an attitude and one dark secret, to find nothing much has changed on “The Rez” , short of a glimmering new casino run by a corrupt leader named Red Crow, and a once-proud people overcome by drugs and organized crime. (Amazon)
War is boring : bored stiff, scared to death in the world’s worst war zones / David Axe and Matt Bors.
“Addicted to danger, freelance war correspondent Axe found himself irresistibly drawn to conflicts in Iraq, East Timor, Afghanistan, Somalia, and elsewhere. Each time, once his itch was scratched, he would return home, where his tolerance for smug, ignorant Americans grew slimmer and his relationship with his girlfriend became more and more strained. Then his death wish would resurface and the cycle would resume. (adapted from Syndetics summary)
X’ed out / Charles Burns.
The first installment in the story of Doug, a young man recovering from a head injury of some kind with only a box of pills and some strawberry Pop-Tarts to speed his recovery. Flashbacks and dreams switch among various scenes: Doug and his hypocrite father; a wild party gone awry when Doug’s crush object’s crazy (but unseen) boyfriend goes on a rampage; and, most mysteriously, another world-found behind a hole in a brick wall-where dead cats live, worms weep, and a giant hive rules a grim city of deformed creatures. (adapted from Syndetics summary)
How to understand Israel in 60 days or less / writer & artist, Sarah Glidden.
“Ignatz Award-winning cartoonist Glidden provides readers with a well-crafted narrative featuring the birthright trip she took to Israel in her early twenties. A secular Jew with strong opinions about the state of Israel overstepping both political and moral rectitude in its relationship to Palestine and Palestinians, Sarah is presented with sophisticated and ingenuous arguments by the various tour guides and Israelis she meets during the carefully designed tour. (adapted from Syndetics summary)
Grant Morrison’s 18 days. Book one / created and written by Grant Morrison ; artwork by Mukesh Singh.
The story of three generations of super-warriors, meeting for the final battle of their age. 18 Days is a re-imagining of the great eastern myth, Mahabharata, and follows the course of the climactic war that concludes the age of the gods and begins the age of man. It is the prototype for every war ever fought. The scale is epic, wherein the biggest armies ever conceived face one another across the ultimate battlefield to decide the fate of the future. (Amazon)
The unbelievers : the evolution of modern atheism, by S.T. Joshi. (2011).
Editor of the Library of America volume of pulp-sf master H. P. Lovecraft’s work, Joshi is ardently atheist. … He introduces 14 hard-core religious skeptics sympathetically and literately. He praises all, but dissects the shortcomings of not only uncouth Madalyn Murray O’Hare, who got prayer out of America’s public schools (and wrote so badly that Joshi’s prose degenerates writing about her), but also august T. H. Huxley and Bertrand Russell. Others discussed are Leslie Stephen, J. S. Mill, Nietzsche, Mark Twain, Clarence Darrow, H. L. Mencken, Lovecraft, Gore Vidal, and best-selling contemporary God-scoffers Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Christopher Hitchens. More temperate than most of his subjects (though his observations about Voltaire and Whittaker Chambers are, respectively, unconvincing and false), Joshi shares with them the canard that failing to find a physical God disproves his existence. Philosophically informed theists will hardly agree, but even they will enjoy and learn from his presentation. (drawn from the Book List review, courtesy of Syndetics).
Twelve steps to a compassionate life, by Karen Armstrong. (2010).
Starred Review* Armstrong (The Case for God, 2009) worked with leading thinkers from a variety of major faiths to compose a Charter for Compassion, which calls for the restoration of compassion to the heart of religious and moral life in a dangerously polarized world. Not content with merely stating lofty goals, however, Armstrong, a revered genius of elucidation and synthesis, now tells the full and profound story of altruism throughout human history. She turns to neuroscience and tracks the evolution of our brains and our natural capacity for empathy, and performs her signature mode of beautifully clarifying interpretation in a mind-expanding discussion of the history of the Golden Rule (Always treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself), the essence of compassion and the kernel of every religious tradition. Exquisite and affecting explications of Buddhist, Confucian, Judaic, Christian, and Islamic commentary prepare the ground for meditation exercises meant to engender open-mindedness and the cultivation of compassion, making for the most sagacious and far-reaching 12-step program ever. (drawn from the Book list Review, courtesy of Syndetics).
When Christians get it wrong by Adam Hamilton. (2010)
“More and more young adults have opted out of Christianity and the church. The reason? Christians.
When young adults talk about the problems they have with Christianity and the church, they often name certain attitudes and behaviors they believe are practiced too often by Christians: judging others, condemning people of other faiths, rejecting science, injecting politics into faith, and being anti-homosexual. With his familiar style, Adam Hamilton tackles these issues and addresses the how’s and why’s of Christians getting it right when it comes to being Christ in the world.(drawn from the publisher’s description)
Modern Buddhism : the path of compassion and wisdom, by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. (2010)
Geshe Kelsang (The New Meditation Handbook) is a prolific and respected author in the tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Here, he again presents the thought of the Buddha in an especially accessible manner. Although his focus is on the Buddhist tenets of compassion and wisdom, readers should be aware that Geshe Kelsang’s approach, despite his long residence in the West (specifically, Cumbria, England), is full-bore “New Kadampa” Buddhism, replete with chants, recitations, prayers, and visions of mystical states. … (drawn from the Library Journal review, courtesy of Syndetics)
Zen radicals, rebels, and reformers by Perle Besserman and Manfred B. Steger. (2011)
The revolutionary figures in this book are those innovative, nonconformist Zen masters who often disguised their spiritual prowess by portraying themselves as lowly drifters, beggars, and Zen “madmen.” They are individuals whose unorthodox behavior has defined the radical Buddhist movement known simply as Zen. This book contains stories of Zen “boat-rockers” and rebels that range from early 18th-century China all the way to the bustling streets of modern day America, with a stop in the middle to visit a courageous Zen master who made the ultimate sacrifice while resisting the brutal actions of the Japanese government in World War II. These remarkable masters remind us that the pursuit of spiritual awakening is not an insular process but rather a direct rebellion with the very foundations of suffering in the world. (drawn from book summary, courtesy of Syndetics)
In the shadow of the Buddha : secret journeys, sacred histories, and spiritual discovery in Tibet, by Matteo Pistono. (2010)
Spiritual biography meets edge-of-your-seat undercover reporting in this chronicle of how an American Buddhist smuggled out hard evidence of abuse and torture in Tibet. (Drawn from Syndetics summary)
Meditation for the love of it : enjoying your own deepest experience, by Sally Kempton. (2011)
Drawing on her 40 years as a teacher and a fellow meditator, Sally teaches us how we can connect to our inner longings and creative “shakti” energy to allow the transformative gifts and blessings of meditation to unfold. With playfulness and devotion “two key attitudes in sustaining a daily practice” she shares indispensable guidance for this voyage of self-discovery, including: How to tune in to your own “meditation channel”, a bandwidth of tranquility, energy, and joy; – Why you don’t need a quiet mind to meditate; – How the force known as Kundalini can fuel your practice; – Connecting to your ever-present Inner Beloved to let go of conditioned ideas about yourself and make space for the True Self to come forth; – … . (Drawn from publisher’s description)
The 14th Dalai Lama : a manga biography, by Tetsu Saiwai. (2011)
Saiwai, a manga artist known for his treatments of educational topics, turns his pen to the fourteenth Dalai Lama, whose struggles to free Tibet from Chinese rule earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. The gripping story, illuminating the atrocities of the Chinese takeover, is told from the Dalai Lama’s point of view and makes the holy leader seem all too human. Saiwai ends his clearly drawn tale with the beginning of the holy man’s exile in India and ties things together with an epilogue. There is a bibliography, but a character guide would have helped to keep the many monks straight in readers’ minds. Though this story isn’t quite a complete biography and though manga purists might object to Penguin’s decision to publish it in a left-to-right format it nevertheless makes a nice addition to school and public library collections. Readers, especially teenagers, will wonder what they would have done if they had such power and responsibility thrust upon them at such a young age. (Drawn from BookList review, courtesy of Syndetics)
Bonhoeffer : pastor, martyr, prophet, spy : a righteous gentile vs. the Third Reich, by Eric Metaxas. (2010)
“From the “New York Times-”bestselling author of “Amazing Grace” comes a groundbreaking biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the greatest heroes of the 20th century, a man who stood up to Hitler and the monstrous evil that was Nazism. As a double-agent, he joined the plot to assassinate the Fuhrer, and was hanged in Flossenberg concentration camp.
[This] is the first fully comprehensive biography of Bonhoeffer in more than 40 years. … Metaxes presents both sides of Bonhoeffer’s life, as theologian and as conspirator drawing them together to tell a searing story of incredible moral courage in the face of monstrous evil. (drawn from book description, courtesy of Syndetics)
Women of the Gospels : friends and disciples of Jesus, by Stephen J. Binz. (2010).
This new Bible study series from a bestselling author examines key biblical characters and draws on the ancient Christian practice of lectio divina.
Good news for anxious Christians : 10 practical things you don’t have to do, by Phillip Cary. (2010)
Phillip Cary explains that discipleship is a gradual, long-term process that comes through experiencing the Bible in Christian community, not a to-do list designed to help us live the Christian life “right.” He covers ten things we don’t have to do to be close to God, skillfully unpacking the riches of traditional Christian spirituality to bring the real good news to Christians of all ages. (Drawn from the Book jacket.)
Redeemed by fire : the rise of popular Christianity in modern China, by Lian Xi. (2010)
“According to Lian Xi, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom movement of the mid-19th century was an exceptional early example of indigenous Chinese Christianity independent of Western missionary support and leadership. Similar popular Christian groups proliferated only after the fall of the last imperial dynasty in 1911-1912. Like the Taiping, they drew on deep-rooted popular Daoist and Buddhist traditions of spirit possession and eschatological hope. They also found inspiration in the US Pentecostal movement, much to the dismay of most missionary-supported leaders and organizations. Indigenous churches provided family-like protection and emotional resilience in the face of disruption by warlords, Japanese occupation, and the Nationalist-Communist struggle. …The relatively brief treatment of recent years is presumably due to the politically sensitive position of an otherwise thriving Chinese Christianity. Summing Up: Recommended. (drawn from Choice review, courtesy of Syndetics)
The spirit of the Quakers, selected and introduced by Geoffrey Durham. (2010)
Durham, a British broadcaster and magician who converted to Quakerism in 1999, … opens with a brief, introductory overview followed by 12 chapters on topics such as Quaker meeting for worship, Advices and Queries, faith in action, peacemaking, the four testimonies (equality, peace, simplicity, and truth), and community. Durham coherently weaves together excerpts from the writings of renowned Friends of the founding period (1650-1700), his own commentary, and contributions of contemporary Quakers through 2009 to illuminate each topic and demonstrate the great variety of Quaker thinking. Additionally, there are chapters with extended excerpts from the religious journals of George Fox, Mary Penington, John Woolman, and Pierre Ceresole. -VERDICT Highly recommended for general readers seeking a basic grounding in Quakerism… (drawn from Library Journal review, Courtesy of Syndetics)
A new church for a new century : East City Wesleyan’s early story, by Richard Waugh. (2010)
“Auckland’s East City Wesleyan is one of the prominent English-speaking multi-cultural churches of the Methodist/Wesleyan stream in the South Pacific. The story of ECW’s first ten years reveals much creativity, inovative outreach and dynamic church planting – in one of the most secular environments of the world. Insights and learnings are relevant to the wider church in New Zealand and beyond.” (drawn from the book)
The rise and fall of the Bible : the unexpected history of an accidental book, by Timothy Beal. (2010)
Starred Review* In his well-received Biblical Literacy (2009), Beal explored ways to think about Bible stories and how they have become ingrained in our culture. Here he discusses the Bible as a book and as a cultural icon. … Perhaps Beal’s main point is to show how the New Testament (and the Old, for that matter) comes from myriad sources, or, as he calls it, a cacophony of voices and perspectives, often in conflict with one another. Yet Beal is more than just a debunker; in fact, once evangelical, he still considers himself a Christian. He exhorts readers to see the Bible not as a book of finite answers but as a crucible of questions that provoke, inspire, and even anger those who pick it up. The same might be said about his own book. (drawn from Booklist, Syndetics)
Unprotected texts : the Bible’s surprising contradictions about sex and desire, by Jennifer Wright Knust. (2010)
Argues that the Bible cannot serve as a rulebook for sexual morality, examines the text and its historic interpretations and highlights the book’s many contradictory messages regarding sex, marriage, adultery, and divorce.
Light of the world : the Pope, the Church, and the signs of the times, by Benedict XVI ; a conversation with Peter Seewald ; translated by Michael J. Miller and Adrian J. Walker. (2010)
Popes do not usually grant book-length interviews to journalists. And never before has a pope given as in-depth and extensive an interview as this one, answering so many direct questions on so many personal and controversial topics. Five years after his election, Pope Benedict XVI openly discusses the criticisms of his pontificate, the crisis in the Church brought on by the clergy sexual abuse scandal, the need for Church reform, the problems of uniting faith and reason today, as well as contemporary issues such as abortion, climate change, same-sex unions, the global economic crisis, and the new atheism…. (drawn from book summary, courtesy of Syndetics)
Amish peace : simple wisdom for a complicated world, by Suzanne Woods Fisher. (2009)
“You don’t have to become Amish to make personal peace a reality. Organized around five central themes in Amish life, Amish Peace shows you how you can cultivate a simple life of love, gratitude, and faith in the midst of a very complicated world. It includes real-life stories and examples of Plain People, Amish proverbs, and fascinating facts about Amish communities. Each section also contains questions for reflection and action, outlining things you can do in your own life that make for peace.” Book jacket.
Holy ignorance : when religion and culture part ways, by Olivier Roy. (2010)
“The secularization of society was supposed to free people from religion, yet individuals are converting en masse to such fundamentalist faiths as Protestant evangelicalism, Islamic Salafism, and Haredi Judaism. … Instead of a return to traditional religious worship, Roy argues we are witnessing the individualization of faith and the disassociation of faith communities from ethnic and national identities. This has placed culturally integrated religions, such as Catholicism and eastern orthodox Christianity, on the defensive, and presents new challenges to state and society. Roy explores the options available to powers that hope to integrate or control these groups, and he considers whether marginalization or homogenization will further divide believers from their culture. (drawn from the product description)
Conceiving God : the cognitive origin and evolution of religion, by David Lewis-Williams. (2010)
“Science can explain the origins of religion, including probable statements about reality, but any reverse propositions are palpably untrue, according to Lewis-Williams (Univ. of Witwatersrand, South Africa) in this erudite, original contribution to the science versus religion debate. Herein one finds nuanced, interesting coverage of Western theological and scientific history from ancient philosophers Thales and Plato to Aquinas, Newton, Darwin, Wallace, and beyond. Religion originates in modern human neural anatomy that leads to autistic states involving “entoptic” phenomena (”seeing” geometric patterns, as in visual migraines) to “construal” states where these are perceived as representing known beings, other than forms, and ultimately to hallucinations. These are reflected in brain architecture, which itself is ultimately re-projected into modern human behavior, such as geometric engravings on ancient pieces of ochre at Blombos Cave, South Africa; European cave art depicting extinct megafauna and strange humanoid figures; and medieval cruciform cathedrals. … (drawn from Choice review, courtesy of Syndetics)
The complete idiot’s guide to Wicca and witchcraft, by Denise Zimmermann, Katherine A. Gleason ; revised by Miria Liguana. (2006)
“You’re no idiot, of course. You know that Wicca is a nature-based religion whose ancient traditions have managed to survive and thrive, despite a history of being persecuted by societies that see only broomsticks and pointed hats.
This will show you the rites and rituals that true Wiccans practice as part of their worship-and how you can learn to wield your own magic. (drawn from the book jacket)
Goth craft : the magickal side of dark culture, by Raven Digitalis. (2007)
“Digitalis, a neo-pagan priest, provides readers an opportunity to expand their horizons about Goth culture by starting with the basics: “What is a Goth?” … Goths are “dark witches,” Digitalis explains, who practice “the magick of the Middle Path, the balanced path between light and dark” that includes “intense, sometimes unpleasant magickal workings,” but should not be confused with “black” magic. The remainder of this handbook is devoted to witchcraft-from rituals to a glossary of tools-Goth-style. …Perhaps most fun for the uninitiated is Digitalis’s thorough guide to obtaining Goth style with advice on clothing, the all-important makeup and piercings, among other things. Primarily, Digitalis wants readers to understand that “Contrary to popular belief, doom and gloom does not penetrate every aspect of Goth culture.” . (drawn from Publisher Weekly, courtesy of Syndetics)
American Veda : from Emerson and the Beatles to yoga and meditation : how Indian spirituality changed the West, by Philip Goldberg. (2010)
“Goldberg (founder, Spiritual Wellness & Healing Assocs.) argues that American society has been greatly influenced by Indian philosophy, particularly Vedanta, over the last two centuries, whether we realize it or not. He traces the transmission of Vedanta throughout America’s history from such early thinkers as Emerson and Thoreau to popular culture icons to the general public. Goldberg’s writing engages the reader by weaving together the stories of the purveyors of Indian thought in America, yet at times readers may feel they are reading the same chapter over and over with only the cast of characters changing. … VERDICT This is a good popular treatment of the topic and will appeal to those interested in Eastern spirituality. (drawn from Library Journal, courtesy of Syndetics)
Being Muslim, by Haroon Siddiqui. (2010)
“This balanced, concise book is an excellent resource for social studies or debate class. Siddiqui explores the current political, religious, and secular aspects of being a member of the world’s fastest-growing religion. He challenges Western assumptions about Islam and assigns blame to both the West and Islamic fundamentalists for fanning the flames of Islamophobia. Although he tackles stereotypes, the author is not a Muslim apologist-he describes the tenets of the religion in objective, non-proselytizing prose, acknowledging the need for reforms while explaining that most oppression of women results from traditional cultural practices rather than Islamic teachings. …. Sidebars illustrate Islamic contributions to popular culture (e.g., Muslim stand-up comics and hip-hop artists), and the index, notes, bibliography, and illustrative charts are all useful. The author’s tone is conversational and engaging, and frequent breaks in the text make this small book very readable. (drawn from School Library Journal, courtesy of Syndetics)
Islamic art : architecture, painting, calligraphy, ceramics, glass, carpets, by Luca Mozzati ; [translation from the Italian, D. Radzinowicz [et al.]]. (2010)
This large format volume is notable for its remarkable illustrations, all in colour. Most of the photographs are large scale, and although they include many familiar monuments and the usual canon of great monuments, readers will find many surprises, e.g., the striking madrasah and minaret in Khiva, Uzbekistan, from the early 20th century. The photographs are often from unusual points of view, or offer excellent details, and cover material from Spain and Morocco to central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Although many sources are credited, by far the largest number of photographs are Mozzati’s, and they are very valuable. … The book includes introductory essays on general topics that will provide a useful introduction for general readers, for whom this book is clearly intended. Summing Up: Recommended. (drawn from the Choice book review, courtesy of Syndetics)
Destiny disrupted : a history of the world through Islamic eyes, by Tamim Ansary. (2010)
A sweeping narrative history by the acclaimed author of “West of Kabul, East of New York” illuminates how Muslims have seen the history of the world–and what western world history leaves out. (drawn from Syndetics book summary)
I’m God, you’re not : observations on organized religion & other disguises of the ego, by Lawrence Kushner. (2010)
Admirers of Kushner will enjoy this vastly entertaining collection of writings by the popular rabbi that spans nearly three decades, encompassing eulogies, essays, speeches, keynote addresses, sermons, reviews, and radio commentaries. Divided into six sections (the business of being a rabbi, Judaism, family, the larger world, mysticism, and holiness), the book is full of Kushner’s wonderful insights and gentle humor as well as ample doses of compassion toward his fellow humans, despite their many foibles. The work contained here follows a particular theme: the goal, says Kushner, of the spiritual life is to get rid of one’s ego. As evidenced by this collection, Kushner’s spirituality is rooted in the here and now, in the everyday experiences of daily life. Whether trying to understand the logic behind buying airline tickets or pondering the fate of the musicians on the Titanic, he manages to reveal the dignity and piety that form the foundation of even the most mundane of human experiences. (drawn from Book List review, courtesy of Syndetics)
Interested in our previous picks? Start here: Previous recent picks
Covering Drupal, iPad apps, using Wordpress and more – have a look!
Teach yourself visually PCs / Elaine Marmel.
“Are you a visual learner? Do you prefer instructions that show you how to do something — and skip the long-winded explanations? If so, then this book is for you. Open it up and you’ll find clear, step-by-step screen shots that show you how to tackle more than 150 common PC tasks. Each task-based spread covers a single technique, sure to help you get up and running on your computer in no time. You’ll learn to: Work with Windows®; 7 Manage files and folders; Install and use common software; Access music, photos, and video; Use the Internet and e-mail. Two-page lessons break big topics into bite-sized modules. Succinct explanations walk you through step by step. Full-color screen shots demonstrate each task. Helpful sidebars offer practical tips and tricks. Step-by-step instructions. Hundreds of color photos.” (Syndetics summary)
Foundation Drupal 7 / Robert J. Townsend with Stephanie Pakrul.
“The open source Drupal Web site builder/content management system is one of the hottest open source Web development/design software out there. Foundation Drupal 7 by R.J. Townsend aims to be the first or one of the first books on Drupal 7 and continues Apress successful coverage of Drupal, including the best selling Pro Drupal and its update by John K. VanDyk. Foundation Drupal 7 is an introductory book for those who want a friendlier and easier way into learning and using Drupal.” (Syndetics summary)
The Web designer’s guide to iOS apps : create iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad apps with Web standards : HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript / [Kristofer Layon].
“Build native iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This handbook allows Web designers to focus on interface and content design and to bypass the need to learn a great amount of Objective-C programming.” (Syndetics summary)
My iPod touch / Brad Miser.
“Full-color, step-by-step tasks walk you through getting and keeping your iPod touch working just the way you want. Learn how to:Make the most of Apple’s new iOS 4 software. Connect to Wi-Fi networks, the Web, and other devices. Move music, movies, books, and other content onto your iPod touch. Use iBooks to enjoy a library of ebooks wherever you go. Play games and share info with other iPod touches, iPhones, and iPads. Sync Mac or Windows computers and MobileMe or Exchange accounts with your iPod touch. Listen to music, podcasts, and other audio. Watch movies, TV shows, music videos, and video podcasts. Surf the Web and send email. Create, manage, display, and edit contacts and calenders. Take, view, and share photos and video. Download, install, and maintain apps, and manage them with the new App Toolbar. Customize, maintain, and troubleshoot your iPod touch Book jacket.” (Syndetics summary)
Best iPad apps : the guide for discriminating downloaders / Peter Meyers.
“Full of colorful and helpful illustrations, this one-of-a-kind catalog gives iPad users the quick lowdown on more than 200 gee-whiz apps, with brief tips on how to use them.” (Syndetics summary)
Using WordPress / Tris Hussey.
“Blogger and WordPress guru Hussey takes a comprehensive look at this powerful, open source blogging platform used by millions of people worldwide. The book takes readers through the entire process of making a WordPress blog, from registering a domain and installing the software to using plug-ins and incorporating multimedia content into a blog. Registration of the book provides access to extensive online material, including video tutorials and podcasts. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)” (Syndetics summary)
iOS 4 programming cookbook / Vandad Nahavandipoor.
“Solutions and examples for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch apps”–Cover.
Facebook me! : a guide to socializing, sharing, and promoting on Facebook / Dave Awl.
Google SketchUp 8 for dummies / by Aidan Chopra.
Sams teach yourself Google SketchUp 8 in 10 minutes / Steven Holzner.
Programming the mobile web / Maximiliano Firtman.
Sams teach yourself Adobe Dreamweaver CS5 in 24 hours / Betsy Bruce, John Ray, Robyn Ness.
Adobe InDesign CS5 digital classroom / Christopher Smith and AGI Creative Team.
Alchemy, dragons in Paris (versus Cardinal Richelieu!), Thomas Alva Edison in a magic Wild West, mercenary brotherhoods with secret missions, and more. Have a read of our latest science fiction picks:
Path of the sun : a novel of Dhulyn and Parno / Violette Malan.
Mercenary partners Dhulyn Wolfshead and Parno Lionsmane think they’re escorting the Princess of Arderon to her wedding with the new Tarkin of Menoin, but the Mercenary Brotherhood has a secret mission for them: find out what happened to the two Brothers who were sent on assignment to Menoin a year ago-and vanished. Once in Menoin, they discover that the Brothers’ disappearance is linked to a series of killings. When the Princess of Arderon’s corpse is found mutilated in the same way as the others, Dhulyn and Parno track the killer into the Path of the Sun, an ancient labyrinth from which people sometimes never return. (adapted from Syndetics summary)
The alchemist in the shadows / by Pierre Pevel ; translated by Tom Clegg.
Set in Paris, in 1633, where dragons menace the realm. Cardinal Richelieu, the most powerful and most feared man in France, is on his guard. He knows France is under threat, and that a secret society known as the Black Claw is conspiring against him from the heart of the greatest courts in Europe. They will strike from the shadows, and when they do the blow will be both terrible and deadly. To counter the threat, Richelieu has put his most trusted men into play: the Cardinal’s Blades, led by Captain la Fargue. Six men and a woman, all of exceptional abilities and all ready to risk their lives on his command.
(adapted from Amazon review)
The Buntline special : a weird west tale / Mike Resnick.
The year is 1881. The United States of America ends at the Mississippi River. Beyond lies the Indian nation, where the magic of powerful Medicine Men has halted the advance of the Americans east of the river. An American government desperate to expand its territory send Thomas Alva Edison out West to the town of tombstone, Arizona, on a mission to discover a scientific means of counteracting magic. Hired to protect this great genius, Wyatt Earp and his brothers. (adapted from Amazon review)
Back to the moon / Travis S. Taylor, Les Johnson.
As a U.S. mission to the Moon prepares to lift off decades after the 1969 lunar mission, a secret Chinese trip to the Moon is revealed when a distress signal is received, prompting the U.S. team to turn a journey of discovery into a desperate rescue mission. (Book cover)
How to live safely in a science fictional universe / Charles Yu.
National Book Foundation 5 Under 35 Award-winner Yu delivers his debut novel, a razor-sharp, ridiculously funny, and utterly touching story of a son searching for his father through quantum space-time. (Syndetics summary)
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