News Blog @ Wellington City Libraries

Knit a monster nursery : practical and playful knitted baby patterns / Rebecca Danger ; [photography by Brent Kane].
“Knit up a delightful collection of fun yet practical monster themed projects your little ones are sure to love. From the creative mind behind the best-selling “Big Book of Knitted Monsters” comes an adorable collection of more than 16 knitted toys, clothing, accessories, and nursery decorations that you’ll love knitting for the little one in your life. Stitch a roomful of fun and practical items – suitable for both boys and girls, and for knitters of all levels – including an irresistible monster mobile, baby blankets, blocks, booties, bookends, rattles, hats, and more!” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk review)

Knits at home : rustic designs for the modern nest / Ruth Cross ; with photography by Ben Anders.
“One of the trademarks of Ruth Cross, the knitting design company British knitting designer Ruth Bridgeman founded in 2004, is the use of traditional stitches – garter, stockinette, seed and cables – to create texture on items not normally covered with wool, such as vases or furniture. But the traditional nature of Ruth Cross designs is also one of the book’s weaknesses. While the book includes 22 projects, ranging from sachets to rugs, it offers nothing the enterprising knitter could not achieve on his or her own with existing stitch dictionaries. Another weakness is the narrow palette of grey, cream, and black used in almost every project. Such limits are a barrier to inspiration from the otherwise excellent photographs. Still, for the knitter who wants to incorporate his or her craft into her home decor, this book offers a one-stop shop for is pretty patterns for pillows, throws and wall hangings. And the real value of the book lies in the author’s organic approach to knitting, building one stitch on top of another to achieve texture, while her mantra that knitting should always be fun will serve knitters of all levels well. (Jan.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.” (Publisher Weekly) (courtesy of Syndetics)

Knitted letters : make personalized gifts and accents with creative typography-based knitting projects / Catherine Hirst and Erssie Major.
“This is a knitting book full of great ideas for knitting with typography. It’s suitable for all knitting skill levels. The introduction includes how to customize projects, information about yarn and gauging and fairly complete diagrams for a beginning knitter. My favourite stranded projects include the Slab Serif collegiate looking children’s backpack, the French press cozy with the word CAFE in a stenciled inspired font (pictured on the cover) and calligraphic black letter e-reader cover with the words “ex libris”. There are a lot more projects than that, including some great children’s projects. The 3D letters pictured on the cover are more involved with more seaming and shaping, and more advanced knitters would have fun with those. As well as the LOVE pillows, there are also bookends that are the letters A and Z for witty knitty fun.” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk review)

The shape of knitting : a master class in increases, decreases, and other forms of shaping : with 20+ projects / Lynne Barr ; photographs by Thayer Allyson Gowdy ; photostyling by Karen Schaupeter.
” Lynne Barr is one of my favourite brains in knitting. She’s not afraid to explore, de-and re-constuct to hit on something new and inventive. In this book Lynne searches methodes for shaping flat and dimensional knotted fabrics, as well as, new techniques she has mastermanded. Twenty-four fashion-fresh projects make exploring these skills a fascinating adventure!”–Publisher’s description (courtesy of Syndetics)

Tea cosies / Jenny Occleshaw.
“This book has a delightful collection of unique, easy-to-make tea cosies to cheer every table. It includes projects duitable for experienced crafters and newcomers alike and, every project is explained using easy-to-follow instructions”.–Publisher’s description (courtesy of Syndetics)

Alastair Morton and Edinburgh Weavers : visionary textiles and modern art / Lesley Jackson.
“Edinburgh Weavers was one of the most important textile companies of the twentieth century. Alastair Morton, visionary art director of the company, commissioned a remarkable series of textiles from leading British artists, including Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth and Elisabeth Frink, as well artist-designers, such as Marion Dorn, Ashley Havinden and Lucienne Day. Morton was also a gifted artist, textile designer and weaver in his own right. This long overdue study traces his wide-ranging career and records the history of Edinburgh Weavers and the glorious textiles it produced. Drawing on the V&A’s extensive archive this impressive book features over 300 images of artists’ textiles unparalleled in quality and scope and is an invaluable resource.”–Publisher’s description (courtesy of Syndetics)

The spinner’s book of yarn designs : techniques for creating 80 yarns / Sarah Anderson.
“According to the introduction, Anderson’s goal here isn’t to teach readers how to spin, but to share the information that she has collected over the 35+ years that she’s been creating her own yarn. The first half of the book covers spinning basics, from fiber preparation to spinning singles to a variety of plying techniques. The second half covers advanced techniques for spinning novelty, textured, and art yarns, including boucles, crepe yarns, and coil yarns. Anderson includes ample photographs, many of them including callouts describing the makeup of the yarn being discussed. VERDICT Most recent spinning books have focused on one type of yarn, and Anderson’s more general approach offers enough variety to keep spinners busy. (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.” (Library Journal) (courtesy of Syndetics)

Embroidery : traditional techniques and contemporary applications for hand and machine embroidery / Sophie Long.
“Needlecrafts are currently enjoying a healthy revival as a whole new generation of crafters pick up their needles and get involved. With a plethora of social groups, blogs, and websites such as Etsy and Design Sponge now targeted specifically at a younger, hipper demographic, embroidery has cast off its image as an old fashioned hobby to become more popular than ever before. With its combination of step-by-step tutorials, practitioner profiles, and inspirational galleries full of bang up-to-date modern pieces, Embroidery introduces an authoritative new style of reference that is guaranteed to appeal to a new generation of embroidery enthusiasts, sewers, and needlecrafters of all levels.”–Publisher’s description (courtesy of Syndetics)

Happy home : everyday magic for a colourful life / Charlotte Hedeman Guéniau ; foreword by Holly Becker of Decor8.
“This book shows people how the basics of everyday life can be made so much more enjoyable by bringing colour and a sense of fun to daily living, whether by using colourful accessories in the kitchen or by introducing colourful fabrics, textures and hints of humour in to the living room. Danish design is not all about cool and calm interiors. It is all about fun, colour and enjoyment. The book features RICE style applied to a variety of homes, from a contemporary Copenhagen apartment to a simple country retreat, a comfortable family home to an ultra modern studio space. Happy Home is a beautiful demonstration of the RICE ethos, and how its warm and caring, fun and funky aesthetic can be applied in living spaces, kitchens, bedrooms, children’s rooms and outdoor areas.” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk review)

The glory of the garden : a horticultural celebration from the pages of Country Life / Country Life editor Mark Hedges ; compiled and edited by Sam Carter & Kate Gatacre ; series consultant John Goodall.
“Gardening writing goes to the heart of the iconic brand that is Country Life. Gertrude Jekyll, the doyenne of gardening art, was a driving force at the birth of Country Life in 1897, and set the standard for some of the best English gardening writing. The influence of this writing on twentieth century English garden design is hard to overestimate. Yet here all is presented in accessible articles and choice photos. Within the pages of The Glory of the Garden you can trace the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement, the Edwardian revolution in garden design, the Italianate obsessions and the eccentric longing for an Olde English style.” (Syndetics summary)

Philosophy in the garden / Damon Young ; text illustrations by Daniel Keating.
“Why did Marcel Proust have bonsai beside his bed? What was Jane Austen doing, coveting an apricot? How was Friedrich Nietzsche inspired by his ‘thought tree’? In Philosophy in the Garden, Damon Young explores one of literature’s most intimate relationships: authors and their gardens. For some, the garden provided a retreat from workaday labour; for others, solitude’s quiet counsel. For all, it played a philosophical role: giving their ideas a new life. Philosophy in the Garden reveals the profound thoughts discovered in parks, backyards and pot-plants. It does not provide tips for mowing overgrown cooch grass, or mulching a dry Japanese maple. It is a philosophical companion to the garden’s labours and joys.”(Syndetics summary)
What are gardens for? / Rory Stuart.
“What do we expect of gardens – when we make them and when we visit them? Could we get more from them, if we thought harder about what it is we want and why we make gardens? This book approaches the experience of being in a garden from many different angles, questioning many of our easily-adopted assumptions and suggesting ways of getting more from any garden, whether it is our own or one we are visiting.” (Syndetics summary)

Flowers in the world’s most beautiful gardens / photographed by Alain Le Toquin ; text by Yves-Marie Allain ; translated from the French by Nicholas Elliott.
“Flowers in the World’s Most Beautiful Gardensputs the spotlight on the star of the garden—the flower. Tracing the history of flower gardens from the Middle Ages to today, the book discusses the types of flowers commonly planted, the landscape designs, the advances in technology, and how these practices have changed throughout the centuries. Illustrated with more than 180 exquisite photographs by Alain Le Toquin, this book features the world’s most extraordinary flower gardens, showcasing gardens in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, New Zealand, Russia, the United States, Thailand, and many more.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)
Growing honest food : an oasis of Italian tradition in the suburbs / Gabriella Gomersal-Hubbard.
“A barren block of land in the Australian suburbs has, over a period of 30 years, been transformed by the Sicilianos’ passion, daring, perserverance and hard work into a slice of the Calabrian countryside – a lush and wonderful oasis. At a mere 1.2 ha., Rose Creek Estate is probably the smallest vineyard in the nation and, at less than 17 kilometres from the city centre, certainly the most urban. Yet it is astounding just how productive this small piece of land in a quiet residential corner of Melbourne is. Cherished family and regional traditions, steeped in an ancient culture, remain a large part of this couple’s lives, guiding them in their efforts to create their own piece of paradise. The Sicilianos’ enterprise is the embodiment of these ideas and living proof that such pursuits can build both a profitable business and a healthy and intensely satisfying way of life.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)

Fern fever : the story of Pteridomania / Sarah Whittingham.
“Of all the many passions and crazes in nineteenth-century gardening and natural history, none was as long lasting or as wide reaching as fern fever, or Pteridomania as it became known. The obsession with ferns was not confined to a few professional botanists but it affected men, women and children from all classes through the British Isles, the Empire and America. Their overwhelming desire to ‘capture’ a rare specimen led them to wade through streams, scale rock faces, descend gorges and lean over fast-flowing rivers. Accidents were common, sometimes fatal, and over-collecting and even fern stealing were rife. Of all the many passions and crazes in nineteenth-century gardening and natural history, none was as long lasting or as wide reaching as fern fever, or Pteridomania as it became known Fern Fever.” (Adapted from Syndetics Summary)

Adagio : living & gardening mindfully / Trisha Dixon.
“Adagio is a charming treatise on slow gardening and the importance of slowing down and enjoying life. At the same time, it has an environmental message regarding living ethically and sustainably. This message is delivered in Trisha Dixon’s inimitable style, as she seamlessly blends personal anecdote with musings and facts, drawing on her gardening background and her wide-ranging interests in philosophy, music, art, nature and the environment. It will appeal to gardeners and dreamers alike – anyone, in fact, who yearns for a more environmentally-attuned life.” (Syndetics Summary)

Auckland’s remarkable urban forest / Mike D. Wilcox.”
“A comprehensive account of the trees and forests of Auckland City, New Zealand. It covers native bush remnants, native revegetation, exotic woodlands, parks, campuses, cemeteries, historic homesteads, street trees, home gardens, notable trees, flowering trees, tree health, and utilisation of the urban forest. A particular feature is the description of the parks in each of Auckland’s Local Board areas. The book will be of interest and relevance to park users, gardeners, botanists and ecologists, arborists, dendrologists, Council managers, planners, developers, environmental volunteer groups, and citizens and visitors to Auckland in general.” (Fishpond)

Anatomies : the human body, its parts and the stories they tell
“It is the most fraught and fascinating, talked-about and taboo, unique yet universal aspect of our lives. Until we fall ill, most of us take this extraordinarily complicated collection of flesh, bones and fluids entirely for granted. But from ancient body art to plastic surgery, from early anatomists to conceptual artists, grave-robbers to bionic athletes, our changing attitudes to the human body – how it works, what it should look like, how to live with it, what it means – tell us more about ourselves than almost any other subject in human history. Blending history, science, art, literature and the everyday, one of our finest science writers investigates this most marvellous and mysterious of creations. The result is a treasure trove of surprising facts, remarkable stories and startling information that encompasses everything from the first finger-printing to the physiology of angels, from synaesthesia to the clown-egg register, from the death-mask of Isaac Newton to the afterlife of Einstein’s brain.” Publisher’s description (courtesy of Syndetics)

In your face : the hidden history of plastic surgery and why looks matter
“We humans have been modifying our faces for centuries-from medieval face-pulling competitions (often fatal) and criminal punishment in ancient India (rhinokopia), to post-war reconstructive surgery and contemporary cosmetic surgery. But what is it that compels us to go “under the knife”? Is it simply the pursuit of beauty, or is it a deeper drive for survival? And why, with all our advances in medical science, does some plastic surgery look so bad? You can open any women’s magazine and find at least one article showing some celebrity’s cosmetic surgery gone wrong, often resulting in that familiar and laughable but tragic “wind tunnel” face. The truth is that kind of look is not really plastic surgery at all-it’s cosmetic surgery done by underqualified practitioners using outdated techniques. It shouldn’t happen. This book shows you why and how. In the tradition of The Brain that Changes Itself; Guns, Germs & Steel; Salt; and Orchid Fever, this lively exploration of the history and science of plastic surgery looks at 500 years of the face-what we do to it, what it means for us, and what the future holds.” (Syndetics summary)

The back bible
“A must-have family reference packed with proven, practical approaches to caring for your back throughout your life. With a full anatomy of the spine and back, a breakdown of different types of pain, when to see the doctor and at-a-glance diagnostic advice, The Back Bible offers a physiological run down of the problems that can affect you back, neck, and shoulders.
Dozens of self-help measures are covered, including general back care, exercise routines, ways of improving sleeping posture and the benefits of heat/hydro therapy and self-massage. There is also extensive advice on managing back pain, from analgesics to visualisation and meditation. The book then guides you through what to expect from conventional medical care, covering diagnosis, drug treatments, surgery, physiotherapy and a directory of complementary therapies and specialist treatments.” (From Amazon.co.uk)

The honest life : living naturally and true to you
“Actress, activist, and entrepreneur Jessica Alba inspires moms to make affordably healthy choices for themselves and their families without sacrificing style. As a new mom, Jessica Alba wanted to create the safest, healthiest environment for her family. But she was frustrated by the lack of trustworthy information on how to live healthier and cleaner–delivered in a way that a busy mom could act on without going to extremes. In 2012, with serial entrepreneur Brian Lee and environmental advocate Christopher Gavigan, she launched The Honest Company, a brand where parents can find reliable information and products that are safe, stylish, and affordable. The Honest Life shares the insights and strategies she gathered along the way. The Honest Life recounts Alba’s personal journey of discovery and reveals her tips for making healthy living fun, real, and stylish, while offering a candid look inside her home and daily life. She shares strategies for maintaining a clean diet (with favorite family-friendly recipes) and embracing nontoxic choices at home; she also provides eco-friendly decor tips to fit any budget. Alba discusses cultivating a daily eco beauty routine, finding one’s personal style without resorting to yoga pants, and engaging in fun, hands-on activities with kids. Her solutions are easy, chic, and down-to-earth: They’re honest. And discovering everyday ways to live naturally and authentically–true to you–could be honestly life-changing” (Syndetics summary)

The unapologetic fat girl’s guide to exercise and other incendiary acts
“An empowering guide for plus-size women shares non-judgmental, practical information and motivational strategies for incorporating exercise into an everyday lifestyle, profiling a range of options from WiiFit to extreme sports while covering such topics as common sports injuries, nutritional guidelines and working with a trainer. This guide is big on attitude, giving plus-size women the motivation, support, and information to improve their health.” (Syndetics summary)

Be your own nutritionist : rethink your relationship with food
“A radical new approach to healthy eating…
Bombarded by fad diets and scary slogans telling you how to eat healthily and lose weight? Confused as to which of the hundreds of diet books out there is telling the truth? Be Your Own Nutritionist has the answers. Forget low-carb diets, superfoods, your five-a-day there are no hard and fast rules about what to eat, when. A healthy diet varies from person to person and, most importantly, from place to place.
This is an exciting new take on nutrition showing how factors such as climate, time, environment and emotional wellbeing should all affect the way we eat. Combining age-old traditions of healthy eating (did you know that the mid-Victorians had the best diet of any Britons before or since?) with modern scientific research, clinician George Cooper shows you how to ignore the fads and eat right for yourself. He explains in clear, easy terms exactly how your digestive system works (and why you need to know). He explains why raw food is sometimes bad for you; and how hot, spicy foods can mitigate against damp and cold. Packed with easily-adaptable recipes and useful tips, this book is your indispensible guide to eating well, wherever you are.”(from Amazon.co.uk)

Gulp
“Few of us realize what strange wet miracles of science operate inside us after every meal. In her trademark style, Mary Roach investigates the beginning, and end, of our food, addressing such questions as why crunchy food is so appealing, how much we can eat before our stomachs burst, and whether constipation killed Elvis.” (Syndetics summary)

All is well : heal your body with medicine, affirmations and intuition
“This new book by celebrated authors Louise Hay and Mona Lisa Schulz, not only explores the medical science behind the affirmations in Louise Hay’s international bestseller You Can Heal Your Life, but also offers stories and practical advice for personal healing.
Structured around seven emotional centres, which mirror our chakra system, Louise and Mona Lisa examine the connections between these centres and the body. Drawing on years of research, they explore probable mental causes for the physical manifestation of illness associated with each centre, and then lay out how to address these health concerns. Combining two complementary systems, Louise discusses new thought patterns and offers new affirmations to counteract specific emotional weaknesses, and Mona Lisa, who has worked for many years as a medical intuitive and physician, helps readers listen to their own bodies’ intuition and prescribes medical solutions that are based in Western science. They provide real-world examples of people who faced illness and outline the specific emotional and physical prescriptions that helped them heal.” (from Amazon.co.uk)

The curse of lovely : how to break free from the demands of others and learn to say no / Jacqui Marson.
“Many people’s lives, relationships, careers and wellbeing are blighted by the belief that to be liked, loved and accepted they have to limit themselves to the behaviours they believe are approved of by others. This might mean some or all of the following: always being polite, nice, helpful, charming, fun, making people feel good about themselves, not letting people down, never saying ‘no’, avoiding conflict and putting others’ needs before their own. In her 15 years of clinical experience as a psychologist Jacqui Marson has coined the phrase ‘the curse of lovely’ to describe this growing trend. Many people would like to be known as lovely, but for a growing number of people it can feel like a curse. They feel unable to put their own needs before those of everyone else, and feel that changing this is not an option. This book shows readers how to break the curse of lovely to live a more complete, fulfilling life.” (Global Books in Print)

The difference you make : changing your world through the impact of your influence / Pat Williams with Jim Denney.
“Every one of us has influence, whether we realize it or not. In everything we say and do, we are influencing those around us. What if we became more aware, more intentional, and more strategic about our own influence? Well, we might just change the world. True influence, says Pat Williams, isn’t about getting what you want–it’s about serving others. Using personal stories from his own life and the lives of others, Williams shows readers the difference between influence and manipulation, how to influence others through both words and deeds, and ultimately how to change the world for the better, one relationship at a time. This book will inspire readers to build a positive legacy in the lives of others and take the role of influencer to heart. Each chapter includes questions and ideas for personal reflection and practical application, and can be used to guide group discussions as well.” (Global Books in Print)

Decisive : how to make better choices in life and work / Chip Heath and Dan Heath.
“Just making a decision can be hard enough, but how do you begin to judge whether it’s the right one? In Decisive, best-selling authors Chip and Dan Heath draw on decades of psychological research to explain why we so often get it very badly wrong – why our supposedly rational brains are frequently tripped up by powerful biases and wishful thinking. At the same time they demonstrate how relatively easy it is to avoid the pitfalls and find the best answers, offering four simple principles that we can all learn and follow. In the process, they show why it is that experts frequently make mistakes. They demonstrate the perils of getting trapped in a narrow decision frame. And they explore people’s tendency to be over-confident about how their choices will unfold. Drawing on case histories as diverse as the downfall of Kodak and the inspiring account of a cancer survivor, they offer both a fascinating tour through the workings of our minds and an invaluable guide to making smarter decisions.” (Book cover)

A slap in the face : why insults hurt – and why they shoudln’t / William B. Irvine.
“Insults are part of the fabric of daily life. Other people inflict them on us, sometimes blatantly but more often subtly. On some occasions, we are delighted to be on the receiving end of these insults: when the members of a group we have joined start playfully teasing us, for example, it can be a sign of acceptance into the group. On other occasions, though, an insult can cause us pain so intense that even years later, we will find ourselves experiencing insult flashbacks. We are also the source of insults. Some of them are consciously inflicted, but many more are sufficiently subtle that we will not recognize them for what they are unless we replay conversations in our head and try to fathom our motives for having said the things we said. Do this, and we might be astonished by our tendency, in casual conversation, to put people into what we regard as their proper place — namely, somewhere below us on the social hierarchy. In A Slap in the Face, William B. Irvine undertakes a wide-ranging investigation of insults, their history, the role they play in social relationships, and the science behind them. He offers advice, based primarily on the writings of the Stoic philosophers, on how best to curb our own insulting tendencies and how best to respond to the insults that are directed our way.” (Global Books in Print)

Birth order : what your position in the family really tells you about your character / [Linda Blair].
“We’ve all heard the stereotypes – first borns are natural leaders, middle borns are difficult, last borns are spoiled and single children are loners. But how accurate are these snapshots? In this groundbreaking book, clinical psychologist Linda Blair examines what your birth order really tells you about your character, your relationships – even your choice of career. She also considers the factors that skew ‘typical’ birth-order characteristics, such as how you were parented and the sex and spacing of your siblings. Written in a lively, personal style, Birth Order will unlock keys to why you think, feel and behave in the ways that you do.” (Book cover)

Friendfluence : the surprising ways friends make us who we are / Carlin Flora.
“Psychology Today features editor Flora coined the term “friendfluence” to suggest that friends provide us with more than just social recreation; with successful friendship comes a range of physical, emotional, and professional benefits. Her interdisciplinary discussion draws on scientific research, philosophy, and anecdotes to examine friendship across a lifespan, from playground pals to adolescent and adult relationships. She also alights on the particular struggles some-like those diagnosed with Asperger’s-face when trying to make friends. Flora shows that friendships are often formed through unconscious strategies (such as the evolutionary impulse to cooperate), and tend to bind individuals together in ways that are in some sense more resilient than marital or familial ties. Yet friendfluence is not without its darker counterpart, and Flora does not shy away from issues like teasing, lying, and betrayal, topics that-perhaps tellingly-segue into a discussion of friendship in the age of Facebook. The book is far-reaching, and the natural consequence of such a massive scope is that some sections feel limited, and unifying themes can be hard to parse. But just as the “dance of disclosure” allows individuals to get to know one another, so too does Flora’s compelling book disclose many of friendship’s secrets.” (Publisher’s Weekly Review)

Barefoot Contessa Foolproof : recipes you can trust / Ina Garten ; photographs by Quentin Bacon.
“Already a best seller, Food Network star Garten’s latest asserts several known truths: it’s hard to get dinner on the table, entertaining is stressful, and recipes can be scary. Seeking to help home cooks bolster their cooking repertoire, Garten offers “foolproof” (i.e., tested, consistent, and clearly explained) recipes like Easy Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Croutons, Parmesan Fennel Gratin, and Raspberry Crumble Bars, alongside tips meant to allay fears and answer frequently asked questions.” (Library Journal)

15 Minute Meals / [Jamie Oliver].
“This is Jamie Oliver’s simplest and most straightforward book to date. It pushes the concept of fast, everyday food to a new level, without compromising on flavour. It’s designed to excite and inspire people to prepare a balanced, nutritional, no-nonsense meal every night of the week.” (Books In Print)

Manu’s French Bistro / Manu Feildel ; photography by Chris Chen.
“Have you ever wondered how the French make entertaining at home look so effortless? Join Australia’s favourite French chef, Manu Feildel, as he guides you through one hundred classic bistro recipes that will expand your dinner party repertoire and impress your guests.” (Library Catalogue)

Anjum’s Indian Vegetarian Feast / Anjum Anand ; photography by Emma Lee.
“In ‘Anjum’s Vegetarian Feast,’ Anjum adapts the true flavours of India, with her trademark concern for healthy eating and a good diet, to make dishes that are light, bright, modern and balanced, providing all the protein and other nutrients we all need for perfect health.” (Books In Print)

The Great Northern Cookbook / Sean Wilson.
“In the Great Northern Cookbook, Sean Wilson – former Coronation Street actor, now award winning cheese maker and chef – is our guide to the culinary highlights of the North. A proud Lancastrian, Sean serves up timeless recipes and reveals the history behind the foods you love.” (Book Jacket)

Ching’s Fast Food : 110 quick and healthy Chinese favourites / Ching-He Huang.
“With her trademark passion, TV star chef Ching-He Huang brings a new and exciting dimension to Chinese cooking. Confidently fusing Chinese and Western cultures in over 100 quick and easy dishes bursting with flavour, Ching’s fresh and healthy take on the Chinese takeaway, without compromising on taste, has revolutionised Chinese cuisine.” (Books In Print)

The new jewelers : desirable, collectable, contemporary / Olivier Dupon.
“In this beautiful new book, Olivier Dupon introduces the finest modern jewelers practising today. Featuring 108 both up-and-coming and established designers, the book is divided into nine categories inspired not by traditional jewelry typology, but by style and look. Rough stones appear with exquisitely faceted gems; organic forms vie with geometric structures; feathers and leather take their place next to platinum and diamonds. The book showcases fine jewelry, fashion jewelry, luxe jewelry, conceptual jewelry, and much much more. Over 800 mainly colour photographs display the jewelry alongside portraits of the designers at work, shots of sketches and works in progress, studios and boutiques. Complete with short, informative profiles and useful contact details for the designers, as well as a listing of recommended shops, this publication offers a wealth of inspiring material and is a must for any aficionado of jewelry, design or craft.” (Syndetics summary)

Crystal jewelry inspiration from the Create Your Style ambassadors / compiled by Karin Van Voorhees.
“Tapped by Swarovski for their expertise, innovative work, and sophisticated design sense, this book stages an elite corps of jewellery makers, industry opinion leaders and innovators. This book is not juast a showcase of their work, but also a glimpse into their world. Meet some of the most creative jewellery designers in the world and join their sparkling community”. ( Book Cover)

Mastering peyote stitch / [Melinda Barta].
“”With interest in beadweaving on the rise, Mastering Peyote Stitch provides a much-needed look into the most integral technique-peyote stitch. With 15 styles in all, beading geniuses will finally have an accessible, easy-to-understand guide to one of the fundamentals of beadweaving, brought to you courtesy of Beadwork Editor Melinda Barta. In the “Peyote Basics” chapter, you will learn the basics of creating flat peyote bands, then advance to circular and tubular variations, eventually learning to fashion dimensional jewelry pieces. Once you’ve mastered the basics, Melinda dives into designing dimensional jewelry pieces. Additional chapters cover combining peyote with other popular beadweaving techniques (right-angle weave, herringbone, and bead embroidery) and creating unique edgings and embellishments for finished pieces. Melinda, together with Beadwork’s Designers of the Year, including Jean Campbell, Lisa Kan, Carole Ohl, Melanie Potter, Jean Power, Cynthia Rutledge, and Sherry Serafini, demonstrates a range of styles in 15 beautiful jewelry projects. “– Provided by publisher (courtesy of Syndetics)

Patterns for pooches / Anne Burton ; photographs by Michael and Anne Burton.
“Author Anne and her husband brought home a Boston Terrier Puppy named Bean and from the start as a new pet owner he was a handful. Also Anne quickly worked out with the cooling weather and the Nebraska winds that Bean was not shy about his lack of enthusiasm for the cold and would hide under blankets and crawl under sweaters. Having learned to Crochet in school and only knowing a few basic stitches Anne took on the challenge of designing Bean some outfits. Starting with 10 designs for Bean and some sweaters for other dogs of different shapes and sizes pretty soon a small business was born. This book has 35 designs for dogs. Anne has included her most popular designs from her very successful on line business that keeps getting reordered time after time. She would describe her style as simple and practical with a quirky sense of humour. She uses crochet because it is a versatile medium that can be easily modified and customized. Throughout the book there is sizing options and instructions on how to tailor an item to give your dog the best fit possible. Basic crochet stitches are used for the patterns so easy for beginners to intermediate levels. Patterns include both UK and US stitch names and measurements. A conversion chart should be checked before starting your patterns to make sure you are familiar with similarities and differences between stitch names”. ( Book Cover)

Fashion crochet : 30 crochet projects inspired by the catwalk / Claire Montgomerie.
“A beautifully illustrated publication with a fashion-forward feel, “Fashion Crochet” contains 30 crochet projects for a range of accessories and clothing items inspired by up-to-the-minute catwalk trends. Utterly contemporary and stylish, the projects incorporate a wide cross-section of techniques from granny squares and knotwork to lace and hairpin crochet. As useful for the highly experienced as the absolute beginner, this inspiring and chic book is divided into chapters on accessories, such as shawls, scarves, bags, hats, jewellery and decorative items, and separates, such as dresses, skirts, tops and beachwear. Each project is accompanied by fashion photographs showing the inspiration for the piece, and offers ideas on how to wear the item. Essential tools and techniques are clearly explained – from crochet hooks, working stitches and how to measure tension to adding embellishments and finishing off – with line drawings provided for more complicated techniques”. (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk description)

The finer edge : crocheted trims, motifs & borders / Kristin Omdahl.
“Prolific crochet designer Omdahl (Crochet So Fine) explores crocheted edge motifs in this colorful pattern dictionary. The edgings are organized by type of construction (top-down, bottom-up, side-to-side, miscellaneous) and each contains written and charted instructions as well as a full-color swatch. Patterns for crocheted garments and accessories round out the collection and show the edgings in use on real-world projects. VERDICT Several crocheted edging/motif books have been published in the last few years. Omdahl is a big name in the field, and crocheters will appreciate this nicely curated ensemble. (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.” (Library Journal)

Quilting : from little things / Sarah Fielke.
A showcase of ten quilting techniques and styles with insider tips providing the quilter with an accessible way to try out new methods, textures and colours. (Book Cover)

Permaculture design : a step-by-step guide / by Aranya.
“Are you excited about permaculture but unclear how to put it into practice for yourself? In this unique, full colour guide, experienced permaculture teacher Aranya leads you through the design process from beginning to end, using clear explanations, flowcharts and diagrams. It is based on course worksheets which have been designed, refined and tested on students over time. Linking theory to practice, he places the ethics, principles, philosophies, tools and techniques directly into the context of the process itself. While written for anyone with a basic grasp of permaculture, this book also has plenty to offer the more experienced designer.This guide covers:Systems and patterns ~ Working as part of a design team ~ Land and non-land based design ~ Design frameworks ~ Site surveying and map making ~ Interviewing clients ~ Working with large client groups ~ Identifying functions ~ Choosing systems and elements ~ Placement and integration ~ Creating a design proposal ~ Project management ~ Presenting your ideas to clients ~ and much more.A great reference for anyone who has done, or is thinking of doing, any kind of permaculture course.” (Syndetics summary)

The gardenist : a new way to create inspiring garden spaces / text and photography by Michael McCoy.
” Michael McCoy is ‘The Gardenist’: garden designer, author, broadcaster and obsessive home gardener. In this bold new look at gardens, he shares the secret to understanding what makes a good garden, and shows you how to plan and create your own. ‘The Gardenist’ teases out the anatomy of gardens to discover the different roles plant types play”.(Syndetics summary).

Natural companions : the garden lover’s guide to plant combinations / Ken Druse ; botanical photographs by Ellen Hoverkamp.
“In Natural Companions, acclaimed garden writer Ken Druse presents recipes for perfect plant pairings using diverse species that look great together and bloom at the same time. Organized by theme within seasons, topics include color, fragrance, foliage, grasses, edible flowers and much more, all presented in photographs of gardens that show planted combinations from a wide variety of climates and conditions. Natural Companions also features more than one hundred special botanical images of amazing depth and color created in collaboration with artist Ellen Hoverkamp using modern digital technology.Filled with an incredible amount of horticultural guidance, useful plant recommendations, and gardening lore—all written in Druse’s charming, witty style—this book is a must-have for gardeners and lovers of plants and flowers. ” (Syndetics summary)

The thrifty gardener / Alys Fowler ; photography by Simon Wheeler.
“Gardner’s World presenter Alys Fowler shows us how gardening is something you do, not something you buy. You don’t have to spend money to have a great garden. Slow gardening – like slow food – is taking time to savour. It’s the process, not this sudden transformation that matters. When you build a little, dig a bit, plant a little, harvest often and more importantly don’t try and do it all at once, nature will work for you. For this is gardening that won’t cost the earth. This is a book that will eliminate the intimidation factor and reveal the ins and outs of soil, seeds, sowing and growing. Designed to be highly appropriate for beginners, it will cover the basics like planning, planting and pruning using organic and inexpensive methods. Its quirky projects and thrifty ethic will mean that it reaches beyond the usual gardening audience – this book is for those who would rather be found hunting through a skip than be seen in a garden centre”. (Amazon.co.uk)

The rough guide to men’s health
“Spiralling work stress, junk food overload, and makeover madness all make staying healthy seem a taller order than ever before. The Rough Guide to Men’s Health provides you with everything you need to know to ensure your lifestyle isn’t at war with your health. Avoiding flabby waffle and well being puritanism, features include: Wherever, whenever – down-to-earth health advice whether you are in the kitchen, the bedroom, the gym, out on the town or simply looking in the mirror; How to improve performance – life coach strategies aimed at optimizing your outlook so you can feel your best every day; Wear and tear – identifying the causes of health problems and what to do about them, with “how it works” features on key problem areas like the back and gut and how to cope with sport’s injuries, and; Tooling up: getting back into shape, sex and relationships, returning to work, and staying sane plus the low down on supplements.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

Supergrains : eat your way to great health / Chrissy Freer.
“What we eat and the impact food can have on our health is becoming increasingly important. This book explores 12 super grains – quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat, brown rice, chia seeds, millet, oats, kamut spelt, barley, farro and freekeh – their history, unique nutritive and health benefits, as well as what they are best used for and how to prepare them. The easy, fresh and delicious recipes utilising each grain in its many forms will give you the confidence to use and incorporate these supergrains into everyday cooking so that your food and your health will be given ‘added life’!” (Syndetics summary)

What doctors eat : tips, recipes, and the ultimate eating plan for lasting weight loss and perfect health / Tasneem Bhatia and the editors of Prevention.
“One of the questions we all want to ask our doctors: How do you protect your health? The answer almost always is: It’s all about making smart food choices. Prevention has synthesized the experts’ strategies to create the ultimate healthy-eating plan, that will help anyone reach their goal weight”. (Syndetics summary)

Your pregnancy after 35 / Glade B. Curtis, Judith Schuler.
“Now, after more than ten years, Your Pregnancy After 35 has been fully revised with the most up-to-date information, addressing every health and lifestyle concern pertinent to “older” mothers. From how age affects pregnancy to when to consider genetic counseling to how to find the best care when returning to work, this essential guide offers mothers–and their partners–the wise and supportive answers they need”– Provided by publisher (courtesy of Syndetics)

In your face : the hidden history of plastic surgery and why looks matter / Bryan Mendelson in conjunction with Vicki Steggall.
“We humans have been modifying our faces for centuries-from medieval face-pulling competitions (often fatal) and criminal punishment in ancient India (rhinokopia), to post-war reconstructive surgery and contemporary cosmetic surgery. But what is it that compels us to go “under the knife”? Is it simply the pursuit of beauty, or is it a deeper drive for survival? And why, with all our advances in medical science, does some plastic surgery look so bad? You can open any women’s magazine and find at least one article showing some celebrity’s cosmetic surgery gone wrong, often resulting in that familiar and laughable but tragic “wind tunnel” face. The truth is that kind of look is not really plastic surgery at all-it’s cosmetic surgery done by underqualified practitioners using outdated techniques. It shouldn’t happen. This book shows you why and how. In the tradition of The Brain that Changes Itself; Guns, Germs & Steel; Salt; and Orchid Fever, this lively exploration of the history and science of plastic surgery looks at 500 years of the face-what we do to it, what it means for us, and what the future holds”. (Syndetics summary)

Subliminal : how your unconscious mind rules your behavior / Leonard Mlodinow.Subliminal: How Your Unconscious Mind Rules Your Behavior
“It can be very tricky to distinguish between behavior that is conscious and behavior that is habitual. We perform numerous automatic tasks every day, mostly unaware that we’re doing them. We act on autopilot even as we also make one conscious decision after another. This very enlightening book explores the two sides of our mental lives, with a focus on the subconscious or subliminal element. More than ever before, researchers are discovering that our perceptions are filtered through the subliminal processes of our minds, that we actually see the world according to our unconscious mind’s expectations and assessments. Drawing on clinical research conducted over a period of several decades and containing a number of rather startling revelations such as the at-first-glance counterintuitive fact that people who are briefly touched on the arm are more likely to order the dinner special in a restaurant, sign a petition, and buy food after sampling it for free the book appeals to readers with an interest in the workings of the human mind.–Pitt, David Copyright 2010 Booklist From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.” (Booklist) (courtesy of Syndetics)

Janella Purcell’s elixir : how to use food as medicine / Janella Purcell.
”Janella Purcell believes that the food we eat affects our physical body, and also our mind and spirit. In this invaluable book she shares her expertise in foods, health, and nutrition, and shows you how to care for yourself, naturally and easily, using food as medicine at home. In this entertaining and practical guide, Janella presents an intriguing variety of subjects and information. These range from suggestions to assist healthy aging, to a discussion on organic produce and why you should use it, to tips for those suffering from headache, fatigue, immunity problems, fertility issues, and Syndrome X – among many, many other topics. Also included are easy-to-prepare recipes using some wonderful ingredients that will quickly become part of your recipe repertoire and make you feel fabulous. Janella Purcell’s Elixir introduces us to what Eastern philosophy has been practicing for thousands of years – the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit and how this affects our state of mind, health, and personality. Janella Purcell’s Elixir is really a volume to use, to keep, and to treasure.” (Book Description)

Friendfluence : the surprising ways friends make us who we are / Carlin Flora.
“Psychology Today features editor Flora coined the term “friendfluence” to suggest that friends provide us with more than just social recreation; with successful friendship comes a range of physical, emotional, and professional benefits. Her interdisciplinary discussion draws on scientific research, philosophy, and anecdotes to examine friendship across a lifespan, from playground pals to adolescent and adult relationships. She also alights on the particular struggles some-like those diagnosed with Asperger’s-face when trying to make friends. Flora shows that friendships are often formed through unconscious strategies (such as the evolutionary impulse to cooperate), and tend to bind individuals together in ways that are in some sense more resilient than marital or familial ties. Yet friendfluence is not without its darker counterpart, and Flora does not shy away from issues like teasing, lying, and betrayal, topics that-perhaps tellingly-segue into a discussion of friendship in the age of Facebook. The book is far-reaching, and the natural consequence of such a massive scope is that some sections feel limited, and unifying themes can be hard to parse. But just as the “dance of disclosure” allows individuals to get to know one another, so too does Flora’s compelling book disclose many of friendship’s secrets.” (Publisher’s Weekly Review)

The new rules : the dating dos and don’ts for the digital generation / Ellen Fein & Sherrie Schneider.
“The Rules taught a generation of women how to successfully play ‘hard to get’ and in the process helped millions of women get their Mr Right. Some called it controversial but it became a movement that helped improve the love lives of women across the world. But that was all before texting, Facebook, Twitter, Skype, BBM, iPhones and online dating. Now there are even more ways to unwittingly mess up your dating life. The Rules Girls are back with the dating bible for the modern age. Rules Girls are savvy women who know how to return texts and emails to a man without seeming desperate, how to maintain a cool Facebook profile without giving away too much and how to spot cheaters and players, and avoid them like the plague.” (Book cover)

Making couples happy / John Aiken & Alison Leigh.
”Making Couples Happy, the companion to the ABC-TV series, uses science to help couples rediscover happiness in their relationships and get them on the path to enduring love. Couples and singles will identify with the raw honesty of common hurts and resentments, disillusionment and despair that plague many relationships. Equally, they will share in the breakthroughs and ultimate triumphs, and learn the four simple steps that will help them better talk, support, connect and dream together. Making Couples Happy readers who follow the easy steps and activities can expect a significant improvement in how they relate to their partners, and learn to communicate more effectively, argue less, be kinder and achieve new levels of trust and intimacy.” (Syndetics summary)

Sex changes : a memoir of marriage, gender, and moving on / Christine Benvenuto.
“What do you do when the other woman is your husband? Christine Benvenuto and her husband had been married for more than twenty years and were raising their three young children in a beautiful New England town. One night in bed he turned to her and said, “I’m thinking constantly about my gender,” adding that he was unhappy in his body and wanted to become a woman.
Part memoir, part voyeur’s glimpse into a relationship, Sex Changes is a journey through the end of a marriage and out the other side. Christine, desperate to save her family and shelter her children, discovers a well of strength and resilience she never knew she had. She learns what to tell the neighbours when your husband starts accenting his shirts and ties with heels. She discovers how to manage as a single mother. And she opens herself up to a group of friends who travel with her through her darkest times – and who show her the love and support of true friendship. Fiercely funny, self-lacerating, and not entirely politically correct, Sex Changes is a journey of love and anguish told with hilarity, heartbreak and a lot of soul-searching. It is about the mysteries in every marriage, the secrets we choose to keep, and the freedom that the truth can bring.” (Publisher description)

Ten years later : six people who faced adversity and transformed their lives / Hoda Kotb with Jane Lorenzini.
“Ten Years Later profiles six people who’ve faced a series of life’s game changers and challenges – abuse, illness, addiction, grief, job loss. These people didn’t just fight their way through adversity, they forged better lives because of the battle. Their journeys are measured in the very small steps that painstakingly result in change and the big, bold leaps of faith that launch dreams. The book is meant to inspire you, wow you, motivate you, and move you – and maybe even do all those things within the same chapter. In the pages ahead, the courageous people who share their life stories have done so in hopes of enriching yours – now or ten years later.” (Book cover)

Madly in love with me : the daring adventure of becoming your own best friend / Christine Arylo.
“Most of us know that loving ourselves would be a good idea, but we have no clue what that really means. Self-love feels too vast, too esoteric, and frankly like something you should keep under wraps. This breakthrough book on self-love changes all that by taking you beyond the idea of loving, valuing, and caring for yourself into daring acts that will help you experience it. Christine Arylo provides practical, fun ways to explore and embody the ten branches of self-love every day and in every part of your life. Reading this book is like receiving permission to treat yourself as a best friend would.” (Book cover)

Celebrate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc / Wine [text by] Belinda Jackson ; food [text by] Jan Bilton ; editor Michael G. Ryan.
“Celebrate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc showcases the phenomenon that established New Zealand as a world-class wine producer. Enjoy the pleasures of gourmet food matched with the internationally -acclaimed winner for which New Zealand’s premier wine producing region is renowned.” (Book Jacket)

Whittaker’s : A Passion for Chocolate Since 1896 / from Andrew & Brian ; [writing, Simon Farrell-Green ; photography, Brian Culy].
“Whittaker’s is a much-loved Kiwi brand and a genuine family business going back four generations. This luscious book takes a light-hearted look at the history of the business, and how the chocolate is made, and then gives a range of fully tested recipes…..” – Publisher information.

NZ Rugby Kitchen : celebrating the love of food, family and rugby / [photography credits, Kieran Scott, Melanie Jenkins].
“Celebrating the love of food, family and rugby – with recipes from key New Zealand rugby players present and past. With recipes from the likes of Richie McCaw, Piri Weepu, Dan Carter, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams – the list goes on – plus older stars like Colin Meads, Andy Leslie and Graham Henry … hearty, tasty recipes that Kiwi men and their families love to eat….” – Publisher information.

The Wild Bunch : movers, shakers and groundbreakers of the New Zealand Wine Industry / Joëlle Thomson.
“In The Wild Bunch Joelle Thomson gives us eighteen tales of tenacious pioneers who have championed innovation in New Zealand’s world-class wine industry.” (Book Jacket)

Riverstone Kitchen : Simple / Bevan Smith ; photography by Fiona Andersen.
“This second book from Riverstone Kitchen is full of mouth-watering recipes that are easy to prepare, as well as simple growing tips for the keen home gardener and cook. Accompanied by inspiring images of both the food and garden RIVERSTONE KITCHEN: SIMPLE shares the secrets from one of New Zealands most-loved restaurants.” (Global Books)

Michael Cooper’s Buyer’s Guide to New Zealand Wines, 2013 / [Michael Cooper].
“Cooper’s annual Buyer’s Guide to New Zealand Wines is a bible for every wine buyer. If you have a cellar or enjoy good wine, this should sit beside your favourite chair.” – Nelson Mail (Book Jacket)

Get Fresh / with Al Brown.
“In Get Fresh acclaimed New Zealand chef Al Brown heads to the far corners of the country tracking down the best markets, finest produce and freshest ingredients to create a meal that captures the quintessential flavour of each region” – Publisher’s information.

Matt Preston’s 100 Best Recipes : simple and delicious recipes everyone should know / [Matt Preston].
“No one knows food like Matt Preston, one of Australia’s most loved TV personalities, award-winning food journalist and recipe writer, judge on Master Chef Australia… and a seriously good home cook. Gathered here for the first time are Matt’s best recipes for the dishes he cooks at home for his own family…These are the definitive recipes for every kitchen and will soon become the everyday cookbook you won’t be able do without!” (Libaray Catalogue)

Find & keep / Beci Orpin.
“Be inspired with Beci Orpin’s beautfiul new book Find and Keep. This gorgeous ideas and craft book features all of Beci’s favourite things, from wall murals such as life-size paper Christmas trees, to embroideries and herb gardens and picnic fare. Discover where Beci gets her inspiration from and follow her in her studio, at home and out and about as she gathers ideas for her projects. Learn how these ideas come to life and then apply them yourself with 25 make-at-home projects that cover a wide range of crafty mediums, from collages to cushions and t-shirts to teacups. With simple step-by-step instructions and tips and beautiful page design by Michelle Mackintosh, these cool crafty ideas are new and fresh and bound to appeal to fans of Beci’s work and crafting in general. So, get inspired, get creative and go find, make and keep!” (Adapted from amazon.co.uk summary)

Fun family crafts / Kelly Doust.
“Demonstrates how to make crafts with children that can be used around the house, with a list of materials, instructions, and tips on tasks that are most suitable for children for each project.” (Syndetics summary)

A passion for quilting : 35 step-by-step patchwork and quilting projects to stitch / Nicki Trench.
“With bags, quilts, blankets, pillows, table runners and more, A Passion for Quilting is filled with innovative quilting and patchwork projects to try. With 35 eye-catching designs to sew, every stitcher will fall in love with the projects in A Passion for Quilting. With something for everyone, Nicki Trench employs quilting, appliqué, embroidery and patchwork techniques to create items to make for the home, or to give as personal gifts to family and friends. Divided into four chapters, start by making Blankets and Quilts using colourful blocks and vintage fabrics. Take the picnic quilt out on a summer day or decorate your baby s crib with the cot quilt made with vintage fabrics. Carry Out is next, packed with projects for people who love bags. The glamour purse is covered with pretty yoyos while the beach bag is great for storing all your vacation essentials. Accessories and Gifts has book covers, needle cases, cushions and more that are certain to put a smile on the face of the recipient. In the final chapter, Kitchen and Dining Room, there are trivets, tea towels and chair seat covers to add colour to your culinary spaces. At the back you will find a handy techniques section explaining all the stitches you ll need to complete the projects. With creative ideas to inspire both beginners and more experienced stitchers, you are sure to find the perfect project to feed your crafting addictions!” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk summary)

Clever crocheted accessories : 25 quick weekend projects / edited Brett Bara.
“The ideal curator, Brett shares a first-rate lineup of projects. Whether you are a beginner or experienced crocheter, there is something for everyone: hats and caps, including a cloche, porkpie hat, and tam; scarves, shawls, and cowls, from chunky to drapey to snug; eye-catching mittens and arm warmers; delicate lace socks and cozy man-slippers; flirty bags; and sparkly jewelry. Each piece is designed with standout details so that even the simplest pattern has that “wow” factor by showcasing lust-worthy yarn, an unexpected technique, or a fun embellishment. Techniques you’ll discover include Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, and Bruges lace. The all-star roster of designers includes Robyn Chachula, Doris Chan, Mari Lynn Patrick, Regina Gonzalez, Drew Emborsky, Linda Permann, Kristin Omdahl, Ellen Gormley, Cal Patch, Pamela Wynne, Linda Cyr, and Vickie Howell.” (Adapted from Amazon.co.uk summary)

Baby crochet : 20 hand-crochet designs for babies, newborn-24 months / Sandy Powers ; photography by Tara Renaud.
“This collection of crochet projects for boys and girls includes a range of hats (from a beanie to a newsboy), two cozy cocoons, bunting and baby blankets, a hooded sweater, legwarmers, mittens, booties, and four sets featuring body suit & hat, cocoon & hat, diaper cover, and more. The sizes range from newborn to 24 months.” (Syndetics summary)

Cast on, bind off : 54 step-by-step methods / Leslie Ann Bestor ; photography by John Polak.
“Discover the perfect beginning and ending for every knitting project! This one-of-a-kind reference presents more than 50 ways to cast on and bind off, creating edges that are tighter, looser, stretchier, lacier, longer-lasting, prettier–whatever your project needs, you’ll find it here. Detailed instructions for each technique are combined with step-by-step photography so that nothing is left to chance. At-a-glance charts identify the best cast on or bind off for various types of knitting, as well as cast on/bind off pairs that work well together. This indispensable guide will ensure that all of your knitting projects are polished and pleasing, from start to finish!” (from Syndetic summary)

Side by side : 20 collaborative projects for crafting with your kids / Tsia Carson ; photographs by Meredith Heuer.
“Crafting is always more fun and more meaningful when it’s shared with those you love. Discover the joy of working alongside your child while creating arts and crafts that inspire. With these twenty whimsical projects in a variety of mediums, you and your child will find fun ways to work collaboratively and independently – together on the same project, or side-by-side on related projects”–Cover.

Seeds : time capsules of life / Rob Kesseler & Wolfgang Stuppy ; preface by HRH the Prince of Wales ; edited by Alexandra Papadakis.
“Seeds are the most complex organs plants ever produce. A major keystone in the evolution of land plants, the first seeds appeared some 360 million years ago. Since then they have developed into highly sophisticated propagules that have enabled plants to dominate the Earth’s surface and conquer almost every possible habitat from the Antarctic to the hottest deserts. The diversity of shapes and sizes encountered in seeds is nearly endless and ranges from the impressive Seychelles nut at twenty kilos to the dustlike seeds of the orchids. No matter how small, packed into every seed is the complete genetic information needed to give rise to a new plant, whether it is a tiny herb or a giant rainforest tree. True time capsules of life, seeds may travel thousands of miles and, if necessary, wait for hundreds of years before germinating”. (Amazon.com)

The roots of my obsession : thirty great gardeners reveal why they garden / Thomas C. Cooper, editor.
“Collects essays by thirty world-famous gardeners on why they garden, whether it be for aesthetic beauty, food production, or environmental sustainability, and includes contributions by Stephen Orr, Anne Raver, and Helen Dillon.” (Syndetics Summary)

The seed underground : a growing revolution to save food / Janisse Ray.
“The Seed Underground is a journey to the frontier of seed-saving. It is driven by stories, both the author’s own and those from people who are waging a lush and quiet revolution in thousands of gardens across America to preserve our traditional cornucopia of food by simply growing old varieties and eating them. The Seed Underground pays tribute to time-honored and threatened varieties, deconstructs the politics and genetics of seeds, and reveals the astonishing characters who grow, study, and save them”. (Amazon.com)

Permaculture design : a step-by-step guide / by Aranya.
“Are you excited about permaculture but unclear how to put it into practice for yourself? In this unique, full colour guide, experienced permaculture teacher Aranya leads you through the design process from beginning to end, using clear explanations, flowcharts and diagrams. It is based on course worksheets which have been designed, refined and tested on students over time. Linking theory to practice, he places the ethics, principles, philosophies, tools and techniques directly into the context of the process itself. While written for anyone with a basic grasp of permaculture, this book also has plenty to offer the more experienced designer.This guide covers:Systems and patterns ~ Working as part of a design team ~ Land and non-land based design ~ Design frameworks ~ Site surveying and map making ~ Interviewing clients ~ Working with large client groups ~ Identifying functions ~ Choosing systems and elements ~ Placement and integration ~ Creating a design proposal ~ Project management ~ Presenting your ideas to clients ~ and much more.A great reference for anyone who has done, or is thinking of doing, any kind of permaculture course.” (Syndetics summary)

The gardenist : a new way to create inspiring garden spaces / text and photography by Michael McCoy.
” Michael McCoy is ‘The Gardenist’: garden designer, author, broadcaster and obsessive home gardener. In this bold new look at gardens, he shares the secret to understanding what makes a good garden, and shows you how to plan and create your own. ‘The Gardenist’ teases out the anatomy of gardens to discover the different roles plant types play”.(Syndetics summary).

Natural companions : the garden lover’s guide to plant combinations / Ken Druse ; botanical photographs by Ellen Hoverkamp.
“In Natural Companions, acclaimed garden writer Ken Druse presents recipes for perfect plant pairings using diverse species that look great together and bloom at the same time. Organized by theme within seasons, topics include color, fragrance, foliage, grasses, edible flowers and much more, all presented in photographs of gardens that show planted combinations from a wide variety of climates and conditions. Natural Companions also features more than one hundred special botanical images of amazing depth and color created in collaboration with artist Ellen Hoverkamp using modern digital technology.Filled with an incredible amount of horticultural guidance, useful plant recommendations, and gardening lore—all written in Druse’s charming, witty style—this book is a must-have for gardeners and lovers of plants and flowers. ” (Syndetics summary)

The thrifty gardener / Alys Fowler ; photography by Simon Wheeler.
“Gardner’s World presenter Alys Fowler shows us how gardening is something you do, not something you buy. You don’t have to spend money to have a great garden. Slow gardening – like slow food – is taking time to savour. It’s the process, not this sudden transformation that matters. When you build a little, dig a bit, plant a little, harvest often and more importantly don’t try and do it all at once, nature will work for you. For this is gardening that won’t cost the earth. This is a book that will eliminate the intimidation factor and reveal the ins and outs of soil, seeds, sowing and growing. Designed to be highly appropriate for beginners, it will cover the basics like planning, planting and pruning using organic and inexpensive methods. Its quirky projects and thrifty ethic will mean that it reaches beyond the usual gardening audience – this book is for those who would rather be found hunting through a skip than be seen in a garden centre”. (Amazon.co.uk)

Janella Purcell’s elixir : how to use food as medicine / Janella Purcell.
”Janella Purcell believes that the food we eat affects our physical body, and also our mind and spirit. In this invaluable book she shares her expertise in foods, health, and nutrition, and shows you how to care for yourself, naturally and easily, using food as medicine at home. In this entertaining and practical guide, Janella presents an intriguing variety of subjects and information. These range from suggestions to assist healthy aging, to a discussion on organic produce and why you should use it, to tips for those suffering from headache, fatigue, immunity problems, fertility issues, and Syndrome X – among many, many other topics. Also included are easy-to-prepare recipes using some wonderful ingredients that will quickly become part of your recipe repertoire and make you feel fabulous. Janella Purcell’s Elixir introduces us to what Eastern philosophy has been practicing for thousands of years – the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit and how this affects our state of mind, health, and personality. Janella Purcell’s Elixir is really a volume to use, to keep, and to treasure.” (Book Description)

The thyroid solution diet : boost your sluggish metabolism to lose weight / Ridha Arem.
“In this follow-up to The Thyroid Solution, endocrinologist Arem, clinical professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and director of the Texas Thyroid Institute, presents a detailed diet plan to rebalance the hormone systems and speed up metabolism. Arem says cutting calories doesn’t work; instead, his method ramps up thyroid hormone activity, lowers ghrelin levels (the hormone that stimulates appetite), and boosts leptin sensitivity (the hormone that limits food intake). In Part I Arem explains how hormones and a sluggish metabolism can lead to weight gain. He also reveals how stress can result in overeating, and delves into the importance of sleep and its effect on hormones. Part II zeros in on an adapted combination of the Mediterranean Diet and the PRO Diet (Protein-Rich Oriental Diet), featuring foods that maximize metabolism efficiency with an emphasis on timing and scheduling meals to work with the body’s natural rhythms. The third section presents a step-by-step weight-loss program as well as a “20/10″ exercise program (20 minutes of cardio-focused high intensity interval training plus 10 minutes of strength training). Readers seeking a quick fix won’t find it, but those who are willing to work a little harder and dig into the scientific underpinnings of weight loss may be fascinated by the connections to hormones.” (Publishers Weekly)

The student’s anatomy of exercise manual / chief consultant, Ken Ashwell.
”The Student’s Anatomy of Exercise Manual is designed to improve the reader’s understanding of how the body works during exercise. It features common exercises (including weight lifting, stretching, and cardiovascular) and uses detailed full-colour anatomical illustrations to show exactly which muscles are used in each exercise – including identifying active and stabilizer muscles. Readers can see what’s happening inside the body during a workout session. Visualizing and understanding exactly which muscles are activated during various exercises will not only increase knowledge of anatomy and understanding of how the body works, but it will help improve the effectiveness of workout and rehabilitation routines. The Student’s Anatomy of Exercise Manual contains a 30-page colouring-in workbook featuring black-and-white line illustrations of parts of the muscular system, to help readers memorize the location of the various muscles. A glossary of anatomical terms is also included…” (Book Description)

Relax : say goodbye to anxiety and panic / Patrick McCarthy.
“This book, for people who experience anxiety and panic attacks, explains how anxiety occurs and offers a simple three-step process to prevent it. Written in a conversational, easy-to-read style by a doctor specialising in medical hypnosis, the book is accompanied by a CD that provides a self-hypnosis process to prevent anxiety and panic attacks that has been used to treat thousands of people. The CD teaches people how to relax in less than a minute, replace negative thoughts with positive ones in less than a second, and change from a pessimistic to an optimistic style of thinking.” (HUIA Publishers)

What doesn’t kill us : the new psychology of posttraumatic growth / Stephen Joseph.
” For the past twenty years, pioneering psychologist Stephen Joseph has worked with survivors of trauma. His studies have yielded a startling discovery: that a wide range of traumatic events – from illness, divorce, separation, assault, and bereavement to accidents, natural disasters, and terrorism – can act as catalysts for positive change. Boldly challenging the conventional wisdom about trauma and its aftermath, Joseph demonstrates that rather than ruining one’s life, a traumatic event can actually improve it. Drawing on the wisdom of ancient philosophers, the insights of evolutionary biologists, and the optimism of positive psychologists, “What Doesn’t Kill Us” reveals how all of us can navigate change and adversity – traumatic or otherwise – to find new meaning, purpose, and direction in life.” (Book Description)

Yoga and meditation : a holistic approach to perfect homeostasis / Yogini Shubh Veer.
”…Dr Yogini Shubh Veer has been teaching yoga and meditation for over 4 decades and in Yoga and Meditation she shares her rich experience to help you restore your physical and mental balance. You’ll learn the basics of life: Breathing, pranayama and prana, diet, ethics, relaxation, concentration and will discover how each one has an impact on your daily life. In clear simple language, the intricacies of yoga and meditation are explained. 108 yoga postures with some 400 step-by-step illustrations and instructions are included – including the complete ‘Surya Namaskar’, Salutation to the sun, 24 postures in one. Lessons on relaxation will help to ease any tension and depression and the sections on yoga’s relation to holism and homeostasis will let you unlock the secret to optimal health. Yoga and Meditation will help you to discover nature’s amazing way to perfect homeostasis, the key to health, through the millennia old legacy of yoga and meditation.” (Book Description)

Madly in love with me : the daring adventure of becoming your own best friend / Christine Arylo.
“Most of us know that loving ourselves would be a good idea, but we have no clue what that really means. Self-love feels too vast, too esoteric, and frankly like something you should keep under wraps. This breakthrough book on self-love changes all that by taking you beyond the idea of loving, valuing, and caring for yourself into daring acts that will help you experience it. Christine Arylo provides practical, fun ways to explore and embody the ten branches of self-love every day and in every part of your life. Reading this book is like receiving permission to treat yourself as a best friend would.” (Book cover)

Changeology : 5 steps to realizing your goals and resolutions / John C. Norcross, with Kristin Loberg and Jonathon Norcross.
“Change is hard. But not if you know the 5-step formula that works whether you’re trying to stop smoking or start recycling. Dr. John C. Norcross, an internationally recognized expert, has studied how people make transformative, permanent changes in their lives. Over the past thirty years, he and his research team have helped thousands of people overcome dozens of behavioural ailments. Now his cutting-edge, scientific approach to personal improvement is being made available in this indispensable guide. Unlike 95 percent of self-help books, the Changeology plan has a documented track record of success. Whether you want to quit overeating or drinking, or end depression, debt, and relationship distress, Dr. Norcross gives you the tools you need to change what you want within 90 days.” (Book cover)

Fearless at work : timeless teachings for awakening confidence, resilience, and creativity in the face of life’s demands / Michael Carroll.
“Work is such a crucial part of our life, and yet we often struggle with-and feel overwhelmed by-the numerous challenges it presents us. Whether it’s job insecurity, making peace with or leaving an unfulfilling job, or dealing with office conflicts, we often experience fear and a sense of groundlessness just at a time when we want to be our most creative and resilient. Drawing on Buddhist philosophy, Michael Carroll, a longtime human-resources executive, meditation teacher, and executive coach, explains how the practice of mindfulness-full awareness of our moment-to-moment experience-can help us become more confident and open to possibility in our work life. He offers a system of potent, inspiring principles that we can use as a practice for helping us work with our insecurities and awakening our natural bravery, resourcefulness, and resilience.” (Book cover)

Lessons in happiness from the third world : how the West got so depressed and what to do about it / Pete Jensen.
“Everybody seems to know somebody who has been impacted by depression, anxiety or stress. Have you ever felt helpless, not known what to do next, or overwhelmed by self help programs that seem like too much hard work? International author, speaker and transformational expert Pete Jensen, shares his breakthrough book that will reconnect you with proven principles the West has either forgotten, or in our fast paced lives become too distracted to pay attention to. Packed with real, easy to apply advice, this book will change your emotional, spiritual, physical and future wealth. You’ll learn: The 3 core ingredients missing in the Western myth of happiness; How to regain happiness when tragedy strikes; The secret of how to be fully energised, all day, everyday; How to eliminate unnecessary spending on doctors and pills; 12 quick, easy tools to shift your emotions instantly; How to overcome procrastination and indifference; Happiness at work; how to make it happen” (Global Books in Print)

Rip it up : the radically new approach to changing your life / Richard Wiseman.
“Most self-help books encourage you to think differently: to think yourself thin, imagine a richer self or to visualize the perfect you. This is difficult, time consuming and often doesn’t work. Ripping up the rule book, psychologist Richard Wiseman presents a radical new insight into your body and brain: actions are the quickest, easiest and most powerful way to instantly change how you think and feel. Drawing on a dazzling array of scientific evidence, Professor Wiseman shows how this simple idea can be used to increase motivation, overcome depression, lose weight, stop smoking and even slow ageing.” (Syndetics summary)

The 5 elements of effective thinking / Edward B. Burger and Michael Starbird.
“The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking presents practical, lively, and inspiring ways for you to become more successful through better thinking. The idea is simple: You can learn how to think far better by adopting specific strategies. Brilliant people aren’t a special breed – they just use their minds differently. By using the straightforward and thought-provoking techniques in ‘The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking’, you will regularly find imaginative solutions to difficult challenges, and you will discover new ways of looking at your world and yourself – revealing previously hidden opportunities. Filled with engaging examples that unlock truths about thinking in every walk of life, ‘The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking’ is written for all who want to reach their fullest potential – including students, parents, teachers, businesspeople, professionals, athletes, artists, leaders, and lifelong learners. Whenever you are stuck, need a new idea, or want to learn and grow, The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking will inspire and guide you on your way.” (Global Books in Print)

Best Food Writing 2012 / edited by Holly Hughes.
“Epicure, foodie, gastronome, gourmet, gourmand, glutton – whatever term you embrace, our cultural facination with food shows no sign of waning. And as in previous years, BEST FOOD WRITING 2012 is the place to go for heaping helpings of the most provocative, entertaining, delicious food writing of the year.” (Book Cover)

Home Cooking : A Writer in the Kitchen / Laurie Colwin ; illustrated by Anna Shapiro.
“Weaving together memories, recipes, and wild tales of years spent in the kitchen, Home Cooking is Laurie Colwin’s manifesto on the joys of sharing food and entertaining.” (Global Books)

Cooking off the Clock : Recipes from my Downtime / Elizabeth Falkner ; photography by Frankie Frankeny.
“Presents a range of recipes for full meals and quick snacks that can be prepared with limited time and resources, in a volume that also shares the author’s imaginative approach to classic comfort foods.” (Library Catalogue)

“101 Recipes You Can’t Live Without : The Prevention Cookbook / Lori Powell.
“Irresistible, easy dishes that will help readers cultivate healthy bodies. Half of Americans take dietary supplements, with little proof that they do anything to protect their health. What has been proven: the healing power of nutrients in food. In 101 Recipes You Can’t Live Without, readers will learn how to get everything they need from their plates–deliciously and without overdoing it on calories…. With 101 Recipes You Can’t Live Without you have the tool you need to craft the healthiest possible diet without feeling deprived. “–Provided by publisher.

Eat Well, Save More / Cath Armstrong.
“In the current economic climate many Australians are on a limited budget. In Eat Well, Pay Less! thrift queen Cath Armstrong demonstrates how you can feed four people (or one, two or three with healthy, delicious food for only $80 per week.” (Library Catalogue)

Vegan à la Mode : More than 100 frozen treats for every day of the year / Hannah Kaminsky.
“This book is overflowing with creamy, dreamy imaginatiove delights that will have you churning ice cream around the clock.” – Julie Hasson, author of Vegan Diner – (Book Jacket)

The Stress Free Diabetes Kitchen : over 140 easy & delicious diabetes recipes designed for no-hassle cooking / by Barbara Seelig-Brown.
“Author Barbara Seelig-Brown has spent the last decade creating and expanding the Stress Free Cooking® brand. Now she wants to bring this quick, easy, hassle-free method of cooking to people with diabetes. Just as she does with her general audience, Barbara aims to reshape the perception that cooking is time-consuming, boring, and unpleasant…. In this new book, Barbara takes the ingredients that have made her television shows and cooking classes so popular and reshapes them for those with diabetes.” – Provided by publisher.

Little Christmas decorations to knit & crochet / Sue Stratford and Val Pierce.“Previously published in the highly successful ‘20 to Make’ series as ‘20 to Make Mini Christmas Knits’ by Sue Stratford and ‘20 to Make Mini Christmas Crochet’ by Val Pierce, this book provides 40 delightful projects (20 knitted and 20 crocheted), with some designs knitted in different colourways to provide ideas and inspiration for how they could be adapted to match your chosen colour scheme or style. There are mini Christmas stockings, holly leaves, reindeer, snowmen, snowflakes, a Christmas fridge magnet, a star, a candy cane, Christmas bells, an angel and much more. Full instructions and materials lists are provided, and each project is simply photographed so that the reader can see the design clearly. There are plenty of ideas for ways of displaying the projects and these mini decorations will appeal to those looking for items they can create quickly, using up ends of yarn.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.co.uk)

Mollie makes Christmas : making, thrifting, collecting, crafting / [Mollie Makes].
Over 20 Christmas-themed projects from Mollie Makes magazine.
“This gorgeous new book from the team behind Mollie Makes brings together ten super-talented designers and makers. We asked them very nicely and they have put their crafty heads together and come up with over fifteen exclusive Christmassy projects just for you. With inspirational ideas for handmade gifts, cards and decorations as well as top tips on stress-free entertaining, we’ve got Christmas all sewn up. Includes a variety of crafts, with full instructions for knitting, crochet, sewing and papercraft projects, as well as ideas on how to turn your junk-shop finds into festive wonders. Each project is accompanied by clear step-by-step instructions and beautiful photography, with hints and tips on personalizing your makes, ensuring that your Christmas is unique, just like you. Here’s to a crafty Christmas!” (Syndetics Summary)

The twelve knits of Christmas / Fiona Goble.
From a partridge in a pear tree to twelve drummers drumming, Goble brings the popular verse to life as knitters of all skill levels create each of the twelve characters featured in the charming holiday song. The characters make perfect gifts, stocking stuffers, ornaments, or toys for children as you teach them the words to this classic song. (Book Cover)

Compendium of mosaic techniques : 300 tips, techniques, trade secrets and templates / Bonnie Fitzgerald.
“The Compendium of Mosaics is an excellent book for both beginners and experienced artists. Everything you need to know and more with wonderful illustrations and instructions for designing and making your own creations” (Book Cover)

Hands on : the art of crafting in Ireland / Sylvia Thompson.
“Based on The Irish Times column, `Hands On,’ this book celebrates the abundance of skills/crafts practiced and taught across Ireland. It focuses on 45 eclectic, contemporary, and traditional crafts and skills, including drystone walling and hat making” (Abridged summary from Globalbooksinprint.com)

Knit vintage : more than 20 patterns for starlet sweaters & other knitwear from the 1930s, 1940s & 1950s / by Madeline Weston & Rita Taylor ; photography by Debi Treloar.
“Knit Vintage offers a fantastic selection of more than 20 timeless designs based on original women’s knitwear patterns from the 1930s to the 1950s. Drawing from their own extensive collections of vintage knitting patterns, authors Madeline Weston and Rita Taylor have chosen garments for their classic style and updated them to appeal to 21st century tastes. The patterns, which incorporate traditional stitch formations such as cables, lace, Fair Isle and other motifs, have been adapted to suit an array of gorgeous modern yarns in fashion-forward colours and sumptuous textures, including merino, angora, cotton, bamboo, cashmere, alpaca and silk. All feature classic touches that will appeal to anyone who loves the exquisite attention to detail found in vintage knitwear. ” (Abridged summary from Amazon.co.uk)

Grow your handmade business : how to envision, develop, and sustain a successful creative business / Kari Chapin ; illustrations by Jennifer Judd-McGee.
“Are you ready to make a living from your craft? Applying her trademark “you-can-do-it” coaching style to the nuts and bolts of business planning, Kari Chapin covers all of the issues involved in turning your creative hobby into a successful business–from mapping out a business plan to expanding production and distribution, finding funding, and addressing legal matters. With this definitive guide, you’ll discover how to grow your business beyond the dining room table and finally quit your day job.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.co.uk)

Seeds : time capsules of life / Rob Kesseler & Wolfgang Stuppy ; preface by HRH the Prince of Wales ; edited by Alexandra Papadakis.
“Seeds are the most complex organs plants ever produce. A major keystone in the evolution of land plants, the first seeds appeared some 360 million years ago. Since then they have developed into highly sophisticated propagules that have enabled plants to dominate the Earth’s surface and conquer almost every possible habitat from the Antarctic to the hottest deserts. The diversity of shapes and sizes encountered in seeds is nearly endless and ranges from the impressive Seychelles nut at twenty kilos to the dustlike seeds of the orchids. No matter how small, packed into every seed is the complete genetic information needed to give rise to a new plant, whether it is a tiny herb or a giant rainforest tree. True time capsules of life, seeds may travel thousands of miles and, if necessary, wait for hundreds of years before germinating”. (Amazon.com)

The roots of my obsession : thirty great gardeners reveal why they garden / Thomas C. Cooper, editor.
“Collects essays by thirty world-famous gardeners on why they garden, whether it be for aesthetic beauty, food production, or environmental sustainability, and includes contributions by Stephen Orr, Anne Raver, and Helen Dillon.” (Syndetics Summary)

The seed underground : a growing revolution to save food / Janisse Ray.
“The Seed Underground is a journey to the frontier of seed-saving. It is driven by stories, both the author’s own and those from people who are waging a lush and quiet revolution in thousands of gardens across America to preserve our traditional cornucopia of food by simply growing old varieties and eating them. The Seed Underground pays tribute to time-honored and threatened varieties, deconstructs the politics and genetics of seeds, and reveals the astonishing characters who grow, study, and save them”. (Amazon.com)

Permaculture design : a step-by-step guide / by Aranya.
“Are you excited about permaculture but unclear how to put it into practice for yourself? In this unique, full colour guide, experienced permaculture teacher Aranya leads you through the design process from beginning to end, using clear explanations, flowcharts and diagrams. It is based on course worksheets which have been designed, refined and tested on students over time. Linking theory to practice, he places the ethics, principles, philosophies, tools and techniques directly into the context of the process itself. While written for anyone with a basic grasp of permaculture, this book also has plenty to offer the more experienced designer.This guide covers:Systems and patterns ~ Working as part of a design team ~ Land and non-land based design ~ Design frameworks ~ Site surveying and map making ~ Interviewing clients ~ Working with large client groups ~ Identifying functions ~ Choosing systems and elements ~ Placement and integration ~ Creating a design proposal ~ Project management ~ Presenting your ideas to clients ~ and much more.A great reference for anyone who has done, or is thinking of doing, any kind of permaculture course.” (Syndetics summary)

The gardenist : a new way to create inspiring garden spaces / text and photography by Michael McCoy.
” Michael McCoy is ‘The Gardenist’: garden designer, author, broadcaster and obsessive home gardener. In this bold new look at gardens, he shares the secret to understanding what makes a good garden, and shows you how to plan and create your own. ‘The Gardenist’ teases out the anatomy of gardens to discover the different roles plant types play”.(Syndetics summary).

The thrifty gardener / Alys Fowler ; photography by Simon Wheeler.
“Gardner’s World presenter Alys Fowler shows us how gardening is something you do, not something you buy. You don’t have to spend money to have a great garden. Slow gardening – like slow food – is taking time to savour. It’s the process, not this sudden transformation that matters. When you build a little, dig a bit, plant a little, harvest often and more importantly don’t try and do it all at once, nature will work for you. For this is gardening that won’t cost the earth. This is a book that will eliminate the intimidation factor and reveal the ins and outs of soil, seeds, sowing and growing. Designed to be highly appropriate for beginners, it will cover the basics like planning, planting and pruning using organic and inexpensive methods. Its quirky projects and thrifty ethic will mean that it reaches beyond the usual gardening audience – this book is for those who would rather be found hunting through a skip than be seen in a garden centre”. (Amazon.co.uk)

Gardens for all seasons / Mary Horsfall.
“Gardens for All Seasons is a gardening lifestyle book by bestselling author Mary Horsfall, celebrating the role of gardens in our lives and advising on the timing of jobs in the gardening year throughout Australia. Monthly chapters include topics such as planning, bushfire preparation, watering, pot plant care, mulching, weeding, fertilising, pruning, propagating, pest control, what to plant for different climate zones and what garden venues and events to visit. Mary details her own gardening year, including jobs done, fruits and vegetables harvested, food cooked based on the harvest, what was in flower and wildlife observations – all on a month by month basis. Each chapter includes a special topic of the month, such as fun for kids in the garden, biodiversity, manipulating microclimate, and fragrance and first aid.” (Syndetics summary)

Cholesterol : the essential guide / Sara Kirkham.
“Cholesterol The Essential Guide is the ultimate guide to help you manage your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Discover what you really need to do to decrease levels of oxidized cholesterol and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system using everyday foods and lifestyle adaptations. Learn how changing your carbohydrate intake may have more impact than adapting your fat intake, add phytosterols to your diet to reduce cholesterol, or simply follow the therapeutic eating plan for maximum results. Whether you want to know which foods to eat and which to avoid, or learn more about natural alternatives to cholesterol-lowering medication, this book provides the know-how. This book is an absolute must if you want to learn more about cholesterol what it is, what it does, how it can go wrong and how to put it right.” (Amazon.co.uk summary)

The hunter/farmer diet solution : do you have the metabolism of a hunter or a farmer? find out– and achieve your health and weight-loss goals / Mark Liponis.
“… Not only are physicians unsure about which weight-loss plan is best, but their patients are, too!… Fortunately, recent studies have shined a new light on the subject and may finally help us understand a successful way to diet. This research proves what many men and women have learned through trial and error: some do better on a low-carb diet, and others do better on a low-fat diet. This is because some people have the metabolism of a hunter, while others have the metabolism of a farmer. In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Mark Liponis, a leading expert in preventive and integrative medicine, will show you how to determine which type you are so that you can lose weight and improve your health at the same time. Once you know your type, you’ll be on the road to successful weight loss and greater health and well-being!” (Publisher summary)

Grace under pressure : going the distance as an Aspergers mum / Sophie Walker.
“When Sophie Walker’s daughter Grace was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, her world unravelled. Her high-powered job was in disarray, she couldn’t sleep, often woke in tears and felt hopeless and useless in her role as a mother. With extraordinary frankness, Sophie Walker shares the daily highs and lows of raising Grace.” (Library Catalogue)

Getting control / by Lee Baer ; with a foreword by Judith L. Rapoport.
“The first comprehensive guide to treating obsessive-compulsive disorder based on clinically proven behavioral therapy techniques, Dr. Lee Baer’s Getting Control has been providing OCD sufferers with information and relief for more than twenty years. In the same easy-to-understand format as the original, this updated edition includes: · Cutting-edge behavioral therapy techniques · Breakthrough advances in neuroscience · Brand-new material on hoarding · Expanded sections on how families can help OCD sufferers · The latest diagnostic standards · A completely revised list of resourcesOCD sufferers and their loved ones will find everything they need to assess their symptoms, set realistic goals, and create specific therapeutic exercises for managing this disorder.” (Syndetics summary)

Chronic fatigue syndrome M.E. : symptoms, diagnosis, management / Rosamund Vallings.
“Often known as ‘ME’, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat, yet its effects are profound, and often prolonged and debilitating. Dr Rosamund Vallings has been helping those with this condition for more than 40 years. Here she explains the illness and how it affects the body’s many systems and functions. She also provides advice on how to cope with the disorder and make the necessary lifestyle changes.” (Fishpond)

The antidote : happiness for people who can’t stand positive thinking / Oliver Burkeman.
“Self-help books dont seem to work. Few of the many advantages of modern life seem capable of lifting our collective mood. Wealth, even if you can get it doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness. Romance, family life, and work often bring as much stress as joy. We can’t even agree on what happiness means. So are we engaged in a futile pursuit? Or are we just going about it the wrong way? Looking both east and west, in bulletins from the past and from far afield, Oliver Burkeman introduces us to an unusual group of people who share a single, surprising way of thinking about life. Whether experimental psychologists, terrorism experts, Buddhists, hard-headed business consultants, Greek philosophers, or modern-day gurus, they argue that in our personal lives, and in society at large, it’s our constant effort to be happy that is making us miserable. And that there is an alternative path to happiness and success that involves embracing failure, pessimism, insecurity, and uncertainty – the very things we spend our lives trying to avoid. Thought-provoking, counterintuitive, and ultimately uplifting, The Antidote is the intelligent persons guide to understanding the much-misunderstood idea of happiness.” (Global Books in Print)

Rip it up : the radically new approach to changing your life / Richard Wiseman.
“Most self-help books encourage you to think differently: to think yourself thin, imagine a richer self or to visualize the perfect you. This is difficult, time consuming and often doesn’t work. Ripping up the rule book, psychologist Richard Wiseman presents a radical new insight into your body and brain: actions are the quickest, easiest and most powerful way to instantly change how you think and feel. Drawing on a dazzling array of scientific evidence, Professor Wiseman shows how this simple idea can be used to increase motivation, overcome depression, lose weight, stop smoking and even slow ageing.” (Syndetics summary)

The 5 elements of effective thinking / Edward B. Burger and Michael Starbird.
“The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking presents practical, lively, and inspiring ways for you to become more successful through better thinking. The idea is simple: You can learn how to think far better by adopting specific strategies. Brilliant people aren’t a special breed – they just use their minds differently. By using the straightforward and thought-provoking techniques in ‘The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking’, you will regularly find imaginative solutions to difficult challenges, and you will discover new ways of looking at your world and yourself – revealing previously hidden opportunities. Filled with engaging examples that unlock truths about thinking in every walk of life, ‘The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking’ is written for all who want to reach their fullest potential – including students, parents, teachers, businesspeople, professionals, athletes, artists, leaders, and lifelong learners. Whenever you are stuck, need a new idea, or want to learn and grow, The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking will inspire and guide you on your way.” (Global Books in Print)

Hold me tight : your guide to the most successful approach to building loving relationships / Sue Johnson.
“In Hold Me Tight, Dr Sue Johnson shares her highly effective therapy programme: Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy. Forget learning how to argue better and making grand romantic gestures. Instead, Johnson teaches that the way to enhance – or save – a relationship is to re-establish a secure emotional attachment and preserve the ‘bond’ between you. This model has achieved an astounding 75 per cent success rate. Through illuminating case studies from her practice, advice and practical exercises, couples will learn how to nurture their relationships and ensure a lifetime of love.” (Book cover)

Take the lead : motivate, inspire, and bring out the best in yourself and everyone around you / Betsy Myers with John David Mann.
“From the Oval Office to the playground, cabinet meetings to kitchen tables, in public life and private, Betsy Myers has seen firsthand the emergence of a new leadership model where having all the answers up front is less important than asking the right questions, where strength is derived less from the power you wield than from how you make the people around you feel. With personal stories from her time in government, in academia, and on the campaign trail, as well as her experiences as a wife, daughter, and mother, Myers helps all of us learn to set the right priorities for ourselves; to connect on a deeper level with the people around us; to uncover problems early when they are still easy to fix; to collaborate with those whose points of view are different from our own; and to push through our fears and live our most authentic lives. Myers demonstrates that more than simply making people feel good, this kind of leadership can have a profound effect on the results achieved: it is how initiatives are launched, profits are made, and work gets done. Provocative, practical, and profoundly inspiring, ‘Take the Lead’ is a book for anyone who wonders where all the great leaders have gone. Betsy Myers helps us see that true leadership is all around us and within us.” (Global Books in Print)

What makes love last? : how to build trust and avoid betrayal / John Gottman and Nan Silver.
“Doubts are common in relationships. Partners often worry. Can I trust my partner? Am I being betrayed? How do I know for sure? Based on laboratory findings, this book shows readers how to identify signs, behaviours, and attitudes that indicate betrayal – whether sexual or not – and provides strategies for repairing what may seem lost or broken. With a gift for translating complex scientific ideas into insightful and practical advice, Gottman explains how a couple can protect or recover their greatest gift – their love for one another.” (Book cover)

Add more ~ing to your life : a hip guide to happiness / Gabrielle Bernstein.
“Lots of people are selling ‘happiness’ these days as if it were a marketable commodity. But in her hip self-transformation book, Add More ~ing to Your Life, motivational speaker and life coach Gabrielle Bernstein truly shows you how to make happiness a way of life. Ms Bernstein is bringing happy back. Designed to bulldoze negative thought patterns and create personal change through positive affirmations, physical activity and visualisation meditations, Gabrielle guides the reader to happiness in 30 days through her dynamic ~ing, a proven method of sharpening one’s intuitive senses and activating untapped inspirations. Gabrielle will prepare you to change your life by accessing a state of flow, helping you connect with your ~ing, your inner guide, and readying you to release your limiting beliefs and to choose happiness.” (Global Books in Print)

Love Italian Food : Recipes for Friends and Family from a Home in Asolo / Maddalena Caruso ; [with photography by Stefano Scatà].
“At last, a book that will transport you straight to Italy to enjoy fresh seasonal produce for every occasion and to celebrate the glorious diversity of Italian home cooking.” (Book Jacket)

Pure Vegan : 70 Rcipes for Bautiful Meals and Clean Lving / by Joseph Shuldiner ; photographs by Emily Brooke Sandor and Joseph Shuldiner.
“Forget restrictions and rigidity, and leap into the joy of pure vegetarianism: an exuberant celebration of food, the earth and your life. Your plate will overflow with brilliant colors, rich flavors, and life-enriching nutrients, satisfying your mind, body, and – last not least – taste buds.” (Book Jacket)

Practical Paleo : a customized approach to health and a whole-foods lifestyle / Diane Sanfilippo.
“Practical Paleo is the resource you’ll reach for again and again, whether you’re looking for information on healthy living, delicious recipes, or easy-to-understand answers to your questions about how a Paleo lifestyle can benefit you, your family and your friends.” (Book Jacket)

Eat to Beat Cholesterol / Nicole Senior & Veronica Cuskelly.
“Eat to Beat Cholesterol is not just another diet or cook book. It can tip the balance towards a healthy heart and make healthy living a reality for you and your family. In this full updated edition, you can discover the truly delicious world of heart-friendly foods.” (Library Catalogue)

Start Fresh : Your Child’s Jump Start to Lifelong Healthy Eating / Tyler Florence ; photographs by John Lee.
“Chef Florence believes that everybody deserves to eat delicious, flavorful food prepared with care and the freshest ingredients – and that goes for babies, too. In “Start Fresh,” he takes the expertise he has used to create his own line of organic baby food and presents quick, user-friendly recipes for 60 purees packed with simple, easy-to-digest fruits, vegetables, and grains.” (Syndetics summary)

Everyday Paleo Family Cookbook : Real Food for Real Life / Sarah Fragoso ; [recipe photos by Michael J. Lang].
Featured are more than eighty delicious, easy-to-prepare recipes that are free of grains, dairy, sugar, and legumes.

Healthy in a Hurry / text, Karen Ansel ; recipes, Charity Ferreira ; photographs, Maren Caruso.
“Healthy in a hurry : easy, good-for-you recipes for every meal of the day.” (Book Jacket)

Hugh’s Three Good Things… on a Plate / Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall ; photography by Simon Wheeler ; illustrations by Mariko Jesse..
“How often have you wished there was a magic formula to simplify cooking? Well, there is. Put three good things together on a plate and, somehow, the whole is always greater and more delicious than the sum of its parts. Looking back over nearly two decades of professional cookery, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has worked out the combinations that make magic. Salty, sweet, crunchy. Sharp, rich, crumbly. Hot, bland, crisp……Hugh has used the formula of three to create two hundred recipes….. Because the possibilities are endless, Hugh has also suggested two hundred three-word recipe ideas, which can be used as a springboard for improvised cooking…..this book will unlock a whole new world of fantastic food. Three Good Things. It really is that simple.” (Global Books)

The Complete Book of Modern Asian / [senior editor: Stephanie Kistner].
“The ultimate compendium of Asian food, this is the follow up to the best-selling cookbook, The Complete Book of Modern Classics. Modern Asian is the food we eat now – delicious little morsels to serve as finger food at parties, light piquant starters, some of which can also be served as lunch dishes. Main courses made from seafood, lean meat, chicken and duck, noodles and vegetables. Delicious side dishes which you can eat with non-Asian meals, and some wonderful desserts. Each chapter contains a ’star’ recipe – the one that has become so popular it’s now almost mainstream. It’s a beautiful book with recipes that will convert you to modern Asian food.” (Syndetics summary)

Pizza / Pete Evans.
“Pete Evans has had a life long love affair with pizza. His mother would make them from scratch for him and his friends – dialling a delivery service was never an option – and he later trained with an Italian pizzaiolo so he could learn all the tricks of the pizza-maker’s trade. The pizza restaurant Pete founded in Sydney has won many prestigious awards. The more than 90 recipes in this book cover classic pizzas and more modern versions, and include breakfast pizzas, seafood pizzas, vegetarian pizzas and pizza desserts.” (Syndetics summary)

(Plus, we’re extra excited — our picks this month include Kaffe Fassett’s autobiography!)

With fabric & thread : more than 20 inspired quilting & sewing patterns / Joanna Figueroa.
“As a generation of mostly self-taught, creative women takes to the world of fabric, quilting and sewing are joining forces in a way that they never have before. Long-time quilters, committed to their craft for decades, are starting to experiment with a bit of home sewing or simple sewing for their grandchildren. The younger side of the sewing community is embracing the world of patchwork and quilting, a world that once seemed inaccessible or even undesirable to younger seamstresses. Fabric & Thread seamlessly bridges the language and intimidation gap between these two crafts and delivers a unique collection of projects that appeal to sewers and quilters alike. Featuring 20 new projects, With Fabric & Thread marries the nomenclature of both sewing and quilting to create an effortless set of instructions that anyone can follow.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Heart felt knits : 25 fresh and modern felting projects / by Tamara Mello.
“Knitting something by hand and then applying the centuries-old technique of wet felting results in gorgeous pieces that are durable, eco-friendly, and timeless. In Heart Felt Knits, actress-turned-crafter Tamara Mello offers twenty-five knitted and felted projects, from darling nesting bowls to elegant hats, cozy wraps, and chic hair accessories. Knitters will love watching their pieces take on surprising forms and textures through the felting process. With easy-to-follow knitting patterns, simple felting instructions, helpful how-to photographs, and lavish shots of the finished projects, this special book shows knitters of all stripes how to create unique accessories and keepsakes to last a lifetime.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

What to knit when you’re expecting : 28 simple mittens, baby blankets, hats & sweaters / Nikki Van De Car ; photography by Claire Richardson.
“Once you’ve got a handle on your delivery from the stork, flip through this adorable assortment of 30 knitting projects for the bundle of joy. The projects range from first trimester projects (which are moderately advanced, since there are months to finish) to second trimester (when most parents can determine the baby’s gender and prepare for a boy or girl), to third trimester quickies, when time is short. The booties, bibs, toys, blankets, and clothing will be one-of-a-kind items, fit to welcome a special person into the world.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

How to make stuffed animals : modern, simple patterns and instructions for 18 projects / written and illustrated by Sian Keegan.
” Learn how to make 18 stuffed animal projects with original sewing patterns and illustrated instructions with this endearing new guide! With a complete overview of techniques and materials, How to Make Stuffed Animals shows that making these cuddly creatures is fun, addictive, and much easier than one would think. Anyone who has completed the most basic of sewing projects can master the projects in this book, and these cute creations can be used as decorative objects for the home or as great handmade gifts. Inside, you’ll find adorable animals like: A squirrel holding an acorn A grizzly bear A raccoon A horse A bird mobile Cute canines Furry felines And many more Explore a comprehensive range of animals in a modern and simple style with How to Make Stuffed Animals!” (Publisher’s description)

Dreaming in colour : an autobiography / Kaffe Fassett.
“Kaffe Fasset is one of today’s leading fiber artists and designers. He is internationally known for his dazzling needlepoint and knitted works, lines of upholstery fabrics and wallpapers and most recently his quilt and fabric designs. Kaffe resides in London, England.” (Publisher’s description)

Crocheted accessories / Vanessa Mooncie.
“This title features 20 gorgeous projects all clearly presented with easy-to-follow patterns. The projects include small fun designs, quick to make and a fabulous way to use up spare pieces of yarn. The techniques section explains basic skills, with a detailed reference glossary. This sumptuous step-by-step guide unites traditional crochet skills with contemporary fashion styles and icons. “Crocheted Accessories” introduces crochet makers of all abilities to a new vista of exciting possibilities. The book aims to give beginners the confidence to tackle exciting projects, as well as inspire intermediate crochet makers to develop new skills and dexterity. Vanessa Mooncie takes the reader on a making journey, explaining the techniques needed to produce a wide range of vibrant and exhilarating pieces; from intricate bumble bee brooch pins and vintage-inspired tattoo emblem brooches to delicate flower posy corsages and charming heart-shaped rings. Each chapter includes a project that all levels of makers can accomplish, as well as history boxes explaining the development of crochet through the ages. Projects include: fantail dove brooch, daffodil headband, mod target cufflinks, love heart tattoo brooch, trinket charm bracelet and oak leaf necklace.” (Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Curvy girl crochet : 25 patterns that fit and flatter / Mary Beth Temple.
“Full-figured women who love to crochet will rejoice in this fun, fresh, and pretty new book, Curvy Girl Crochet: 25 Patterns that Fit and Flatter. Instead of making adjustments to “average” sized patterns, this exciting guide celebrates larger women with 25 original crochet patterns designed specifically in plus sizes. Pullovers, sweaters, wraps, and more–every wardrobe staple you can think of is here, with techniques and schematics to show crocheters exactly how to troubleshoot and solve pattern-fitting problems before they occur. Expert crochet designer Mary Beth Temple, whose books can be found in major craft stores nationwide, teaches curvy crocheters everything needed to create fashionable items that will fit and flatter” (Publisher’s description)

Journey to inspired art quilting : more intuitive color & design / Jean Wells.
“Continue your art quilting journey with Jean Wells in this follow up to Intuitive Color & Design. Embrace the process of developing your skills and trusting your intuition with 9 classroom-tested design assignments that help you develop distinctive work. Jean provides you with new guidelines and exercises to hone your natural intuitive skills, then she encourages you to express yourself! Learn how to recognize those “big ideas” that become inspirational starting points for your art. Packed with inspiring quilt images, this book walks you through effective approaches to art quilting from journaling your ideas to unifying your design.”
(Abridged summary from Amazon.com)

Artist trading card workshop : create collect swap / Bernie Berlin.
“The simple act of sharing 2[fraction one-half] x 3[fraction one-half] pieces of art, known as Artist Trading Cards, knows no boundaries and brings like-souls together like no other form of communication can. Unique statements, passionate emotions and favorite interests can all be expressed in these miniature works of art that are always traded, never sold. Artist Trading Card Workshop will not only teach you how to create your own cards, combining one or more of the more than 25 techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, it will also share the ins and outs of trading, finding and organizing card swaps and how to trade with others across the miles or even the continents.Discover ways to create colorful collage backgrounds, make cards from fabric, incorporate painting, stamping, phone book pages, tissue paper, string, stencils and much more-all is revealed in step-by-step photos, but that’s not all. You’ll also: Learn the ins and outs of trading-where to look, what to swap. Find creative ways to store the cards you’ll soon be collecting. Be inspired by the cards from 60 talented contributors and over 200 beautiful cards. Book jacket.” (Publisher’s description)

Urban sanctuary : designing small gardens / Janine Mendel.
“Australian landscape design is eclectic but there is no doubt that we love to be outdoors, and with the population set to rise, whether we like it or not we will be left with smaller and smaller outdoor spaces in which to enjoy our way of life.” (Library Catalogue)

Gardenalia : furnishing your garden with flea market finds, country collectables and architectural salvage / Sally Coulthard.
“Gardenalia provides the inspiration and the know-how for creating a perfect outdoor room. In the first section of the book Sally Coulthard guides the reader through the myriad choices of recycled and reclaimed materials and objects you can employ in your garden to inject style and personality. All types of furniture – from classical benches to weather-beaten old tables and retro deckchairs – can create stylish areas for dining and relaxing, while containers and tools provide the perfect finishing touches. A host of inventive ideas show you how to breathe new life and uses into salvaged pieces. Gardenalia offers practical guidance for the perennial garden tasks of planning your space, incorporating seating and eating areas and creating exciting backdrops and structures for your plants.” (Amazon)

James Wong’s homegrown revolution : grow your own amazing edibles from saffron to sweet potatoes in any back garden / [James Wong].
“James’s idea is simple and revolutionary. For 100 years, gardening books have said the same old thing about growing the same old fruit and vegetables. But in the wider world, as well as closer to home, there is a huge variety of delicious and often simple-to-grow incredible edibles suitable for temperate climates. Often common plants grown for flowers, like fuchsia, have delicious fruits or hips but we have long forgotten their use as edible plants. As the demand for ‘home-grown’ produce increases, this is the perfect time to introduce a whole new range of tasty, healthy and productive alternatives to the humble spud or lettuce. And who better to blaze the trail than the vastly knowledgeable and enthusiastic James Wong who tells us what to grow, how to grow it, and how to cook and eat it as well as the special properties of 100 new plants.” (Amazon)

The simple things : creating an organised home, a happy family and a life worth living / Antonia Kidman and Sally Collings.
“Organise your household and run your life with the minimum fuss and the maximum flair, from broadcaster and mother of five, Antonia Kidman, and author and mother of two, Sally Collings.” (Library Catalogue)

The small food garden : growing organic fruit & vegetables at home / Diana Anthony.
“Based on organic principles, this practical, well-illustrated guide takes you through all the basics: choosing what to plant and where to put it; advice on organic pest and disease control; watering and plant nutrition; using space-saving containers and raised beds; the benefits of companion planting as well as making your own compost – and that’s just for starters. A combination of previously published companion volumes, The Small Edible Garden and The Edible Garden Planner, the content for this book has been substantially revised and updated to include numerous new varieties of vegetables, fruit and herbs chosen for their suitability for growing in most climatic conditions around the world.” (Library Catalogue)

The beauty of trees / Michael Jordan ; consultant, Tony Kirkham.
“This illustrated tour of the world’s most extraordinary trees provides an insight into some of the natural world’s most astonishing structures. Through 100 photographs, The Beauty of Trees tells the story of our relationship with trees throughout history. Each image is supported by information about the botany of the tree, along with the stories, traditions and legends associated with it. From the giant sequoias of California to the bonsai of Japan, the pink tulip tree of the Himalayas to the Scots pine – and even the humble acorn – award-standard photography and insightful text bring the majesty and mystery of the world’s trees to life.” (Library Catalogue)

Paul Bangay’s guide to plants / photography by Simon Griffiths.
“Rich with anecdotes about what has worked best over the years, and with a special focus on plants for our changing climate, this collection showcases Paul’s A-list plants with photography from the best in the business, Simon Griffiths. Whether for an inner-city courtyard or a rambling rural estate, this book contains the practical advice readers need to give their own patch of green the Paul Bangay look.” (Library Journal)

National Geographic guide to medicinal herbs : the world’s most effective healing plants / Rebecca L. Johnson … [et al.] ; photography by Steven Foster ; foreword by Andrew Weil.National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs: The World’s Most Effective Healing Plants
“This is an excellent herbal written by physicians trained in integrative medicine. It has more comprehensive information than that found in more basic works like Holly Bellebuono’s The Essential Herbal for Natural Health and Rosemary Gladstar’s Medicinal Herbs, both reviewed left. Highly recommended.” (Library Journal)

Dog-friendly gardening : creating a safe haven for you and your dog / Karen Bush.
“Does your garden look more like a prison exercise yard than somewhere to relax? Or is it a beautiful haven that you’d like to stay that way when your new dog arrives’from dealing with the practicalities of escape-proof fencing, to discouraging unwanted toilet activities in the rockery, this book will help you solve the problems that other gardening and dog-care books don’t touch on. Green fingers are an asset, but not essential — these tips are useful for everyone. Whatever your budget or plot size, with a little effort and imagination you can create an attractive outdoor environment that will actively enhance your relationship with your dog; a place where you can enjoy playing and relaxing together.Covering safety, planting, garden projects, and much more, this book is packed with practical advice and innovative ideas to help you and your dog enjoy your garden” (Publisher’s description)

Portion size me : a kid-driven plan to a healthier family / Marshall Reid and Alexandra Reid.Portion Size Me: A Kid-driven Plan to a Healthier Family
“Tired of being overweight and bullied at school, ten-year-old Marshall Reid embarked on a monthlong journey to be healthy. Inspired by the movie Super Size Me, Marshall and his mom, Alexandra Reid, decided to make some lifestyle changes, including eating real (i.e., unprocessed) food, reading ingredients on packages, exercising, helping out in the kitchen, and watching portion sizes. These changes not only resulted in improved physical fitness for Marshall but also helped him overcome emotional eating. Not a diet plan, this book is instead part cookbook and part inspirational journal, coupled with food factoids, culinary information, and URLs for videos of Marshall… VERDICT: While this title won’t solve the childhood obesity problem, the child-parent viewpoint and the Reids’ success story may encourage kids and families to make more healthful eating choices” (adapted from Library Journal)

The spark of life : electricity in the human body / Frances Ashcroft
“Most people learn in school that nerves control our muscles, senses, and brain, but many adults would struggle to explain exactly how this occurs. Physiologist Ashcroft writes an engaging and authoritative guide to how nerves communicate across gaps called synapses, and so make life possible…VERDICT: Ashcroft clearly and patiently introduces complicated science while enlivening her narrative with fascinating tales of electric eels, fugu fish poisoning, and fainting goats. Serious readers will be both challenged and entertained.” (adapted from Library Journal)

The ADD myth : how to cultivate the unique gifts of intense personalities / Martha Burge.
“[Burge] asserts that those branded with ADHD experience stimuli – physical, sensory, emotional – more intensely than others. There is no such thing as ADD, she asserts. Instead, the problem for those who are distracted, disorganized, fidgety, and impulsive is to learn how to turn their intensity into a strength. Burge bashes the forthcoming edition of the psychiatric bible, the DSM-V, with its broader ADHD criteria, as well as a drug industry profiting from the label. She then offers practices many based on meditation techniques to calm, soothe, and sharpen the mind. Hers is a bold stand, and Burge is partly backed by Frances, who was task force chairman for the current DSM-IV. Still, Burge’s guidance is more suited for adults who understand their difficulties than struggling school kids. Still, her assertions should at least spur scrutiny of an epidemic that continues to stymie its sufferers and their families.” (adapted from Publishers Weekly)

Mayo Clinic guide to women’s cancers / Lynn C. Hartmann, Charles L. Loprinzi, editors in chief ; Bobbie S. Gostout, associate editor.
“The Mayo Clinic is recognized internationally as one of the premier medical research institutes and medical clinics in the world. The Mayo Clinic Guide to Women’s Cancers provides in-depth reliable information, including inspirational survivor stories, and decision guides to assist in the consideration of treatment decisions.” (Fishpond)

The compassionate mind approach to recovering from trauma using compassion focused therapy / Deborah Lee ; with Sophie James.
“Terrible events are very hard to deal with and those who go through a trauma often feel permanently changed by it. Grief, numbness, anger, anxiety and shame are all very common emotional reactions to traumatic incidents such as an accident or death of a loved one, and ongoing traumatic events such as domestic abuse…”Recovering from Trauma” uses the groundbreaking Compassion Focused Therapy to help the reader to not only develop a fuller understanding of how we react to trauma, but also to deal with any feelings of shame and start to overcome any trauma-related difficulties.” (adapted from Fishpond)

The midwife’s here! : the enchanting true story of one of Britain’s longest-serving midwives / Linda Fairley.
“… Under the strict supervision of community midwife Mrs Tattershall, Linda’s gruellingly long days were spent on overcrowded wards pinning Terry nappies, making up bottles and sterilizing bedpans – and above all helping women in need. Her life was a succession of emergencies, successes and tragedies: a never-ending chain of actions which made all the difference between life and death…Forty years later Linda’s passion for midwifery burns as bright as ever as she is now celebrated as one of Britain’s longest-serving midwives, still holding the lives of mothers and children in her own two hands. Rich in period detail and told with a good dose of Manchester humour, The Midwife’s Here! is the extraordinary, heartwarming tale of a truly inspiring woman.” (adpated from Fishpond).

Phi : a voyage from the brain to the soul / Giulio Tononi.
“Both playful and philosophical, this extravagant book addresses questions about the root of consciousness in a unique way to illustrate Tononi’s innovative view of consciousness in terms of information theory, the brain as an integrated network of signals….The book is a visual delight as well as an impressive read, its lavish artwork and literary references demonstrating just how fully complementary art and science can be.” (adapted from Publishers Weekly)

Most of me : surviving my medical meltdown / Robyn Michele Levy
“Some memoirs are heartbreaking and some are hilarious, but very few manage to balance absurdity and honesty as does this title. Writer and artist Levy finds her dual diagnoses of Parkinson’s disease and breast cancer wickedly funny and this book is just that…. Anyone faced with uncertainty and struggle in the face of a life-changing disease, personal crisis, or just a bad day will find strength in Levy’s words.” (adpated form Library Journal)

Take the lead : motivate, inspire, and bring out the best in yourself and everyone around you / Betsy Myers with John David Mann.
“From the Oval Office to the playground, cabinet meetings to kitchen tables, in public life and private, Betsy Myers has seen firsthand the emergence of a new leadership model where having all the answers up front is less important than asking the right questions, where strength is derived less from the power you wield than from how you make the people around you feel. With personal stories from her time in government, in academia, and on the campaign trail, as well as her experiences as a wife, daughter, and mother, Myers helps all of us learn to set the right priorities for ourselves; to connect on a deeper level with the people around us; to uncover problems early when they are still easy to fix; to collaborate with those whose points of view are different from our own; and to push through our fears and live our most authentic lives. Myers demonstrates that more than simply making people feel good, this kind of leadership can have a profound effect on the results achieved: it is how initiatives are launched, profits are made, and work gets done. Provocative, practical, and profoundly inspiring, ‘Take the Lead’ is a book for anyone who wonders where all the great leaders have gone. Betsy Myers helps us see that true leadership is all around us and within us.” (Global Books in Print)

What makes love last? : how to build trust and avoid betrayal / John Gottman and Nan Silver.
“Doubts are common in relationships. Partners often worry. Can I trust my partner? Am I being betrayed? How do I know for sure? Based on laboratory findings, this book shows readers how to identify signs, behaviours, and attitudes that indicate betrayal – whether sexual or not – and provides strategies for repairing what may seem lost or broken. With a gift for translating complex scientific ideas into insightful and practical advice, Gottman explains how a couple can protect or recover their greatest gift – their love for one another.” (Book cover)

Add more ~ing to your life : a hip guide to happiness / Gabrielle Bernstein.
“Lots of people are selling ‘happiness’ these days as if it were a marketable commodity. But in her hip self-transformation book, Add More ~ing to Your Life, motivational speaker and life coach Gabrielle Bernstein truly shows you how to make happiness a way of life. Ms Bernstein is bringing happy back. Designed to bulldoze negative thought patterns and create personal change through positive affirmations, physical activity and visualisation meditations, Gabrielle guides the reader to happiness in 30 days through her dynamic ~ing, a proven method of sharpening one’s intuitive senses and activating untapped inspirations. Gabrielle will prepare you to change your life by accessing a state of flow, helping you connect with your ~ing, your inner guide, and readying you to release your limiting beliefs and to choose happiness.” (Global Books in Print)

Self-therapy made easy / Marian Van Eyk McCain.
“This book is written for ordinary, well-adjusted people who like to solve their own problems and deal with their own issues and who are fully capable of doing so. Written by a highly qualified psychotherapist and based on many years of clinical experience and personal practice, it is an informative, inspirational and easy-to-read guide to understanding how the normal, human mind works and how we can all take charge of our own psychological, emotional and spiritual health. By trying out the various practices and techniques in this book you will soon find the ones that suit them best. Most people, once they have been introduced to these methods of ‘inner work’, go on using some or all of them for the rest of their lives to keep themselves inwardly healthy and to further their personal and spiritual growth.” (Book cover)

What makes us tick? : the ten desires that drive us / Hugh Mackay.
“Why do we talk as if we’re rational, but act as if we’re not? Why do some people always want to take control? What is the true role of religion? Why do we seek change, yet resist it? Why do we want more of the things that have failed to satisfy us? Why are we so passionate about sport? Why do we fall out of love? As Australia’s leading social researcher, Hugh Mackay has spent a lifetime of listening to people talk about their dreams, their fears, their hopes, their disappointments and their passions. In a series of bestselling books, he has documented the impact of the changes that have been radically reshaping our society. Now, he reflects on some of the things that don’t change and identitifies ten desires that drive us all. Insightful and engaging, WHAT MAKES US TICK? reveals Mackay’s formidable skills as a chronicler and interpreter of our motivations. In his exploration of why we do the things we do, he goes to the heart of some of life’s big questions.” (Book cover)

Assertiveness : what the most assertive people know, do and say / Dannie Lu Carr.
“Being assertive means that you are self-assured know what you want from life, are happy to stand up for yourself and have the respect of those around you. Do you want to be like this? This book will show you how! Practical and easy to read, it looks at what it means to be assertive in today’s world. As well as containing plenty of exercises and case studies, it also includes a personal plan which can be adapted by you to suit the issues you are facing.” (Global Books in Print)

The creativity cure : a do-it-yourself prescription for happiness / Carrie Barron and Alton Barron.
“Find a happy person, and you will find a project” wrote author and research psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky. In this insightful book, husband-and-wife physicians Carrie and Alton Barron draw upon the latest psychological research, a combined forty years of medical practice, and personal experience to demonstrate the truth of that statement, revealing that creative action is integral to long-term happiness and wellbeing. The five steps of The Creativity Cure – Insight, Movement, Mind Rest, Using Your Own Two Hands, and Mind Shift lead the way to a more meaningful, fulfilling life by simultaneously developing self-understanding and self-expression. With the Barrons’ detailed tools and strategies for cultivating creative outlets, overcoming unconscious fears and barriers to happiness, and linking internal thought to external action, readers will build the mindset and habits for happiness and positive change. They will experience and learn how to sustain the deep satisfaction that accompanies creating something by hand. The perfect self-help book for our handmade, homemade, crafting culture, ‘The Creativity Cure’ has a simple yet profoundly inspirational message: that you can find the authentic, contented life you crave by taking happiness into your own two hands.” (Global Books in Print)

Transforming negative self-talk : practical, effective exercises / Steve Andreas.
“Hearing critical or disapproving internal chatter is a common frustration. It can follow us around daily, calling into question our self-confidence, making us anxious or obsessive, and generally wreaking havoc on our sense of balance and well-being. In this user-friendly guide, an experienced clinician presents an array of original, take-charge exercises, which don’t suggest simply ignoring your ruminations. On the contrary, by learning how to change the way the words are spoken, the location of the voice, its tempo, tone, and volume, and stamp out generalizations, evaluations, and presuppositions, we can gain control of the downbeat voices and use them to our advantage.” – (adapted from Book cover summary)