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Recommendation for the Week of June 30, 2008

Reconciliation: Islam, Democracy, and the West
by: Bhutto, Benazir
954.9105 BHU

"How can anyone govern a country that has two hundred and forty-six different kinds of cheese?” Former French President and wartime leader General Charles de Gaulle.

This book was published posthumously and is an excellent primer for understanding Islam and the challenges of governing a country which cannot reconcile its own faith, much less introduce “democracy and the West.”

The former prime minister of Pakistan explains how Islamic sects and schisms have splintered Pakistan, and why democracy has failed in other countries. She delves into her childhood--she grew up in a political family--and writes fondly of having attended Harvard University, where she was exposed to western-style freedom, freedom of speech, and women’s rights. She also discusses the opposition she has faced, and her thwarted attempts at bringing about “true elections” and not just democracy.  In October 2007, Ms.Bhutto emerged from exile in Dubai and returned to Pakistan, where she was assassinated in December.

- recommended by Kathleen Rivenburg, Flanner House Branch

Recommendation for the Week of June 23, 2008

Ines of My Soul
by: Allende, Isabel
FIC ALL

Ines of My Soul is Isabel Allende’s most recent novel. It is the story of Ines Suarez, a young Spanish woman instrumental in the settlement of Chile. Not much is known about the women who worked to establish the Spanish Empire, but after four years of meticulous research Allende brings the story of this passionate and brave woman to life.

Young Ines left Spain to find her handsome and charming husband who had gone to the Americas in search of adventure. When she arrived in Peru she found that he had died in battle. Devastated, but always resourceful, Ines found a way to support herself and soon met another young soldier, Pedro de Valdivia. They began a long tempestuous affair and together they led an expedition to Chile and founded the city of Santiago. The journey and early years in the settlement were filled with incredible hardship, and many brutal battles with the indigenous Chileans which Allende describes in vivid detail. The difficulty of this life eventually tore Pedro and Ines apart, and she went on to marry someone else.

This is a well-written epic, filled with historic detail, fierce battles and passionate romance--everything you could want in a novel.

- recommended by Brenda Grable, Pike Branch

Recommendation for the Week of June 16, 2008

Slinging Doughnunts for the Boys: An American Woman in World War II
by: Madison, James H.
940.54771 MAD

Elizabeth Richardson was not a Hollywood-style beauty, but she was creative, intelligent, hardworking and courageous. She became an overseas volunteer for the American Red Cross during WWII. I.U. professor James H. Madison heard of Elizabeth Richardson and became curious about her involvement in what was very much a man’s war. His research led him to Liz’s kid brother who still had his sister’s diaries, letters, and paintings. Madison uses these to tell Liz’s story. Although she made and served doughnuts and coffee for thousands of soldiers and attended many military dances and social functions, her real job was to help bolster the morale of the GIs going into and coming back from combat. Even when the volunteers were themselves lonely or homesick, smiles and lipstick were always expected. They provided someone for young men far from home to talk to, and listening was their greatest talent. Because of her abilities, Elizabeth Richardson rose in the Red Cross ranks and was consequently sent closer to danger. Read the rest of her story in Slinging Doughnuts for the Boys.

- recommended by Georgia Silvers, Warren Branch

Recommendation for the Week of June 9, 2008

Much Obliged, Jeeves
by: Wodehouse, P. G.
FIC WOD

Bertie Wooster and his trusty gentleman’s gentleman, Jeeves, are at it again! This was the second to last appearance of the duo, and their tale loses none of the mid-century feel that made them such icons of the British upper class. Because his stories span approximately forty years, Wodehouse thoughtfully allows Bertie to “refresh the readers’ memory” and get newcomers up to speed as the tale unfolds.

Wooster, his usual bumbling but not half-witted self, is thrown into a comedy of identity switching, former fiancé dodging, and multiple marital arranging. Local politics, a purloined porringer and an evening’s dramatic performance mix to make for confusion piled upon confusion. Jeeves’ absence only serves to make life more trying, and, of course, the resolution of the assorted entanglements is only accomplished upon his return.

Not intended for deep hidden meanings, Jeeves and Wooster are the ideal antidote for more modern, troubled times.

- recommended by Gregg Jackson, Southport Branch

Recommendation for the Week of June 2, 2008

Do They Hear You When You Cry?
by: Kassindja, Fauziya
B Kassindja, Fauziya

Fauziya Kassindja’s happy childhood in a well-situated, progressive family in Togo, West Africa evaporated the day her doting father died.  As was custom with her tribe, dad's family took control and began plans for Fauziya's kakia (female genital mutilation) and arranged marriage despite desperate pleas from her powerless mother. On the eve of the terrifying kakia, sixteen year-old Fauziya escaped, with the help of an elder sister.

In her own words, she tells this heartbreaking story of how she fled to the United States seeking political asylum. Immediately, she was sent to federal prison where she languished abused and degraded for several years unable to gain a hearing about her plight, until...  This book is a must-read as our nation debates immigration issues of all types.

- recommended by Donna Foster, Wayne Branch

Recommendation for the Week of May 26, 2008

Marked
by: Cast, P.C.
TEEN FIC CAS

Looking for something to keep you occupied until the next installment of the Twilight Series arrives?  If so, check out Marked, by P.C. and Kristin Cast. This is the story of 16-year-old Zoey Redbird.  Zoey has never really felt that she fit into her "original" life.  Her home life is made difficult by her stepfather, and her school life is complicated by her "not" boyfriend.  Lucky for Zoey, there is an option B that turns out to be just what she needs.

In Zoey's world, there is another type of creature that coexists with the humans. There are those who are marked by the Goddess Nyx for a different path, the vampires.  Once Zoey is marked to enter the House of Night, and to possibly become a vampire, nothing will ever be the same.  Zoey will not only realize the life she has always been destined to lead, but she'll learn the reality of living up to your full potential.  Full of excitement and humor, teens and adults alike will enjoy this work of fiction.

- recommended by Aimee Bittle, Shelby Branch

Recommendation for the Week of May 19, 2008

Disappearing world: 101 of the earth's most extraordinary and endangered places
by: Addison, Alonzo C.
333.95 ADD

What do land use, pollution, tourism, and invasive species have in common? In this coffee-table volume, learn how these issues and others impact 101 of UNESCO's World Heritage sites. UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, by its own definition, "seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity." The listings describe each site and its current challenges, ranging from human conflicts to natural disasters to changing climates. For instance, the Galápagos's popularity as a tourist destination brings roads, pollution, and poaching, which threaten its unique plant and animal species. Discover that China's rapid industrialization and urban sprall are causing not only health-threatening smog, but also acid rain damage to its ancient landmarks. Closer to home, in the Florida Everglades, an invasive and growing population of Burmese pythons have taken up residence. Throughout the book, the accompanying photographs and satellite views help to tell the story of these extraordinary and noteworthy places. Learn a little history and science while exploring the far reaches of the globe.

- recommended by Andrea Glenn, Southport Branch

Recommendation for the Week of May 12, 2008

How I Paid for College: a Novel of Sex, Theft, Friendship and Musical Theater
by: Acito, Marc
FIC A181h

Are you looking for a book that is out of the ordinary and will make you laugh? This one will leave you in hysterics. Acito`s debut novel follows the senior year of  Edward Zanni, who—after his father drops a bombshell on him—finds himself fighting to achieve his dream of attending Juilliard to study acting. Edward has been coasting along without a care in the world when his father, under the influence of his evil Austrian bride-to-be, decides he will not foot the Juilliard bill. Edward and his friends band together to find a way to pay for college. On their crazy adventures Edward discovers his bisexuality, impersonates a priest, and puts a senator's son in an uncompromising position. Edward's life as a typical "Play Person" in the bedroom community of Wallingford, New Jersey becomes a roller coaster adventure that will appeal to teenagers and adults alike.

- recommended by Lindsay Haddix, Pike Branch

Recommendation for the Week of May 5, 2008

Get Yourself in Golf Shape: Year-Round Drills to Build a Strong, Flexible Swing
by: Reid, Cindy
796.3523 REI

With golf season fast approaching, (or long since here for you die-hards!), Cindy Reid’s tips and drills will have you and your golf swing in perfect form to hit the links.  Reid, a former LPGA player who teaches current PGA players, has put her years of knowledge and experience into simple, yet very effective exercises that will help you train your body to execute the perfect swing.  With an easy to use format and lots of pictures, you can practice these drills on and off the course.  And as the title says, you can use Reid’s book year-round; even if you can’t escape the Indiana winters, you can keep your swing, as well as your body, in shape.  Reid will teach you how to improve your swing and elevate your game just by getting your body into “Golf Shape”.

- recommended by Melissa Wooton, Shelby Branch

Recommendation for the Week of April 28, 2008

Tool & Die
by: Graves, Sarah
MYS GRA

The eighth book in the "Home Repair is Homicide" series starring Jacobia "Jake" Tiptree, is a fast paced read through the world of home repair and murder, two subjects which, when thought about, are not that far apart; just ask any man and wife who embark on their own repair projects!  Jake and her best friend Ellie White, long known as the biggest snoops in Eastport, are ready to lend a hand when Jake's housekeeper, Bella, is in need of help. Bella has been getting threatening notes from her ex-husband. Jake and Ellie decide to pay a visit to the ex-husband only to find him dead.  After Bella is arrested for the murder, it is up to Jake and Ellie to do what they do best - snoop.  When not investigating the murder, Jake must continue to work on the restoration of her home and deal with a family reunion and with moose puke in her kitchen!  As a bonus, home repair tips are included in the book.

- recommended by Laura Dixon, Outreach Service Section

Recommendation for the Week of April 21, 2008

Don't Get Too Comfortable: The Indignities of Coach Class, The Torments of Low Thread Count, The Never-Ending Quest for Artisanal Olive Oil, and Other First World Problems
by: Rakoff, David
081 RAK

As the book's subtitle suggests, the author pokes and stabs at a slice of society in which excess is applauded and decadence considered an entitlement.  Witty, sarcastic and self-effacing, Rakoff's collection of essays describes the wastefulness of flight on the Concorde and the silliness of couture fashion shows in Paris.  Despite his irreverence, Rakoff's observations don't stem from santimonious asceticism.  In fact, he writes "It's nice to have nice things.  Creature comfort is not some bourgeois capitalist construct…"  However, he clearly makes the point that just because you can, doesn't necessarily mean you should.

- recommended by Ann Ricciardelli, Central Library

Recommendation for the Week of April 14, 2008

The Thirteenth Tale
by: Setterfield, Diane
FIC SET

Margaret Lea is the daughter of a London bookseller and a passionate book collector herself.  She’s a writer, but just barely, having only published a little-known work about siblings. Out of the blue, mega-famous writer Vida Winter writes Margaret to say that she finally wants someone to write her life story, which has been shrouded in mystery for decades.  In the wilds of North Yorkshire, Margaret conducts a series of  interviews with the terminally ill  Winter, and in her leisure time explores the haunting Angelfield estate, the setting for Vita’s childhood.  Gradually, a host of eccentric characters emerge:  Vita’s strange Uncle Charlie; his enigmatic sister, Isabelle; their star-crossed parents; Isabelle’s twin daughters; the devoted cook and caretaker and a bevy of bewildered governesses. Will Vita have enough time left to reveal the whole story to Margaret?  Is any part of the tale she is telling true?  Are there really ghosts at Angelfield?   A brilliantly written and uttering absorbing gothic first novel by the gifted Setterfield.

- recommended by Emily Talbott, Nora Branch

Recommendation for the Week of April 7, 2008

Dishwasher: One Man’s Quest to Wash Dishes in All 50 States
by: Jordan, Pete
B Jordan, Pete JOR

While growing up an uninspired, lazy punk whose only aspiration was to avoid being tied down to a dreaded 'real job,' writer Pete Jordan came up with what could only be seen as an overly-ambitious slacker mission: his personal goal was to wash dishes in all fifty states.  Pete began his career as a "dish dog" while in college, finding it an easy job to quit without notice.  But the biggest draw was that it was an even easier career in which to find work quickly, with no resumé.  "Dishwasher wanted" signs became the shining beacon in those travels from city to city, state to state.  Jordan originally documented his travels and travails in a photocopied 'zine simply called, "Dishwasher."  His memoir is an engaging, entertaining read that could be an inspiration to those who always wanted to see the world without being tied down to it.

- recommended by Michael Schull, formerly of the Lawrence Branch

Recommendation for the Week of March 31, 2008

Roscoe Turner, Aviation’s Master Showman
by: Glines, Carroll V.
B Turner, Roscoe

Mr. Glines  has never failed to “take me along” on his historical writings.  His biography of Roscoe Turner is no exception.  You might remember Roscoe Turner’s hangar at Weir Cook Airport.  Indianapolis is where Turner made his home following his daredevil days, and this book brings those days to life. Roscoe’s career in the 1920s and 1930s was part flamboyant air racer and part flamboyant advertiser. He frequently flew with a “pet” lion cub named “Gilmore.”  Gilmore also happened to be the name of Turner’s sponsor oil company.  When he wasn’t flying with lions, Turner was winning air races flown in single engine experimental aircraft. Though now largely unremembered, he was a multiple winner of the Bendix and Thompson Trophy races, and in the process set many cross country speed records. His efforts made flying better, safer, and faster for all of us.  Carroll Glines's biography reveals both the super-man and the man.

- recommended by Mike Hylton, Irvington Branch

Recommendation for the Week of March 24, 2008

The Writing on the Wall: Why We Must Embrace China as a Partner or Face It as an Enemy
by: Hutton, Will
303.48273051 HUT

In 1978, China opened its door to the world and initiated a so-called “socialist market economy” under the directions of the late Chairman Deng Xiaoping. From 1978-2006, China’s economy has grown nine times; the average per capita income has increased six times from 1978-2003; and 400 million people were pulled out of poverty from 1981-2001. Has the “socialist market economy” innovation been successful? Can capitalist market economy and socialist system co-exist? Can China continue to grow economically without political reforms? This controversial book presents the central argument that for all China’s success to-date, ultimately the system that the communists have created is structurally unstable. What can the U.S. do if we are to develop a harmonious and prosperous global economy? Hutton’s book is thought-provoking and worth reading whether you have business ventures in China or are interested in that country or in world development.

- recommended by Sailan Liang, Glendale Branch

Recommendation for the Week of March 17, 2008

His Majesty's Dragon
by: Novik, Naomi
FIC NOV

This first novel by Naomi Novik takes a unique look at the concept of the dragon rider.  In her novel dragons are as real as humans, and in Britain they are bred and trained to be the driving force behind the Aerial Corps.  This novel is the first in a historical fantasy series set during the Napoleonic Wars.

Will Laurence, a British Naval Captain, finds himself the accidental aviator in charge of a Chinese dragon he names Temeraire.  After a crash course in dragon handling, he and his crew of aviators must help defend Britain from the ever increasing threat of Napoleon Bonaparte.  The descriptions of battle between formations of dragons are both detailed and exciting.  Laurence and Temeraire’s complex partnership is thought-provoking, as they battle not only France but their own inner conflicts concerning duty, honor, freedom, and loyalty both to their country and each other.

The most fantastic part of this novel is how Novik makes dragons in history so believable.  Not only could they exist, but Novik makes you want to meet one.

- recommended by Emilie Van Sloun, East 38th Street Branch

Recommendation for the Week of March 10, 2008

Enclosure
by: Goldsworthy, Andy
730.942

Sheepfolds, pens for gathering sheep, are not usually considered artistically interesting, unless you’re Andy Goldsworthy.  In a new book, Enclosure, about his “Sheepfolds Project,” he uses stone, wool, feathers, and even peat to create evocative sculptural forms that exist with nature.  His projects are deep appreciations and ways of relating to the earth, not only as nature has formed it, but as humankind has interacted with it.  And, while some of his work does end up in gallery installations, most of it either remains as an often-functional part of the landscape or is dissipated by wind and water.  The focus of this book is an 11-year commissioned project to create sites based on the repair or rebuilding of derelict sheepfolds, no longer used because of modern agricultural practices.  In his hands, they become intricate and fascinating pieces of sculpture in themselves.  Startling, mysterious, intricate, and beautiful – this is a real treat for the eye and the soul.

- recommended by Kathy Barnard, Selection Service Section

Recommendation for the Week of March 3, 2008

The Dead Secret
by: Collins, Willkie
FIC C71344d

Wilkie Collins, now an obscure literary figure to most readers, is considered by some to be one of the fathers of the modern mystery; and The Dead Secret, originally published as a serial in 1857, does present a mystery. It opens with a deathbed scene and the disclosure that Sarah Leeson, lady's maid, has a tragic secret--and that her mistress (who is dying) shares the secret. With her dying words, Mrs. Treverton forces Sarah to write the secret in a letter that she wants her husband to have. But she dies before she can force Sarah to swear to give the letter to her master. The secret has to do with Mrs. Treverton's daughter, surely; but Sarah runs away and the story jumps fifteen years ahead to the daughter's marriage. The story's original format leaves the book with lots of cliffhangers as we puzzle out the secret and how its knowledge will change the characters' lives. This was a book that I closed a little sadly, wishing that the journey could continue a little longer.

- recommended by Katherine Rowland, Franklin Road Branch

Recommendation for the Week of February 25, 2008

The Republic
by: Plato
321.07 PLA

In the time of primaries, it can be a pleasure to feel yourself really thinking. Try reading one chapter of an ancient classic: Book 1 from Plato's Republic - less than forty pages. Socrates asks his friends, "What is justice"? Everyone has an answer: Pay your debts. Be generous to friends and pay back your enemies. Most disturbing of all - whatever the ruler says, because might makes right. Socrates' hard questions demonstrate that such platitudes, even cynical ones, are wrong. But then, after really thinking, we still cannot say what justice is. As with politics, is there no substance? But Plato is not done. He has answers. (In Books 2 - 10.) One that feels true: justice is creating a just society - it can't be reduced to being a fair-minded individual. We hope that Plato's other answer is false: surely we don't need a ruler to get justice? Following Socrates in Book 1, the time of primaries could be ideal for his hard questions: What is - "change?" Or "experience?" Or "faith" within government?

- recommended by David Vaprin, Eagle Branch

Recommendation for the Week of February 18, 2008

Blood and Thunder: An Epic of the American West
by: Sides, Hampton
978.02 SID

The author follows the almost mythical life of the explorer and scout, Kit Carson, to tell a larger story--the conquest of the American West. It’s hard to imagine one person being involved in so many important events, but as the author states, Carson seems to have “been everywhere, met everyone.” He played a crucial role as guide for the army during the conquest of New Mexico and California. He led campaigns against the powerful Navajo nation.  He even helped repel a Confederate invasion of the new territory. Well documented yet very entertaining, this is a great book for those wishing to learn more about this important time (1846-1868).  Readers will gain an understanding of what life was like for the many groups of people caught up in the growth of our country.  This is also an amazing account of a larger-than-life but very real American legend.

- recommended by Mark Kincaid, Decatur Branch

Recommendation for the Week of February 11, 2008

The Book Thief
by: Zusak, Marcus
FIC ZUS

This poignant and compelling read is by an Australian author who uses Death as the protagonist during the Holocaust, observing astute young Liesel Meminger and her  foster family, neighbors, and the Jewish man they hide for months in their basement. One of the themes is the power of words, so it’s fitting that much of the prose involves bittersweet humor, keen observation, and beautiful description. For example, one character is described as having eyes "made of kindness, and silver," and wearing "a face with the shades pulled down." Death, the philosopher who removes many a soul, is also not without feeling, irony, and a sense of humor, with observations such as: "I like this human idea of the grim reaper. I like the scythe. It amuses me." Zusak, author of the earlier I Am The Messenger, notes on his website that he was inspired by stories of his parents’ youth when he began to craft The Book Thief. The result is an engrossing read for young adults through adult age range.

- recommended by Diane Palguta, College Avenue Branch

Recommendation for the Week of February 4, 2008

Grace After Midnight: A Memoir
by: Pearson, Felicia
791.45028 Pearson PEA

Felicia “Snoop” Pearson should be a statistic. Born in Baltimore to a crack-addicted mother, she weighed three pounds and was cross-eyed at birth.  Foster grandparents in their sixties adopted her soon after, and provided a stable family life. Observant, intelligent, and athletic, Felicia tired of school and became drawn to the street, where life can end in an instant, and survival depends on knowing the players on every corner. Meanwhile, she realized that she was gay. Named Snoop by a drug dealer, “Uncle,” she entered the drug business at age eight, and by age fifteen, was sentenced to eight years in the penitentiary for killing a woman in self-defense. Learning of Uncle’s death while she was serving time caused her to reflect on her life and make changes. After her release from the penitentiary, she was cast as a remorseless assassin in HBO’s critically-acclaimed series The Wire. This honest and unapologetic memoir is a testament to a life reinvented.

- recommended by Beth Baker Schoch, African-American History Committee

Recommendation for the Week of January 28, 2008

Retire Downtown : The Lifestyle Destination for Active Retirees and Empty Nesters
by: Ezell, Kyle
646.79 EZE

Thinking of retirement? Have you ever considered yourself a potential Ruppie (Retired Urban Person)? If the idea of moving to a faraway tropical island doesn’t appeal to you, but the idea of being in the center of cultural, sports and dining opportunities does, then Retire Downtown may be just what you need. Kyle Ezell discusses 20 of America’s best retirement downtowns. These are cities where the downtowns are thriving with growing populations, and Indianapolis is included in the section on Four-Season Downtowns. Each section explores five reasons that make the city’s downtown a good location to consider. Target retirement districts and neighborhoods are described along with downtown essentials. The author provides information on general statistics, housing costs and taxes plus health, education and library facilities. He also sites volunteering, entertainment, transportation and shopping opportunities.  Web site addresses are included with many of the citations. This source will help you learn about the most dynamic downtowns in America.

- recommended by Rod Burkett, East Washington Branch

Recommendation for the Week of January 21, 2008

The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Caught
by: Jackson, Neta
FIC JAC

Jodi Baxter and her fellow Yada Yada sisters find themselves facing even more challenges than before. This group of 12 extremely diverse women met when they were assigned to a prayer group at a women's conference in their hometown of Chicago. In the past 4 books in this series we have seen how these women became the best of friends as they supported each other through the challenges and crises in their lives. In book 5, recovering from a recent crime meant to sow hatred and anger, the Yada Yadas find themselves merging a white church and an African-American church in an effort to show the unity of their faith in the face of such animosity. The pitfalls they face only serve to make them stronger as they learn where their strength truly comes from.

- recommended by Suzy Heilman, Franklin Road Branch