New Nonfiction Books – April 2010

Ancient Greece: A History in Eleven Cities Paul Cartledge, 938 CAR 2009 – Ancient Greek civilization was defined by the city—around 1,000 cities then existed. This is its most enduring legacy along with the concepts of aristocracy, oligarchy, tyranny and democracy.

As If an Enemy’s Country: The British Occupation of Boston and the Origins of Revolution Richard Archer, 973.3 ARC 2010 – On October 1, 1768, British troops landed in Boston and occupied the city for seventeen months.  The presence of these troops caused a symbolic and psychological shift of profound consequence.

The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine Michael Lewis, 330.973 LEW 2010 – When the crash of the U.S. Stock market became public knowledge in the fall of 2008, it was already old news.  The real crash had already taken place in the bond and real estate derivative markets.

Blood, Iron, and Gold: How the Railroads Transformed the World Christian Wolmar, 385.09 WOL 2010 – The railroad truly marked the dawn of a new age.  The birth of the railroads changed the face of the world and the way people lived.

Chasing the White Dog: An Amateur Outlaw’s Adventures in Moonshine Max Watman, 363.41 WAT 2010 – A lively look at the characters who make up white whiskey’s lore throughout American history.  The story begins in Monongahela, PA where drunk and armed outlaws gathered in the summer of 1794.

Country Driving: A Journey Through China from Farm to Factory Peter Hessler, 951.96 HES 2010 – A look at the new China as the automobile and new roads are transforming the nation.  Over a period of years, the author drove 7,000 miles through cities and rural areas.  Fascinating.

The Devil and Sherlock Holmes David Grann, 814.6 GRA 2010 – The author of The Lost City of Z relates his attemps to solve a dozen real-life mysteries.

Flawless: Inside the Largest Diamond Heist in History Scott Andrew Selby and Greg Campbell, 364.162 SEL 2010 – The Antwerp Diamond Center was one of the most secure buildings in the world.  On February 15, 2003, Italian thieves made off with at least half a billion dollars in diamonds, cash and valuables.

For the Soul of France: Culture Wars in the Age of Dreyfus Frederick Brown, 944.081 BRO 2010 – A look at the twilight years of the nineteenth century and the decades-long struggle in France, following its defeat by Prussia in 1871.

Freefall: America, Free Markets, and the Sinking of the World Economy Joseph Stiglitz, 330.973 STI 2010 – The Nobel Prize-winning author traces the origins of the Great Recession and demolishes the contention that America needs more bailouts.   A look ahead at choices that can make a difference.

The Hidden Brain: How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Control Markets, Wage Wars, and Save Our Lives Shankar Vedantam, 154.2 VED 2010 – What if our actions are driven, not by our conscious values and beliefs, but by hidden motivations we are not even aware of?

Jane’s Fame: How Jane Austen Conquered the World Claire Harman, 823.7 HAR 2010 – A look at the wondrous world of Jane Austen.

Making Rounds with Oscar:  The Extraordinary Gift of an Ordinary Cat David Rosa, 636.8 DOS 2010 – It seemed that Oscar was an ordinary cat when he arrived at the Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Rhode Island.  But he possesses an extraordinary gift.

Manufacturing Depression: The Secret History of a Modern Disease Gary Greenberg, 362.25 GRE 2010 – Many people ask themselves if their unhappiness is a disease that can, and should, be treated by medication. The author presents an insightful look at this question based on his experiences as a psychotherapist and as a depression patient.

Megadisasters: The Science of Predicting the Next Catastrophe Florin Diacu,904.5 DIA 2010 – Catastrophes catch us by surprise.  Here’s a look at the groundbreaking science behind the efforts to forecast major disasters and minimize their destruction.

No Apology: The Case for American Greatness Mitt Romney, 320.6 ROM 2010 – The former Massachusetts governor outlines his ideas for a renewed America.

No One Would Listen: A True Financial Thriller  Harry Markopolos, 364.16 MAR 2010 – For ten years, the author and his investigative team tried to warn the government, the financial industry and the press that the largest hedge fund in history was a total fraud.  He warned that Bernie Madoff was a crook, but could find no one who would listen.

The Poisoner’s Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York Deborah Blum, 614.13 BLU 2010 – In early-twentieth-century New York, poisons offered an easy path to the perfect crime. The appointment of chief medical examiner Charles Norris in 1918 was the beginning of  the discipline of forensics.

Storms of My Grandchildren: The Truth About the Coming Climate Catastrophe and Our Last Chance to Save Humanity James Hansen,363.738 HAN 2009 – A leading scientist states that climate change is happening more rapidly than previously acknowledged.

That Crumpled Paper Was Due Last Week:  Helping Disorganized and Distracted Boys Succeed in School and Life Ana Homayoun, 649.132 HOM 2010 – The author, an academic counselor who has helped unfocused boys learn how to consistently meet their personal and academic challenges, explains how to get back to the basics.

The Tudors: The Complete Story of England’s Most Notorious Dynasty G. J. Meyer, 942.05 MEY 2010 – The reality, in all its wild excesses, of the young Henry Tudor, who claimed the throne in 1485 and his descendants, including the notorious Henry VIII and the remarkable Elizabeth I.

The Vikings: A History Robert Ferguson, 948.022 FER 2009 – Legend and fact from the distant age of the mysterious and violent Scandinavian Vikings.

Voodoo Histories: The Role of the Conspiracy Theory in Shaping Modern History David Aaronovitch, 909.826 AAR 2010 – An insightful examination of a dozen modern-day conspiracies.  Read this one along with American Conspiracies by Jesse Ventura.

Water: The Epic Struggle for Wealth, Power, and Civilization Steven Solomon, 333.91 SOL 2010 – The control of water wealth throughout history has been pivotal to the rise and fall of great powers, the achievements of civilization and the quality of  the lives of ordinary people.

You Say More Than You Think: A 7-Day Plan for Using the New Body Language to Get What You Want Janine Driver with Mariska Van Aalst, 153.69 DRI 2010 – What does your body say to the outside world?  How do your actions help, or hurt, you?

New Non-Fiction Books – March 2010

Americans in Paris: Life and Death Under Nazi Occupation Charles Glass, 944.0816 GLA 2010 – Life under the Nazis as experienced by the Americans who lived in Paris from the spring of 1940 to liberation in the summer of 1944.

Bluebird: Women and the New Psychology of Happiness Ariel Gore, 305.42 GOR 2010 – Can a woman be smart, empowered and happy?

The Checklist Manifesto:  How to Get Things Right Atul Gawande, 610.28 GAW 2009 – A noted writer and surgeon states that we can do better and find solutions to complex situations through the lowly checklist.

Danger to Self: On the Front Line with an ER Psychiatrist Paul R. Linde, 616.89 LIN 2010 – A look behind the scenes at an urban psychiatric emergency room with all its chaos and pathos.

Daring Young Men: The Heroism and Triumph of the Berlin Airlift, June 1948-May 1949 Richard Reeves, 943.155 REE 2010 – The airmen of World War II returned to emergency active duty to save the desperate people of western Berlin.

Death of American Virtue: Clinton vs. Starr Ken Gormley, 973.929 GOR 2010 – An extensive history of the polarizing scandal that almost terminated the Clinton presidency.

Diabetes Rising: How a Rare Disease Became a Modern Pandemic, and What To Do About It Dan Hurley, 616.462 HUR 2010 – A penetrating look at a disease that now affects hundreds of millions of people around the world.

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us Daniel H. Pink, 153.1534 PIN 2009 – What really motivates us?  Is it an external reward such as money?

Eternity Soup: Inside the Quest to End Aging Greg Critser, 613.2 CRI 2010 – An intriguing look at the multibillion dollar anti-aging industry.

Evidence of the Afterlife: The Science of Near Death Experiences Jeffrey Long with Paul Perry, 133.9013 LON 2010 – Dr. Long presents firsthand accounts of people who have died and lived to tell about it. The author has recorded hundreds of stories and examined remarkable similarities.

A Good Talk: The Story and Skill of Conversation Daniel Menaker, 302.346 MEN 2010 – An entertaining examination of how to enjoy the fine art of social conversation.

The History of the Medieval World: From the Conversion of Constantine to the First Crusade Susan Wise Bauer, 909.07 BAU 2010 – A comprehensive look at world history, and the new importance of religion, between the fourth and twelfth centuries.

If God Is Good: Faith In the Midst of Suffering and Evil Randy Alcorn, 231.8 ALC 2009 – A penetrating discussion of a fundamental human question:  “How can we reconcile a good and all-powerful God with the terrible evil and suffering we see in this world?”

Inside the Teenage Brain: Parenting a Work in Progress Sheryl Feinstein, 649.125 FEI 2009 – A look at teenagers through the recent discoveries of the evolving adolescent brain.

Lady Jane Grey: A Tudor Mystery Eric Ives, 942.053 IVE 2009 – A penetrating look at the mysteries surrounding the “nine days queen.”

The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy Are Surviving and Thriving Robert Spector, 381.14 SPE 2009 – A moving celebration of independent neighborhood shops, and of the vision, passion and persistence of their owners.

My Prison, My Home: One Woman’s Story of Captivity in Iran Haleh Esfandiari, 955.0544 ISF 2009 – As she was returning home to the United States, an Iranian-American woman was arrested for being part of an “American conspiracy.”

Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea Barbara Demick, 306.095 DEM 2009 – A view into North Korea, as seen through the eyes of six ordinary citizens over the span of fifteen chaotic years.

The Power of Half: One Family’s Decision to Stop Taking and Start Giving Back Kevin Salwen and Hannah Salwen, 174 SAL 2010 – A family from Atlanta decided to sell their mansion and buy a house half its size, and give half of the sale price to a worthy charity. Could half be even more?

The Quants: How a New Breed of Math Whizzes Conquered Wall Street and Nearly Destroyed It Scott Patterson, 322.645 PAT 2010 – The story of four men whose “digitized money-trading machine that could shift billions around the globe with the click of a mouse” sowed the seeds for the unprecedented financial disaster.

The Routes of Man: How Roads Are Changing the World and the Way We Live ToDay Ted Conover, 388.1 CON 2010 – An enthusiastic exploration of six key roadways worldwide.  A look at the costs and benefits of being connected — from ancient Rome to the present.

The Science of Liberty Timothy Ferris, 303.483 FER 2010 – The author argues that the progress of science was the inspiration behind the rise of democracy and liberalism.

Sonic Boom: Globalization at Mach Speed Gregg Easterbrook, 330.9 EAS 2009 – The author looks at the sonic boom economy: an explosive time of unprecedented growth and change that will also create anxiety and stress.

The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century  Ian Mortimer, 942.03 MOR 2010 – Important facets of everyday life are shown in this down-to-earth study of the 1300’s.

The Twilight Years: The Paradox of Britain Between the Wars Richard Overy, 941.083 OVE 2009 – During the years between the wars, Britain, although intellectually vibrant, faced “a creeping fear that the West was staring down the end of civilization.”

An Uncommon Passage:  Traveling Through History on the Great Allegheny Passage Trail Edited by Edward K. Muller, 974.87 UNC 2009 – An uncommon book about an important feature of Western Pennsylvania history.

Why Boys Fail: Saving Our Sons from an Educational System That’s Leaving Them Behind Richard Whitmire, 370.154 WHI 2010 – A penetrating and insightful look at a misunderstood and ignored problem. The author looks at the issues and then addresses what actually works for boys.

You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up: A Love Story Annabelle Gurwitch and Jeff Kahn, 306.81 GUR 2010 – After thirteen years of being married, the authors found that “we’re just not that into us.”  Instead of giving up, they’ve held their relationship together by ignoring conventional wisdom.

New Nonfiction Books – August 2009

The Accidental Billionaires: The Founding of Facebook, a Tale of Sex, Money, Genius and Betrayal Ben Mezrich, 338.761 MEZ 2009 – Two Harvard undergraduates looking for a way to win social success, hacked into the university’s computer system.  The framework for Facebook was born in a Harvard dorm room.

The Age of the Unthinkable: Why the New World Disorder Constantly Surprises Us and What We Can Do About It Joshua Cooper Ramo, 973.931 RAM 2009 – How to thrive in a world of unpredictability.

American Passage: The History of Ellis Island Vincent J. Cannato, 325.7 CAN 2009 – Between 1892 to 1924 over twelve million immigrants passed through the gates at Ellis Island.

And Then the Roof Caved In: How Wall Street’s Greed and Stupidity Brought Capitalism to Its Knees David Faber, 332.63 FAB 2009 – The author relates the story behind the economic crisis: the defining theme of which has been greed, coupled with the regulatory failure of the government.

Busted: Life Inside the Great Mortgage Meltdown Edmund L. Andrews, 332.722 AND 2009 – Even as a New York Times economics reporter, the author succumbed to the temptation of subprime lending and became part of the economic catastrophe.

Empire of Illusion: The End of Literacy and the Triumph of Spectacle Chris Hedges, 302.23 HED 2009 – The author asserts that a culture that cannot distinguish between reality and illusion dies; the society that retreats into fantasy will eventually turn to demagogues and charlatans.

Escape from Cubicle Nation: From Corporate Prisoner to Thriving Entrepreneur Pamela Slim,658.11 SLI 2009 – How to make a getaway from the corporate grind.

The Evolution of God Robert Wright, 200.9 WRI 2009 – The author presents a sweeping journey through history and the development of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

A Failure of Capitalism: The Crisis of ‘08 and the Descent Into Depression Richard A. Posner, 330.973 POS 2009 – The author presents a non-technical examination of the current financial disaster and the efforts to cope with it.

Halfway to Heaven: My White-knuckled and Knuckleheaded Quest for the Rocky Mountain High Mark Obmascik, 796.522 OMB  2009 – A look inside the culture of the mountaineering obsessives who try scaling all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000-foot mountains in one year, to become part of an elite group known as the  Fourteneers.

Holy Roller: Finding Redemption and the Holy Ghost in a Forgotten Texas Church Julie Lyons, 289.9 LYO 2009 – An inspiring story of a journalists firsthand investigation into the results of faith and prayer in the lives of society’s overlooked people.

Horse Soldiers: The Extraordinary Story of a Band of U.S. Soldiers Who Rode to Victory in Afghanistan Doug Stanton, 958.1047 STA 2009 – The dramatic account of a small band of Special Forces soldiers who secretly entered Afghanistan following 9/11 and rode to war on horses against the Taliban.

How the Mighty Fall: And Why Some Companies Never Give In Jim Collins, 338.7 COL 2009 – Every institution is vulnerable to decline, but it can be avoided. By the author of Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t.

How Rome Fell Adrian Goldsworthy, 937.09 GOL 2009 – During the second century, the Roman Empire controlled most of the known world.  By the end of the fifth century, the empire had disintegrated, a shadow of its former might.

The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects Dyan Sudjic, 745.401 SUD 2009 – An informative look at the intersection between art, design, and commerce.

The Last Best Hope: Restoring Conservatism and America’s Promise Joe Scarborough, 320.52 SCA 2009 – A new take on the nation’s political and economic situation.

Packing the Court: The Rise of Judicial Power and the Coming Crisis of the Supreme Court James MacGregor Burns, 347.7326 BUR 2009 – A penetrating look at the nation’s top court by a noted author.

Portfolios of the Poor: How the World’s Poor Live on $2 a Day Daryl Collins, et.al., 339.46 POR 2009 – About 40% of the world’s people live on incomes of $2.00 a day or less. How do the poor find solutions to living on such an amount? A thoughtful report on the “bottom billion.”

Renegade: The Making of a President Richard Wolffe, 324.973 WOL 2009 – The story of how a political newcomer with no money became the world’s most powerful leader.

Rocket Men: The Epic Story of the First Men on the Moon Craig Nelson, 629.45 NEL 2009 – The dramatic story of the first trip to the moon aboard the 30-story-high Apollo II-Saturn V spaceship.

Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry Into the Value of Work Matthew B. Crawford, 331 CRA 2009 – The author discusses the experience that was once quite common: the activity of making and fixing things with our hands.

Soul Survivor: The Reincarnation of a World War II Fighter Pilot Bruce and Andrea Leininger, 133.90135 LEI 2009 – The parents of James Leininger were puzzled and disturbed by the nightmares their two-year-old son was having.  They set out on a journey of discovery that led to one conclusion.

Stay Close: A Mother’s Story of Her Son’s Addiction Libby Cataldi, 362.29 CAT 2009 – The poignant story of a mother’s love and her struggles with her son’s drug addiction.

Strokes of Genius: Federer, Nadal, and the Greatest Match Ever Played L. Jon Wertheim, 796.342 WER 2009 – All the details of the classic tennis match between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal on July 6, 2008.

The Third Reich at War Richard J. Evans, 940.53 EVA 2009 – A narrative of the war along with the personal stories from a wide range of people during the rise and demise of German military might.

The Whole Five Feet: What the Great Books Taught Me About Life, Death, and Pretty Much Everything Else Christopher R. Beha, 011.73 BEH 2009 – The Harvard Classics were compiled a century ago by Charles Eliot.  The author decides to revisit these classic books over the course of a year.

You Are Here: Why We Can Find Our Way to the Moon, but Get Lost in the Mall Colin Ellard, 153.752 ELL 2009 – How has modern culture become so directionally challenged?

New Nonfiction – March 2009

A Jury of Her Peers: American Women Writers from Anne Bradstreet to Annie Proulx Elaine Showalter, 810.9 SHO 2009A comprehensive history of American women writers from 1650 to 2000. Well known writers as well as more obscure authors are highlighted.

Blank Spots on the Map: The Dark Geography of the Pentagon’s Secret World Trevor Paglen, 355.3432 PAG 2009 – The author undertakes a road trip to investigate the U.S. military and CIA “black ops” sites.

A Case for the Existence of God Dean L. Overman, 212 OVE 2009 -Why is there something rather than nothing?

The Difference: How Anyone Can Prosper in Even the Toughest Times Jean Chatzky, 332.024 CHA 2009 FIN – The financial coach shares her research into the similarities among the self-made wealthy.

Einstein’s Telescope: The Hunt for Dark Matter and Dark Energy in the Universe Evalyn Gates, 523.1126 GAT 2009 – Astronomers are using the theory of Einstein in ways that allow them to view the invisible aspects of the universe. Exciting research that is pursuing one of science’s great mysteries.

Embracing the Wide Sky: A Tour Across the Horizons of the Mind Daniel Tammet, 612.82 TAM 2009The author of Born on a Blue Day who has autistic savant syndrome, discusses the similarities between his thinking abilities and the kind that we all do.

Enough Already: Clearing Mental Clutter to Become the Best You Peter Walsh, 646.7 WAL 2009 – How to deal with the overwhelming “stuff” in our lives.

Expect to Win: Proven Strategies for Success from a Wall Street Vet Carla A. Harris, 650.1 HAR 2009 – The Wall Street superstar relates her “key survival tools” to those who are advancing their careers.

Eyes on the Horizon: Serving on the Front Lines of National Security Richard B. Myers, 355.0092 MYE 2009With an insider’s view of the war on terror, the author presents a  plan to prepare the United States for challenges in the 21st century.

The Face on Your Plate: The Truth About Food Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson, 641.306 MAS 2009The prolific author provides insight into the psychological factors that influence decisions about what we eat and why.

Fight for Your Money: How to Stop Getting Ripped Off and Save a Fortune David Bach, 332.024 BAC 2009 FIN – The author of the Automatic Millionaire explains how to take on the “corporate machines.”

Freedom in My Heart: Voices from the United States National Slavery Museum 306.362 FRE 2008 – Never-before-seen artifacts, images and documents that trace the history of slavery in North America are presented.

In Search of Our Roots: How 19 Extraordinary African Americans Reclaimed Their Past Henry Louis Gates, Jr., 973.0496 GAT 2009 -In tracing their family’s past, most African Americans face a series of daunting, but not insurmountable, obstacles.

The Inheritance: The World Obama Confronts and the Challenges to American Power David E. Sanger, 327.73 SAN 2009 – An intelligence briefing on the world America faces from a noted Washington journalist.

Is God a Mathematician? Mario Livio, 510 LIV 2009 – How can mathematics accurately describe and even predict the world around us?

Legacy of Secrecy: The Long Shadow of the JFK Assassination Lamar Waldron, 973.922 WAL 2008An extensive look at the cover-ups and conspiracies surrounding the Kennedy assassination.

Lords of Finance: The Bankers Who Broke the World Liaquat Ahamed, 332.1092 AHA 2009 – Four men, four banks and the economic collapse of the 1920’s.

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon David Grann, 918.1 GRA 2009 – A mystery that reaches back centuries and a sensational disappearance are featured in this tale of death and madness.

Meltdown: A Free-Market Look at Why the Stock Market Collapsed, the Economy Tanked, and Government Bailouts Will Make things Worse Thomas E. Woods, 332.4 WOO 2009Are the culprits in the collapse of housing values and stocks located on Wall Street or in Washington?

Moments of Clarity: Voices from the Front Lines of Addiction and Recovery Christopher Kenney Lawford, 606.86 LAW 2009 – What finally forces any person to choose life over death?  The author of Symptoms of Withdrawal presents the stories of others who have confronted and triumphed over addiction.

The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century George Friedman, 303.49 FRI 2009 – What are the changes we can expect during the twenty-first century?

The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of America’s Favorite Planet Neil DeGrasse Tyson, 523.49 TYS 2009 – The story of the extraterrestrial underdog.

Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People Ken Watanabe, 153.43 WAT 2009 – How good are you at solving real-world problems?

The Return of Depression Economics and the Crisis of 2008 Paul Krugman, 330.9 KRU 2009 -Is a replay of the 1930’s possible? A Nobel prize winner presents his informed opinion.

Talent is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from Everybody Else Geoff Colvin, 153.9 COL 2008 – What is the solution to the mystery of high performance?

A Tolerable Anarchy: Rebels, Reactionaries, and the Making of American Freedom Jedidiah Purdy, 320.973 PUR 2009 -An examination of the nature and concept of freedom that is at the heart of American identity.

The Triple Bind: Saving Our Teenage Girls from Today’s Pressures Stephen Hinshaw with Rachel Kranz, 155.533 HIN 2009 – The opportunities available to today’s young women are accompanied by stresses from conflicting messages.

Why Evolution Is True Jerry A. Coyne, 576.8 COY 2009 – An accessible summary of the facts supporting the Darwinian concept of evolution.

Why We Make Mistakes: How We Look Without Seeing, Forget things in Seconds, and Are All Pretty Sure We Are Way Above Average Joseph T. Hallinan, 153 HAL 2009 – Why do we make mistakes? Could we do a little better?

New Nonfiction – February 2009

Angels and Ages: A Short Book about Darwin, Lincoln, and Modern Life Adam GopnikTwo babies were born on February 12, 1809 an ocean apart. One in a log cabin. The other on an English country estate.

Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson – The animal scientist and autism advocate looks at the way animals are treated and explains what animals want and need.

Banquet at Delmonico’s: Great Minds, the Gilded Age, and the Triumph of Evolution in America Barry Werth – An inside look at the circle of philosophers, scientists, politicians and businessmen who brought Darwin’s ideas to America in the years after the Civil War.

The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the Age of Obama Gwen Ifill – The veteran journalist provides an introduction to emerging African American politicians and the impact of the election of Barack Obama.

The Decline and Fall of the British Empire, 1781-1997 Piers Brendon – A sweeping chronicle of the far-reaching British Empire following the American Revolution.

Disquiet, Please! More Humor Writing from The New Yorker David Remnick and Henry Finder, eds. – Amusing essays from the pages of the noted magazine. Every Living Thing: Man’s Obsessive Quest to Catalog Life, from Nanobacteria to New Monkeys Rob Dunn – A look at the exhilarating quest to study the natural world.

Fifty Miles from Tomorrow: A Memoir of Alaska and the Real People William L. Iġġiaġruk Hensley – This memoir of a native Alaskan recounts his upbringing and the formation of the Northwest Alaska Native Association and its work to protect the rights of the people who have called Alaska home for thousands of years.

God in the Foxhole: Inspiring True Stories of Miracles on the Battlefield Charles W. Sasser – A collection of true personal accounts from generations of American soldiers whose faith has been born or transformed under fire.

History’s Greatest Heist: The Looting of Russia by the Bolsheviks Sean McMeekin – How did the Bolsheviks manage to stay in power? During the early years the Russian Revolution was financed largely through artistic thievery.

How to Live: A Search for Wisdom from Old People (While They Are Still on This Earth) Henry Alford – The author interviews famous and/or accomplished people over seventy in this witty search for enlightenment.

The Little Book of Bull Moves in Bear Markets: How to Keep Your Portfolio Up When the Market Is Down Peter D. Schiff – How to protect your assets and invest your money.

Living Rich for Less: Create the Lifestyle You Want by Giving, Saving, and Spending Smart: How You Can Save $30,000 This Year Ellie Kay – New tips for saving during tough times.

The Longevity Factor: How Resveratrol and Red Wine Activate Genes for a Longer and Healthier Life Joseph Maroon – The noted Pittsburgh neuroscientist explains the recent scientific advances that have identified the natural substances that will promote health and longevity.

Making It All Work: Winning at the Game of Work and the Business of Life David Allen – Following up on his previous book, Getting Things Done, the author explains how to figure out where you are in life and how to get where you want to be going.

Note To Self: 30 Women on Hardship, Humiliation, Heartbreak and Overcoming It All Lessons learned from defining moments form the basis of these inspirational stories.

Nothing to Fear: FDR’s Inner Circle and the Hundred Days that Created Modern America Adam Cohen – An account of the critical first days of FDR’s presidency during the worst time of the Great Depression.

Positivity: Groundbreaking Research Reveals How to Embrace the Hidden Strength of Positive Emotions, Overcome Negativity, and Thrive Barbara L. Fredrickson – What is positivity? Can it transform our lives?

The Power of Less: the Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life Leo Babauta – Simple steps to help individuals increase productivity and efficiency and learn to work simply.

Racing Odysseus: A College President Becomes a Freshman Again Roger H. Martin – After surviving cancer, the author in enrolled in St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland as a 61-year-old freshman.

Rich Like Them: My Door-to-Door Search for the Secrets of Wealth in America’s Richest Neighborhoods Ryan D’Agostino – The author knocked on 500 doors in nearly two dozen of the most affluent towns in America to discover insights into what it means to have money and how to get it.

So Damn Much Money: The Triumph of Lobbying and the Corrosion of American Government Robert G. Kaiser – The author discusses how the increased growth of lobbying has had negative effects on politics and government.

Split: A Memoir of Divorce Suzanne Finnamore – On a list for one of a “best books of 2008,” this title captures the reality of one woman’s life after those four words: “I want a divorce.”

Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street Michael Davis – The saga of the influential and long-lasting children’s program.

The Third Chapter: Passion, Risk, and Adventure in the 25 Years After 50 Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot – A new look at a time of potential change, growth and new learning for older individuals.

The Time Paradox: The New Psychology of Time That Will Change Your Life Philip Zimbardo and John Boyd – There are seven common ways that people relate to time, each of which create benefits and pitfalls. The authors relate a plan for optimizing your time perspectives.

The World is Curved: Hidden Dangers to the Global Economy David M Smick – The author contends that the mortgage mess is a symptom of potentially more devastating trouble.

New Nonfiction – September 2008

Ahead of the Curve: Two Years at Harvard Business School Philip Delves Broughton – A Harvard MBA has been the golden ticket to American business. The author relates his experiences at this vaunted institution.

The Billionaire’s Vinegar: The Mystery of the World’s Most Expensive Bottle of WineBenjamin Wallace – In 1985, in an auction by Christie’s, a 1787 bottle of Bordeaux was sold for $156,000 to a member of the Forbes family.

Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School John Medina – What scientists know about how our brain works and how that can affect our daily lives.

Catching Life by the Throat: How to Read Poetry and Why: Poems from Eight Great Poets Josephine Hart – An introduction to eight great poets that includes a CD featuring readings by notable actors.

Crazy Good: The True Story of Dan Patch, the Most Famous Horse in America Charles Leerhsen – A hundred years ago, the most famous athlete in America was a horse and became the first celebrity sports endorser.

Descent Into Chaos: The United States and the Failure of Nation Building in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia Ahmed Rashid – A Pakistani journalist reports the situation surrounding the United States’ involvement in Central Asia.

For the Thrill of It: Leopold, Loeb, and the Murder that Schocked Chicago Simon Baatz – The brutal murder of a child in Chicago, 1924, became a riveting trial in a city on the brink of anarchy.

The Forger’s Spell: A True Story of Vermeer, Nazis, and the Greatest Art Hoax of the Twentieth Century Edward Dolnick – A true story of Johannes Vermeer and the Dutch painter who impersonated him centuries after his death.

The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully Joan Chittister – The noted spiritual writer reviews the challenges and rewards of aging.

Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba…and Then Lost it to the Revolution T.J. English – The true tale of organized crime, political corruption and roaring nightlife that preceded the Cuban Revolution.

The House on First Street: My New Orleans Story Julia Reed – Fifteen years after falling in love with New Orleans, the author bought a house in the Garden District. Four weeks later, Hurricane Katrina struck.

Iroquois Diplomacy on the Early American Frontier Timothy J. Shannon – The story of the intricate political maneuvering that the Iroquois employed to maintain their way of life against the onslaught of colonial settlers.

Lost on Planet China: The Strange and True Story of One Man’s Attempt to Understand the World’s Most Mystifying Nation, or How He Became Comfortable Eating Live Squid J. Maarten Troost – The complex, fascinating country is viewed through entertaining lens.

Love as a Way of Life: Seven Keys to Transforming Every Aspect of Your Life Gary Chapman – The author of The Five Love Languages returns with wisdom for improving your life.

The Numerati Stephen Baker – Companies like Google are harvesting an average of 2,500 details about each of us every month. An investigation into the mathematical modeling of humanity.

Putin’s Labyrinth: Spies, Murder, and the Dark Heart of the New Russia Steve Levine – Under the leadership of Vladimir Putin, Russia is veering toward its authoritarian roots.

Save the Males: Why Men Matter, Why Women Should Care Kathleen ParkerThe author asserts that men, maleness and fatherhood have been under siege in American culture for decades.

Serve the People: A Stir-Fried Journey Through China Jen Lin-LiuThe exploding food scene of China is depicted in this cook’s tour that includes a variety of recipes.

Shark’s Fin and Sichuan Pepper: A Sweet-Sour Memoir of Eating in China Fuschia Dunlop – Travel, culture and food all merge in this unique look at China from a British food writer.

Slavery by Another Name: The Re-enslavement of Black People in America from the Civil War to World War II Douglas A. Blackmon – The author exposes the “Age of Neoslavery” that existed after the Civil War and forced thousands of African-Americans into servitude.

So Sexy So Soon: The New Sexualized Childhood and What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Kids Diane E. Levin and Jean Kilbourne – An examination of popular culture and its adverse effects on young people.

Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do (and What It Says About Us) Tom Vanderbilt  – A fascinating tour through the mysteries of the road.

The War for Wealth: The True Story of Globalization, or why the Flat World is Broken Gabor Steingart – An examination of globalization and how this has affected to world’s economy and the outlook for the West.

The Way We’ll Be: The Zogby Report on the Transformation of the American Dream John Zogby – The well-known pollster views the way Americans are headed — politically, culturally and spiritually.

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir Haruki Murakami – The author discusses the influence that running has had on his life and his writing.

Who Killed the Constitution? The Fate of American Liberty from World War I to George W. Bush Thomas E. Woods, Jr. and Kevin R.C. Gutzman – The authors contend that the purpose of the Constitution—to limit the power of government—has been eroding for many decades.

Why We Hate Us: American Discontent in the New Millennium Dick MeyerWhat is behind America’s 21st century mood disorder?

New Nonfiction – January 2008

Basic Black: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life) Cathie Black – Insights and fascinating stories from the president of Hearst Magazines that can help you move ahead.

Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting: Real Talk for When There’s Nowhere to Go But Up Terrie M. Williams – The author deals with the problem and solutions to depression as experienced by African-Americans.

Blooding at Great Meadows: Young George Washington and the Battle that Shaped the Man Alan Axelrod – As a 22-year-old, Washington led 400 American militiamen against an experienced French army.

The Brain Trust Program: A Scientifically Based Three-Part Plan to Improve Memory, Elevate Mood, Enhance Attention, Alleviate Migraine and Menopausal Symptoms, and Boost Mental Energy Larry McCleary – Ways to improve the overall health of your brain.

Coal River Michael Shnayerson – Dramatic environmental battles are being fought in the mountains of West Virginia, especially against mountain top removal.

Chic: The Guide to Life as It Should Be Colin Cowie – The noted event planner explains how to live a gracious life on any budget.

Come to Think of It: Notes on the Turn of the Millennium Daniel Schorr – The author’s observations on politics and American life over the years from 1990 to the present by the well known commentator.

Details Men’s Style Manual: The Ultimate Guide for Making Your Clothes Work for You Daniel Peres – A well-illustrated guide to the apropos in men’s fashion.

Discover Your Inner Wisdom: Using Intuition, Logic, and Common Sense to Make Your Best Choices Char Margolis – How to make wise choices by tapping in to your own intuition.

Discovering God: The Origins of the Great Religions and the Evolution of Belief Rodney Stark – The origins and development of the great religions from the Stone Age to modern times is discussed in this extensive examination.

Get Rich, Stay Rich, Pass It On: The Wealth Accumulation Secrets of America’s Richest Families Catherine S. McBreen and George H. Walper, Jr. – The authors state that there may be many ways to get rich, but only two ways to ensure perpetual wealth.

Grow Your Money! 101 Easy Tips to Plan, Save, and Invest Jonathan D. Pond – Financial advice from a well-know advisor.

Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out Marci Shimoff – The author explains how to be a happier person regardless of one’s circumstances.

How Not to Look Old: Fast and Effortless Way to Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better Charla Krupp – Another look at an age-old problem.

In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto Michael Pollan – The author of The Omnivore’s Dilemma states that what we should eat comes down to: Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.

In Pursuit of Excellence: How to Win in Sport and Life Through Mental Training Terry Orlick – The author, a noted sports psychologist, provides a plan to enhance excellence in life as well as sports.

Isn’t It Their Turn to Pick Up The Check? Dealing with All of the Trickiest Money Problems Between Family and Friends—from Serial Borrowers to Serious Cheapskates Jeanne Fleming and Leonard Schwarz – A look at the embarrassing, annoying, and often emotionally charged money-related dilemmas that everyone faces.

Jim Cramer’s Stay Mad for Life: Get Rich, Stay Rich (Make Your Kids Even Richer) James J. Cramer with Cliff Mason – Lifetime investing for readers of any age from the TV guru.

Living Your Unlived Life: Coping with Unrealized Dreams and Fulfilling Your Purpose in the Second Half of Life Robert A. Johnson and Jerry M. Ruhl – Realizing the unmet dreams and hopes from earlier years can provide peace and wholeness in later years of life.

My Answer Is No…If That’s Okay with You: How Women Can Say NO and (Still) Feel Good About It Nanette Gartrell – How to set limits without jeopardizing important relationships.

Sex Sleep Eat Drink Dream: A Day in the Life of Your Body Jennifer Ackerman – An exploration of the human body that reveals the importance of synchronizing our actions with our biological rhythms.

Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain John J. Ratey and Eric Haterman – The latest research shows that for your brain to function at its peak, your body needs to move.

Strong at the Broken Places: Voices of Illness, A Chorus of Hope Richard M. Cohen – The author spent three years chronicling the lives of five “citizens of sickness” and examines the situations of the chronically ill.

Surrender Is Not an Option: Defending America at the United Nations and Abroad John Bolton – The former secretary to the United Nations takes a behind-the scenes look at his work there and outlines his vision for a realistic global security arrangement.

Terra: Our 100-Million-Year-Old Ecosystem—and the Threats That Now Put It at Risk Michael Novacek – The author’s synthesis of evolutionary biology, paleontology, and modern environmental science provides an explanation of the current state of the planet.

Truth and Consequences: Special Comments on the Bush Administration’s War on American Values Keith Olbermann – Commentary from the host of Countdown with Keith Olbermann on MSNBC.

Vermeer’s Hat: The Seventeenth Century and the Dawn of the Global World Timothy Brook – A look at how rapidly the world was changing as illuminated through the paintings of Vermeer.

Winning Nice: How to Succeed in Business and Life Without Waging War Dawna Stone – How to be yourself and also have success in life.