Xpress Reviews—First Look at New Books

-- Library Journal, 10/15/2006

Week of October 10

Nonfiction

Conant, Kim. Sex Secrets of an American Geisha: How To Attract, Satisfy, and Keep Your Man. Hunter House. Oct. 2006. c.240p. illus. index. ISBN 0-89793-490-3. pap. $13.95. PSYCH

This is not a sex manual but a pleasantly odd take on finding and keeping a "good man" using geisha-like techniques filtered through feminism and tailored to modern America. Born in Korea and raised in the United States, writer Conant has a simple but bemusedly salacious writing style that she couples with advice for moderating premarital sexuality to realize female power. Speaking from experience as a lovelorn late bloomer, she urges wannabe brides to embrace beauty, femininity, and male/female opposites; to be "always sexy but not always sexual." The book is divided into four parts. First comes sexual self-discovery; next, triaging potentials to find a good man; then pushing persistently for commitment; and finally, keeping the mateship warm and the sex hot. A good resource list adds value, but more illustrations would enhance the book's charm. Optional for larger public libraries where all things Asian are popular, e.g., the film Memoirs of a Geisha. Consider also Jina Bacarr's The Japanese Art of Sex: How To Tease, Seduce & Pleasure the Samurai in Your Bedroom, a charming book with many delicate small drawings.—Martha Cornog, Philadelphia

Steinhardt, Arnold. Violin Dreams. Houghton. Oct. 2006. 272p. ISBN 0-618-36892-2 [ISBN 978-0-618-36892-1]. $25.95 with audio CD. MUSIC

Steinhardt (Indivisible by Four: A String Quartet in Pursuit of Harmony) has been first violinist of the famed Guarneri String Quartet and a soloist of international renown for more than 40 years. In this highly entertaining memoir, he traces his development from child prodigy in 1940s Los Angeles to the superstar he is today. The many well–known musical personalities he mentions include George Szell, the autocratic, brilliant conductor of the Cleveland Orchestra; Eugène Ysaÿe and Pablo Casals, great virtuosos and pedagogs; and most poignantly, the aging Joseph Szigeti, who plays a private, transforming rendition of Bach's Chaconne in D Minor to an eavesdropping Steinhardt. Indeed, that encounter, one of the most famous and challenging works in solo violin literature, gets its own chapter. The dreams to which Steinhardt alludes in the title are his own, and in recounting them, he affords his readers glimpses into his fertile imagination, dry wit, and embracing humanity. Lovers of violin lore, chamber music, and classical music in general will find much to treasure here. Highly recommended. (The audio CD of Steinhardt performing Bach's Partita in B Minor 40 years ago and today not heard.) [See Prepub Alert, LJ 6/15/06.]—Larry Lipkis, Moravian Coll., Bethlehem, PA

Graphic Novels

Baek, HyeKyung. Bring It On! Vol. 3. ICE Kunion. 2006. 200p. tr. from Korean by Jackie Oh. ISBN 89-527-4479-6 [ISBN 978-89-527-4479-1]. pap. $10.95. F

The opening page of this graphic novel contains images of dumbbells, a jump rope, and sneakers—the exercise equipment is part of Mi-Ha's everyday life, because she's the ultimate tomboy since her older brother trained her to be extra strong and energetic. Seung-Suh is a pretty boy who just transferred to her school, and the minute they meet the battle of the sexes begins. Mi-Ha expresses her feelings through physical action, while Seung-Suh is a master at psychological manipulation; although he loudly proclaims his hatred for her, Seung-Suh becomes strangely overprotective when anyone else tries to pick on Mi-Ha. In the second volume, Mi-Ha is forced to act as a caretaker both to Seung-Suh and her grandmother, who has dementia. The third volume adds an element of soap opera as the history and motivations of Mi-Ha's mysterious cousin Yun-Jin are exposed. The art here is unremarkable—most of the characters look alike, differing only in hairstyle. The art often switches into superdeformed mode to highlight Mi-Ha's antics. Although it has many funny moments and the relationship between Mi-Ha and Seung-Suh is entertaining, it doesn't distinguish itself from similar romantic comedy titles. Rated for ages 13+. An optional purchase for most libraries.—Anna Neatrour, Salt Lake City, UT

David, Peter (text) & J.K. Woodward (illus.). Fallen Angel: To Serve in Heaven. IDW Pub. 2006. 129p. ISBN 1-933239-77-8 [ISBN 978-1-933239-77-8]. pap. $19.99. F

These first five issues in a series featuring Liandra, a character dropped by DC Comics and resurrected by IDW, reveal the heroine's origins: once a guardian angel, she rebelled against the strictures of her role by taking revenge on the psychopath who murdered one of her charges. Now she's been banished by God (coyly referred to as "the Boss") to shadowy Bete Noire, "the city that shapes the world," but has retained her ability to fly, super strength, and a literally fiery stare. Most nights, Liandra, a tough loner embittered by a wicked world, can be found in her red costume drinking at a local dive bar. Plot complications are provided by a colorful supporting cast that includes her former mentor and lover, an angel named Malachi. David serves up the metaphysics that give the story its novelty without slowing the action or neglecting the staples of the genre: trusty sidekicks, monologizing villains, secret identities, dramatic poses, and fisticuffs that feature as much talking as fighting. Woodward's moody, atmospheric artwork ably captures the mean streets of Bete Noire. Some profanity, discreet nudity, and hinted-at kinky sex make this most suitable for adult collections in larger libraries where superheroes are in demand.—Andrew Moore, Wayland P.L., MA

Kim, Mi-Kyung. 11th Cat. Vol. 3. ICE Kunion. 2006. 200p. tr. from Korean by Suk-Hee Ryu. ISBN 89-527-4481-0 [ISBN 978-89-527-4481-4]. pap. $10.95. F

In the previous volumes of this fantasy series, Rika, the wizard-in-training heroine, released her cat companion and protector, Nomi, from his imprisonment and went on to rescue and return a princess to her true but disreputable love. In this installment, Rika solves the mystery of a dragon's stolen bride and enters into a bargain with an emissary of Nomi's sinister "twin." Despite her doll-like appearance and naïveté, Rika is refreshingly ambitious and contrary, often rejecting the advice of her pretty male friends and mentors, but the plot is thin: Rika and her interchangeably gorgeous companions stumble from one adventure to the next; her inherited potential as a wizard is implied; and romances are abandoned before any sympathy can develop for the characters. The fantasy may become darker if the menacing Sword Master of Black Iron manages more than the occasional walk-on, and some readers may find it jarring to see wizards dressed like Catholic clerics, complete with crosses and vestments. All in all, 11th Cat is a frothy, magical girl fantasy that should do well among other fantasy titles.—Christine Gertz, Univ. of Alberta, Edmonton

Mizuki, Shioko. Crossroad. Vol. 3. Go Comi! 2006. 200p. tr. from Japanese by Kathy Schilling. ISBN 1-933617-00-4. pap. $10.99. F

Hapless Rumiko finds it easier to break up with her men than with their children, and so she ends up as surrogate mother to four, all unrelated by blood but siblings in spirit. The situation becomes problematic for 16-year-old Kajitsu when all of the children and Rumiko move in together after a seven-year separation: Kajitsu loves her nominal brother Natsu, and not in a familial way. Instead of risking the balance of the odd little household by acting on her feelings, Kajitsu confides in the new calligraphy teacher, Akai, which begins a clandestine, half-sincere relationship. Crossroad's appeal does not lie with Kajitsu's romantic pursuits, however; in fact, the Kajitsu-centric first volume is an almost laborious read. The development of minor characters and the growth of Kajitsu's family in the later volumes form a quirky story, much more readable than the first installment. Though slow to start and somewhat artistically shaky, Crossroad contains a cast of unconventional characters whose growth into a family will please and endear. Recommended for high school and up.—Rebecca Schaffner, Saline Dist. Lib., MI

Shin, Ji-Sang & Geo. Chocolat. Vol. 3. ICE Kunion. 2006. 200p. tr. from Korean by Jackie Oh. ISBN 89-527-4480-2 [ISBN 978-89-527-4480-7]. pap. $10.95. F

Boy band DDL is Kum-Ji's life. She attends their events, buys their merchandise, and professes her love and devotion for the lead singer, Jin. Unfortunately, Kum-Ji became a fan too late to get into the upper echelons of DDL's fan club, and her chances of ever meeting her idols are slim. So Kum-Ji cheats the system: she becomes an officer in the fan club of Yo-I, an up-and-coming band that attends many of the same events as DDL. She is found out, of course, and makes enemies of Yo-I and DDL fans alike. However, the members of Yo-I are untroubled by her imposture, and a relationship develops between Yo-I member E-Soh and Kum-Ji. Chocolat was inspired by Shin and Geo's own experiences as fan girls of the band G.O.D., and some of its charm comes from their affection for fan culture. The series has nothing to do with chocolate, even in passing reference, but it is sweet, fluffy, and undemanding. Even when the plot stretches to include more serious elements, the general good humor of the series ultimately rules, making this an eye-catching, page-turning, feel-good story that you'll want to keep reading. Recommended for middle school and up.—Rebecca Schaffner, Saline Dist. Lib., MI

Waltz, Tom (text) & Casey Maloney (illus.). Children of the Grave. IDW Pub. 2006. 120p. ISBN 1-933239-93-X [ISBN 978-1-933239-93-4]. pap. $14.99. F

Team Orphan is charged with assassinating the ruthless Colonel Assan, whose latest atrocity is the systematic genocide of the Kilipanese people. But the Special Forces commandos soon discover that there is something else out there in the desert night—something that neither their hardware nor their training has prepared them for. As they get closer to Assan and the truth, the members of Team Orphan must confront their own demons and fight to survive. Waltz offers a strange mix of horror and military action and does an admirable job of weaving together realistic modern warfare and the dark, macabre tone of the supernatural. There is a slow progression of mounting terror through the first three acts; however, the narrative takes on a cheesy aspect at the end and goes out with a whimper instead of a bang. Maloney's art is a great fit: his tight, clean pencils play strongly to the gunfights, and the dark gray shading elicits a feeling of horror much more effectively than full color would. Furthermore, the action sequences are very well plotted—through all of the explosions and carnage, the eye never gets lost. Overall, however, the graphic violence and language make this an optional adult purchase for libraries.—George Sun, New York

Wilson, F. Paul (text) & Matthew Smith (illus.). The Keep. IDW Pub. 2006. 120p. ISBN 1-933239-45-X [ISBN 978-1-933239-45-3]. pap. $19.99. F

Along with Hellboy artist Smith, Wilson manages to create a fun, atmospheric adaptation of his own prose novel. Hearkening back to classic Gothic novels and old-fashioned monster movies, the narrative follows a group of German soldiers occupying a 500-year-old castle. After two overzealous soldiers go exploring and are found dead, the body count quickly rises until reinforcements arrive. The graphic novel plays out with all of the traditional set pieces in place: a wise and aged professor, a centuries-old secret society, and a charming and manipulative villain. Readers looking for philosophical depth will be disappointed, but the plot is fast-paced and easy to follow, with some genuinely surprising twists and turns. Every character is distinct and complex, while the dialog never fully crosses into cliché (though it does skirt the edges). The art is in moody black and white, except for the frequent bloodshed (including depictions of decapitated bodies), which stands out in striking red. Older teens attracted to vampire fiction and adults who grew up with B-grade horror films will find much to love about this book; a great read for the upcoming Halloween season.—M. Brandon Robbins, Wayne Cty. P.L., Goldsboro, NC

About Comics

Mallory, Michael. X-Men: The Characters and Their Universe. Hugh Lauter Levin. 2006. 288p. illus. index. ISBN 0-88363-120-2 [ISBN 978-0-88363-120-1]. $75. GRAPHIC ARTS

The universe of the X-Men has expanded exponentially since its inception by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1963, and tracking the plot twists, alternate realities, deaths, rebirths, and richly detailed lives of its characters is a massive undertaking. Mallory's X-Men serves as an introduction for X-Men neophytes (especially fans of the recent movie trilogy) and chronicles the franchise's history, stories, characters, television and film appearances, and merchandising efforts. However, the book individually profiles only ten characters, major story lines get various levels of description, and typos and mislabeled illustrations contribute to the pedestrian tone. Massive color reproductions from the original works are impressive, but the artwork doesn't always best represent the character or story line with which it is paired. Peter Sanderson's X-Men: The Ultimate Guide provides more thorough coverage of characters and plot lines and has a more authoritative, insider's feel. While appropriate for all ages, this expensive book will primarily interest YA and teen collections. Its size makes for a nice display item, and more comprehensive adult collections may also want this tome to accompany Sanderson's work. [A third edition of Sanderson's X-Men: The Ultimate Guide, including the third X-Men movie, is available from DK.—Ed.]—David Ward, Univ. of Illinois Undergraduate Lib., Urbana

Week of October 3

Nonfiction

Asanaro. The Secret Art of Boabom: Awaken Inner Power Through Defense-Meditation from Ancient Tibet. Tarcher: Penguin. Oct. 2006. c.352p. tr. from Tibetan by Joice Buccarey. illus. ISBN 1-58542-521-4. $21.95. HEALTH

Boabom is a form of martial arts that focuses on speed and agility and whose origin is in pre-Buddhist Tibet. It can be used in combat, but its principal aim is to help its practitioners attain an optimal state of energy, health, confidence, and vitality. Like yoga, Boabom develops self-awareness, teaching discipline, respect, and humility. Asanaro (The Secret Art of Seamm-Jasani), who teaches and lectures on the practice in Europe, South America, the United States, here explains its philosophy, describes its movements, and discusses research that points to its benefits. Each new movement he teaches is based on the previous one, ensuring that psychological understanding goes with the physical evolution. The movements are simply illustrated in more than 300 line drawings and clearly described in a friendly style. This book would make a fine addition to a library that already owns Asanaro's first book; both are recommended.—Dede Archer, Naples, FL

Brock, Fred. Health Care on Less Than You Think: The New York Times Guide to Getting Affordable Coverage. Times Bks. Oct. 2006. c.213p. index. ISBN 0-8050-7980-7. pap. $15. HEALTH

As the cost of health insurance continues to rise, more and more Americans are finding themselves without this valuable resource. What many of us view as a work benefit has only become so in approximately the last 50 years, and according to Brock (Retire on Less Than You Think), it probably will not be an employee benefit for much longer. Employers can no longer afford to supply their workers with insurance, thus placing the burden back onto the individual. This is above and beyond the many Americans who never had access to health insurance in the first place. Brock explains clearly how those about to retire from the work force, as well as those entering it, can prepare themselves for the eventual end to work place–sponsored health coverage. Recommended for any size public library, this work provides a better understanding of the health care insurance world while furnishing helpful Internet links for further information. [See Prepub Alert, LJ 6/1/06.]—Rachel M. Minkin, Graduate Theological Union Lib., Berkeley, CA

Krissoff, Liana (text) & Kirsten Strecker (photogs.). Hot Drinks for Cold Nights: Great Hot Chocolates, Tasty Teas & Cozy Coffee Drinks. Stewart, Tabori & Chang. Sept. 2006. c.135p. photogs. index. ISBN 1-58479-440-2. $16.95. BEVERAGES

This book by Krissoff (Secrets of Slow Cooking), a freelance cookbook editor, contains traditional drinks, exotic creations, beverages for the entire family (with alcohol-spiked ones), and snack recipes to go with your warm, comforting drink. The photographs are captivating; Strecker is known for her work for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Absolut Vodka. Not only is this book filled with tantalizing recipes, but it also gives tips on what to look for when purchasing coffee makers, tea kettles, and other supplies. Some of the tasty recipes are Almond Hot Cocoa, Churros, Sake and Pear Oolong Tea, Koreatown Cuban Coffee, and Hot Buttered Bourbon. A warming and wonderful way to bring comfort and fun to the colder season. Recommended for all public libraries.—Jennifer A. Wickes, Garden Plate magazine, Pine Beach, NJ

Rees, Erik. S.H.A.P.E.: Finding & Fulfilling Your Unique Purpose for Life. Zondervan. Sept. 2006. c.256p. ISBN 0-310-27009-X. $19.99. PSYCH

Using the concept of S.H.A.P.E. developed by Rick Warren in The Purpose-Driven Life, pastor and certified life coach Rees helps readers discover their "Kingdom Purpose," i.e., the specific contribution for which God created them. Through life stories and exercises, readers will discover their personal blend of Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences in ways that bring the freedom and significance that can only come from God. Whereas the usual self-help manual counsels to look within, Rees says to look to God. He pulls readers along, incorporating lists into the text to prod reflection. Spiritual gifts, for example, can include encouragement, hospitality, and mercy; personality dimensions can encompass one's ability to follow or lead, preference for safety or risk taking, and preference for people or projects. Rees elaborates on the quality of being other-centered in terms of helping, empowering, and loving. Readers will feel affirmed about their own personality style and quirks and will probably be better people because of it. Recommended for all libraries as a quality Christian-oriented book.—Deborah Bigelow, Leonia P.L., NJ

U2 with Neil McCormick. U2byU2. HarperEntertainment. Sept. 2006. 352p. illus. ISBN 0-06-077675-7 [ISBN 978-0-06-077675-6]. $39.95. MUSIC

In their 30-year career, U2 has sweated blood and tears for their legion fans but never told the whole story of their remarkable conception and maturation. Other writers—Eamon Dunphy in Unforgettable Fire, Bill Flanagan in U2 at the End of the World—have tried to fill that void but only managed mere profiles of the four members of this gestaltlike unit. The wait is over, however, with the publication of this coffee-table autobiography, an oral history of the band broken into musical eras (e.g., "1960–75: Stories for Boys"), with Bono, Adam Clayton, the Edge, and Larry Mullen Jr. sounding off alternately. Followers will appreciate these straight-from-the-mouth deliveries—the Boys can not only turn a nice phrase, but they also reveal more than they ever have in print, music, or celluloid. Guitarist the Edge articulates what U2 has wanted to achieve musically through the years, while singer Bono crystallizes their cultural vibe. There's even some juice on their personal lives, as the Edge opens up about his divorce from first wife Aislinn (and how it informed the creation of their album Achtung Baby) and Mullen talks about the sudden death of his mother. Gobs of photos—most never before published—punch up the book's value. Although the design is surprisingly static, that won't matter to the band's massive audience. This book gives them what they want, an encapsulation of the personal and the musical, the very essence of U2. Recommended for all popular music collections.—Heather McCormack, Library Journal

See the October 1 Xpress Reviews