Science & Technology

By Staff -- Library Journal, 12/15/2006

Agriculture

This is the story of the consumer revolution against globally industrialized agriculture and corporate domination of food production, processing, and distribution systems. Katz (Wild Fermentation: The Flavor, Nutrition, and Craft of Live-Culture Foods) asserts that there are alternatives to the dead, unhealthy, homogenized food commodities this system provides. He visited farmers' markets, food cooperatives, and communities in search of local initiatives that restore traditional food production and distribution methods and revive local economies. Katz found a broad movement of people and organizations involved in preserving native varieties, practicing humane and sustainable treatment of land and animals, supporting local producers and marketers, and using food to improve health. Of particular note is the rapidly growing "slow food" movement, which rejects standardized fare and focuses instead on cuisine that has served ethnic and cultural preferences in the past. Each chapter cites references for further reading and organizations involved in keeping the programs active. This work is sure to enlighten readers and motivate many to join the revolution. Recommended.—Irwin Weintraub, Brooklyn Coll. Lib., NY

Malkin, a magazine writer and editor for 20 years, did a stint at Teen People magazine, which might explain the flip and often sarcastic humor throughout this book. In her two-page preface, she offers a superficial overview of the feral (a.k.a. homeless, a.k.a. domestic-gone-wild) cat problem in the United States and claims the population to be "ten million … and the number might be as high as ten times that." The reader, then, might expect the book to take a more appropriately serious look at the problem. Instead, Malkin writes about her experiences with a family of stray cats in her Brooklyn, NY, home. Not wanting to be labeled "one of those crazy cat ladies," Malkin comes off as just that. If you're looking for another memoir about someone's cat, you might like this book. But if you prefer your memoirs with more substance, pass on it. Not recommended.—Edell M. Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., WI

Can you fit a vegetable plot, orchard, cutting garden, herbs, and ornamental shrubs all into one multipurpose space? British master gardener and prolific author Rice (The Ultimate Book of Small Gardens) says you can. This colorful book presents Rice's expert advice on combining food and ornamental plants, excelling in helpful chapters both on designing for particular garden sites and on planting edible and flowering plants for each season. In particular, Rice highlights vegetable, fruit, and herb varieties that can be grown for their beauty as well as their produce and ornamentals that make excellent companions to edible plants. Unfortunately, the closing chapters on planting, maintenance, and other practical matters are lackluster—they provide far less information than beginning gardeners need and yet have little of value for experienced gardeners new to the notion of all-in-one gardening. Despite this shortcoming, the book provides an excellent guide to an important area of gardening and is a necessary purchase for public libraries.—Emily-Jane Dawson, Multnomah Cty. Lib., Portland

Stewart (The Earth Moved: On the Remarkable Achievements of Earthworms) crafts a highly readable, in-depth description of the flower industry in her latest work, which is divided into sections on breeding, growing, selling, Valentine's Day, and flower tips and includes statistics and a selected bibliography. She reveals the journey of flowers from fields to their end destinations in homes and their stops in between. Using interviews and stories of pioneers in the flower field, Stewart brings to light the complex life of flowers. For example, in exploring the importance of patents and legal documentation to the success of individual growers, she recounts the achievements of Leslie Woodriff, who developed the Star Gazer lily. In contrast to Woodriff, Stewart next describes a visit to a "high-tech" flower-growing farm. Throughout, she addresses how trends and aspects of the flower trade (e.g., the near-disappearance of fragrance from commercial flowers) impact the end consumer. Stewart provides the reader with a well-rounded perspective of the flower industry. Her work is suitable for public and academic libraries.—Kristin Whitehair, Kansas State Univ., Manhattan

Alvarez, the senior medical contributor for Fox News, presents a unique handbook of diseases and health risks within chronological "decades." Each chapter incorporates relevant, age-related precautions with an accompanying short checklist of recommended medical tests. Alvarez's somewhat chatty, engaging, and encouraging approach works in addressing most of the normal range of age-appropriate health concerns (e.g., prenatal development and migraines in the twenties; urinary diseases in the thirties). Violence, safety, environmental, workplace, and alternative medicine issues are given little or no coverage. Complex medical terms are often not defined in context; a glossary is not included. A somewhat helpful appendix briefly describes common medical tests that are mentioned at the end of chapters; an index would have been useful. The unannotated alphabetical resource list is virtually useless. Although intended as a preventive guide for the whole family, conditions are unevenly covered. While no similar handbooks are currently available, The Checklist is recommended with reservations only for medium to large public libraries as well as consumer health collections.—Janice Flahiff, Univ. of Toledo Health Science Campus Lib.

Concern over the side effects of statin drugs has generated interest in lowering one's cholesterol without them. Diet, fitness, and wellness expert Brill has authored a useful and clearly written book to help people make lifestyle changes that she purports can lower "bad" (LDL) cholesterol as effectively as statins. Brill explains what cholesterol is, what it does in the body, and why lowering LDL cholesterol is important. She also elucidates how each lifestyle change she prescribes acts on the body to lower LDL cholesterol. Brill starts with basic concepts and builds on them, using lay terms. In this way, the dry, scientific explanations flow well and are easy to understand. She provides many options for each of the lifestyle changes and proposes a two-week food plan (with recipes) to help the reader implement her strategy. The proposed changes are based on solid science and can help people lower their LDL cholesterol or enhance the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medication. Recommended.—Elaine M. Lasda Bergman, Healthcare Assn. of New York State, Rensselaer

Eating disorders are complex, difficult to treat, and often life-threatening. Pediatrician Carlton (founder & director, Adolescent Eating Disorder Education & Support Program, Stanford Univ.) here collaborates with writer Ashin to offer parents a practical guide to helping their afflicted children. Carlton stresses that eating disorders require a multidisciplinary team including physicians, psychotherapists, and nutritionists as well as parents. She provides support tools and information to assist parents in finding appropriate treatment, choosing programs and practitioners, and dealing with insurance issues. A series of appendixes lists web sites for patients, families, and health professionals; books; resources for finding specialists; and sample letters and a kit for appealing to insurance providers (the latter includes materials for families and physicians). Quotes from teens and parents dealing with eating disorders provide a dose of reality. This is an excellent book, more detailed and up to date than Tania Heller's Eating Disorders: A Handbook for Teens, Families and Teachers. The information on dealing with insurance providers is especially valuable and not usually included in other books on this subject. Highly recommended for public, health science, and consumer health libraries.—Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L.

More than 7.5 million Americans had plastic surgery in 2001, and elective cosmetic surgery has become a part of popular culture through television programs such as Nip/Tuck. However, going under the knife remains controversial: some consider it an extreme form of vanity or a response to societal discrimination against certain ethnicities or age groups. San Francisco-based plastic surgeon Eskenazi (Reconstructing Aphrodite) and Streep (Necessary Journeys: Letting Ourselves Learn from Life) offer a welcome discussion to the literature, presenting a history of plastic surgery and the major issues surrounding, with examples from Eskenazi's own practice. Eskenazi is not an opponent of plastic surgery but argues that the procedure entails serious medical and psychological risks; there are good and bad reasons for undergoing it. This book is distinctive in its emphasis on ethical and philosophical issues. Suitable for academic and public libraries.—Sarah Boslaugh, MPH BJC HealthCare, St. Louis

Ginsberg and Toal—toxicologists for the Connecticut Department of Public Health—have created a comprehensive bible of hazardous substances that impact every individual in the United States. While explaining the major toxins of lead, radon, mold, and asbestos, they also delve into pesticides and chemicals in consumer products, food, water, air, and soil. Chapters describe each toxin, address the myths and realities surrounding it, and discuss how people come into contact with the substance and how to avoid it. Charts illustrate the toxicity, exposure, and risk index for each contaminant. Suggestions for testing one's own environment through the local health department, water service, and so forth are concrete and achievable; important points are boxed for emphasis. Tips are provided for diverse subjects such as how to microwave foods in plastic safely and how to make a homemade "green" bubble bath. A resources appendix provides Internet sites for more information. A fascinating, albeit somewhat frightening, account that should be available in most collections.—Janet M. Schneider, James A. Haley Veterans' Hosp., Tampa

From snake-oil salesmen in the late 19th century to infomercial hucksters on cable TV, health and medical journalist Hurley (the New York Times) traces the growth and persistence of the multibillion-dollar supplement industry in the United States via the people in industry, politics, and science who have played important roles. Hurley credits Stephen Barrett, M.D., the retired psychiatrist behind the nonprofit corporation Quackwatch Inc., whose purpose is to combat health-related frauds, myths, fads, fallacies, and misconduct, for steering him toward the topic; the author's view, not surprisingly, is decidedly skeptical. He examines the scientific evidence, shows the political machinations that freed supplements from the kind of the evaluations of safety and efficacy faced by pharmaceuticals, and attempts to explain their largely unquestioning acceptance by consumers. Using interviews with people from all sides of the story, plus other primary and secondary sources, Hurley presents a highly readable and convincing narrative. More narrowly focused than Wallace Sampson and Lewis Vaughn's Science Meets Alternative Medicine: What the Evidence Says About Unconventional Treatments. Recommended for public and medical libraries.—Dick Maxwell, Porter Adventist Hosp. Lib., Denver

While this book's title suggests a general history of interventional cardiology, it is largely an admiring biography of Andreas Gruentzig, inventor of the balloon-tipped angioplasty catheter and a trailblazer in its use. Gruentzig's life is traced, with the emphasis beginning as he worked to improvise the device in his kitchen in Zurich. It then follows him through the first procedure in 1977, tracks his rapid rise in the profession, and ends with his death in 1985. Few details of his personal life seem to have been omitted, and other cardiologists are touched on only briefly. Journalist Monagan (Jaywalking with the Irish) writes enthusiastically, working in large part from numerous interviews with family members and those who knew and worked with Gruentzig. Richard J. Bing's Cardiology: The Evolution of the Science and the Art is a more balanced look at the field, but Monagan offers a unique personal look at one of its pioneers. Recommended for medical libraries and public libraries with large biography collections. [See Prepub Alert, LJ 10/15/06.]—Dick Maxwell, Porter Adventist Hosp. Lib., Denver

The Cleveland Clinic has been in the healthy heart business since 1921. This makes two of its specialists, Polin and Giedt (coauthors, The Joslin Diabetes Gourmet Cookbook), qualified to write a guide to staying heart-healthy. Here, they encourage healthy eating and lifestyle choices that not only prevent cardiovascular disease but also promote overall health. Though the book is broken into halves, it may be read in any order. The first half, "Lifestyle Guide," covers various aspects of heart health (e.g., risk factors for cardiovascular disease, body weight, exercise) as well as nutritional advice (e.g., a prescription of fiber, fats, protein). Once the reader understands the science and theory of being heart-healthy, the book's second half, "The Cookbook," provides more than 150 recipes incorporating all these new facts and suggestions. Recipes are broken down by meal, and some have icons identifying them as quick to make, great for children, or suitable for serving at occasions. Recommended for all public libraries with either cookbook or consumer health collections as well as for medical libraries with consumer health collections.—Rachel M. Minkin, Graduate Theological Union Lib., Berkeley, CA

Can over-the-counter nutritional and herbal supplements really help dieters lose weight? Certified nutritional specialist Preuss (nephrology, Georgetown Medical Ctr.; research fellow, National Inst. of Health) and former Prevention magazine writer Gottlieb (Alternative Cures) weigh the evidence for and against the use of supplements such as green tea extract, chromium, and hoodia in this practical, well-organized guide. Chapters on each supplement include summaries of relevant scientific studies, dosage recommendations, guidance on choosing a well-absorbed formulation and reputable brand, and existent contraindications or negative findings. While occasionally Preuss and Gottlieb make certain supplements sound almost too good to be true, the majority of this work is relatively balanced in its presentation of the scientific evidence. The authors are careful to emphasize the importance of asking a doctor before taking any supplements and following dosage recommendations strictly. Libraries looking for a more wide-ranging resource on supplements may prefer the 2006 edition of Phyllis A. Balch's highly regarded Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Suitable for larger public and academic libraries.—Ingrid Levin, Florida Atlantic Univ. Libs., Jupiter

For this thoroughly updated and expanded second edition of a 1992 book, Roter (health & policy management, Johns Hopkins Univ.) and Hall (psychology, Northeastern Univ.) draw on their studies in the field of medical communication, as well as on many other research papers (there is a 28-page bibliography of citations). Their decision to revamp the text comes in the wake of new competency requirements for medical school graduates, including interpersonal communication. The focus is on "talk," e.g., nonverbal cues between doctors and patients, including how a physician's characteristics influence his or her communication. One section investigates what the research literature has concluded about medical visits (e.g., that much information is withheld during visits). The authors finish by detailing "prospects for improved talk" and throughout give conclusions and statements to help modify and improve practice. Although general readers will find the information interesting, this is an excellent textbook that gathers all the work on the subject in one place. Recommended for academic, medical, and special collections with a specific interest in patient empowerment and communication in medical settings.—Elizabeth J. Eastwood, Mesa P.L., Los Alamos, NM

Fitness expert Rover has crafted a refreshing book that approaches exercise as a lifelong pursuit for enjoyment; fitness is the by-product. Using a model based on that of Chelsea Piers (a 30-acre "fitness village" in New York City), Rover analyzes in detail over 25 activities, from boxing to baseball and fencing to pilates. First, however, she opens with a "fitness personality" quiz so that individuals can identify which activities are best suited to them. Then each sport is thoroughly described. Besides learning about its history, readers find out about required equipment, tips for first-time practitioners, secrets for success (with specific exercises to tone necessary muscles), and resources. Anecdotal case histories are also included. The variety of activities presented here is helpful given that some require access to a gym, fitness center, or population centers that can sustain such activities as fencing classes. It is likely that everyone can identify an appealing activity. As a result, this volume is recommended for all public libraries.—Mary Grace Flaherty, Sidney Memorial P.L., NY

Books on back pain are abundant, but authors rarely devote significant space to the topic of spinal surgery. Tindel, a spine surgeon with over 15 years of experience, explains basic spine anatomy, discusses common back problems and diagnoses, and offers detailed explanations of surgical procedures, including newer ones such as artificial disc replacement and minimally invasive techniques. Surprisingly, Tindel campaigns for alternative treatments to back pain instead of surgery, and though he omits hypnosis and massage therapy, he discusses other treatments like exercise, stress management, acupuncture, herbal supplements, and injections. The book's simple, conversational style is easy to read, and the content of especially difficult, convoluted topics (spine tests, surgical procedures) is accompanied by helpful tables, diagrams, and/or bulleted points. Each chapter contains cross references to subsequent chapters and incorporates current research findings, relevant case studies, and Tindel's professional opinion(s). Readers will especially appreciate Tindel's candid discussion about evaluating doctors, his interesting hypothesis concerning a correlation between tests and surgery, and suggested web sites to visit for more information. Highly recommended for consumer health collections.—Jennifer Johnston, formerly with San Bernardino P.L., CA

Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life cycle. Although most women go through it with few difficulties, for others the "change of life" is a debilitating experience. Baby boomer women reaching midlife are eager to manage their own menopausal experience, and Wingert and Kantrowitz, who cover women's issues for Newsweek, offer an in-depth guide to major menopausal complaints: hot flashes, sleep disorders, sexual dysfunction, bleeding, and mood and memory changes. There is also information on midlife health issues like osteoporosis, heart disease, and cancer, as well as evidence-based discussions of available treatment options. Q&A sections, case studies, material on what to tell your daughter, memory tests, and "Looking Good" beauty tips, combined with the writers' reader-friendly, authoritative tone, make this book an outstanding addition to menopause and midlife health collections. Highly recommended for all health and women's health collections. (Resources, appendixes, and indexes not seen.)—Karen Bensing, Benjamin Rose Lib., Cleveland

In her first book for an American audience, Toronto-based Zhao explains for women the principles and benefits of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A good many concepts are discussed, from the three levels of energy (Jing, Qi, and Shen) to the five basic phases (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water). What's important, Zhao says, is the restoration of harmony in the body through certain elements—only then can optimum health result. The author (who earned a degree in traditional medicine in her native China) shares personal stories and patient vignettes of each stage of a woman's life using TCM terms and examines them through the lens of TCM. For each stage, recipes and exercises for helping to balance Qi are provided. While it was probably not in the scope of the book to explain TCM concepts and terms in detail, suggestions of sources for further study would have been helpful. Laurie Steelsmith's Natural Choices for Women's Health: How the Secrets of Natural and Chinese Medicine Can Create a Lifetime of Wellness provides more substance. However, Zhao's book is recommended for public and consumer health libraries with large collections in alternative medicine.—Beth Hill, Univ. of Idaho Lib., Moscow

Informed by his experiences watching movies with his daughters, Burr, the Boston Globe film critic, offers a guide to his beloved medium with a twist: his selections of the best golden age flicks are suitable for watching with children. The book starts helpfully by suggesting titles for particular age groups (e.g., five and up; tweens; teens); subsequent chapters cover genres (e.g., comedy; musicals) and include recommendations for further viewing. Because most of the films reflect times gone by, Burr reminds readers to explain anachronisms (like prohibition) and recommends that parents stay mindful of "what [children] might want to see as opposed to what they should see." Entries thus tend toward the fun (A Hard Day's Night Heidi) rather than the somber (Citizen Kane). Parents watching movies alongside their children is in vogue, and this book meshes with Dimitri A. Christakis and Frederick J. Zimmerman's encouraging The Elephant in the Living Room: Make Television Work for Your Kids. Highly recommended for any collection where these old movies are apt to live and for display in the DVD/video section next to Videohound and Leonard Maltin.—Douglas C. Lord, Connecticut State Lib., Hartford

The Esalen Institute is a nonprofit organization that hosts a communal living space and retreat in Big Sur, CA. Cascio served as the head chef there from 1988 to 2004, and this beautifully illustrated work seeks to capture the spirit of the institute with an eclectic mix of exotic and basic recipes. While Cascio emphasizes organic ingredients, he has not written a traditionally "healthy" cookbook. Readers will find he liberally uses cheese and other dairy products, meats, and even a crab cake recipe based on Rice Krispies! Many of the meat-based dishes include suggestions for converting the recipe to a vegetarian version. The book draws on many ethnic cuisines, but most of the dishes use commonly found items. Although the lack of any nutritional information is a definite weakness, most public and academic libraries with culinary collections will still find this a useful addition.—Deborah Lee, Mississippi State Univ. Libs., Starkville

Most people have a good story about the best meal they've ever eaten or about one that went awry. Many can recount their experiences in laughter—or tears. Here, freelance writer and editor Bauer (Prime Times: Writers on Their Favorite TV Shows) has collected hilarious and touching anecdotes by 20 writers who delight in revealing their frustrations, obsessions, and, occasionally, epiphanies involving food. In "The Longest Hour," Margot Livesey recalls days of being a child vegetarian growing up in Scotland, a choice based on taste, not ethics. "A Feast of Preparations" finds writer David Lehman's wife, Stacey, aspiring to create the perfect meal for poet John Ashbery and is kind enough to include her recipe for Nougat Glacé with Raspberry Sauce at the end of the essay. Another standout piece, Lan Samantha Chang's "Yes," shares a tale of empowerment via her grandmother's switch to Buddhism and, subsequently, vegetarianism. Clever title, delicious book. Recommended for medium and large collections.—Steven G. Fullwood, Schomburg Ctr. Lib., New York

Mental health professional Dendy, a mother of three kids with ADD/ADHD, knows the challenges that parents of children with attention deficits face when the teen years roll around. In this updated and expanded second edition (the first was published in 1995), she shares a lot of tips, insights, and support from other parents, lending a realistic feel to the information. Included are in-depth discussions of ADD/ADHD, diagnosis and testing, medication, and coexisting conditions, as well as advice on discipline, academics, home life, and helping the rest of the family deal with ADD/ADHD. Dendy supplies many forms and other self-evaluation tools that families can use to determine a child's strengths and weaknesses, to assess effectiveness of medication, and to establish a basis for working with school personnel. A comprehensive resource guide rounds out the 17 chapters and six appendixes. This extremely comprehensive edition, full of the latest professional research, is a valuable resource to which parents will refer even as their teens enter adulthood; highly recommended for all public libraries.—Lisa M. Jordan, Johnson Cty. Lib., KS

Elkind (child development, Tufts Univ.; The Hurried Child: Growing Up Too Fast Too Soon) has contributed a timely book on the importance of unstructured play in the academic preparation and development of children, dispelling myths about kids being left behind if they are not submersed at an early age in organized sports and other controlled pursuits. Prescribing the trinity of play, love, and work, he shows how the integration of these elements at various stages of development, from infancy to adolescence, leads to happier, well-adjusted individuals with a greater potential for academic success. Elkind will connect with parents when he reveals that "Toys R Not Us" and argues that less is more; that children should use toys for inspiration, not distraction. This would then teach scientific curiosity and nourish concentration and attention skills. Replacing this unstructured time with formal instruction before the age of reason, he writes, only hinders motivation and creates frustration, as rote learning is anathema to critical thinking. He concludes by stating that the trinity of play, love, and work, which is successfully used in Montessori and Waldorf schools, should be the model for all education, not just early childhood programs. Highly recommended.—Julianne J. Smith, Ypsilanti Dist. Lib., MI

In her ninth cookbook, Bon Appétit columnist Greenspan once again tackles sweets, this time ranging over muffins, cookies, cakes, pies, and, interestingly, things you eat with a spoon. While this last category is not featured on Jeopardy! (at least not yet), it includes puddings, custards, crisps, and ice cream; the ice cream is not "baked," but what would pie be without a scoop on top to complete it? Within each category, there is a nice variety of recipes, along with serving and storage tips. While some of the recipes are definitely more ambitious, they are all still within the range of home bakers. Each recipe also begins with some narrative background, which makes it that much more interesting. The book itself is large and lavishly illustrated; even the black-and-white photo proofs looked delicious. Highly recommended for cookery collections. [See Prepub Alert, LJ 7/06.]—Susan Hurst, Miami Univ. Lib., Oxford, OH

This gorgeous work could certainly find a place in any home. It's packed with ingenious, unusual, and beautifully presented dishes, so that experienced or ambitious cooks will enjoy re-creating Richard's recipes and those who hesitate to attempt the more complicated possibilities will delight in the sumptuous photos and entertaining essays throughout. Richard, celebrated chef and owner of Michel Richard Citronelle and author of Michel Richard's Home Cooking with a French Accent, began his career as a pastry chef and clearly brings an eye both for beauty and for detail, as well as a wonderfully playful attitude, to every dish he prepares, whether savory or sweet. This book includes a wide range of possibilities, from All-Crust Potato Gratin to Fluffy Spinach Bites with Fonduta Sauce to Black Olive-Crusted Salmon with Green Olive Sauce. Richard also includes a list of culinary tools used, plus helpful instructional spreads with descriptions and illustrations on how to shape and tie a lamb shoulder, for instance, or how to peel and cut the flesh from a tomato. Recommended for all public libraries.—Courtney Greene, DePaul Univ. Lib., Chicago

Expanding on her earlier cookbook, The Sober Kitchen, Scott has filled an important niche. The requirements of recovering alcoholics are often overlooked at party time, but this cookbook exemplifies how to party without alcoholic beverages or ingredients. With 25 menus focusing on birthdays and weddings as well as major holidays like New Year's Eve, Christmas, and Hanukkah, Scott has created a celebratory atmosphere without alcohol. Each menu includes tips for purchasing ingredients, with cautions for avoiding hidden alcoholic additives. The menus incorporate festive beverages to accompany the luscious food courses. A renowned chef, Scott has developed interesting dishes and even adjusted old favorites like Irish coffee, Concord grape fizzes, and English trifle. The recipes vary from comfort food such as Fortuna Lentils with Italian Chicken Sausage to light fare such as Cool Cucumber Soup with Mint and Cumin. Each of the 150 recipes would stimulate the appetite of any gourmand, recovering alcoholic or not. Recommended for all public libraries. (Photographs and index not seen.)—Ann Weber, Bellarmine Coll. Preparatory Lib., San Jose, CA

America's national parks are the focus of this outstanding photography collection by five-time World Press Prize winner Bourseiller (365 Ways To Save the Earth). The book is made up almost entirely of color images, the majority of which are two-page spreads. The visual presentation conveys the beauty, vastness, glory, harshness, and intrigue that can be found in 54 of our country's parks. Bourseiller has captured more than traditional picture-postcard images—e.g., one shot focuses on the bottom of an uprooted tree, and another features a vertical rock face in a Wyoming park. The captions are in a separate section at the back, which allows for an unobstructed view of the photographs, but readers must flip back and forth to identify what they are viewing. Three essays by nature and environmental writers discuss the history and politics of U.S. national parks; one essay compares our parks to those in other regions such as Africa, Europe, and Latin America. This volume is designed for browsing in the library or for home collections; its weight would deter users from signing it out and carrying it home. Truly a work of art but an optional purchase for libraries, depending on need and interest.—Deborah Emerson, Rochester Regional Lib. Council, Fairport, NY

Readers who might balk at embarking on Browne's grand, two-volume biography of naturalist Charles Darwin (Darwin: Voyaging and Darwin: The Power of Place) will find this thin book to be an inviting introduction by the expert herself. Browne, formerly a professor at the Wellcome Trust Centre for the History of Medicine, University College, London, brings her enthusiastically detailed research on the life and times of Darwin to bear on this volume, but she distills it to a treatment of the preparation, publication, and influence of his seminal 1859 book, The Origin of Species. One cannot help but imagine that this contribution to the publisher's "Books That Changed the World" series was relatively effortless for Browne following her massive Darwin biography. Nonetheless, in all of these books, among the things she succeeds in conveying best is not only the sense of what Darwin must have been like as a person but also the impact of his ideas on science and society. A good introductory book for public and academic libraries; highly recommended. [The most in-depth exhibit on Darwin to date will be on display at the Museum of Science, Boston, and the Field Museum, Chicago, between February 2007 and January 2008.—Ed.]—Walter L. Cressler, West Chester Univ. Lib., PA

London, a trial lawyer practicing in Washington, DC, and journalist Kelly (executive editor, U.S. News & World Report) collaborated on Amazon (1983) and The Four Little Dragons (1989). In The Last Forest, they revisit the Brazilian Amazon, reciting much of its political, social, and military history in a straightforward, compelling, and captivating voice. They offer the unvarnished story of Brazil's coming to grips with the utilization vs. the preservation of its natural resources. However, contrary to the doom and gloom we have heard from other quarters, London and Kelly tender some hope, noting that the deforestation efforts, among other wounds to Amazonia, are not irreparable and that there is a growing awareness in both the government and the population that preservation is a priority. This is an essential read for environmentalists, historians, economists, and those who are just awestruck by the Amazon's ecosystem. Highly recommended for academic and public libraries.—Margaret F. Dominy, Drexel Univ. Lib., Philadelphia

In some cultures, time is determined by the clock; in others, by events. How humans perceive the passage of time varies not just from culture to culture but by such criteria as an individual's age. Even babies' perception of time has been examined by clever experiments. Also of interest is how our muscles coordinate with our perception of time in order to accomplish complex yet incredibly simple acts like turning a page or coughing. Norgate (psychology, faculty of Health & Social Care, Univ. of Salford, U.K.) lucidly writes about all of these topics and more, with examples drawn from societies around the world. She seems, however, to focus everywhere but the United States until the last chapter, for which she needed a good target for a few critical comments. This reviewer also wondered what, exactly, he was learning about time beyond the current research—there wasn't a lot of probing beneath the cultural/societal surface. For these reasons, this easy-to-read book is recommended only for larger collections.—Michael D. Cramer, Schwarz BioSciences, RTP, NC

The best nature photography has the power to communicate something beyond sheer information—in this case, the singular beauty of birds. Award-winning Swedish bird photographer Östling visited six continents to capture exquisite images of 141 species. His book is organized around the themes of flight, plumage, feeding, habitats, breeding, and migration and distribution. One may well wonder about the "secret" of the subtitle: it could refer to some of the amazing features of avian life exposed by the photographer's super-long lenses; it could also relate to the artist's marvelous ability to "slow down" looking, to freeze, for example, a loon in mid-takeoff, a kite in full soar, or a gore-spattered stork in the middle of a carrion meal. Östling's astonishing technical prowess is evident throughout; readers with an interest in his method will appreciate his brief, closing comments on equipment and like matters. Ornithologist Ullman's minimal text—musings, really—has a subtle lyricism suited to the images. He and Östling have served up a veritable feast: readers will nibble on the text and drink deeply from the images. A solid addition to all natural history collections, especially those needing a serious pictorial treatment of birds.—Robert Eagan, Windsor P.L., Ont.

Environmental models are critical to understanding and predicting natural phenomena. Geologists Pilkey (emeritus, Duke Univ. Sch. of the Environment; A Celebration of the World's Barrier Islands) and Pilkey-Jarvis (department of ecology, Washington State) have written a fascinating book on the issues surrounding the mathematical models used to formulate environmental policies. To reflect better the book's content, its title should be Environmental Policies and Mathematical Models: Reliability, Issues, and Case Studies. The authors discuss the relevance of mathematical modeling as a means to predict future large, complex, and evolving environmental issues; chapters as case studies explore such issues of regional and global importance as invasive species, groundwater contamination, beach erosion, global warming and rising sea levels, underground storage of nuclear waste, and depleted ocean fish stocks. The strongest sections address the history and development of environmental issues central to understanding the reliability, appropriateness, and assumptions behind modeling behavior. Written for nonspecialists, this book is devoid of mathematics and easy to read, yet it includes a limited number of pictures, notes, references, and figures. Recommended for all undergraduate academic libraries supporting environmental and ecology programs.—Ian D. Gordon, Brock Univ. Lib., St. Catharines, Ont.

Writing at the request of the Union of Concerned Scientists, science journalist Shulman (The Threat at Home: Confronting the Toxic Legacy of the U.S. Military) here describes an extensive effort maintained throughout the George W. Bush administration to block and/or seriously distort the research findings of many government-supported scientists. This suppression campaign evidently extends across a broad range of subjects, including global warming, mercury pollution, sundry medical issues (e.g., stem-cell research), an alleged Iraqi nuclear weapons effort, and environmental lead poisoning. In numerous instances, political appointees with no scientific background have rewritten reports submitted by professional scientists. In other cases, highly credentialed scientists nominated for advisory boards have been rejected on political grounds. Shulman might have strengthened his argument further had he shown how the current administration has differed in this area from previous administrations of both major political parties. Even so, he has produced a convincing and frightening demonstration of the Bush administration's perversion of scientific facts and advice. Recommended. [Chris Mooney's The Republican War on Science also investigates this issue.—Ed.]—Jack W. Weigel, Ann Arbor, MI

The Genographic Project is an ambitious five-year effort to map humanity's evolutionary journey from our common African origins through the study of genetic markers. Project director and geneticist Wells (The Journey of Man) uses case studies of five individuals to illustrate what can be learned from population genetics. He also provides accessible introductions to evolving, cutting-edge scientific concepts like haplogroups, mitochondrial DNA, Y chromosomes, and genetic drift. As Wells explains, the Genographic Project offers ordinary citizens the chance to participate and contribute DNA for analysis for $99.95, an exchange that includes a DVD, a cheek-swab kit, and a confidential Genographic Project ID number to retrieve results. The people behind this project seem to have learned from previous studies, which were criticized as racist. What won't be learned from these genetic analyses (traits linked to diseases) is pretty straightforward, as explained by Wells. They deliberately leave out any analysis of disease traits, medical applications, and other potentially commercial applications. We certainly have much to learn yet about populations, and this book may help. Recommended for libraries with collections in popular science. (Illustrations not seen.)—Mary Chitty, Cambridge Healthtech, Needham, MA

Technology prophets, by their very nature, shine a spotlight on new things, speculating about their present and future significance to society. The avalanche of writings over the last ten years heralding the emergence of an "invention age" has prompted a backlash by technology historians like Edgerton. Using the 20th century as backdrop, he juxtaposes prestige technologies (e.g., the nuclear bomb, the pill, Zyklon B) with tried-and-true technologies in a given place and time to demonstrate the folly of innovationcentric history writing and thinking. The actual use of technology, not its emergence, tells a different innovation story with a whole new set of main characters: corrugated steel, bicycles, small firearms, machetes, condoms, and pesticides, to name a few. Deep, dark, and disturbing, this provoking journey will challenge your beliefs about the influence of various technologies in the world today. Strongly recommended for all collections.—James A. Buczynski, Seneca Coll. of Applied Arts & Technology Libs., Toronto

By Judith Sutton, New York

Barber is coauthor of Sushi: Taste and Technique, an excellent introduction to the topic, and author of The Japanese Kitchen. Her new book presents more than 100 healthful, mostly sophisticated recipes. While there are some traditional dishes, many of the recipes reflect influences from a variety of cuisines: Japanese Bean Ratatouille, for example, and Tomatoes in Red Miso with Cilantro Pesto. There are gorgeous color photographs of many dishes, along with a good introduction to Japanese cooking and a section on "How to Eat," with notes on presentation, etiquette, and menu composition. For most subject collections.

Hensperger is the author of more than a dozen other cookbooks and coauthor of Not Your Mother's Slow Cooker Cookbook. Her follow-up to that best-selling title presents recipes developed specifically for smaller slow cookers intended to serve one or two people that often leave leftovers (she points out that smaller batches cannot be cooked efficiently or as well in larger cookers). Most of the recipes are for homey, hearty fare; there is also a short chapter of quick and easy accompaniments prepared separately, along with a good, basic introduction to slow cooking. For all subject collections.

Connecticut's Mystic Seaport, a "living history" maritime museum with a re-creation of an 1800s coastal fishing village, hosts thousands of visitors each year. Food writer and editor Kerr provides a history of Mystic and the New England fishing industry, a guide to the local fish and shellfish, and a mouth-watering array of simple seafood recipes, from Grilled Clams with Garlic and Parsley to Butter-Poached Lobster Medallions. She includes a vast amount of information on seafood and related topics, and her highly readable text is illustrated with both period and modern-day photographs and other memorabilia. Strongly recommended.

Lambert opened the Mozzarella Company in Dallas in 1982, and her fresh mozzarella soon gained a national following. The company now produces more than 20 types of cheese, all still made by hand. Lambert's popular first book, The Cheese Lover's Cookbook and Guide, included a glossary of 100 types of cheese as well as recipes. In her latest title, she presents 75 sophisticated new recipes made with her favorite ingredient, from Cream of Celery Soup with Pepato Cheese Crisps to Gingery Pear Cheesecake. For all subject collections.

PlumpJack began in 1992 as a small wine shop in San Francisco's Cow Hollow neighborhood. Today, it is a restaurant group with seven cafés and restaurants, a winery, and two hotels, one in Napa Valley and the other near Lake Tahoe. The restaurants, which range from casual to elegant, serve "wine-friendly dishes," and they have always kept the wine prices low. Morgan, a food and wine writer, begins the group's first book with a brief history and a wine primer before presenting 75 recipes from the various eateries. There are wine selections for each dish and numerous color photographs throughout. Recommended for area libraries and others where restaurant cookbooks are popular.

Null is the author of literally dozens of natural-foods cookbooks and titles on health and natural healing. Here, he offers 300 recipes featuring 15 foods he has selected for "their proven health benefits." The recipes are vegan and wheat-free, and some meet the requirements of a raw-food diet; close to one-third of them are for beverages (e.g., 8-Sprout Juice, Gallbladder Flush). While there are some imaginative recipes, most of them will appeal primarily to those following a natural-foods diet. In a similar vein, Dana Jacobi's 12 Best Foods Cookbook offers a wide-ranging collection of enticing recipes using selected "superfoods," though not all of them are vegetarian. Null's book is recommended for vegetarian cookery collections and other libraries where his titles are popular.

This unusual cookbook offers both practical information on freezing food and a selection of appealing recipes. A food stylist and food writer, Theodorou begins with "Perfect Freezing Every Time," which includes tips on everything from choosing a freezer to containers to organization. The recipe chapters include "Raw Freeze" (dishes that can be prepared ahead for cooking or finishing later, such as Chicken Stir-Fry in Ginger-Sesame Marinade), "Cook Once, Eat Twice," and "Cooking for a Crowd," as well as separate sections on pastries and sweets. Theodorou's book would have been even better with more recipes and/or variations because some of the recipe sections seem frustratingly brief. Recommended for most collections.

Part of a series about prominent black learning institutions, Tillery's new title is as much a history book as it is a cookbook. It focuses on the Atlanta University Center, which encompasses Morehouse and Spelman Colleges as well as three other historic colleges and Clark-Atlanta University. The book opens with a brief but good introduction to Atlanta's history, from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement. Separate chapters on the various colleges—which include minibiographies of their presidents and notable alumni—are interspersed with recipe chapters, which include both down-home Southern favorites and more contemporary dishes. The recipe head notes are informative and readable, and period photographs and other memorabilia provide further context. Highly recommended.

When Tong and his business partner opened Shun Lee Palace in New York City in 1967, it was one of the first upscale Chinese restaurants in the country and the first to offer regional Shanghai and Sichuan cuisine (Cantonese food was the only type most Americans had ever tasted at the time). The original Shun Lee and its equally elegant spin-off, Shun Lee West, remain enduringly popular, and now Tong has collected 100 favorite recipes, modified as appropriate for the home kitchen, in his first cookbook. With coauthor Louie, he provides a thorough introduction to ingredients, equipment, and techniques. Recipes include both Chinese classics and Tong's interpretations of traditional dishes; head notes provide culinary background and serving suggestions. Chinese cookbooks are something of a rarity these days, and Tong's is recommended for all subject collections.

This inviting collection of international curry dishes actually offers more than its subtitle indicates, as Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia, and "outposts" such as Africa and the Caribbean are also represented. The various regions are covered by a panoply of culinary authorities, from Thai food expert David Thompson to well-known authors Trang and Sri Owen. Each section opens with a brief history followed by an illustrated glossary of ingredients. The dozens of well-spiced (but not always chile-hot) recipes are identified with individual personality profiles—"sharp, hot, and rich," "deliciously perfumed," etc.—and there are full-page color photographs throughout. A good companion to Nancie McDermott's Curry Book, this is recommended for most collections.

First published in Britain in 2004, this book has been updated for a U.S. readership with new chapters on the New England fishing industry and on sport fishing. British environmental journalist Clover examines indiscriminate fishing methods like trawling that are depleting the world's oceans of such fish populations as the northern cod, bluefin tuna, North Sea skate, haddock, and plaice. He notes that existing international organizations fail to regulate catches or enforce quotas often based on political considerations, rather than scientific observations. Clover uses the fisheries of Lowestoft, England; Gloucester, MA; Iceland; Spain; Japan; and New Zealand to illustrate his points and explains the negative repercussions of fish farming, a topic also covered in Paul Molyneaux's Swimming in Circles, reviewed right. Like Carl Safina's Song for the Blue Ocean and Richard Ellis's The Empty Ocean, this book warns that "fishing with modern technology is the most destructive on earth," and the author urges readers to become knowledgeable about the sources of the fish they eat and which species are endangered (a helpful guide on which to eat and which to avoid is included). Recommended for all libraries. [A global study released on Nov. 3 by scientists in five countries predicts that the world's fisheries will collapse by 2048 if overfishing continues to go unchecked.—Ed.]—Judith B. Barnett, Pell Marine Science Lib., Univ. of Rhode Island, Kingston

Aquaculture has been seen as a reliable source of fish and shellfish. Journalist Molyneaux (The Doryman's Reflection: A Fisherman's Life) is also an experienced fisher who has worked in aquaculture farms and fish-packing plants. Here, he examines the damaging effects of aquaculture on offshore ecology, local economies, and artisanal fishers through extensive visits to northwest Mexico and Maine. He reveals how escapees from fish pens spread viruses and antibiotic-resistant bacteria to wild populations, with disastrous effects on local economies and ecosystems. The author contends that negative findings on aquaculture cannot be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals because funding is received from aquaculture industry interests. Molyneaux reaches the same conclusions as Charles Clover in The End of the Line (see review, left). However, Clover's book is more logically organized and presents the interrelationships of various fisheries with their local economies in a more systematic manner. Suitable for public and high school libraries as a supplement to Clover's book.—Judith B. Barnett, Pell Marine Science Lib., Univ. of Rhode Island, Kingston

By Karen Ellis, Director, Taylor P.L., TX

From drawer pulls to hinges, architectural hardware is the final accessory for your home. Designer and writer Berry shines a light on this underappreciated topic. The manufacture, history, design, and installation of these parts are covered rather quickly. The photos, while beautiful, sometimes fail to illustrate effectively the hardware. Those restoring historic homes will not find enough information to aid in matching hardware to correct periods. However, this book, more an inspirational guide than a catalog of sample hardware, is distinctive in that there is really no other material covering the topic. For larger libraries only or on demand. (Final photos not seen.)

From roofing to flooring and everything in between, this lovely book by professional decorators Cassell and Parham (coauthors, Decorating Hints and Tips) teaches readers how to improve, repair, and renovate their homes. How does it compare with the granddaddy of all homeowner D.I.Y. books, last year's Reader's Digest Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual? The coverage is remarkably similar, but the focus is different. Whereas Cassell and Parham emphasize understanding how home systems work, the Reader's Digest title concentrates on repairing and troubleshooting. If you can pick only one, go with the Reader's Digest manual, but Home Improvement is recommended for larger public libraries for its breadth, layout, and proliferation of pictures (3500-plus).

In this capable, comprehensive manual, master plumber Henkenius shows homeowners how to tackle expensive plumbing repairs (e.g., replacing a washer in a leaky faucet). As with other Ultimate Guide titles, the current one boasts an excellent layout and solid organization. The skill level of each project is rated, and photos walk users step by step through the instructions. This is an updated and expanded edition of Plumbing: Basic, Intermediate & Advanced Projects (2002), also by Henkenius, but it covers almost identical territory. If you don't own the 2002 edition, do not hesitate to snap this one up. Strongly recommended for all collections.

Rustic, hand-built furnishings convey a simple elegance. Hill, a traditional woodworker, offers up 18 projects in that vein in a logically organized, stylishly photographed package. While many of his projects can be found in other books, the carved wooden spoons, chair made of rough saplings, and hooded cradle are unique. Oddly, the tool use and technique section is an afterthought buried at the back of the book, with limited illustrations and bewildering instructions. An attractive title but not as instructional as others. For larger collections only.

Make a doghouse that serves as adornment to your home and yard—and still provide a comfortable abode for your pet. This book is based on the DIY Network's Barkitecture and is written by that show's producers, Klarich and Woods. It details a variety of doghouse designs, each with a list of materials and basic step-by-step instructions. Several projects are above the skill set of someone who just wants to put a roof over Fido's head. The design drawings are amateurish, and the dark, blurry photographs appear to be stills from the TV show. For dramatic, over-the-top doghouse designs, try Fred Albert's Barkitecture. While Doggie Homes is more practical, it's a mixed bag. Purchase only where there is demand.

Updating your bathroom can add real value to your home. In this successful book spin-off of the DIY Network's Bathroom Renovations, host Matthews and Bradley (Ideas for Great Baby Rooms) cover ten renovation projects. The text is upbeat and encouraging and includes cautionary tips for calling in professional help when needed. Be aware—the title is deceiving, as most of these projects take several weekends to finish. Complete with planning advice, an introduction to bathroom styles, and features, each project emphasizes a different part of renovation, avoiding duplication. The illustrations—particularly the before-and-after shots—are colorful and inspiring. While not the absolutely best bathroom renovation book, this comes pretty close. Similar to Bathroom Makeovers (Taunton Press, 2005), which also touts weekend-long renovations, it covers more dramatic changes. Highly recommended.

Trim work adds flare and elegance to any residence. Master craftsman and first-time author Moon has penned a textbook meant for classroom instruction. The coverage encompasses base-molding installation, window and wall trims, closets, molding, ceiling beams, stairs, columns, cabinets, and wood flooring. Each chapter closes with a series of review questions. Apparently, students don't rate much quality: the small black-and-white illustrations are horrible, and the text is tedious and uninspired. On top of that, the pages are extremely thin, and the cover is flimsy. Not recommended; instead, buy Neal Barrett's Ultimate Guide to Trim Carpentry.

An old craft, metal embossing is making a comeback, and debut author Muldoon supplies a great introduction to the art. Starting with a detailed primer on embossing tools and their uses, materials, and techniques, she continues with sample decorative projects ranging from simple to elaborate. Each project includes an easily copied pattern. Muldoon focuses on the embossed sheets of metal only—the decoration is then attached to purchased boxes, picture frames, and candles. The photos of the final pieces are exquisite. Few metal embossing craft books exist, so this title is particularly desirable. Recommended for all public libraries, especially where there is interest in a wide range of hobbies.

Make your child's room his or her favorite place in the house by personalizing it and jazzing it up. Designer Norman features simple projects in this room design book, which is populated by bright and charming photographs. Included are painting and decoupage projects, simple furnishing and accessory projects, and practical storage ideas, all artfully displayed. Assembly instructions are rather cursory, but the projects are very simple. The clever use of decoupage to cover an existing short table with comic book pages is one of the more delightful projects. This is a sweet book but more inspiration than instruction. Recommended for larger public libraries.

Does your car no longer fit in your garage? Have you lost the yard tools in the jumble? Experienced woodworking and DIY author Peters addresses this all-too-real problem. After an overview on garage structure and renovation basics, he presents an array of designs and possibilities. All the instructions are conversational and casual yet helpful and concise. Particularly useful are the instructions on installing a garage door opener. The color illustrations are right on point, and the photos are inspiring. Several storage systems are detailed, thankfully. This excellent book, notable for its great ideas and instruction, is highly recommended for all collections. Time to rediscover your garage!

Do you really need an entire book on woodcutting? First-time authors and father-and-son lumberjacks Frank and Stephen Philbrick manage to fill this book with much more. Safety is heavily emphasized throughout; discussions of tree species best suited for one's fireplace, chainsaw use and maintenance, and burning mechanisms are peppered with humorous reminiscences and philosophizing, which adds fluff. The subculture of logger games is also introduced, with competitive chopping, ax throwing, and more. There are nuggets of good information to be gleaned from this sometimes interesting, sometimes silly book. Buy only according to your region and local wood supply.

You can pay a lot of money for decorative iron and metal furnishings, or you could learn to make them yourself. Experienced welder Ruth (Welding Basics) presents a good mixture of 25 metal-welding projects, including simple furnishings, garden accessories, and decorative elements. She offers patterns and instructions, but there is no handholding, no list of needed equipment or tools—this book is only for the hobby welder conversant in technique and tool use. Illustrations of final products are nice and large, but there are few instructional photos. Don't purchase unless you already have some basic welding books or there is demand.

Did your childhood include a tree house? Do you wish it had? David and Jeanie Stiles (coauthors, Storage Projects You Can Build) can help you build the tree house of your child's dreams. They carefully outline planning considerations and pay keen attention to methods of attachment to the tree. Step-by-step instructions walk builders through basic designs. A proliferation of black-and-white line drawings illustrates instructions, placement, and technique, and a photo gallery shows off the finished projects. No trees? No problem, with one treeless and four playhouse designs. Essential.

The lush wood and distinctive designs of Arts and Crafts-style furnishings continue to be popular. This book from Wood®, geared to more experienced woodworkers, presents a wide array of furnishings and projects. The illustrations and directions are strong; the layout is consistent and includes materials lists, exploded-view designs, and step-by-step instructions. Interestingly, the final project features an Arts and Craft's-style makeover of a sample living room. While not as striking and inspirational as some homages, overall, this is a serviceable and useful book, with something for every room in the house. Recommended formost public libraries with established woodworking collections.