Nonfiction
By Elizabeth H. Cottrell
In this guide to writing notes that comfort, encourage, and inspire others, the author shares her belief in the connective power of the handwritten note along with dozens of tips for readers explaining how they can make their own letters truly meaningful. Cottrell covers the etiquette of letter-writing and special notes like get-well cards; but the chief value of this book from the heart lies in the many examples she provides that can help us to reach out and touch the lives of others.
Military History
By Hugh Wilford
How much did the British and French influence the raison d’etre of the American intelligence community? Quite extensively, but perhaps in ways readers wouldn’t think. Wilford describes how imperial attitudes influenced the creators of the Central Intelligence Agency and their agents, despite the agency’s anti-imperialist mission. This book shows how these adopted attitudes altered the initial objective of intelligence gathering into an effort to change the world by force and manipulation.
Fiction
By John Rhodes
Johnnie Shaux, a pilot in the RAF during World War II, flies Spitfires and Mosquitoes. His wife Eleanor, a Women’s Auxiliary Air Force analyst at Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force, is a senior planner working with Gen. Dwight Eisenhower. They work together yet separately to defeat the Nazis. This book opens in spring 1944 and follows the pair through World War II in Europe from D-Day through the Battle of the Bulge. The fifth book in a series, it works well as a stand-alone. Well-written and entertaining.
Biography
By Bryant Boutwell
“Red” Duke was known for his televised medical broadcasts. One of those larger-than-life Texas characters, he left people wondering if he was for real. This biography shows he was the real deal, and perhaps greater than his public persona. A native Texan, Duke became a surgeon. He was President Kennedy’s surgeon, when Kennedy was shot in 1963. Duke started Houston’s Life Flight air ambulance service and became a TV star, as University of Texas Health Science Center’s spokesman for a nationally syndicated medical advice program.
Classics
By Leo Tolstoy and Michael R. Katz
In this Norton Critical Edition, a treasure trove of Tolstoy’s stories and novellas, seasoned translator Michael Katz has revised the work of Louise and Aylmer Maude for easier comprehension. In addition to stories like “The Death of Ivan Ilych,” “The Kreutzer Sonata,” and “Master and Man,” this collection features selections from Tolstoy’s memoirs, letters, and diaries; critical commentary on his writings; and a chronology of his life. A fine collection for both students and general readers.
For Kids
By Mike Venezia
One of Mike Venezia’s many biographies, this fun and informative look at the life of Tchaikovsky is the perfect supplement to music study or in anticipation of a performance. Presented with humor, it keeps young readers entertained while learning about the composer. The author’s other subjects also make great additions to a child’s library.
