Art
‘Norman Rockwell’s Models: In and out of the Studio’
By S.T. Haggerty
For fans of Norman Rockwell, Haggerty has made a beautiful and unique contribution to the artist’s legacy. The author thoroughly discusses many of Rockwell’s paintings from the perspective of those who modeled for them, including their experiences while the works were produced and what it was like anticipating the release of the artwork. It also tells of how Rockwell came across and selected models and why he chose regular people instead of professionals for his paintings. It’s an intimate look at one of America’s treasures.
History
Anyone in the U.S. military before 1980 remembers the cry “Smoke ’em if you got ’em.” Most lit up a cigarette. In 1900, cigarettes were viewed as unmanly. World War I changed that as cigarettes helped doughboys tolerate trench life. In 1973, when the all-volunteer army was instituted, the military discouraged smoking to keep down health care costs, and cigarette use has now plunged to near 1900 levels. This book gives interesting insights into the link between cigarettes and the military.
Cooking
In a very interesting memoir twist, this book combines history, kitchen lore, information about the basic foods of Appalachia, old-time recipes, and ancestral tales set around cooking and meals. Casada is a native of these mountains and author of some 30 books, including “A Smoky Mountain Boyhood,” and here he puts together a well-seasoned stew that should appeal to many tastes. If you enjoy regional history, books about cooking, or just some fine storytelling, here’s a memoir to satisfy you.
Classics
Here’s an eccentric collection of essays erudite, witty, and reflective. Schall covers a wide range of topics—literature, theology, philosophy, even a chapter “On the Seriousness of Sports.” Also included are essays on teaching along with advice for students, including “What a Student Owes His Teacher.” The book lists accompanying each chapter are a huge plus. Authors discussed range from Plato to Josef Pieper to George Gilder. This is a “big questions” book accessible to the general reader.
Nonfiction
Search and Rescue Field Coordinator Marc Levesque shares experiences from his decades-long career in the rescue business in New Mexico. Told through real-life stories, readers will get a glimpse into the intricacies and challenges of finding the lost, stranded, or injured in some of the most rugged and remote corners of the Southwest. Harrowed yet hopeful, numerous teams of unsung heroes coalesce to bring calm out of chaos. These are gripping accounts told from a voice steeped in wilderness wisdom.
For Kids
Published in 1853, “The Tanglewood Tales” features six Greek myths retold by Nathaniel Hawthorne, including “The Minotaur,” “The Pygmies,” “The Golden Fleece,” and more. Hawthorne aimed to provide child-appropriate versions of these timeless tales. The sequel to “A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys,” it’s a wonderful addition to a child’s library.
