Saturday, May 15, 2010

The New Encyclopedia of the Bible

This week's spotlight is on the latest edition of Zondervan's Encyclopedia of the Bible.

Generally speaking, I am not one to get excited about encyclopedias - I've got other things I'd rather be reading! However, one look at this resource and I am hooked.

There is great basic information on everything from Jerusalem to Catacombs, perfect for an experienced researcher just starting out on a new topic or a new student taking their first religious studies class.

Each entry explains the topic from both the Biblical and historical perspectives, as well as placing the topic completely within the greater world. Information, though not extensive, provides a basic understanding and a solid basis for further study.

Now that I have said my piece about the information in this book, let me step back into a more superficial position: BEAUTIFUL! Yes, this series is fully illustrated with full-color images.

Though the information is important, the way the information is presented is too. And this Encyclopedia covers both aspects wonderfully.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Young Adult Books - Heroines

This week's new books were more varied than usual. With equal parts Nursing and Education, Fiction and Religion; however, the overwhelming majority was from our growing Young Adult section.

Even within the subheading of Young Adult, an even narrower topic emerged: African American, female protagonists.

When I was a wee librarian-ette, the only books with girls as storytellers were about falling in love, overcoming abuse, or involved dresses from the Renaissance. Even fewer of these books had multicultural, female protagonists... in fact, I am having difficulty thinking of a great young adult book with such a main character.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
is a noted exception. As is The House on Mango Street, The Devil's Arithmetic and Island of the Blue Dolphins.

That is why this week's Spotlight on New Books makes me so happy! Three new books with three exciting, female, African American, teenage heroines for you to read and enjoy.


The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi Durrow

After a tragedy that claims the life of both of her parents, Rachel is forced to face issues of race and class. This book is not about the tragedy of her early life or, really, the injustice of racial identity, but about how one girl reacted to these experiences.






Flygirl by Sherri Smith

All Ida ever wanted to do was fly, just like her daddy. When WWII begins she sees her chance with the WASPs; however, she has to hide her African American heritage to do realize this dream. If you are forced to suppress your family and who you are, can you ever completely realize your dreams?





Mare's War by Tanita Davis

This story follows two present-day sisters on a road trip with their eccentric grandmother. Just as the road before them, their grandmother's story unfurls allowing them to learn about her past and theirs.