Braille Book Review
January-February 2008
Volume 77, Number 1

_Braille Book Review_ is published bimonthly in large-print,
braille, and computer diskette formats and distributed
free to blind and physically handicapped individuals who
participate in the Library of Congress free reading program.
It lists braille magazines and books available through a
network of cooperating libraries.  The braille edition also
lists recorded books, giving abbreviated annotations.  News
about library services is featured in both editions.
     The annotated list in this issue is limited to titles
recently added to the national collection, which contains
thousands of fiction and nonfiction titles, including
classics, biographies, gothics, mysteries, and how-to and
self-help guides.  To learn more about the wide
range of books in the national collection, readers may order
catalogs and subject bibliographies from cooperating
libraries.  Librarians can check other resources for titles
and answer requests for special materials.  Readers can
receive _Braille Book Review_ and other information
through the Internet by accessing the the NLS
home page at http://www.loc.gov/nls.
     To order books or for subscription changes,
contact your local cooperating library.
Correspondence regarding editorial matters should be sent
to Publications and Media Section, National Library Service
for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of
Congress, Washington, DC 20542.

Library of Congress, Washington 2007

Library of Congress
Catalog Card Number 53-31800
ISSN 0006-873X

Contents:

In Brief

Books for Adults
     Nonfiction
     Fiction

Books for Children
     Nonfiction
     Fiction

Braille Magazines
###

In Brief

The following information is reprinted from two issues of NLS Flash, a 
newsletter created to bring current information on NLS progress in 
digital technology to patrons, library staff, and other interested 
individuals.

Flash, August/September 2007, volume 3, issue 8

Production of digital cartridge approaches
Step by step, each piece of the digital system is coming to fruition 
for patrons. One area of major progress is the cartridge, which will 
house the digital book. The National Library Service for the Blind and 
Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress, has finalized the 
cartridge design and is currently preparing to contract for production. 
To some, designing a cartridge is a seemingly mundane manufacturing 
process. But designing a cartridge for blind and physically handicapped 
patrons is no easy task, as it requires truly unique design and testing 
methods. In fact, products for NLS patrons typically undergo more 
rigorous usability testing than most commercial consumer products. 

The production plan
Cartridge production is a multiphase process. Developers approach each 
stage of production with a strong dedication to meeting patron's needs 
for the cartridge. The first step is to finalize its interior design. 
While the cartridge's functional requirements have been determined, 
some internal componentssuch as circuitry and softwarewill be defined 
by the manufacturer. Once the internal components are designed, the 
manufacturer will build cartridge prototypes. The prototypes will then 
undergo testing to ensure they meet NLS specifications and that they 
function properly. Next the manufacturer will develop production line 
toolingthe metal mold that plastic is poured into to form the 
cartridge's casing. 
	Before full production begins, the manufacturer will conduct 
verification tests on prototypes. These tests will evaluate whether the 
cartridge meets requirements for mechanical tolerance, electrical 
specifications, and the Federal Communication Commission's requirements 
for electromagnetic compatibility. These evaluations ensure that each 
aspect of the device performs optimally for patrons that will use it. 
Testing will also assess whether books can be recorded to the cartridge 
at a predetermined speed, which will be evaluated again while titles 
are actually duplicated onto cartridges. This helps assure that the 
books read properly. Additionally the cartridge must be able to 
rerecord a minimum number of times and meet durability requirements, 
which specify the number of times it should withstand insertion into 
the player. These steps will help ensure that the cartridge meets 
patrons' needs. 
	Full production of the cartridge is slated to begin in the spring 
of 2008. NLS anticipates producing 17,500 cartridges in the initial run 
and between one to two million cartridges each year into the future. 
Libraries within the NLS network, as well as other organizations, will 
be able to buy blank cartridges to record local or specialty books for 
their readers. Blank cartridges will be available once full production 
starts. 

Benefits for patrons
A lot of care went into designing a cartridge that would be fully 
accessible to patrons. The cartridge was designed to be easily inserted 
into the player, especially for readers with reduced dexterity. It has 
beveled edges as well as a large finger hole in the corner which will 
make it easier to grip and load into the player. Its wedge design 
allows it to be inserted into the player in only one direction. It was 
also important to NLS that all users found the cartridge's label 
readable. For that reason, the label includes both braille and large-
print characters.
	The cartridge has many other benefits that will enhance patrons' 
reading experience. It will deliver crisper, clearer audio quality. One 
cartridge will hold most titles, which adds extra convenience to the 
reading experience. The cartridge also plays through on one side; 
there's no need to flip the cartridge like one would with a cassette 
tape. Readers will also enjoy the cartridge's improved navigation 
features. Once inserted into an advanced player, the cartridge has 
markers that will track exactly where patrons are in the book, allowing 
the patron to pick up right where he or she left off.
	The cartridge's compact design also offers users greater 
portability. Unlike bulky cassettes, the cartridge is about the size of 
a credit card. The device will also be more reliable, since it has no 
moving parts to risk breaking and repairing. Unlike cassettes, it also 
has no tapes to tangle. 
	Patrons will find the cartridge to be extremely durable. To 
ensure the cartridges hold up to patron use and transit, they were 
subjected to intense durability testing. Cartridges were exposed to 
extreme temperatures to confirm they would not melt, freeze, crack, or 
become unusable. They were also dropped from varying heights onto 
different surfaces to verify they would not break, chip, or scratch. 
	The cartridge will also serve patrons longer. Since flash memory 
is rewritable, the cartridge can be reused many times to load new books 
onto it. This capability makes it very cost efficient for libraries as 
well. 
	Patrons will enjoy the flexibility the digital book has to offer. 
Using a USB flash drive, users will be able to download books onto 
their personal computers. They can essentially build a library of their 
favorite titles. 
	All of the digital system's features will empower patrons and 
take their reading experience to the next level. Patrons will 
ultimately get more out of the talking-book program than ever before. 

A look back
The journey to produce a cartridge beneficial to all users was a long 
one, but essential in delivering an optimal result. Considerable time 
was spent to systematically design, develop, and test all the 
cartridge's features. The process started with a series of user-needs 
tests to reveal the qualities and features patrons desired most in a 
digital talking-book medium. User-needs tests were followed by a series 
of usability tests to refine cartridge models and prototypes and to 
test the functionality of the device. Most notably, the preliminary 
design review conducted in June 2006 tested the cartridge's usability, 
portability, and durability. The design review team examined the ease 
of handling and inserting the cartridge. It also reviewed the adequacy 
of its large-print and braille labeling. 
	The next stage in the development process was to produce 
functional prototypes. These also went through usability testing in 
September 2006. Patrons validated the cartridge's design through 
numerous tests under real-world reading scenarios in homes, libraries, 
and retirement centers. Further usability testing was conducted in 
February 2007. This past spring, the cartridge's technical 
specifications were finalized during engineering design review and 
critical design review. 
	While the digital transition has been a lengthy process, patrons 
can be sure that the product will be worth the wait. 

###
Flash, October 2007, volume 3, issue 9

Library of Congress expands digital download pilot
The digital download project, launched in October 2006, has evolved 
well beyond the hopes of its architects. The National Library Service 
for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress, 
recently expanded the download project's scope, allowing more patrons 
to participate in downloading and reading digital talking books and 
offering those patrons improved services. The project has also shifted 
its focus from testing the usability of digital audiobooks to now 
concentrating on optimizing the functionality of the download web site. 
As the download project improves, so too will the capabilities offered 
by the download project when it officially launches in late 2008. 
	This effort is the second stage in a three-phase process to 
implement a digital system. The first stage involves replicating the 
current program with mail order digital books. This is followed by 
finalizing the digital download project, which is a new feature of the 
NLS program. The third stage is focused on duplication-on-demand, 
whereby digital titles are produced when requested by users. Cartridges 
are recycled during this process, making it a very cost efficient mode.
	"More patrons now have a voice in shaping the digital download 
program.  We will utilize patron comments and the lessons learned 
during this experimental effort to build a robust download program," 
said NLS research and development officer Neil Bernstein.
	Patron comments are essential to improving the download program, 
which is why NLS recently relaxed the pilot's enrollment requirements. 
To date six hundred patrons participate. Patrons enrolling in the 
program must be active readers in good standing, have access to a 
commercially available digital player compatible with NLS materials, 
have an e-mail address, and have access to a high-speed Internet 
connection. 
	Interested eligible patrons must fill out an online application 
at www.nlstalkingbooks.org/dtb. Once NLS confirms their eligibility, 
patrons may set up a username and password and learn how to download 
digital books. The player's manufacturer will also be notified to 
provide the patrons with the authorization key to activate their 
players. When these steps are completed, patrons will be able to 
download a title from NLS's download site to their computers, and from 
their computers to commercial flash cards, which can then be inserted 
into the players for reading.

Pilot improvements
The download program offers patrons instant access to more titles than 
ever before. The download collection has grown to more than seven 
thousand books and thirteen magazines and includes children's titles 
and Spanish-language books. NLS recently added books converted from 
analog tape masters, whereas before the site only featured materials 
originally recorded in digital format. Larger books are also offered. 
	On August 31, NLS revamped the existing download web site. The 
robust new venue offers patrons more features to improve their digital 
download experience. Users can set their preferences, such as e-mail 
addresses or passwords, password recovery features, and the number of 
search results displayed. An intelligent web site, it automatically 
recognizes newly posted materials and makes these available to patrons. 
It also offers technical support. 
	The web site embodies various administrative functions used by 
NLS staff  who manage the project. These functions are not accessible 
to patrons. For example, the web site will generate and e-mail 
circulation statistics to libraries on a monthly basis. The statistics, 
specific to each library, will include the monthly total of patrons who 
are using the download program as well as a breakdown of the numbers of 
downloaded books and magazines. Libraries may also access download 
circulation figures. 
	The site shares information among libraries, NLS, and third-party 
hardware vendors.
NLS employees, with the help of this interactive web site, process 
applications, send authorization e-mails to new enrollees, and notify 
the network when they are approved to participate. NLS also notifies 
the digital player distributor to activate the patron's player. 
	While the web site has improved, it is still a work in progress. 
It will be enhanced continually until the final web site is launched in 
late 2008. Patron input is crucial at this stage. The first improvement 
will be to add page numbers to each page of search listings. Rather 
than listing search results in one continuous page, patrons will jump 
from page to page. Users will also have the option of receiving 
automatic daily or weekly notifications of new titles added to the 
site. Eventually the site will offer access to all NLS digital 
resources, such as Web-Braille. 

Patrons enjoy independence 
Participant input on the digital download project is overwhelmingly 
positive. Though patrons are no longer required to complete a survey 
for each title they read, they continue to be very vocal on the web 
site's message board and in e-mails to NLS. Because the digital project 
is no longer focused on evaluating the usability of digital books and 
players, input now relates to the operation and content of the download 
web site.
	Patrons praise both the download concept as well as its web site. 
They enjoy the instant access to titles, and find downloading titles 
more convenient than mail order. The scope and range of choice is also 
significant: one participant remarked, "I feel as though I am in a 
library for the first time in my life."
	Other participants praised the detail and care that went into 
developing an accessible web site: "My compliments to all of you 
involved in this project. The site is well organized and easy to use. 
Obviously thought has been given to the bandwidth required for a site 
of this nature. This project will be a great boon to many of us."
	Patrons also value the sense of independence and connection 
afforded by downloadable reading. One participant considers the 
downloadable book to be "a revolutionary opportunity to those of us 
wanting to be current on the news, needing the same extensive level of 
information to live life independently and successfully as sighted 
folks do." 
	According to Bernstein, one of the greatest benefits of the 
talking-book program, and especially the download initiative, is 
empowerment.  "That's what we do at NLS, we promote patrons' ability to 
serve themselves," said Bernstein. 

Digital talking-book (DB) milestones
Completed
--Defined and prioritized DB features
--Coordinated development and publication of Specifications for the 
Digital Talking Book (ANSI/NISO Z39.86)
--Simulated a DB player using a personal computer
--Developed a computer-based, life-cycle cost analysis (LCC) model for 
the NLS     system and for candidate digital systems
--Developed computer software for DB production and presentation
--Developed software to test conformance of players and DBs with the 
ANSI/NISO 
    standard
--Conducted user survey
--Conducted player transition study
--Conducted distribution flash-cartridge study
--Awarded player and flash-cartridge design contract 
--Awarded distribution-system design contract 
--Acquired distribution-system design contract Phase I and II
--Conducted preliminary design review
--Developed player and flash-cartridge 
--Designed DB containers and labels 
--Concluded Web-Magazine pilot
--Launched Web-Book pilot 
--Designed digital data management system 
--Contracted flash cartridge 

In process
--Distribution-system implementation
--Flash-cartridge production
--Flash-cartridge duplication
--Initial lot of DB containers and labels manufactured
--Full player production

For information on the 
NLS DIGITAL PROJECT
Contact:

Jean M. Moss
Digital Projects Coordinator
jemo@loc.gov
Fax: (202) 707-1690

To view the Strategic Business Plan on the Web visit:

www.loc.gov/nls/businessplan2006.html

###
Collection Development Advisory Group seeks advice
The members of the Collection Development Advisory Group wish to thank 
fellow patrons and librarians for their input concerning the NLS 
program. Ideas and suggestions from readers are key components in the 
success of the program and are thoroughly discussed in the committee's 
deliberations. 
	Please continue to assist us by contacting committee members or 
your cooperating braille or talking-book library with your suggestions. 
The group will meet again at NLS on May 2123, 2008.

Representatives from consumer organizations:
American Council of the Blind (ACB)
Cindy Van Winkle
6686 Capricorn Lane, N.E.
Bremerton, WA 98311
cindy.vw@msn.com

Blinded Veterans Association (BVA)
Pete Davis
615 South Adams Street	
Arlington, VA 22204
lottie.pete@verizon.net
		
National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Anil Lewis
315 West Ponce De Leon Avenue, Suite 603
Decatur, GA 30030
alewis@nfbga.org 

Readers-at-large:

Midlands Regionincludes: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, 
Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin.
	
Teresa Haifley
414 South 3rd Avenue
Washington, Iowa 52353-1502
teresahaifley@iowatelecom.net

Northern Regionincludes: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, 
Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, 
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia.
	
Randy Pierce	
109 E. Glenwood Street
Nashua, NH 03060	
alaric02@sprynet.com
		
Southern Regionincludes: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, 
Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South 
Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Virgin Islands.
	
Lula M. Brooks	
723 Egret Bluff Lane
Jacksonville, FL 32211
jerryr@coj.net
(Write "For Lula Brooks" in subject line.)	

Western Regionincludes: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, 
Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, 
South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
	
Donna Ryan  
1237 W. Granite Street
 Butte, MT  59701
cliffhouse@in-tch.com 
					
Librarians:	
	
Midlands
Ren Perrance
Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library
388 SE 6th Avenue 
Faribault, MN 55021-6340 
(507) 333-4828; fax (507) 333-4832
rene.perrance@state.mn.us

Northern
Carol A. Taylor
Connecticut State Library 
Library for the Blind and Handicapped
198 West Street
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
(860) 721-2020; fax (860) 721-2056
lbph@cslib.org

Southern
Patricia Schubert
Manatee Talking Book Library
6081 26th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34207
(941) 742-5914 or (941) 484-0308
fax (941) 751-7098
patricia.schubert@mymanatee.org
								
Western
Scott Scholz
Nebraska Library Commission
Talking Book and Braille Service
The Atrium
1200 N. Street, Suite 120
Lincoln, NE 68508-2023
(402) 471-6553
sscholz@nlc.state.ne.us
		
Children's/Young Adult
Rachel Gould		
Braille and Talking Book Library
Perkins School for the Blind
175 North Beacon Street
Watertown, MA 02472-2790
(617) 972-7240;  fax (617) 972-7363
rachel.gould@perkins.org

###
Newsstand
The following announcements may be of interest to readers.  The 
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 
reserves the right to publish announcements selectively, as space 
permits.  Items mentioned, however, are not part of the NLS program and 
their listing does not imply endorsement.

2008 calendars. Listed below are organizations that produce calendars 
in braille or print/braille.

American Printing House for the Blind (APH)
P.O. Box 6085
Louisville, KY 40206-0085
800-223-1839
(502) 899-2274 fax
info@aph.org
www.aph.org/products/index.html
Accepts orders by mail, telephone, or fax.
-Braille DateBook/Calendar in a two-ring binder. Calendar has tabbed 
pages of durable plastic. Catalog no. 1-07899-08, $63. Calendar 
replacement pages, catalog no. 1-07898-08, $15. Filler paper and extra 
tabs, catalog no. 1-07897-08, $10.
-Large-print/braille (36 point) APH InSights Art 8-1/2 x 11-inch 
calendar. Includes holidays and moon phases. Features selected art from 
the APH juried competition. Catalog no. 5-18971-08, $7.50.
-Large-print (60 point) E-Z track low-vision calendar and appointment 
book in a three-ring binder. Each page enumerates and holds space for 
four days of the month, with room for notes. Calendar with binder, 
catalog no. 1-07900-08, $29.75. Inserts only, catalog no. 1-07901-08, 
$25.75.
-Large-print/braille everyday activities calendar in a three-ring 
binder with color dividers between each month, two days per page. 
Calendar can be used year after year. For children ages three to eight. 
Catalog no. 1-08121-00, $58. 

The Big Type Company
W136 N5265 Campbell Court
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
800-933-1711
(262) 783-6599 fax
plastikoiplus@mindspring.com
www.bigtype.bigstep.com
Accepts prepaid orders by mail, telephone, or online. 
-Large-print (42 point) month-at-a-glance desk calendar. Opens up to 11 
x 17 inches. Includes space for notes or appointments. $11.50.

Braille Institute Universal Media Services
741 North Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90029
800-272-4553
pmansinne@brailleinstitute.org
www.universalmediaservices.org/PublicationsforSale/Calendar.htm
Accepts orders by telephone or online.
-Large-print/braille (18 point) monthly 8-3/4 x 11-inch wall or desk 
calendar. Includes holiday listings and space for braille notes. $5.

Cleveland Sight Center
Eye-dea Shop
1909 East 101st Street
P.O. Box 1988
Cleveland, OH  44106-8696
(216) 791-8118, ext. 278
877-776-9563, ext. 278
e-commerce@clevelandsightcenter.com
www.eyedeashop.com
Accepts orders by mail, telephone, or online.     
-Large-print wall calendar. Opens up to 17 x 22 inches. Includes a 
bold-tip pen. Catalog no. 026-CA001-L, $10.

Elizabeth Pierce Olmsted, M.D., Center for the Visually Impaired
1170 Main Street		
Buffalo, NY 14209-0398
(716) 882-1025, ext. 241
(716) 882-5577 fax
dgipson@olmstedcenter.org
www.olmstedcenter.org/Home/Services/ResourceCenter
Accepts prepaid orders by mail.
-Braille 5-1/2 x 8-1/2-inch desk calendar with two days per page and 
dividers for each month, $46.97. Refills, $38.99.
	
JBI International
110 East 30th Street
New York, NY 10016
(212) 889-2525
800-433-1531
(212) 689-3692 fax
library@jbilibrary.org
www.jbilibrary.org
Accepts requests by e-mail, fax, mail, or telephone.
-Large-print (18 point) 5768/2008 Jewish reference calendar. A sixteen-
month listing that opens up to 17 x 11 inches. Also available in 
braille and audiocassette formats. Free.

The Lighthouse of Houston
Attn: Reflections, The Lighthouse Store
3602 West Dallas 
Houston, TX 77019
(713) 284-8466
(713) 284-8451 fax
reflections@houstonlighthouse.org
www.houstonlighthouse.org
Accepts prepaid orders by mail, fax, telephone, or online.
-Large-print (36 point) 11 x 17-inch wall calendar. Catalog no. 1400, 
$5.00.

Lutheran Blind Mission 
Library for the Blind
Attn: Lynne Borchelt
7550 Watson Road
St. Louis, MO 63119-4409
888-215-2455
blind.mission@blindmission.org
www.blindmission.org
Accepts requests by mail or telephone. 
-Braille 8-1/2 x 11-inch Scripture calendar. Features a Bible verse 
each month. Also available as a large-print (21 point) 8-1/2 x 14-inch 
edition. Free.

Michigan Braille Transcribing Fund
3500 North Elm Road
Jackson, MI 49201
(517) 780-5096
(734) 668-1094 fax
www.mi-braille.com
Accepts requests by fax or telephone.
-Large-print/braille 6-1/4 x 3-3/4-inch purse-size, spiral-bound 
calendar. Includes a separate listing of major holidays. Free.

National Federation of the Blind
Independence Market
1800 Johnson Street
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 659-9314, ext. 2216
(410) 685-2340 fax
IndependenceMarket@nfb.org
http://secure.nfb.org/ecommerce/asp/default.asp
Accepts requests by e-mail, fax, mail, or telephone.
-Braille 6 x 6-1/2-inch calendar. Features one page per month, a 
personal day page, and a listing of major holidays. Catalog no. BBC08-
B, free.

National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Library of Congress
Attn: Reference Section
Washington, DC 20542
(202) 707-9275
800-424-8567	
nlsref@loc.gov
www.loc.gov/nls
Accepts requests by e-mail or telephone.
-Braille 6 x 6-1/2-inch datefinder and signature guide. Covers a 
twelve-month period from July of the current year to June of the 
following year. Measures 5 x 3-1/2 inches. Free.

Sight Connection
9700 Third Avenue NE, #100
Seattle, WA 98115-2027
(206) 525-5556
800-456-4888
(206) 525-0422 fax
csbstore@csbps.com
www.sightconnection.com
Accepts prepaid orders by mail, fax, telephone, or online.
-Braille magnetic board calendar holds the days and months of the year. 
Tiles are in braille and print with raised tactile numbers and letters. 
Includes extra tiles. Catalog no. PLU 809, $32.25.
-Large-print spiral-bound calendar with 3/8-inch numbers in 2-inch 
squares. Each month includes a page for notes. Catalog no. PLU 434-08, 
$10.
-Large-print desk or wall calendar. Opens up to 17 x 22 inches and 
features 1-inch numbers and room for notes on each number. Lists major 
holidays. Catalog no. PLU 437-08, $12.

Society for the Blind
Aids to Independence Store
2750 24th Street
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 452-8271, ext. 302
(916) 452-2622 fax
store@societyfortheblind.org
www.shopsftb.org/servlet/StoreFront
Accepts orders by mail, telephone, or online.
-Braille 5-1/2 x 8-1/2-inch desk calendar with clipboard that shows two 
days per page.  At the top of each page are the day of the week, date, 
and month. Catalog no. 20-06-01, $55.95. 
-Large-print (72 point) appointment book calendar. Opens up to 11 x 17 
inches. Catalog no. 18-02-05, $9.95.
-Large-print (72 point) 11 x 17-inch calendar that opens up to 22 x 17 
inches. Catalog no. 18-02-01, $9.95.
-Large-print (36 point) low-vision 11 x 17-inch calendar. Catalog no. 
18-02-06, $8.95.

South Dakota Industries for the Blind
Attn: Customer Service
701 East 52nd Street North
P.O. Box 84138
Sioux Falls, SD 57118-4138
(605) 977-1577
800-223-5145
(605) 332-7047 fax
800-332-7047 fax
info@sdib.org
www.sdib.org
Accepts orders by mail, e-mail, telephone, or online.
-Large-print monthly 11 x 17-inch wall calendar that opens up to 23 x 
17-1/2 inches.  $10.25.

###
Magazine of the Month selections for 2008
Two NLS programs offer readers samples of magazines not otherwise 
available through network libraries.  Subscribers to Magazine of the 
Month and Young Adult Magazine of the Month receive a different 
magazine on audiocassette each month.  For a free subscription to 
either program, contact your cooperating talking-book library.  
Subscribers may expect to receive some of the following:

Magazine of the Month
-Air & SpaceSmithsonian 
-American Cowboy
-American Spectator
-The Believer
-Diabetic Living
-Inc.: The Handbook for the American Entrepreneur
-No Depression 
-North & South: The Official Magazine of the Civil War Society 
-Parabola: Myth, Tradition, and the Search for Meaning
-Running Times: The Runner's Best Resource
-Skeptic
-Urban Influence

Alternates: Backwoodsman, Blue & Gray Magazine: For Those Who Still 
Hear the Guns, Body & Soul, Dirty Linen, Dissent, Essence, Harper's, 
Naval History, Runner's World, Skeptical Inquirer: The Magazine for 
Science and Reason, Smart Money, Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

Young Adult Magazine of the Month
-Cicada
-Hot Rod 
-LTeen
-Listen: Journal of Drug-Free Living for Teens
-Realms of Fantasy
-Reptiles
-Rock & Ice: The Climber's Magazine
-Teen Strings
-Teen Vogue
-Wired
-XXL
-Young Rider: The Magazine for Horse and Pony Lovers

Alternates: American Songwriter, Cosmo Girl, E: The Environmental 
Magazine, Fantasy & Science Fiction, Grit: American Life and 
Traditions, Gumbo: A Magazine of the Arts, Horse & Rider, Latina Style: 
A National Magazine for the Contemporary Hispanic Woman, Motor Trend, 
Predator Xtreme, Teen Ink, Vibe


###
Books for Adults
_Books for Adults_
The following books were recently produced for the NLS
program.  To order books, contact your braille-lending
library.
_Note:_  For the information of the reader, a notice may
appear immediately following the book description to
indicate occurrences of strong language, explicit
descriptions of sex, or violence. The word "some" before any of 
these terms indicates an occasional or infrequent
occurrence, as in "some strong language."					
								
Adult Nonfiction

A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare: 1599
BR 16554
by James Shapiro
4 volumes
Professor highlights a seminal year in Shakespeare's life that included 
the writing of four plays-Henry V, Julius Caesar, As You Like It, and 
Hamlet-and the building of the Globe Theatre. Portrays turmoil 
surrounding rebellion in Ireland, creation of the East India Company, 
and political intrigue. 2005.
BR 16554
##

The Age of Reason
BR 16591
by Thomas Paine
2 volumes
The patriotic writer and essayist of the American and French 
Revolutions sets forth his beliefs on religion's place in society. He 
affirms the need for rationalism in religion, attacks national 
religious institutions, and points out biblical inconsistencies and 
fallacies. 1795.
BR 16591
##

Citizenship Made Simple: An Easy-to-Read Guide to the U.S. Citizenship 
Process
BR 16592
by Barbara Brooks Kimmel and Alan M. Lubiner
1 volume
Reference for foreign nationals describes requirements and procedures 
for becoming a U.S. citizen. Explains the rights for military personnel 
and children and provides a brief history of the country and an 
overview of the government. Includes a sample test and the text of the 
Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. 2006.
BR 16592
##

Master Mind: The Rise and Fall of Fritz Haber, the Nobel Laureate Who 
Launched the Age of Chemical Warfare
BR 16595
by Daniel Charles
3 volumes
Biography of a German Jewish scientist whose discoveries embodied both 
the beneficial and the destructive capacities of science. Discusses the 
intellect of Fritz Haber (1868-1934), who moved confidently between 
laboratory, factory, and battlefield; who invented famine-preventing 
agricultural processes; and who developed poisonous gas later used in 
Nazi concentration camps. 2005.
BR 16595
##

A Wreath for Emmett Till
BR 16598
by Marilyn Nelson
1 volume
A sequence of fifteen sonnets written as a poetic homage to Emmett 
Till, the fourteen-year-old victim of racial prejudice who was lynched 
in 1955 Mississippi. Includes a historic note on the events and sonnet 
notes. For senior high and older readers. Printz Honor; Coretta S. King 
Honor. 2005.
BR 16598
##

Darwin: Discovering the Tree of Life
BR 16658
by Niles Eldredge
3 volumes
Analyzes Charles Darwin's notes from his travels to South America and 
the Galapagos Islands in 1831-36. Traces the scientist's personal and 
professional life during the twenty years the notebooks were kept 
private. Discusses advances in evolutionary theory since Darwin's time 
and disputes the concept of intelligent design. 2005.
BR 16658
##

The Science of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials
BR 16661
by Mary Gribbin and John Gribbin
1 volume
Relates the mystery and magic in Pullman's trilogy, beginning with The 
Golden Compass (BR 13276), to real- world scientific concepts. Covers 
topics from cosmology to string theory to explain such objects as 
Will's subtle knife and Mary Malone's amber spyglass. For junior and 
senior high readers. 2003.
BR 16661
##

State of Denial
BR 16804
by Bob Woodward
6 volumes
This sequel to Plan of Attack (BR 15423) examines the Bush 
administration's prosecution of the Iraq war. Extensive interviews and 
research document the dissension inside the White House from December 
2000, when Donald Rumsfeld was appointed secretary of defense, through 
July 2006. Bestseller. 2006.
BR 16804
##

Knitting on the Edge: Ribs, Ruffles, Lace, Fringes, Flora, Points and 
Picots
BR 16816
by Nicky Epstein
2 volumes
Instructions and various techniques for creating hundreds of knit 
edgings from around the world. Describes how to effectively incorporate 
them into your knitted piece. Each chapter concentrates on a specific 
type of decorative border. 2004.
BR 16816
##

The Adversity Advantage: Turning Everyday Struggles into Everyday 
Greatness
BR 16827
by Paul G. Stoltz and Erik Weihenmayer
3 volumes
Stoltz, director of the Global Resilience Project, and Weihenmayer, the 
blind author of Touch the Top of the World (BR 14512), offer their 
seven principles for taking on adversity and converting life's 
difficulties into fuel for achievement, resilience, and happiness. 
2006.
BR 16827
##

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build 
Nations . . . One School at a Time
BR 16830
by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
4 volumes
Award-winning journalist Relin describes the mission of American 
humanitarian Greg Mortenson, who established the Central Asia Institute 
and built schools throughout Taliban-ruled lands. Discusses his 
childhood in Tanzania and a failed 1993 attempt to climb K2, which 
resulted in a promise to the Pakistani villagers who saved his life. 
2006.
BR 16830
##

The Worst Hard Time: The Untold Story of Those Who Survived the Great 
American Dust Bowl
BR 16831
by Timothy Egan
3 volumes
Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times reporter recounts the experiences 
of homesteaders who remained on their land during the 1930s dust storms 
that ravaged the southern Great Plains. Examines both human and 
ecological aspects of the disaster and the effects on survivors' daily 
lives, health, and communities. National Book Award. 2006.
BR 16831
##

Firstlight: The Early Inspirational Writings of Sue Monk Kidd
BR 16833
by Sue Monk Kidd
1 volume
Inspirational stories and essays by the author of The Secret Life of 
Bees (BR 15225), that first appeared in Guideposts and other magazines. 
Includes pieces on her childhood, marriage, and children and about 
everyday events. Shares examples of compassion, letting go, and being 
reborn to love. 2006.
BR 16833
##

Robert E. Lee: Virginian Soldier, American Citizen
BR 16841
by James I. Robertson Jr.
2 volumes
In-depth biography of Confederate Civil War general. Chronicles Lee's 
family life, studies at West Point, military service in the Mexican 
War, and leadership of the Confederate forces. Analyzes his decision to 
join Virginia's secession from the Union and describes his life after 
the war. For senior high readers. 2005.
BR 16841
##

Child of the Winds: My Mission with Raoul Wallenberg
BR 16843
by Agnes Adachi
1 volume
Author's memories of work in 1944 Budapest with a courageous Swede who 
saved 100,000 Hungarian Jews from the Nazis in six months. Adachi 
recalls the Soviet liberation of Hungary and Wallenberg's arrest by the 
Soviets, after which he was condemned to the gulag for more than forty 
years. 1989.
BR 16843
##

Thieves! Ten Stories of Surprising Heists, Comical Capers, and Daring 
Escapades
BR 16859
by Andreas Schroeder
2 volumes
Ten tales of unusual thievery. Describes how three Italians, dressed as 
workmen, stole the Louvre's portrait of Mona Lisa in 1911 and how D.B. 
Cooper parachuted from a jet with extortion money in 1971-never to be 
found. Uncontracted braille. For senior high and older readers. 2005.
BR 16859
##

Waiting for Godot: Tragicomedy in Two Acts/En Attendant Godot
BR 16880
by Samuel Beckett
3 volumes
Vladimir and Estragon converse while they await the arrival of the 
mysterious Godot, who sends word that he is coming but never appears. 
In the original French, published in 1952, with Beckett's own English 
translation. 1954.
BR 16880
##

Eavesdropping: A Life by Ear
BR 16912
by Stephen Kuusisto
2 volumes
The author of Planet of the Blind (BR 11518), who has been legally 
blind since birth, explains how he perceives the world around him 
through listening. In these essays he describes childhood influences, 
adult travels, artful eavesdropping, and love of poetry and Caruso's 
singing. 2006.
BR 16912
##

Pro Wrestling Kids' Style: The Most Amazing Untold Story in 
Professional Wrestling History
BR 16914
by Shawn "Crusher" Crossen
1 volume
National Wrestling Federation teen champion describes his fascination 
with the sport and his decision in 1984 to televise teen matches. 
Crossen explains the showmanship, promotional techniques, and financial 
arrangements used to establish his enterprise. Features updates on teen 
wrestlers of the 1980s. For junior and senior high readers. 2004.
BR 16914
##

The Hopes of Snakes: And Other Tales from the Urban Landscape
BR 16917
by Lisa Couturier
2 volumes
Celebrates the adaptation of heron, egret, Canada goose, coyote, 
peregrine falcon, red-tailed hawk, vulture, and crow to the urban 
landscapes of Washington, D.C., and New York City. In the title piece, 
the author reflects upon the nonvenomous black rat snake before 
rescuing a six-foot-long one from a human crowd. 2005.
BR 16917
##

The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir
BR 16929
by Bill Bryson
2 volumes
Travel humorist reminisces about growing up in 1950s middle America. 
Recalls the simple pleasures of family life and teen culture in the 
shadow of the Cold War. 2006.
BR 16929
##

The Innocent Man: Murder and Injustice in a Small Town
BR 16945
by John Grisham
3 volumes
Ada, Oklahoma. Chronicles the 1987 arrest and conviction of a former 
Oakland A's pitcher and his friend for the rape and murder of a twenty-
one-year-old cocktail waitress five years earlier. Grisham examines the 
effect of DNA testing and a faulty original investigation on the men's 
eventual exoneration. Bestseller. 2006.
BR 16945
##

More Treasured Poems That Touch the Heart: Cherished Poems and Favorite 
Poets
BR 16946
compiled by Mary Sanford Laurence
1 volume
A second collection of poems in the spirit of Treasured Poems That 
Touch the Heart (BR 14886). Contains "Ode on a Grecian Urn" by John 
Keats, "If-" by Rudyard Kipling, "I'm Nobody! Who Are You?" by Emily 
Dickinson, and others by Byron, Blake, Longfellow, Wordsworth, 
Shakespeare, Donne, and Browning. 1997.
BR 16946
##

Teens Cook Dessert
BR 17073
by Megan Carle and Jill Carle
2 volumes
The sisters who wrote Teens Cook (BR 16086) expand their repertoire to 
the dessert course. Step-by-step guide to making cookies, pies, cakes, 
puddings, and both simple and fancy holiday treats. Recipes include 
triple chocolate biscotti, fresh berry pie, and chocolate eclairs. For 
junior and senior high and older readers. 2006.
BR 17073
##

The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9/11
BR 17079
by Lawrence Wright
5 volumes
Traces Islamic fundamentalism from 1948 to the 2001 attack on America. 
Highlights Al Qaeda leaders Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri. 
Asserts a historical lack of concern from intelligence agencies except 
for FBI agent John O'Neill and Saudi prince Turki al-Faisal. Violence 
and strong language. Bestseller. 2006.
BR 17079
##

Samuel Adams: Father of the American Revolution
BR 17091
by Mark Puls
3 volumes
Biography of one of the founding fathers of the United States, Samuel 
Adams (1722-1803). Focuses on Adams's political career, his leadership 
of protests against the British-including the Boston Tea Party-his 
advocacy of the colonies' independence from Britain, and his post- 
revolutionary service as governor of Massachusetts. 2006.
BR 17091
##

A Godly Hero: The Life of William Jennings Bryan
BR 17097
by Michael Kazin
6 volumes
Traces the life of populist politician William Jennings Bryan (1860-
1925), from his midwestern boyhood to his involvement in the 1925 
Scopes trial. Highlights Bryan's evangelical beliefs, which stressed 
charity and social justice, and stresses his progressive politics, 
which led to reforms in campaign financing, senatorial elections, and 
women's suffrage. 2006.
BR 17097
##

Putin's Russia: Life in a Failing Democracy
BR 17100
by Anna Politkovskaya
3 volumes
Award-winning journalist blames Russian president Vladimir Putin for 
the multiple ills threatening the country's stability at the beginning 
of the twenty-first century. Describes corruption in the government, 
the judicial system, the military, and in business. Charges that the 
war in Chechnya is producing-not fighting-terrorism. 2004.
BR 17100
##

The Power of a Positive No: How to Say No and Still Get to Yes
BR 17102
by William Ury
2 volumes
Harvard University negotiator and mediator offers advice on using 
psychology to say no instead of a reluctant yes. Provides a three-stage 
method to defend one's key interests, resist manipulation, and achieve 
a win-win situation without alienating people at work or at home. 2007.
BR 17102
##

Perplexing People
BR 17110
by Gary L. Blackwood
1 volume
Historical cases of pretenders, or people who claim to be a famous 
deceased person. Discusses people who claimed to be Joan of Arc, Louis 
XVII of France, the Romanovs of Russia, Grand Duchess Anastasia, Billy 
the Kid, and Kaspar Hauser. Uncontracted braille. For senior high and 
older readers. 2006.
BR 17110
##

One Hundred One Things Everyone Should Know about Science
BR 17120
by Dia L. Michels and Nathan Levy
1 volume
Poses quiz questions about biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, 
and general science that are applicable in everyday life. Sequentially 
numbered answers repeat the question and provide an explanation. Topics 
include the human body, animals, weather, history of science, and 
definitions of scientific terms. For senior high and older readers. 
2006.
BR 17120
##

###
Books for Adults
_Books for Adults_
The following books were recently produced for the NLS
program.  To order books, contact your braille-lending
library.
_Note:_  For the information of the reader, a notice may
appear immediately following the book description to
indicate occurrences of strong language, explicit
descriptions of sex, or violence. The word "some" before any of 
these terms indicates an occasional or infrequent
occurrence, as in "some strong language."

Adult Fiction

Crazy in Love
BR 16547
by Luanne Rice
3 volumes
Georgie Symonds leads an idyllic life with her Wall Street lawyer 
husband, Nick, in seaside Connecticut. But as Nick spends more time 
with his sexy colleague, Georgie becomes plagued by suspicions and 
immerses herself in her own work, through which she meets a tempting 
stranger. Some descriptions of sex. 1988.
BR 16547
##

Thou Shalt Not Dump the Skater Dude and Other Commandments I Have 
Broken
BR 16553
by Rosemary Graham
2 volumes
California high school sophomore Kelsey Wilcox endures vicious rumors 
spread on the Internet by her superstar, skateboarding boyfriend after 
she breaks up with him. Kelsey competes for a place on the school 
newspaper as she tries to salvage her reputation. Some strong language. 
For senior high readers. 2005.
BR 16553
##

Gil's All Fright Diner
BR 16559
by A. Lee Martinez
2 volumes
Duke and Earl planned to drive right through Rockwood, but a stop at a 
diner leads to a job ridding the place of zombies. This would-be 
cakewalk for werewolf Duke and vampire Earl is complicated by a teenage 
sorceress. Strong language. For senior high and older readers. Alex 
Award. 2005.
BR 16559
##

If I Have a Wicked Stepmother, Where's My Prince?
BR 16560
by Melissa Kantor
2 volumes
Sophomore Lucy copes with an unloving stepmother and two bratty step 
sisters after her father remarries and moves them to Long Island. Lucy 
is suddenly popular when a senior basketball hero falls for her, but 
she finds a fellow art student more interesting. Some strong language. 
For senior high readers. 2005.
BR 16560
##

Oh Danny Boy: A Molly Murphy Mystery
BR 16602
by Rhys Bowen
3 volumes
New York, 1902. Private detective Molly Murphy works to exonerate 
police captain Daniel Sullivan of bribery charges. Molly is convinced 
he is innocent, and as her inquiry progresses she suspects Daniel's 
troubles are related to his investigation of the East Side Ripper, a 
serial killer targeting prostitutes. 2006.
BR 16602
##

Prisoner of Memory: An Eve Diamond Novel
BR 16657
by Denise Hamilton
3 volumes
Los Angeles Times reporter Eve Diamond investigates the murder of 
seventeen-year-old Denny Lukin. She questions Denny's Russian migr 
parents and uncovers Mafia and FBI connections. Meanwhile, a man from 
Moscow claiming to be Eve's cousin wants to help with the case. Some 
explicit descriptions of sex and some violence. 2006.
BR 16657
##

Refuge Cove
BR 16665
by Lesley Choyce
1 volume
Greg and his mother move to Newfoundland, where he learns to sail in 
the ocean. Alone on a sailing trip, he finds a lifeboat full of illegal 
refugees and brings them home. They later flee into a storm when the 
police arrive. Uncontracted braille. For senior high readers. 2002.
BR 16665
##

Stillwatch
BR 16806
by Mary Higgins Clark
3 volumes
Washington, D.C., journalist Pat Traymore is doing research for her 
upcoming television program on vice-presidential hopeful Senator 
Abigail Jennings. Aided by her old flame, Congressman Sam Kingsley, Pat 
uncovers startling links between Abigail's past and her own tragic 
childhood-and secrets that could destroy both their lives. 1984.
BR 16806
##

I Heard That Song Before
BR 16840
by Mary Higgins Clark
2 volumes
Twenty-eight-year-old Englewood, New Jersey, librarian Kay Lansing and 
wealthy businessman Peter Carrington fall in love and marry after Kay 
approaches him about a fundraiser. Later Peter is arrested for the 
murder of a teenaged neighbor that took place twenty-two years ago. Kay 
believes Peter is innocent and investigates. Bestseller. 2007.
BR 16840
##

Citizen Vince
BR 16842
by Jess Walter
3 volumes
Spokane, Washington; 1980. Vince Camden is working as a baker in the 
Witness Protection Program and debating whether to vote for Jimmy 
Carter or Ronald Reagan. When another gangster recognizes him, Vince 
heads to New York to make amends with the mob. Violence and strong 
language. Edgar Award. 2005.
BR 16842
##

Startled by His Furry Shorts: Confessions of Georgia Nicolson
BR 16847
by Louise Rennison
2 volumes
British teenager Georgia continues her quest for a boyfriend. In her 
journal she records her feelings for sexy Italian Masimo, her old mate 
Dave, and her ex-crush Robbie. Meanwhile, she prepares for a school 
play and a Viking wedding and copes with her quirky family. For senior 
high readers. 2006.
BR 16847
##

The Sun Also Rises
BR 16853
by Ernest Hemingway
2 volumes
A group of wealthy English and American expatriates in post-World War I 
Europe travel from the cafes of Paris to the bullfights of Spain-eating 
and drinking, aimlessly socializing, and quarreling among themselves. 
The disillusioned characters reflect the war-weary lost generation of 
the 1920s. Some strong language. 1926.
BR 16853
##

Tied Up in Tinsel: An Inspector Roderick Alleyn Mystery
BR 16886
by Ngaio Marsh
2 volumes
Artist Troy Alleyn visits Hilary Bill-Tasman's estate to paint Hilary's 
portrait. As Hilary prepares for a Christmas pageant, one of his 
eccentric guests disappears. Troy's husband, Superintendent Roderick 
Alleyn, arrives from London to help unravel the mystery and to 
interrogate Hilary's staff members-all of whom are convicted murderers. 
1972.
BR 16886
##

Sparrow
BR 16888
by Sherri L. Smith
2 volumes
After her beloved grandmother dies, high-school student Kendall 
Washington travels to New Orleans in search of her only living 
relative, her aunt Janet. Instead, she finds Janet's neighbors-sixteen-
year-old Evie, who has muscular dystrophy and a beautiful singing 
voice, and Evie's overburdened mother, Clare Morreal. For senior high 
readers. 2006.
BR 16888
##

The Winds of Change: A Richard Jury Mystery
BR 16911
by Martha Grimes
3 volumes
London, England. After being hospitalized in The Grave Maurice (BR 
14363) superintendent Richard Jury investigates a five-year-old girl's 
murder. Evidence of sexual abuse leads him to a ring of pedophiles and 
to the body of a woman on a wealthy businessman's estate. Strong 
language and some violence. Bestseller. 2004.
BR 16911
##

Murphy's Law
BR 16916
by Lori Foster
3 volumes
May Price's best friend Ashley Miles, from Jude's Law (BR 16623), needs 
advice after falling in love with Quinton Murphy. Killer Elton Pascal 
stalks the two women as May prepares for her wedding to Jude. Explicit 
descriptions of sex, strong language and some violence. 2006.
BR 16916
##

Girl, Going on 17, Pants on Fire
BR 16919
by Sue Limb
2 volumes
Following a fabulous summer in Girl, (nearly) 16, Absolute Torture (BR 
16444), Fred dumps Jess the day before school starts. Jess renews her 
friendship with football player Ben and is harassed by a new teacher 
and embarrassed by her mother's dating a younger man. For senior high 
readers. 2006.
BR 16919
##

Accidents of Nature
BR 16924
by Harriet McBryde Johnson
2 volumes
North Carolina, 1970. Seventeen-year-old Jean, who has cerebral palsy, 
attends Camp Courage, where for the first time she meets other teens 
with disabilities. Her radical new friend Sara directs an anti-telethon 
skit and changes Jean's perceptions of the normal world. Some 
descriptions of sex. For senior high readers. 2006.
BR 16924
##

Born to Rock
BR 16927
by Gordon Korman
2 volumes
Young Republican Leo Caraway loses his Harvard scholarship on a 
technicality and learns that his biological dad is a legend-former punk 
rocker "King Maggot." Hoping for college money, Leo joins King's 
comeback tour as a roadie and grows up along the way. For junior and 
senior high readers. 2006.
BR 16927
##

Sharp Objects
BR 16931
by Gillian Flynn
2 volumes
Chicago reporter Camille Preaker, recently treated for psychological 
problems, arrives in her hometown of Wind Gap, Missouri, to investigate 
the murders of two preteen girls. Camille sees her mother and thirteen-
year-old half-sister for the first time in years. But events from the 
past overwhelm her. Some violence and some strong language. 2006.
BR 16931
##

Surrender
BR 16944
by Sonya Hartnett
2 volumes
As twenty-year-old Gabriel lies in bed dying, he recalls events shared 
with his two companions, his dog Surrender and the volatile Finnigan. 
Gabriel reflects on the death of his mentally challenged brother Vernon 
and the arson attacks in his hometown. Some violence. For senior high 
and older readers. Printz Honor. 2005.
BR 16944
##

The Testament
BR 17086
by Eric Van Lustbader
5 volumes
Medieval scholar Braverman "Bravo" Shaw discovers that his deceased 
father, Dexter, was a high-ranking member of the Order of Gnostic 
Observatines and that he had appointed Bravo to guard a hidden 
documents cache. Others, however, covet the treasure. Violence, strong 
language, and some descriptions of sex. 2006.
BR 17086
##

Dark Angels
BR 17089
by Karleen Koen
5 volumes
England, 1670. Alice Verney, a maid of honor to Queen Catherine, 
suspects that her majesty will be poisoned. She allies herself with 
Lieutenant Richard Saylor, plots for power, and plans marriage. Prequel 
to Through a Glass Darkly (BR 13661). Some explicit descriptions of sex 
and some violence. 2006.
BR 17089
##

The Accidental Tourist
BR 17090
by Anne Tyler
3 volumes
After his son is murdered and his wife of twenty years leaves him, 
travel writer Macon Leary returns to his family's home. He settles in 
with his sister, two brothers, and a Welsh corgi until dog trainer 
Muriel Pritchett disrupts his routine and changes his outlook. Some 
descriptions of sex. 1985.
BR 17090
##

A False Mirror: An Inspector Ian Rutledge Mystery
BR 17096
by Charles Todd
3 volumes
England, 1920. Stephen Mallory holds his ex-lover Felicity hostage 
after he becomes the prime suspect in her husband Matthew's near-fatal 
beating. Stephen demands to see Scotland Yard inspector and fellow war 
veteran Ian Rutledge, who investigates while coping with memories of 
his own lost love. Then Matthew disappears. 2007.
BR 17096
##

A Little Fate
BR 17101
by Nora Roberts
3 volumes
Three tales of love and magic. In "The Witching Hour" a young woman 
following her heart saves her kingdom. In "Winter Rose," a queen 
receives something unexpected for healing a warrior. In "A World 
Apart," a demon slayer finds herself transported to New York. Some 
explicit descriptions of sex. 2004.
BR 17101
##

A Student of Living Things
BR 17105
by Susan Richards Shreve
2 volumes
A future Washington, D.C., during civil unrest. Siblings Claire and 
Steven Frayn, both graduate students living at home, are leaving the 
university library when politically active Steven is assassinated. 
Claire and Victor-who claims to have been Steven's friend-seek the 
reason Steven was targeted. The truth implicates the Frayn family. 
2006.
BR 17105
##

The Crimes of Jordan Wise
BR 17106
by Bill Pronzini
2 volumes
1977. Gold-digger Annalise Bonner tempts mild-mannered San Francisco 
accountant Jordan Wise into embezzling funds from his company and 
fleeing to the Virgin Islands. Annalise's constant demands drive Jordan 
to commit two additional crimes. Strong language, some explicit 
descriptions of sex, and some violence. 2006.
BR 17106
##

A Wreath for Rivera: An Inspector Roderick Alleyn Mystery
BR 17109
by Ngaio Marsh
3 volumes
George Settinger, Lord Pastern, joins Breezy Bellairs's band much to 
the chagrin of his wife, Ccile, who also disapproves of the 
relationship between the band's piano-accordionist, Carlos Rivera, and 
her daughter, Flicit. When Carlos is murdered during a performance 
attended by Inspector Roderick Alleyn, Roderick investigates. 1949.
BR 17109
##

Killer Dolphin: An Inspector Roderick Alleyn Mystery
BR 17113
by Ngaio Marsh
3 volumes
The Dolphin, a newly restored dockside London theater, opens with The 
Glove, a play inspired by the discovery of a genuine Shakespearean 
mitt. Inspector Roderick Alleyn supervises security precautions for the 
relic but is soon tracking a criminal when someone kills a caretaker 
and steals the glove. 1966.
BR 17113
##

Simply Magic: Miss Martin's School for Girls, Book 3
BR 17115
by Mary Balogh
3 volumes
Regency England. Susanna Osbourne, a teacher at a girls' school in 
Bath, meets Peter Edgeworth, Viscount Whitleaf, at a friend's estate 
during summer recess. The two fall in love, even though Susanna 
secretly holds Peter's family responsible for her father's suicide 
years ago. Some explicit descriptions of sex. 2007.
BR 17115
##

Our Lady of Pain: An Edwardian Murder Mystery
BR 17121
by Marion Chesney
2 volumes
When private detective Captain Harry Cathcart is seen squiring 
courtesan Dolores Duval around London, his fiance, debutante Lady Rose 
Summer, becomes jealous and her parents cancel the engagement. Rose 
threatens Dolores, discovers the courtesan's body the next day, and 
becomes the prime suspect in her murder. Some strong language. 2006.
BR 17121
##

Blue Christmas: A Savannah Novel
BR 17124
by Mary Kay Andrews
2 volumes
Weezie Foley wants to win the downtown Savannah Christmas window-
decorating contest, but her shop's Williamsburg theme is so-o-o boring. 
An Elvis song gives her an idea-a "Blue Christmas" display. The window 
attracts a mysterious nighttime visitor, and the competition triggers 
quirky happenings that guarantee Christmas is anything but boring. 
2006.
BR 17124
##

Breathing Lessons
BR 17125
by Anne Tyler
3 volumes
As Maggie and Ira Moran drive from Baltimore, Maryland, to Deer Lick, 
Pennsylvania, for the funeral of Maggie's best friend's husband, they 
reflect upon their own twenty-eight-year marriage, the lives of their 
children, and their hopes for the future. Some descriptions of sex and 
some strong language. 1988.
BR 17125
##

White Ghost Girls
BR 17130
by Alice Greenway
2 volumes
Hong Kong, 1967. American teens Kate and Frankie escape from their 
Chinese amah to explore the city while their father photographs the war 
in Vietnam and their mother paints. Frankie delves into adventures and 
Kate keeps her secrets, until tragedy intervenes. Some descriptions of 
sex and some strong language. 2006.
BR 17130
##

Words of Silk
BR 17134
by Sandra Brown
2 volumes
Kindergarten teacher Laney McLeod is visiting friends in New York when 
a blackout traps her in an elevator with handsome attorney Deke 
Sargent. They share a night of passion after which Laney flees. Months 
later Deke finds Laney-now pregnant-and vows to win her love. Some 
explicit descriptions of sex. 1984.
BR 17134
##


###
Books for Children
_Books for Children_
The following books were recently produced for the NLS
program.  To order books, contact your braille-lending
library.

Children's Nonfiction

African Heroes
BR 16605
by Jim Haskins
1 volume
Minibiographies of twenty-seven leaders on the African continent. 
Covers heroes from ancient empires, men who led the struggle against 
European incursion, and outstanding people of the twentieth century, 
such as Haile Selassie, Jomo Kenyatta, Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela, 
and Kofi Annan. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 2005.
BR 16605
##

Clara Barton: I Want to Help!
BR 16666
by Cathy East Dubowski
1 volume
Biography of Clara Barton (1821-1912), founder of the American Red 
Cross. Describes her lifelong mission to help other people by teaching 
for free and nursing soldiers in the Civil War, where she was called 
"angel of the battlefield." For grades 3-6. 2006.
BR 16666
##

Dude! Stories and Stuff for Boys
BR 16832
edited by Sandy Asher and David L. Harrison
2 volumes
Original stories, poems, plays, and real boyhood reminiscences offered 
by popular writers. The poem "Take It from Me, Kid" warns good-
humoredly about the pitfalls of being a teenager. After learning about 
his half brother's suicide, in a "Family Meeting," Kevin makes a secret 
promise to live fully. For grades 5-8. 2006.
BR 16832
##

Fooled You: Fakes and Hoaxes through the Years
BR 16850
by Elaine Pascoe
1 volume
Presents the facts behind eleven famous hoaxes. Includes an 1844 
newspaper report of balloonists crossing the Atlantic, the 1869 
"discovery" of a stone giant, 1917 alleged photographs of fairies, 
accounts of crop circles in 1980 England, and a 2001 e-mail about a 
giant mutant cat. For grades 4-7. 2005.
BR 16850
##

The Hero Project: Two Teens, One Notebook, Thirteen Extraordinary 
Interviews
BR 16852
by Robert Hatch and William Hatch
2 volumes
The Hatch brothers present thirteen interviews with their personal 
heroes, conducted over the course of twelve years. Pete Seeger, 
Madeleine L'Engle, Jimmy Carter, Yo-Yo Ma, Elouise Cobell, Archbishop 
Desmond Tutu, Lance Armstrong, and others discuss their motivation, 
inspiration, hopes, and goals. For grades 6-9. 2006.
BR 16852
##

Shep: Our Most Loyal Dog
BR 16923
by Sneed B. Collard III
1 volume
Explains why the people of Fort Benton, Montana, still honor the 
beloved sheep dog, Shep. Relates that when Shep's master died in 1936, 
the dog followed the coffin to the train station and waited there for 
the rest of his life for his master to return. For grades 2-4. 2006.
BR 16923
##

Jazz
BR 17019
by Walter Dean Myers
1 volume
This celebration of American jazz contains a brief history of this 
musical tradition; fifteen poems linked to various styles from ragtime 
to swing, from bebop to fusion, and from funeral to dance; a glossary 
of jazz terms; and a chronology. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 3-6 and 
older readers. 2006.
BR 17019
##

Haiti
BR 17114
by Roseline Ng Cheong-Lum and Leslie Jermyn
1 volume
An overview of the Caribbean island nation of Haiti, the world's first 
black independent republic. Describes geography, environment, language, 
culture, heritage, lifestyle, religion, and food. Chronicles Haiti's 
turbulent history and examines the twentieth-century economic and 
political situation, including challenges posed by poverty and internal 
strife. For grades 5-8. 2005.
BR 17114
##

Dare to Dream! Twenty-five Extraordinary Lives
BR 17122
by Sandra McLeod Humphrey
1 volume
Biographical sketches of people who showed moral, physical, or 
spiritual courage to achieve their goals. Profiles athletes, doctors, 
politicians, writers, lawyers, and entertainers including Eleanor 
Roosevelt, Norman Vincent Peale, Maya Angelou, Sandra Day O'Connor, Ben 
Carson, Bill Cosby, and Sammy Sosa. For grades 5-8. 2005.
BR 17122
##

The Deep-Sea Floor
BR 17182
by Sneed B. Collard III
1 volume
Introduces creatures such as bioluminescent animals and tube worms that 
thrive on the dark ocean floor miles below the surface. For grades 3-6. 
2003.
BR 17182
##

###
Books for Children
_Books for Children_
The following books were recently produced for the NLS
program.  To order books, contact your braille-lending
library.

Children's Fiction

Totally Joe
BR 16655
by James Howe
1 volume
For a class assignment, seventh-grader Joe writes an alphabiography-his 
life from A to Z. He comments on his friendships with Addie, Skeezie, 
and Bobby, from The Misfits (BR 14087); describes his brother Jeff, a 
sports-loving guy-guy; discusses issues at school; and relates being a 
gay teenager. For grades 6-9. 2005.
BR 16655
##

Ark Angel: An Alex Rider Adventure
BR 16834
by Anthony Horowitz
2 volumes
After recovering from a near-fatal gunshot wound, teenage spy Alex 
Rider embarks on a new mission to stop a group of ecoterrorists from 
sabotaging the launch of the first outer space hotel, Ark Angel. For 
grades 6-9. 2006.
BR 16834
##

The Counterfeit Princess
BR 16846
by Jane Resh Thomas
2 volumes
England. Vowing revenge when her parents are executed in 1553 by the 
duke of Northumberland, teenaged Iris becomes a messenger, a spy, and a 
stand-in for Princess Elizabeth during the volatile political events 
surrounding young King Edward VI's death. For grades 6-9. 2005.
BR 16846
##

The Happiness of Kati
BR 16849
by Jane Vejjajiva
1 volume
Thailand. After living for several years with her grandparents, nine-
year-old Kati spends some precious time with her mother, who is dying 
from Lou Gehrig's disease. One of the mother's last gifts to Kati 
allows her to make an important decision for herself. For grades 3-6. 
2003.
BR 16849
##

The Skeleton in the Smithsonian: Capital Mysteries, Book 3
BR 16858
by Ron Roy
1 volume
Washington, D.C. When Leonard Fisher claims to be the long-lost heir to 
the Smithsonian fortune, KC and Marshall set out to prove that he is a 
phony. For grades 2-4. 2003.
BR 16858
##

The Mailbox
BR 16885
by Audrey Shafer
1 volume
Rural Virginia. When twelve-year-old Gabe comes home after school, he 
discovers his guardian, Uncle Vernon, dead on the floor. Frightened, he 
tells no one, so he is surprised the next day to find the body gone and 
a note from an anonymous writer in the mailbox. For grades 5-8. 2006.
BR 16885
##

A Corner of the Universe
BR 16894
by Ann M. Martin
1 volume
Twelve-year-old Hattie experiences a tragic summer in 1960 when her 
young, mentally ill uncle Adam comes to stay with her grandparents. 
Hattie befriends him, but no one knows how to handle his moods, least 
of all Adam himself. For grades 6-9. 2002.
BR 16894
##

Bunnicula Meets Edgar Allan Crow
BR 16897
by James Howe
1 volume
Twelve-year-old Peter Monroe has won an overnight visit from M.T. 
Graves, author of the FleshCrawlers series, and his pet crow. Household 
dogs Harold and Howie are thrilled, but Chester the cat is suspicious 
and predicts a gruesome fate for the Monroe family pets. For grades 3-
6. 2006.
BR 16897
##

Crispin: At the Edge of the World
BR 16913
by Avi
2 volumes
Fourteenth-century England. This sequel to Crispin: The Cross of Lead 
(BR 14606) finds Crispin and the enormous red-haired juggler, Bear, 
fleeing for their lives from a rebel brotherhood. When Bear is wounded, 
Crispin relies on an ancient healer and a disfigured girl for help. For 
grades 6-9. 2006.
BR 16913
##

Zelda and Ivy One Christmas
BR 16918
by Laura McGee Kvasnosky
1 volume
While baking cookies with their neighbor Mrs. Brownlie, sister foxes 
Zelda and Ivy talk about what they want for Christmas. Back home 
they're unsure whether the Christmas elves will leave Mrs. Brownlie a 
gift, so they decide to make one for her themselves. Easy chapter book. 
For grades 2-4. 2000.
BR 16918
##

Bella at Midnight
BR 16925
by Diane Stanley
2 volumes
After a happy childhood with a peasant family, teenaged Bella is 
reclaimed by her real father, a knight. Castle life with a stepmother 
and two stepsisters becomes worse when Bella is caught up in a terrible 
plot. Bella's resources are her brave heart and her godmother. For 
grades 5-8. 2006.
BR 16925
##

Los Gatos Black on Halloween
BR 17018
by Marisa Montes
1 volume
Rhyming verse about Halloween night incorporates Spanish words, from 
las brujas riding their broomsticks to los monstruos, whose party in a 
haunted house is interrupted by what the monsters most abhor. 
PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2006.
BR 17018
##

Move Over, Rover!
BR 17020
by Karen Beaumont
1 volume
When a storm comes, Rover expects to have his doghouse all to himself. 
But various other animals including a skunk come to join him. A story 
in rhyme. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. Theodor Seuss Geisel 
Honor. 2006.
BR 17020
##

Chicken Boy
BR 17104
by Frances O'Roark Dowell
1 volume
Tobin McCauley's first day in seventh grade starts with his 
grandmother's arrest for illegal parking-on the school sidewalk. Two 
weeks later, when Tobin gets into a fight to defend his English 
teacher's honor, Henry, a new boy who raises chickens, comes to his 
aid. For grades 4-7. 2005.
BR 17104
##

Flush
BR 17107
by Carl Hiaasen
2 volumes
The Florida Keys. With their father jailed for sinking a gambling boat, 
Noah Underwood and his sister Abbey gather evidence that casino owner 
Dusty Muleman is illegally emptying sewage tanks into coastal waters. 
They receive help from a former card dealer, a pirate, and Dusty's ex-
girlfriend. For grades 5-8. 2005.
BR 17107
##

Smiler's Bones
BR 17128
by Peter Lerangis
1 volume
In 1897, Minik and his father Qisuk (Smiler) are among a group of 
Eskimos presented in New York City by explorer Peary. After Qisuk's 
death, Minik experiences displacement, sorrow, and deception as he 
battles to take his father's bones home to Greenland. Based on 
historical events. For grades 6-9. 2005.
BR 17128
##

Kit Learns a Lesson-A School Story: An American Girl, Book 2
BR 17175
by Valerie Tripp
1 volume
In this sequel to Meet Kit (BR 16890), Kit learns hard lessons about 
the Great Depression. At school, Kit fights with a boy who makes fun of 
her out-of-work father. But a Thanksgiving delivery to a soup kitchen 
teaches Kit to be thankful. For grades 3-6. 2000.
BR 17175
##

All Alone in the Universe
BR 17185
by Lynne Rae Perkins
1 volume
Debbie and Maureen have been best friends ever since third grade. But 
now Maureen always seems to be with Glenna, and Debbie is feeling left 
out and lonely. Companion to Criss Cross (BR 17209). For grades 5-8. 
1999.
BR 17185
##

Happy Birthday, Kit! A Springtime Story: An American Girl, Book 4
BR 17186
by Valerie Tripp
1 volume
Aunt Millie's visit to Kit and her family in Cincinnati during the 
Great Depression cheers them up. She impresses Kit with her money-
saving ideas until she invites Kit's class to celebrate Kit's birthday 
at a "penny-pincher party." Sequel to Kit's Surprise (BR 17194). For 
grades 3-6. 2001.
BR 17186
##

###
Braille Magazines

The following is a list of braille magazines in the Library
of Congress program.  Readers may obtain free personal
subscriptions to these magazines.  For information
on the availability of specific magazines, consult the
library that send you braille materials.
                                                          
Boys' Life (for children and teens, monthly)
Braille Book Review (bimonthly)
Braille Chess Magazine (British quarterly)
Braille Music Magazine (British monthly)
Conundrum (British monthly)
Cooking Light (10 issues) 
ESPN: The Magazine (biweekly)
Harper's (literary; monthly)
Health Newsletters (includes Harvard Health Letter, Mayo 
     Clinic Health Letter, and University of California at
     Berkeley Wellness Letter, monthly) 
Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine (monthly)
Ladies' Home Journal (monthly)
Martha Stewart Living (home and entertaining; 10 issues)
Muse (for children; 10 issues) 
The Musical Mainstream (quarterly)
National Geographic (monthly)
The New York Times Large Type Weekly (weekly)
News (NLS quarterly)
Parenting (monthly except January and July)
PC World (personal computing; monthly) 
Playboy (monthly)
Poetry (11 issues)
Popular Communications (monthly)
Popular Mechanics (monthly)
Popular Music Lead Sheets (irregular)
Rolling Stone (popular culture; 24 issues)
Science News (weekly)
Seventeen (for teens; monthly)
Short Stories (British monthly)
Spider: The Magazine for Children (monthly) 
Stone Soup (children's writings; 5 issues)
Update (NLS quarterly)
The Washington Post Book World (weekly)

The following sports schedules are also available:
American Baseball League Schedule
National Baseball League Schedule
National Basketball Association Schedule
National Football League Schedule
National Hockey League Schedule
Women's National Basketball Association Schedule
###