Cassette Books 2000

National Library Service for the 
Blind and Physically Handicappped

Washington 2000

Nonfiction                                                   
     
Adventure

Addicted to Danger: A Memoir RC 48754
by Jim Wickwire and Dorothy Bullitt 
read by L.J. Ganser
2 cassettes
At fifty-six, the author reflects on his mountain climbing
experiences on major peaks, examining the successes and
failures to achieve personal growth. In his accounts, he
appreciates the beauty, physical exertion, and close
friendships this sport offers but also admits an attraction
to the dangers involved. 1998.
 
Canyon Solitude: A Woman's Solo River Journey through Grand
Canyon RC 47654
by Patricia C. McCairen 
read by Kimberly Schraf
2 cassettes
New Yorker recounts falling in love with white-water rafting
and the Grand Canyon at the age of thirty-five. This led to
planning her own river trip and, when no friends were
available to join her, the decision to do it alone. She
describes the twenty-day voyage, the landscape, and the
changes in herself brought on by the experience. 1998.

The Endurance: Shackleton's Legendary Antarctic Expedition
RC 47531
by Caroline Alexander 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Chronicles the survival of Ernest Shackleton and his crew of
twenty-seven men marooned on ice floes off the coast of
Antarctica in 1915. Recounts the entrapment and later
destruction of their ship, the Endurance, by pack ice and
the hardships the men suffered before their rescue in 1916.
Bestseller 1998.

Flight of the Gin Fizz: Midlife at 4,500 Feet RC 47611
by Henry Kisor 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
Writer-editor Henry Kisor recalls his decision to learn to
fly. Being deaf, he was relieved to discover that piloting a
lightplane does not depend on radio communication. While
researching his new hobby, Kisor read that in 1911 Cal
Rodgers--also hard-of-hearing--was the first person to fly
coast-to-coast. Kisor soon decided to reenact that journey.
1997.

Forever Flying: Fifty Years of High-Flying Adventures, from
Barnstorming in Prop Planes to Dogfighting Germans to
Testing Supersonic Jets RC 48763
by R.A. Hoover 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Autobiography by a pilot who has been described by Jimmy
Doolittle as "the greatest stick-and-rudder man who ever
lived." Hoover reminisces about flying as a teenager,
fighting in World War II, and working as a test pilot and
air show star. Foreword by Chuck Yeager. 1996.

Great Lakes Shipwrecks and Survivals RC 47621
by William Ratigan 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
History of maritime disasters on each of the North American
inland seas: Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie, Superior, and
Ontario. Describes how vessels and their crews functioned
during catastrophic storms. A separate section details the
November 1975 wreck of the cargo ship Edmund Fitzgerald.
1977.

The Hungry Ocean: A Swordboat Captain's Journey RC 48530
by Linda Greenlaw 
read by Mary Woods
2 cassettes
The only female swordfishing boat captain describes a
harrowing month-long journey to Newfoundland's Grand Banks.
Greenlaw recalls her five-man crew and their struggle
against the sea aboard the Hannah Boden. Companion to
Junger's The Perfect Storm (RC 44751), which portrays the
fatal journey of a sister ship, the Andrea Gail. Strong
language. Bestseller 1999.

The Lost Tribe: A Harrowing Passage into New Guinea's Heart
of Darkness RC 47377
by Edward Marriott 
read by Jeremy Gage
2 cassettes
A British adventurer recounts his 1994 expedition into the
jungle of Papua New Guinea to search for the "lost tribe" of
the savage Liawep. Spurning an official ban on such
ventures, the author endured a grueling trek to the Liawep
village and jeopardized his life. Some strong language and
violence. 1996.

South: A Memoir of the Endurance Voyage RC 48292
by Ernest Shackleton 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Shackleton's 1914-1917 account of how his plans to lead the
first trans-Antarctic expedition became a survival saga
after his ship, Endurance, was blocked and finally crushed
by pack-ice. Describes the courage of men facing extremely
harsh conditions. Covers Shackleton's valiant 800-mile trip
in an open boat to bring back rescuers. 1919.

Animals and Wildlife

The Compassion of Animals: True Stories of Animal Courage
and Kindness RC 47090
by Kristin Von Kreisler 
read by Carol Dines
2 cassettes
The author presents a collection of anecdotes to demonstrate
that animals are capable of being kind and compassionate.
She tells of animals that helped their owners during medical
emergencies, of those that rescued people, and of others who
assisted in providing emotional therapy. Her subjects
include dogs, cats, pigs, horses, and even an iguana. 1997.

The Modern Ark: The Story of Zoos: Past, Present, and Future
RC 46936
by Vicki Croke 
read by Margaret Strom
2 cassettes
Examines the changing nature of zoos in the United States.
Contrasts the traditional model of concrete cells with the
"new zoo" that provides a more natural habitat. Discusses
the modern goals of educating visitors, conducting research,
protecting endangered species, and preserving genetic
diversity. 1997.

The Mythology of Cats: Feline Legend and Lore through the
Ages RC 48005
by Gerald Hausman and Loretta Hausman 
read by Ann Hodapp
1 cassette
Legends, folklore, and literary allusions are combined with
historical information on thirty breeds of cat. Begins with
the "goddess cat" and facts on the Egyptian Mau, includes
the nine-lived Abyssinian, and ends with the "archetypal"
tabby. 1998.

Shy Boy: The Horse That Came In from the Wild RC 48908
by Monty Roberts 
read by Bob Askey
1 cassette
In this sequel to The Man Who Listens to Horses (RC 45002),
horse trainer Monty Roberts captures a wild mustang and
gently tames it to saddle. Eleven months later, he gives the
mustang, Shy Boy, a choice of staying with him or returning
to his original herd. Bestseller 1999.

An Unspoken Art: Profiles of Veterinary Life RC 47625
by Lee Gutkind 
read by Anne Hancock
2 cassettes
Depicts the daily lives of veterinarians in diverse
settings. From Manhattan high-rises to country barns using
everything from modern technology to primitive equipment,
the vets all express an ability to commune with their
patients and use touch as therapy. Discusses the moral
issues of medical research and euthanasia. 1997.

Wild about Horses: Our Timeless Passion for the Horse RC
47930
by Lawrence Scanlan 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
The author explores why people are so enamored of horses.
Uses history, mythology, and anecdotes to reveal how
important the animal has been to the development of humans.
Includes stories about horses in war, sports, and
entertainment as well as horses as pets. 1998.

Zarafa: A Giraffe's True Story, from Deep in Africa to the
Heart of Paris RC 47271
by Michael Allin 
read by Terence Aselford
1 cassette
Describes the 1827 arrival in Paris of the first giraffe, a
royal gift to King Charles X of France from Muhammad Ali,
the ruler of Egypt. Provides the historical background that
led to her journey from the Sudan down the Nile River to
Alexandria, across the Mediterranean Sea, and to her
triumphal march from Marseille to her presentation at Saint-
Cloud. 1998.

The Arts

Art Attack: A Short Cultural History of the Avant-Garde RC
47790
by Marc Aronson 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
An account of various twentieth-century art movements
including dance, music, and painting that shocked the
mainstream establishment at the time with their newness and
innovation. Includes pop art, surrealism, cubism, jazz, rock
and roll, and ballet, as well as individual portraits of
various artists. For senior high and older readers. 1998.

Ballet 101: A Complete Guide to Learning and Loving the
Ballet RC 47554
by Robert Greskovic 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
A primer on the history of ballet and the training of
dancers, with an analysis of thirteen popular ballets.
Includes a glossary and videography. Foreword by Mikhail
Baryshnikov. 1998.

Impressionism: Reflections and Perceptions RC 48011
by Meyer Schapiro 
read by Randy Wieck
3 cassettes
Essays that discuss the concept of impressionism, analyzing
the artists of the movement, including Claude Monet.
Explores connections with science, history, and literature.
Also describes the genre in relation to its subjects: the
environment, railroad, city, and people. 1997.

N.C. Wyeth: A Biography RC 48234
by David Michaelis 
read by Kerry Cundiff
4 cassettes
Life of the artist whose fame largely rests on his drawings
for the Scribners Illustrated Classics series. Wyeth studied
under illustrator Howard Pyle. Describes his children and
grandchildren, many of whom continued the family legacy and
became artists in their own right. 1998.

Sotheby's: The Inside Story RC 47021
by Peter Watson 
read by Bob Kuhn
3 cassettes
An account of journalist Watson's investigation of the well-
known art auction house in London. Recalls how he learned of
possible illegal operations from James Hodges, a former
employee of the company. In order to verify the story,
Watson planned a sting operation in which an Italian
painting was to be sold at auction in London. The story also
aired on CBS's 60 Minutes. 1997.

True Colors: The Real Life of the Art World RC 47208
by Anthony Haden-Guest 
read by Rick Foucheux
3 cassettes
Traces the New York art scene from the auction of the famous
Scull contemporary art collection in 1973 to the mid 1990s.
Describes how the Scull sale triggered a steadily escalating
worldwide demand for art made after World War II. Analyzes
the different art worlds: one of working artists and one of
dealers, collectors, and curators. 1996.

Vincent van Gogh: Artist RC 46876
by Peter Tyson 
read by Gary Tipton
1 cassette
A biography of the Dutch painter born in 1853. Covers his
childhood and early career choices before deciding to be an
artist at age twenty-seven. Includes information on his
psychological problems and bouts of melancholia. Describes
van Gogh's affinity for southern France, where he produced
many paintings and where he committed suicide at age thirty-
seven. For junior and senior high readers. 1996.

Astronomy

Comets: Creators and Destroyers RC 47099
by David H. Levy 
read by Randy Davidson
1 cassette
The discoverer of twenty-two comets, including Shoemaker-
Levy 9, describes his work and tells how "these flying balls
of ice and dust have shaped the course of life on Earth."
Surveys the history of comets beginning four billion years
ago and describes a likely scenario for a large comet
striking the earth in the future. 1998.

The Dancing Universe: From Creation Myths to the Big Bang RC
47978
by Marcelo Gleiser 
read by John Richardson
3 cassettes
Surveys approaches to understanding the origins of the
universe through religion and science. Analyzes creation
myths of various cultures and compares twentieth-century
Western ideas, demonstrating areas of similarity and
difference. Traces the lives and discoveries of well-known
theoreticians. 1997.

The Planet Mars: A History of Observation and Discovery RC
48355
by William Sheehan 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Chronological history of astronomers' fascination with Mars
from Kepler's discovery of its elliptical orbit in 1604
through the Viking missions of 1975-76. Includes a chapter
on Percival Lowell and his controversial theory about canals
on the planet's surface. 1996.

Rain of Iron and Ice: The Very Real Threat of Comet and
Asteroid Bombardment RC 47515
by John S. Lewis 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Argues that the Earth is vulnerable to catastrophic harm
from the fall of asteroids and comets. Cites historical
accounts of such impacts, traces the scientific study of
these events, and assesses future threats to the world.
Discusses measures for averting future collisions. 1996.

Rocks from Space: Meteorites and Meteorite Hunters RC 48331
by O. Richard Norton 
read by Kerry Cundiff
3 cassettes
Introduction to meteorites, asteroids, comets, and impact
craters. Discusses their physical characteristics,
composition, interrelationships, and origins. Provides
biographical sketches of Harvey Harlow Nininger and Robert
A. Haag. 1998.

Biography

Other biographies are listed in specific subject categories,
such as literature, music, sports, stage and screen, and
U.S. history.
Big Top Boss: John Ringling North and the Circus RC 47428
by David Lewis Hammarstrom 
read by Richard Hauenstein
3 cassettes
Biography of the showman-entrepreneur who folded the tents
and moved the circus indoors in 1956. Describes North's
flamboyant career and his management style in the context of
labor and social issues of the mid-twentieth century.
Incorporates several decades of American circus history.
1992.

Diana in Search of Herself: Portrait of a Troubled Princess
RC 48833
by Sally Bedell Smith 
read by Anne Flosnik
4 cassettes
Relying on interviews with many of Diana's friends, as well
as documented material in books and magazines about the
Princess of Wales, Smith presents a portrait of a woman
suffering from "borderline personality disorder." Topics
include Diana's bulimia, bouts of depression, relationships
with the royal family, and her love affairs. Bestseller
1999.

Dr. Laura: The Unauthorized Biography RC 48912
by Vickie L. Bane 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
A correspondent for People magazine uses interviews and
quotes from Laura Schlesinger's coworkers and acquaintances
to illustrate the woman behind the radio show. Discusses Dr.
Laura's childhood and education, husbands, career, and
conversion to Orthodox Judaism. Highlights the apparent
discrepancy between the morality she preaches and the
behavior she practices. 1999.

Elegy for Iris RC 47669
by John Bayley 
read by David Palmer
2 cassettes
In this memoir of marriage, Bayley probes the mystique of
the beloved. He describes how he fell in love with author
Iris Murdoch in 1957 before she published her first book;
how courtship evolved into a devoted marriage; and how he
still sought her essential self after she developed
Alzheimer's disease. 1999.

Forgotten Heroes: Inspiring American Portraits from Our
Leading Historians RC 48138
edited by Susan Ware 
read by Kristin Allison
3 cassettes
Biographical essays of thirty-five unsung American heroes
including fourteen women. Spanning the colonial era to the
1960s, covers sports figures, military greats, feminists,
trailblazers, pioneers, teachers, and diplomats. 1998.

Havana Dreams: A Story of Cuba RC 48097
by Wendy Gimbel 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
2 cassettes
Three generations of Cuban women reminisce about their
lives, providing glimpses of their country before, during,
and after Castro's revolution. Based on interviews with
Natalia Revuelta, her mother, and her daughters, one of whom
was fathered by Castro. 1998.

Heading South, Looking North: A Bilingual Journey RC 48065
by Ariel Dorfman 
read by Jeff Baker
2 cassettes
Memoir of a Latin American exile who has faced a series of
identity crises. Born in Argentina to Russian Jewish parents
who moved to New York, he recalls frequent shifts in
political and linguistic allegiance. Living in Chile in
1973, he viewed the military coup against president Allende
as a turning point in his own development. Some strong
language. 1998.

Homesteading RC 46323
by Percy Wollaston 
read by Arnie Warren
1 cassette
A man's memoir of his childhood in Montana, where his family
settled under the Homestead Act of 1909. Depicts their
hardscrabble life on the Great Plains, their daily struggle
to tame the land, and the indomitable spirit that sustained
them through hard times. 1997.

An Irish Country Christmas RC 48633
by Alice Taylor 
read by Anne Flosnik
1 cassette
Taylor recalls the work and the celebration of a Christmas
that "glowed like a warm fire in the middle of a long, cold
winter," when she was nine years old. She describes
preparing the Christmas goose, cleaning the chimney,
gathering the holly and ivy, and having a parcel arrive on
Christmas Eve. 1994.

John Chancellor Makes Me Cry RC 48219
by Anne Rivers Siddons 
read by Terry Hayes Sales
2 cassettes (Reissue)
Personal essays spanning a year in the author's life. She
writes of her peculiar response to the evening news, a visit
to a haunted wintertime beach, a wild--but touching--college
reunion, and loving memories of her grandfather. 1975.

Light Years: A Memoir RC 47335
by Le Anne Schreiber 
read by Jill Ferris
1 cassette
Although Schreiber has always craved sunlight, it was only
when she was almost forty that she left indoor Manhattan for
outdoor upstate New York. She reflects on the reasons for
changing her lifestyle and what happened to her in the next
decade. The subsequent deaths of her mother, then her
father, then her brother bring further self-evaluation and
reminiscences. 1996.

Our Man in Belize RC 47512
by Richard Timothy Conroy 
read by Ted Stoddard
3 cassettes
Memoir of an American who served as vice-consul in Belize
for two years in the early 1960s. He admits that his
accounts of his experiences and the people he met there have
"taken on a life of their own." But he does clearly remember
the devastating hurricane of 1961. Some strong language.
1997.

Prince Charming: The John F. Kennedy Jr. Story RC 48831
by Wendy Leigh 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Originally published in 1993 and updated following his death
in 1999, this account of John F. Kennedy Jr. looks at his
public and private lives. Discusses his relationship with
his parents, his desire to be an actor, his law career, the
publication of George, his marriage, and, finally, his
untimely death. Bestseller 1999.

A Song for Mary: An Irish-American Memory RC 48928
by Dennis Smith 
read by Jim Zeiger
3 cassettes
The author recalls his impoverished Irish Catholic childhood
in New York City without a father. Although he had a strong
support system, Smith was constantly in trouble. A court-
ordered stint in the air force gave him a second chance, and
he returned home to become a firefighter. Some strong
language. 1999.

The Tennis Partner: A Doctor's Story of Friendship and Loss
RC 47652
by Abraham Verghese 
read by Bruce Nelson
3 cassettes
A medical professor and avid tennis player recounts the
story of his friendship with a gifted medical student who
shared the same interests. Describes how their deepening
relationship was corrupted when the young man became a drug
addict. 1998.

'Tis: A Memoir RC 48813
by Frank McCourt 
read by Graeme Malcolm
3 cassettes
This sequel to Angela's Ashes (RC 42805) continues McCourt's
reminiscences from October 1949, when he arrives in New York
City at age nineteen, until his father's funeral in 1985.
Describes his adjustments to America--gaining an education,
finding a career, marrying, and raising a family--interwoven
with childhood memories. Some strong language. Bestseller
1999. 1999.

Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller Sr. RC 46355
by Ron Chernow 
read by Bob Moore
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Chernow reveals the person and family secrets behind the
public demonization of the ruthless businessman who founded
Standard Oil. While revolutionizing the way the world
conducts business, Rockefeller also established
philanthropic foundations and emphasized scientific
research, all the while retaining his strong religious
beliefs. Bestseller 1998.

Two-Gun Cohen: A Biography RC 48318
by Daniel S. Levy 
read by Ken Kliban
4 cassettes
Biography of Morris Cohen, who, after a life of petty crime,
became influential in Nationalist China.  Born an Orthodox
Jew in Poland at the end of the nineteenth century, Cohen
relocated to England, then to Canada, and finally to China,
where he became the bodyguard of Sun Yat-sen. Some violence.
1997.

Blindness and Physical Handicaps

And There Was Light: Autobiography of Jacques Lusseyran,
Blind Hero of the French Resistance RC 46611
by Jacques Lusseyran 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes (Reissue)
Lusseyran describes his life up to the age of twenty.
Blinded at seven, he was a teenager when the Nazis invaded
France. After he joined the Resistance, his group was turned
in by informers and imprisoned. He tells of surviving in a
German concentration camp until the war's end. Includes an
introduction by the editors. 1963.

Black Bird Fly Away: Disabled in an Able-Bodied World RC
48383
by Hugh Gregory Gallagher 
read by Timothy Hayes Lynch
2 cassettes
The author presents journal entries, essays, and speeches.
Gallagher was a college student of twenty when he almost
died of polio. As an influential Senate aide and lobbyist in
Washington, D.C., he was instrumental in passing the
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968. 1998.

Choosing a Wheelchair: A Guide for Optimal Independence RC
48218
by Gary Karp 
read by Patricia McDermott
1 cassette
The author, a paraplegic and ergonomics specialist, details
the process of selecting a wheelchair for both new and
experienced users. Takes into account costs, usage, and
wheeling technique. Includes list of manufacturers. 1998.

The Eye Book: A Complete Guide to Eye Disorders and Health
RC 47103
by Gary H. Cassel and others 
read by Kerry Cundiff
3 cassettes
Two ophthalmologists and an optometrist provide an "owner's
manual for your eyes." They describe vision changes that
occur over time and health problems that affect the ability
to see. Topics include coping with low vision, eye trauma
and emergencies, glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related
macular degeneration. 1998.

Flight of the Gin Fizz: Midlife at 4,500 Feet RC 47611
by Henry Kisor 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
Writer-editor Henry Kisor recalls his decision to learn to
fly. Being deaf, he was relieved to discover that piloting a
lightplane does not depend on radio communication. While
researching his new hobby, Kisor read that in 1911 Cal
Rodgers--also hard-of-hearing--was the first person to fly
coast-to-coast. Kisor soon decided to reenact that journey.
1997.

Flying Solo: Reimagining Manhood, Courage, and Loss RC 47780
by Leonard Kriegel 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Twelve essays in which the author, who contracted polio at
age eleven, discusses coming to terms with paralysis of the
legs. In the title piece, Kriegel recounts his conversation
with a woman whose paraplegic brother learned to fly an
airplane--something on Kriegel's wish list when he was
younger. Some strong language. 1998.

Friendships in the Dark: A Blind Woman's Story of the People
and Pets Who Light Up Her World RC 47056
by Phyllis Campbell 
read by Mimi Bederman
1 cassette
Totally blind since birth, the author tells of growing up on
a small Virginia farm and going away to a residential school
with her older sister (who is also blind) and becoming a
church organist. She describes in loving detail the animals
and other friends she meets along the way. 1996.

Helen Keller: A Life RC 48038
by Dorothy Herrmann 
read by Barbara Pinolini
3 cassettes
A chronological account of Keller's long, eventful life,
written from a woman's perspective. Herrmann explores
Keller's world, perceived without sight or sound; her
ability to remain cheerful about her disabilities; and her
relationship with teacher Anne Sullivan. 1998.

Journey to Excellence: Development of the Military and VA
Blind Rehabilitation Programs in the 20th Century RC 48780
by Stephen Miyagawa 
read by Jeremy Gage
2 cassettes
Blinded in the Korean War, the author uses interviews,
personal anecdotes, and government documents to illustrate
the development of rehabilitation centers for blinded
veterans since World War I. Miyagawa shows how these
programs have also contributed to advancements in
rehabilitation for the civilian population. 1999.

Kenneth Jernigan: The Master, The Mission, The Movement RC
48985
by Kenneth Jernigan 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
Collection of Dr. Jernigan's writings composed mostly during
the 1990s. Includes numerous speeches and excerpts from the
Kernel Books. In an introduction, Marc Maurer, of the
National Federation of the Blind, describes Jernigan as a
man who "changed the lives of blind people through his
example and inspiration." 1999.

Living with Spina Bifida: A Guide for Families and
Professionals RC 47399
by Adrian Sandler 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A physician explains the birth defect spina bifida and
possible associated impairments, and offers advice on
promoting good health and optimal development at every stage
from childhood through young adulthood. 1997.

The Macular Degeneration Handbook: Natural Ways to Prevent
and Reverse It RC 48616
by Chet Cunningham 
read by Rick Rohan
1 cassette
Explains how the eye works, basic care, and traditional
treatments for macular degeneration and other eye
conditions. Includes alternative approaches such as diet,
vitamins and minerals, and proper nutrition. Discusses drugs
that can adversely affect the eyes and the benefits of
trying acupressure, reflexology, and exercises to improve
vision. 1999.

Macular Degeneration: Living Positively with Vision Loss RC
47973
by Betty Wason 
read by Kerry Cundiff
2 cassettes
The author, diagnosed with macular degeneration,
investigates the symptoms, causes, and current treatments of
the condition. She presents case studies of patients,
offering coping mechanisms and sources of help. Gives
strategies to deal with stress, including diet and exercise.
Describes new technology that makes life easier. 1998.

Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and
Maximizing Your Sight RC 48615
by Lylas G. Mogk and Marja Mogk 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
Describes the condition of age-related macular degeneration. 
Covers treatments and research, preventative measures, and
useful tips for family and friends. Discusses coping with
low vision, dealing with depression, Charles Bonnet
Syndrome, visual rehabilitation programs, and sources for
help. 1999.

Remember to Feed the Kittens: A Kernel Book RC 48986
edited by Marc Maurer 
read by Robert Sams
1 cassette
In this sixteenth book in the Kernel series, National
Federation of the Blind members continue to provide
descriptions of living with blindness. NFB president Marc
Maurer, who has taken over the series since the 1998 death
of Kenneth Jernigan, tells of dealing with stereotypes
during his first Christmas without his mentor. 1999.

Sight Unseen RC 48328
by Georgina Kleege 
read by Terry Hayes Sales
2 cassettes
Kleege was diagnosed with macular degeneration at the age of
eleven and learned coping mechanisms. In eight essays she
describes her experiences as well as the cultural aspects of
blindness in language, film, and literature. As an author
and professor, Kleege outlines the reading process and her
delight in learning braille later in life. 1999.

Slackjaw RC 47872
by Jim Knipfel 
read by L.J. Ganser
2 cassettes
At age twelve, Knipfel's uncle told him he "better start
learning braille," but it was years before he knew he had
retinitis pigmentosa. Then a brain lesion began causing
erratic behavior. With humor and honesty, Knipfel recalls
his reluctance to accept his condition and how he has coped.
Strong language. 1999.

Social and Cultural Perspectives on Blindness: Barriers to
Community Integration RC 48220
by C. Edwin Vaughan 
read by Andy Chappell
2 cassettes
Visually impaired sociologist (who prefers the word "blind")
describes blindness in the United States, Africa, China, and
Spain. Proposes an international exchange of information to
enrich education and rehabilitation opportunities for this
group. 1998.

Special Siblings: Growing Up with Someone with a Disability
RC 48455
by Mary McHugh 
read by Lindsay Ellison
2 cassettes
The author describes her own and others' childhood
experiences as siblings of someone with mental retardation,
mental illness, or a physical disability. Offers suggestions
to families on improving the emotional atmosphere in the
home for all the children. Includes a list of resources
including support groups and web sites. 1999.

Women Living with Multiple Sclerosis RC 48571
by Judith Lynn Nichols 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
More than twenty diverse women share via the Internet their
experiences of living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The
participants offer support and tips for daily coping with
symptoms and inconveniences of the disease. Includes
discussions on sex, fatigue, spirituality, and the
insensitivity of others. Contains a list of resources. Some
strong language. 1999.

You Don't Have to Be Blind to See RC 46869
by Jim Stovall 
read by John Polk
2 cassettes
The author, blind before the age of thirty as a result of
juvenile macular degeneration, encourages others to achieve
through their dreams. Using examples from his own life,
Stovall suggests that people can succeed by changing the way
they think. He recommends that once a path is decided,
people should find mentors to help them along the way. For
senior high and older readers. 1996.

Young People and Chronic Illness: True Stories, Help, and
Hope RC 47998
by Kelly Huegel 
read by Gary Tipton
2 cassettes
First-person accounts of young people who have accepted
their chronic diseases and maintained a positive outlook.
Includes practical advice for dealing with school, friends,
and family while coping with cancer, epilepsy, diabetes, and
other conditions. Lists organizations and web sites after
each narrative. For junior and senior high readers. 1998.

Business and Economics

A Beautiful Mind: A Biography of John Forbes Nash Jr.,
Winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics, 1994 RC 47595
by Sylvia Nasar 
read by Randy Wieck
4 cassettes
The life of a mathematical genius who contributed to game
theory, computer architecture, the study of the universe,
and the mystery of prime numbers--all before age thirty.
Then schizophrenia enveloped his mind and he spent thirty
more years in and out of mental hospitals before a
spontaneous recovery returned him to the world of research.
1998.

Business @ the Speed of Thought: Using a Digital Nervous
System RC 48274
by Bill Gates 
read by Rick Rohan
3 cassettes
Predicts that business in the 2000s will depend on velocity,
relying on personal computers to speed up transactions.
Explains how this "digital nervous system" can improve the
corporate functions embodied in commerce, knowledge
management, and business operations. Encourages the
practical application of the World Wide Web work style to
energize the workplace. Bestseller 1999.

Cigars, Whiskey, and Winning: Leadership Lessons from
General Ulysses S. Grant RC 48238
by Al Kaltman 
read by Randy Atcher
2 cassettes
Presents 250 management techniques derived from the military
skills of Ulysses S. Grant, the general who led the North to
victory in the Civil War and the eighteenth president of the
United States. Explains that his qualities on the
battlefield are equally relevant to success in business and
other pursuits. 1998.

The Courage to Be Rich: Creating a Life of Material and
Spiritual Abundance RC 48034
by Suze Orman 
read by Pam Ward
3 cassettes
Author of The Nine Steps to Financial Freedom (RC 46126)
presents a plan for achieving monetary and spiritual well-
being. Describes courage as faith, determination, a sense of
self-worth, and the vision to create a rich and abundant
life. Explores the value of money, the rewards wealth
bestows, and the responsibilities it confers. Bestseller
1999.

The Difference between God and Larry Ellison: Inside Oracle
Corporation (God Doesn't Think He's Larry Ellison) RC 47199
by Mike Wilson 
read by Michael Consoli
3 cassettes
A chronicle of the founding of Oracle Software Corporation
by the fifth-richest man in the United States. The author,
an investigative reporter, interviewed owner Larry Ellison,
his friends, and his employees in order to present this
inside view of the company. Some strong language. 1997.

Eat the Rich RC 47385
by P.J. O'Rourke 
read by Ray Foushee
2 cassettes
In a treatise on economics by a conservative humorist, the
author visits Wall Street to learn how the stock market
works. He then ventures to different countries with diverse
economic systems to see which succeed. Concludes with the
observation that the free market equals economic truth and
wealth. Some strong language. Bestseller 1998.

Goldman Sachs: The Culture of Success RC 48472
by Lisa Endlich 
read by Mary Kane
3 cassettes
Presents the history and describes the success of Goldman
Sachs, a privately owned investment bank on Wall Street.
Asserts that the company made a three-billion-dollar profit
in 1997 because of the vision and abilities of its leaders
and employees. Discusses the firm's long-standing culture of
loyalty, teamwork, and service to clients. 1999.

Hamilton's Blessing: The Extraordinary Life and Times of Our
National Debt RC 47354
by John Steele Gordon 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Traces the history of the U.S. government and economic
thinking over two hundred years. Examines the origins and
importance of the national debt, the banking and tax
systems, the establishment of the federal reserve, and the
invention of the war bond. Explains how policies instituted
by Hamilton and Jefferson remain relevant. 1997.

Harvests of Joy: My Passion for Excellence RC 47782
by Robert Mondavi 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Autobiography of a California wine maker who changed the
industry in the United States. Recalls how in 1965, at
fifty-two, Mondavi bitterly broke away from the family firm
and established his own vineyard. His innovations helped
Napa Valley wines challenge those of France. 1998.

In Sam We Trust: The Untold Story of Sam Walton and How Wal-
Mart Is Devouring America RC 48150
by Bob Ortega 
read by Jake Williams
4 cassettes
Account of Sam Walton and the business strategy he developed
to create Wal-Mart and maintain its growth. Observes that
the store continues to maximize profits because of discount
prices and efficient information and distribution systems.
Examines the company's impact on its employees, local
communities, and other corporations in the U.S. 1998.

The Late-Start Investor: The Better-Late-Than-Never Guide to
Realizing Your Retirement Dreams RC 48320
by John F. Wasik 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Advises baby boomers who have never saved for their
retirement how to accumulate enough money for a satisfactory
old age. Discusses social security and pensions; lifestyle
planning; fast ways of saving money; and mutual funds,
stocks, and bonds. Includes resources and web sites. 1998.

The Living Wage: Building a Fair Economy RC 48169
by Robert Pollin and Stephanie Luce 
read by Jeff Baker
2 cassettes
Examines the "living wage" legislative initiative intended
to improve conditions for employees in the United States by
requiring companies to provide decent wages and adequate
benefits in order to qualify for government contracts.
Argues that these proposals could reverse the twenty-five-
year decline in many workers' real earnings. 1998.

Napoleon Hill's Keys to Success: The Seventeen Principles of
Personal Achievement RC 47975
by Napoleon Hill 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
The documented experience and writings of the author are
updated with business success stories. Suggests ways to
create an attractive personality and establish a positive
mental attitude. 1994.

Nobody Knows the Truffles I've Seen RC 46617
by George Lang 
read by Gary Telles
3 cassettes
Autobiography of a Hungarian who survived World War II,
immigrated to the United States, changed careers, and became
a successful restaurant manager/owner. Recalls many
interesting and famous people he encountered. Includes some
humorous anecdotes and twenty-two of his favorite recipes.
1998.

Pit Bull: Lessons from Wall Street's Champion Trader RC
48257
by Martin "Buzzy" Schwartz 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Traces the career of Martin Schwartz from trading in options
on the American Stock Exchange to successes dealing in
futures and stocks. Discusses how he gained knowledge from
losses on the market. Details the strategies and techniques
he used to earn millions of dollars on Wall Street. Strong
language. 1998.

Two Lucky People: Memoirs RC 47418
by Milton Friedman and Rose D. Friedman 
read by Mitzi Friedlander
6 cassettes
Nobel Prize-winner Milton Friedman and his wife, Rose,
describe their passion for economics and their involvement
with presidents and other world leaders. A section by Milton
Friedman explains their free-market philosophy, its eventual
acceptance, and its impact on important events of the
twentieth century. 1998.

Wall Street: A History RC 48222
by Charles R. Geisst 
read by Lou Harpenau
4 cassettes
Traces Wall Street's development from the 1790s, when
transactions were conducted on sidewalks, to the market's
role in relation to the growth of the U.S. economy in the
1990s. Explains the influence of the U.S. financial
community on economies around the world and how both
domestic and global events in turn affect Wall Street. 1997.

The Wealth and Poverty of Nations: Why Some Are So Rich and
Some So Poor RC 46479
by David S. Landes 
read by Bill Wallace
6 cassettes
Explores causes of the disparities in wealth and health that
exist among societies, "the greatest single problem and
danger facing the world." Argues that a nation's prosperity
derives from industrial technology, nurtured by supportive
cultural values and institutions. Avers that world peace
depends on the well-being of all people. 1998.

Webonomics: Nine Essential Principles for Growing Your
Business on the World Wide Web RC 47897
by Evan I. Schwartz 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
2 cassettes
Guide for beginners to marketing effectively from a web
site. Explains why web-based businesses may need new
economic rules, new currency, and new consumer behavior.
Analyzes commercial use of the web. Discusses the future of
capitalism and the role of government as web enterprise
expands. 1997.

A Woman's Guide to Savvy Investing: Everything You Need to
Know to Protect Your Future RC 47177
by Marsha Bertrand 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Practical advice on managing money--from investing in stocks
and bonds to choosing an advisor and reading newsletters
while having fun doing so. Explains financial terminology
and how to analyze a company. Glossary included. 1998.

Work in Progress RC 47498
by Michael D. Eisner 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
Eisner provides an account of how a Jewish boy from an
affluent Manhattan family rose through the ranks to become
Disney's CEO. Discusses his family life, his jobs at ABC and
Paramount Pictures, the role he played in getting the
position at Disney, and his part in expanding the company.
Bestseller 1998.

Career and Job Training

But What If I Don't Want to Go to College? A Guide to
Success through Alternative Education RC 48568
by Harlow G. Unger 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Describes the lucrative career opportunities and demands for
various trades and skills that do not require a four-year
degree. Discusses advantages and disadvantages,
requirements, and future prospects for ten types of
alternative education. Includes rsum and interview advice
as well as resource lists. For senior high and older
readers. 1998.

Career Smarts: Jobs with a Future RC 47596
by Martin Yate 
read by Gary Tipton
4 cassettes
Discusses how to find a suitable career that is in demand as
well as one of personal interest. Includes a job
description, earning potential, and educational requirements
for 175 professional jobs. Gives a brief summary of what a
typical day entails. For senior high and older readers.
1997.

Careers for Computer Buffs RC 47821
compiled by Andrew Kaplan 
read by Barbara Pinolini
1 cassette
Profiles fourteen individuals who work with computers in
various ways, including software development, hardware
research, and engineering. Each discusses his or her job and
offers advice on pursuing a computer-related career. For
junior and senior high and older readers. 1991.

Careers for Foreign Language Aficionados and Other
Multilingual Types RC 47820
by H. Ned Seelye and J. Laurence Day 
read by Barbara Pinolini
1 cassette
A career guide for people who speak and write in more than
one language. Discusses job opportunities in teaching,
information services, business, government, and volunteer
work. Describes job requirements, salaries, and sources of
further information. For junior and senior high and older
readers. 1992.

Careers for Kids at Heart and Others Who Adore Children RC
48140
by Marjorie Eberts and Margaret Gisler 
read by Jill Ferris
1 cassette
Description of the numerous career opportunities that entail
working with children. Includes school settings, infant and
toddler care, and health- and safety-oriented jobs as well
as practical considerations. For junior and senior high
readers. 1994.

Careers for Outdoor Types RC 49094
by Andrew Kaplan 
read by Rick Foucheux
1 cassette
Profiles fourteen individuals whose jobs involve working
outdoors, including a naturalist, a recreation director, a
rancher, and others employed in agriculture. Discusses how
to get started, what the work entails, and the pros and cons
of each career. For junior and senior high readers. 1991.

Careers for the Curious RC 48110
edited by Russell Shorto 
read by Kristin Allison
1 cassette
Presents interviews with fourteen professionals in fields
that demand an inquiring mind and keen investigative skills,
including an inventor, an editor, an ethnomusicologist, and
a philosopher. They describe how they got started, what
their work involves, and things they like and dislike about
their jobs. For junior and senior high readers. 1992.

Careers for Wordsmiths RC 47819
by Andrew Kaplan 
read by Barbara Pinolini
1 cassette
Profiles fourteen workers in jobs that rely on language
skills; includes writer, editor, teacher, lexicographer, and
press agent. Each worker discusses his or her work and
offers advice on pursuing a language-related career. For
junior and senior high and older readers. 1991.

Careers in Child Care RC 47715
by Marjorie Eberts and Margaret Gisler 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
A practical guide to planning, entering, and advancing in a
variety of child-care careers, including home care,
teaching, health care, social work, and recreation. Presents
profiles of  practitioners and discusses job preparation,
salaries, and future demand in the job market. For junior
and senior high and older readers. 1994.

Great Careers for People Interested in Math and Computers RC
47588
by Peter Richardson and Bob Richardson 
read by Gary Tipton
1 cassette
Career advice for students with talent in mathematics and
computers. Highlights job options such as an audio engineer,
a research analyst, and a computer programmer. For senior
high and older readers. 1993.

How to Get a Job If You're a Teenager RC 47766
by Cindy Pervola and Debby Hobgood 
read by Kristin Allison
1 cassette
Tips on job hunting address deciding what type of job to
apply for, completing applications, preparing for the
interview (including choosing what to wear), and the
interview itself. What to expect on the first day and the
proper way to quit a job are also discussed. For junior and
senior high readers. 1998.

The Making of a Chef: Mastering Heat at the Culinary
Institute of America RC 47657
by Michael Ruhlman 
read by Steven Carpenter
2 cassettes
A journalist enrolls in a professional cooking course and
describes the dedication of the chefs and the
conscientiousness of the students. Details the arduous
training required to become an acknowledged chef in a large
restaurant. Some strong language. 1997.

Rules for the Road: Surviving Your First Job out of School
RC 47985
by Eve Luppert 
read by Gary Tipton
1 cassette
Gives succinct, practical advice for college graduates or
others beginning their first venture into the corporate
world. Explains what to do the first day on the job, what to
wear, how to get along with different types of bosses and
coworkers, how to succeed, and how to handle finances. 1998.

To the Young Scientist: Reflections on Doing and Living
Science RC 47630
by Alfred B. Bortz 
read by Liz Solar
1 cassette
Scientists working in various fields present their
viewpoints on scientific careers, their personal interests,
and why they chose a particular discipline. Includes an
anthropologist, an astronomer, chemists, engineers, and
geneticists. For junior and senior high readers. 1997.

Computers

The Age of Spiritual Machines: When Computers Exceed Human
Intelligence RC 48260
by Ray Kurzweil 
read by Lou Harpenau
4 cassettes
Considering exponential advances in computer technology
since 1900, inventor Kurzweil theorizes that the twenty-
first century will be defined by incomparable achievements
in mechanical intelligence and that emotions associated with
humans, such as love and loneliness, will manifest
themselves in machines. He projects that automated devices
and humans will become indistinguishable. 1999.

Business @ the Speed of Thought: Using a Digital Nervous
System RC 48274
by Bill Gates 
read by Rick Rohan
3 cassettes
Predicts that business in the 2000s will depend on velocity,
relying on personal computers to speed up transactions.
Explains how this "digital nervous system" can improve the
corporate functions embodied in commerce, knowledge
management, and business operations. Encourages the
practical application of the World Wide Web work style to
energize the workplace. Bestseller 1999.

The Difference between God and Larry Ellison: Inside Oracle
Corporation (God Doesn't Think He's Larry Ellison) RC 47199
by Mike Wilson 
read by Michael Consoli
3 cassettes
A chronicle of the founding of Oracle Software Corporation
by the fifth-richest man in the United States. The author,
an investigative reporter, interviewed owner Larry Ellison,
his friends, and his employees in order to present this
inside view of the company. Some strong language. 1997.

The Internet for Dummies RC 47197
by John R. Levine and others 
read by Steven Carpenter
3 cassettes
Describes what the Internet is and how to use it. Advises on
choosing a service, children's use, and shopping online.
Explains many aspects such as e-mail, web pages, and
netiquette; defines terminology; and answers frequently
asked questions. 1998.

The Learning Highway: Smart Students and the Net RC 47413
by Trevor Owen and Ron Owston 
read by Brian Conn
2 cassettes
Emphasizes how high school and undergraduate students can
use the Internet for learning. Covers how to express search
needs online, the multiple functions of web-based browsers,
research strategies on the web, and practical examples of
Internet projects. Some strong language. For senior high and
older readers. 1998.

Machine Beauty: Elegance and the Heart of Technology RC
47096
by David Gelernter 
read by Andy Chappell
1 cassette
Explains the computer revolution as a quest for beauty,
which the author defines as "a happy marriage of simplicity
and power." Discusses the notion of practical beauty as the
goal and driving force for developing unobtrusive software
that readily appeals to users and that can augment human
intellect. 1998.

Time Bomb 2000: What the Year 2000 Computer Crisis Means to
You! RC 47409
by Edward Yourdon and Jennifer Yourdon 
read by Butch Hoover
3 cassettes
Discusses the computer software problem that will manifest
itself on January 1, 2000, and its likely impact on banks,
hospitals, utilities, governments, transportation systems,
and more. Explains possible consequences of the resulting
failures and suggests ways to prepare for shutdowns that
could last from two days to ten years. 1998.

Trapped in the Net: The Unanticipated Consequences of
Computerization RC 48133
by Gene I. Rochlin 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
A professor of energy and resources at Berkeley argues that
complacent acceptance of computers in every phase of
contemporary existence blunts the perception of how they are
transforming the very structure and practice of human
affairs. 1997.

Webonomics: Nine Essential Principles for Growing Your
Business on the World Wide Web RC 47897
by Evan I. Schwartz 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
2 cassettes
Guide for beginners to marketing effectively from a web
site. Explains why web-based businesses may need new
economic rules, new currency, and new consumer behavior.
Analyzes commercial use of the web. Discusses the future of
capitalism and the role of government as web enterprise
expands. 1997.

Cooking and Food

Chesapeake Bay Cooking with John Shields: The Companion
Cookbook to the Public Television Series RC 48367
by John Shields 
read by John Richardson
3 cassettes
Nearly two hundred recipes for foods of the Chesapeake Bay
area. In addition to the usual seafoods--blue crabs,
oysters, and clams--Shields includes recipes using many of
the region's other bounties such as Silver Queen corn, vine-
ripened tomatoes, country hams, and Maryland fried chicken.
1998.

Lidia's Italian Table RC 48187
by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich 
read by Laura Giannarelli
3 cassettes
Bastianich presents more than 200 recipes infused with
memories of her childhood in northern Italy and then her
years in America. This companion to the PBS series offers a
discussion of basic ingredients and includes sections on
appetizers, soups, pastas, vegetables, poultry, and seafood.
1998.

The Man Who Ate Everything: And Other Gastronomic Feats,
Disputes, and Pleasurable Pursuits RC 46513
by Jeffrey Steingarten 
read by David Palmer
4 cassettes
Forty essays by the food critic of Vogue. To prepare for his
career, the author decided to become the perfect omnivore.
He rid his soul and palate of food phobias and cravings. The
consummate gourmet discourses on how to achieve the
crispiest French fry and why excessive consumption of salad
is detrimental to good health, among other culinary
deliberations. 1997.

Olives: The Life and Lore of a Noble Fruit RC 47817
by Mort Rosenblum 
read by Lewis Grenville
3 cassettes
The author tells how his purchase of a small Provence farm
with two hundred neglected olive trees inspired his interest
in the fruit. He provides a historical tour of the
Mediterranean olive world and discusses various methods of
picking, pressing, and appreciating olives. He also presents
anecdotes and a few recipes. 1996.

Wraps: Easy Recipes for Handheld Meals RC 47118
by Mary Corpening Barber and others 
read by Kerry Cundiff
1 cassette
Fifty recipes for preparing a wide variety of fillings
wrapped in tortillas. Examples are tofu twister, sloppy joe,
hungry Hungarian, Vietnamese wrap-ease, trail mix, and ice
cream wrapwich. Includes choices for breakfast, lunch,
dinner, and dessert. 1997.

Crime

Blind Eye: How the Medical Establishment Let a Doctor Get
Away with Murder RC 48832
by James B. Stewart 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
Questions why Dr. Michael Swango was allowed to continue
practicing medicine despite clear evidence that he was a
serial psychopathic killer and a convicted felon--for
poisoning his fellow workers. Criticizes the medical
establishment's "code of silence." Some strong language.
Bestseller 1999.

The End of the Dream: The Golden Boy Who Never Grew Up and
Other True Cases; Ann Rule's Crime Files, Volume 5 RC 47909
by Ann Rule 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
The first case recounts how three friends became an unlikely
team of bank robbers. Scotty Scurlock, a preacher's kid, was
a sociopath who led his buddies into a life of crime and
easy money. In their early forties the law caught up with
them. Three shorter tales follow. Some violence. Bestseller
1999.

Hijacked: The True Story of the Heroes of Flight 705 RC
46714
by Dave Hirschman 
read by Don Emmick
2 cassettes
An account of the 1994 hijacking of a FedEx cargo jet by a
disgruntled employee, who was flying as a passenger.
Describes the tense moments when he attacked and seriously
injured the flight crew, forcing them to take extreme
measures to subdue their assailant and land the plane
safely. Strong language and violence. 1997.

Jackal: The Complete Story of the Legendary Terrorist,
Carlos the Jackal RC 48352
by John Follain 
read by Randy Wieck
3 cassettes
Biography of the international terrorist who eluded
intelligence agencies and police for twenty years before his
capture in Sudan in 1994. Describes the "Jackal" as more bon
vivant than committed ideologue and as a self-proclaimed
"professional revolutionary" responsible for twenty-four
deaths and 257 wounded during his career of violence. 1998.

Like Judgment Day: The Ruin and Redemption of a Town Called
Rosewood RC 46947
by Michael D'Orso 
read by Rick Foucheux
3 cassettes
In January 1923 the African American mill town of Rosewood,
Florida, was destroyed by a mob seeking a rape suspect. An
unknown number of people were killed, and the townspeople
never returned. For decades no one spoke of the tragedy
until Sixty Minutes broadcast the story in December 1983.
Violence and strong language. 1996.

May God Have Mercy: A True Story of Crime and Punishment RC
46778
by John C. Tucker 
read by Ray Hagen
3 cassettes
Chronicles the 1981 rape and murder case of Roger Coleman,
who was executed in Virginia's electric chair in 1992.
Examines the circumstances and evidence and concludes that
the accused was poorly represented and may well have been
wrongly convicted. Strong language and violence. 1997.

Murder Most Rare: The Female Serial Killer RC 47023
by Michael D. Kelleher and C.L. Kelleher 
read by Jeremy Gage
2 cassettes
A study of nearly one hundred female serial killers
outlining their motives, methods, and eventual punishments.
Organized into ten chapters by category of murder such as:
black widows, revenge, angels of death, and team killers.
Some violence. 1998.

Perfect Murder, Perfect Town RC 48109
by Lawrence Schiller 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
Describes the murder investigation of six-year-old JonBent
Ramsey, who was killed at home on Christmas Day 1996.
Portrays the role of the FBI and the antagonism between the
Boulder, Colorado, police department and the district
attorney's office. Examines newspaper articles, interviews
with suspects, and the role of tabloids. Strong language and
violence. Bestseller 1998.

A Rage to Kill: And Other True Cases; Ann Rule's Crime
Files, Volume 6 RC 48894
by Ann Rule 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
Collection spanning several phases of Rule's career since
the 1960s. In "A Bus to Nowhere" she describes the killing
of a veteran bus driver in her home town of Seattle and the
subsequent crash off the city's tallest bridge. Sequel to
The End of the Dream (RC 47909). Some violence. Bestseller
1999. 1999.

Tainting Evidence: Inside the Scandals at the FBI Crime Lab
RC 48157
by John F. Kelly and Phillip K. Wearne 
read by Bob Moore
3 cassettes
Examines the FBI's crime laboratory and challenges the
reliability of its forensic work. Cites ineptness in solving
several notable criminal cases, including those associated
with O.J. Simpson, the Unabomber, the Ruby Ridge crisis, the
World Trade Center bombing, and the Oklahoma City bombing.
1998.

When She Was Bad: Violent Women and the Myth of Innocence RC
48240
by Patricia Pearson 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
2 cassettes
Disputes the contention that males are violent and females
are nurturers. Examines research and case histories to argue
that women are aggressors but often use indirect or verbal
methods rather than outright physical acts like men.
Discusses women serial killers and the consequences of
cultural misconceptions. Some strong language. 1997.

Diet and Nutrition

Foods That Fight Pain: Revolutionary New Strategies for
Maximum Pain Relief RC 47400
by Neal Barnard 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
Physician maintains that specific foods can help alleviate
many types of pain while other foods can trigger pain. He
outlines recommendations for using diet and supplements to
treat such conditions as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome,
migraines, stomachaches, and cancer pain. 1998.

How to Eat Away Arthritis RC 47542
by Lauri M. Aesoph 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
The author offers traditional and alternative ways to ease
the pain of arthritis. She lists restorative and "stressor"
foods and provides hints for better health, citing anecdotes
of numerous sufferers who have improved their ability to
cope with the condition. 1996.

Suzanne Somers' Eat Great, Lose Weight RC 48948
by Suzanne Somers 
read by Sharon Murray
2 cassettes
Actress Somers advocates controlling one's weight without
deprivation by properly combining foods. Proposes lifestyle
changes with a few simple rules, while still enjoying meals.
Includes menus. Bestseller 1996.

Suzanne Somers' Get Skinny on Fabulous Food RC 48777
by Suzanne Somers 
read by Sharon Murray
2 cassettes
Television star advises eating a balanced diet for weight
loss and health. Advocates enjoying food and adding fat to
the diet. Includes recipes and testimonials to success.
Bestseller 1999.

What to Eat If You Have Cancer: A Guide to Adding
Nutritional Therapy to Your Treatment Plan RC 48581
by Maureen Keane and Daniella Chace 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Nutritional advice and therapy to aid in denying cancer the
food elements it needs to grow. Discusses various cancer
treatments and how to strengthen the body against disease.
Includes different diet plans and resources. 1996.

Drama

An American Daughter RC 47882
by Wendy Wasserstein 
read by Lindsay Ellison
1 cassette
Play featuring Dr. Lyssa Dent Hughes, senator's daughter,
descendant of Ulysses S. Grant, and wife and mother, who has
been nominated for surgeon general. During a television
interview, her husband and a gay friend both contribute
information that creates a scandal leading to withdrawal
from her position. Some strong language. 1998.

Storm of the Century RC 47485
by Stephen King 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Screenplay for a TV miniseries. General store owner Mike
Anderson recounts what happened when a blizzard struck
Little Tall Island, Maine, and Andre Linoge arrived for a
horror-filled visit. Eighty-year-old Martha Clarendon was
the first to see the stranger, and he killed her with his
wolf-headed cane. Some violence. Bestseller 1999.

The Three Sisters RC 48039
by Anton Chekhov 
read by Laura Giannarelli
1 cassette
Olga is an old-maid school teacher, Masha is unhappily
married, and Irina works in a telegraph office. The sisters
are overcome with boredom following the death of their
father, commander of a Russian brigade. When their brother
marries a country girl who tries to control everyone, the
three find a new purpose in life. 1901.

Family

As Parents Age: A Psychological and Practical Guide RC 48733
by Joseph A. Ilardo 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Psychotherapist summarizes physical and emotional changes
that occur over time and discusses reactions of adult
children to their aging parents. Explains how to determine
care requirements, adjustments that might allow a person to
remain at home in later life, and steps to take if
institutionalization is necessary. 1998.

Children Are from Heaven: Positive Parenting Skills for
Raising Cooperative, Confident, and Compassionate Children
RC 49182
by John Gray 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
The author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus (RC
35918) describes a method for raising children in which
punishment and demands are replaced by making requests,
listening, and offering rewards. If necessary, these
techniques can be followed with commands and time outs for
asserting parental leadership. Bestseller 1999.

Dr. Spock: An American Life RC 47429
by Thomas Maier 
read by James DeLotel
4 cassettes
Biography of the noted and controversial pediatrician
Benjamin Spock. Describes his career, liberal stand on
issues, and troubled family life. Also discusses his
conversion to a macrobiotic diet, which is reflected in the
last edition of his classic Baby and Child Care (RC 47411).
That edition and this biography were both published in 1998,
the year he died. 1998.

Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care RC 47411
by Benjamin Spock and Steven Parker 
read by Kerry Cundiff
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Revised and updated seventh edition of a classic work by the
pediatrician who died in 1998. Written for parents of the
developing child from birth through adolescence, this
comprehensive handbook now includes information on such
topics as a plant-based, non-dairy diet and alternative
therapies. 1998.

Family Man RC 48710
by Calvin Trillin 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
1 cassette
The longtime writer and humorist from the New Yorker
reminisces about family life with his wife and two
daughters. Trillin remembers the little things that mean a
lot, like school plays, and recalls events that made his
children the center of his life. Companion to Messages from
My Father (RC 42375). 1998.

Furthering My Education: A Memoir RC 44793
by William Corbett 
read by Jeff Halberstadt
2 cassettes
Thirty years after his physician-father deserted his wife
and two grown sons, the author reconstructs events before
and since that fateful day in 1965. He searches for the
causes of his father's estrangement, examines family
relationships, and recounts the emotional aftermath. Strong
language. 1997.

Grown-Up Children, Grown-Up Parents: Opening the Door to
Healthy Relationships between Parents and Adult Children RC
47460
by Phyllis Lieber and others 
read by Miriam Wagner
2 cassettes
Discusses methods of obtaining a healthy relationship with
one's grown children while pursuing personal interests.
Proposes ways to prevent co-dependence and to accept
changing lifestyles for both generations. 1994.

Helping Your Depressed Teenager: A Guide for Parents and 
Caregivers RC 47166
by Gerald D. Oster and Sarah S. Montgomery 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Guide to the symptoms and various treatments available for
teenagers dealing with depression. Discusses the difference
between typical teen behavior and serious psychological
depression. Includes information on suicide, substance
abuse, sexuality, and inheritable conditions. 1995.

Ithaka: A Daughter's Memoir of Being Found RC 47445
by Sarah Saffian 
read by Mimi Bederman
2 cassettes
New York journalist shares her feelings about being
contacted by her birth mother at the age of twenty-four. The
letters between Saffian and her birth parents, who had
eventually married each other and had three more children,
illustrate her initial reluctance to embrace this new family
and her journey to being reunited with them. 1998.

Not Guilty: The Good News about Working Mothers RC 47896
by Betty Holcomb 
read by Catherine Byers
3 cassettes
Arguing that the stereotypical roles of women are not in
their best interest economically or psychologically, the
senior editor of Working Mother magazine examines this
controversial issue. Topics include "pregnancy
discrimination" and the effect a two-career household may
have on children's development. 1998.

The Nurture Assumption: Why Children Turn Out the Way They
Do RC 47992
by Judith Rich Harris 
read by Jill Fox
4 cassettes
The author contends that peers matter more than parents in
determining a child's development. Harris suggests that
children are born with their personalities or characters and
that growth is shaped by factors outside the home rather
than by nurturing parents. In essence, she says, children
socialize children. 1998.

Real Boys: Rescuing Our Sons from the Myths of Boyhood RC
47563
by William Pollack 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
A clinical psychologist examines some major challenges that
boys face in growing up. Explains the outmoded "Boy Code,"
which imposes unrealistic expectations on youth and can lead
to alienation, aggressive behavior, and other adverse
consequences. Proposes a new, healthier behavioral model for
young men. 1998.

Running on Ritalin: A Physician Reflects on Children,
Society, and Performance in a Pill RC 47661
by Lawrence H. Diller 
read by Bob Moore
3 cassettes
A behavioral pediatrician addresses the dilemma of attention
deficit disorder. He contrasts the notion of a biologically
and neurologically based illness easily "cured" with
medication against the idea of an environmental condition
stemming from child-rearing methods. Suggests parents use a
form of behavior therapy before resorting to medicine. 1998.

See Jane Win: The Rimm Report on How One Thousand Girls
Became Successful Women RC 49118
by Sylvia Rimm 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
3 cassettes
Summary and conclusions of research by the author and her
two daughters, who surveyed successful women about their
achievements. The report formulates twenty suggestions on
how to raise competent daughters; includes anecdotal and
statistical data. Also offers inspiration and guidance.
Bestseller 1999. 1999.

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Families: Building a
Beautiful Family Culture in a Turbulent World RC 47720
by Stephen R. Covey 
read by Gary Tipton
4 cassettes
From the author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective
People (RC 32592) and father of nine, a method of achieving
peace and harmony at home. Recommends simple and practical
ways to communicate and to resolve common problems so that
"everyone wins." 1997.

The Shadow Man RC 43651
by Mary Gordon 
read by Mary Woods
2 cassettes
A woman's memoir of her search for the truth about her
father, who died when she was seven years old. Her findings
belie her childhood image of him as an educated, successful,
devoted family man. She uncovers his many deceptions and
eventually comes to terms with the painful reality that was
his life. 1996.

Special Siblings: Growing Up with Someone with a Disability
RC 48455
by Mary McHugh 
read by Lindsay Ellison
2 cassettes
The author describes her own and others' childhood
experiences as siblings of someone with mental retardation,
mental illness, or a physical disability. Offers suggestions
to families on improving the emotional atmosphere in the
home for all the children. Includes a list of resources
including support groups and web sites. 1999.

A Tribe Apart: A Journey into the Heart of American
Adolescence RC 47342
by Patricia Hersch 
read by Kristin Allison
3 cassettes
After studying a diverse group of suburban adolescents for
three years, the author contends that the baby-boom
generation essentially neglects its youth. She observes that
the majority of teens are left alone and unsupervised at a
time when they most need adult guidance. Consequently, she
asserts, many of them participate in unhealthy behaviors.
Some strong language. 1998.

Under a Wing: A Memoir RC 47547
by Reeve Lindbergh 
read by Pam Ward
2 cassettes
Charles Lindbergh's youngest daughter shares memories of her
father and her mother, Anne Morrow Lindbergh. She tells
about their strengths and weaknesses as parents and about
family occasions with her four older siblings. These
reminiscences afford glimpses of the private people behind
the celebrity images. 1998.

Folk

Fearless Girls, Wise Women, and Beloved Sisters: Heroines in
Folktales from around the World RC 48129
edited by Kathleen Ragan 
read by Catherine Byers
4 cassettes
Multicultural anthology of one hundred folktales featuring
women. Resurrects neglected female protagonists--courageous
mothers, clever young girls, women warriors--who rescue male
relatives, rule over kingdoms, solve riddles, and outwit the
opposition. Arranged by geographical areas: Europe, North
and South America, Asia, the Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa,
and North Africa and the Middle East. 1998.

A Treasury of North American Folktales RC 48522
compiled by Catherine Peck 
read by John Polk
3 cassettes
More than one hundred tales both ancient and modern
originating from northern Canada, many regions of the United
States, and Mexico. Includes adult and children's stories
about traditional heroes like Davy Crockett, Paul Bunyan,
and Brer Rabbit as well as stories about ghosts, witches,
and lovers. Bestseller 1998.

Trickster Makes This World: Mischief, Myth, and Art RC 47618
by Lewis Hyde 
read by Barry Bernson
3 cassettes
Explores the cultural archetype of the trickster--a
mischievous, disruptive agent who is given to deceit and
shamelessness, ignores social boundaries, and helps make the
world the way it is. Recounts myths of ancient tricksters;
cites examples of modern figures who fill the role. 1998.

Gardening

Dear Mr. Jefferson: Letters from a Nantucket Gardener RC
47224
by Laura Simon 
read by Anne Hancock
2 cassettes
Imagined letters between Simon and Thomas Jefferson discuss
the gardening cycle from penciled plan to harvest. The
author, who lives year-round on Nantucket, needed to
communicate with someone who shared her love of
horticulture. She chose Jefferson after becoming convinced
that he was a genuinely inspired gardener. 1998.

On Good Land: The Autobiography of an Urban Farm RC 47334
by Michael Ableman 
read by Bill Wallace
1 cassette
The author describes the twelve-acre farm called Fairview
Gardens, where he has worked for seventeen years. Once a
farm among many, Fairview (now surrounded by California
suburbia) is a national model for successful urban
agriculture and farmland preservation. 1998.

The Orchid Thief RC 48462
by Susan Orlean 
read by Nanette Savard
2 cassettes
Orlean describes traveling to Florida to meet accused orchid
thief John Laroche after she became intrigued by a news item
on his arrest. She relates how she began to share his
obsession, researching the history of orchids and exploring
the subculture of collectors. Also discusses his involvement
with local Seminoles. Some strong language. 1998.

Planting Noah's Garden: Further Adventures in Backyard
Ecology RC 45208
by Sara Stein 
read by Margaret Strom
4 cassettes
In this sequel to Noah's Garden (RC 37289), Stein writes of
the many people she has met who, like herself, are
attempting to restore nature to their own backyards. She
also tells more about her own ongoing learning experience
and gives instructions on gardening. 1997.

Stalking the Wild Amaranth: Gardening in the Age of
Extinction RC 47631
by Janet Marinelli 
read by Anne Hancock
2 cassettes
Explores gardeners' options to rescue nearly extinct species
and restore natural communities. When Marinelli joins a
botanist to search the Long Island shores for an endangered
species of seabeach amaranth, it starts her thinking about a
gardener's role in a biologically homogenizing world. She
also examines perceptions of what is "natural." 1998.

Woodworking Projects for the Garden: Forty Fun and Useful
Things for Folks Who Garden RC 46629
by Richard Freudenberger 
read by Lindsay Ellison
2 cassettes
A woodworker's guide for constructing useful garden
accessories. Describes techniques, materials, and the
necessary tools. Presents scale drawings, plans, and
procedures for forty building projects. 1994.

Government, Law, and Politics

...And the Horse He Rode in On: The People v. Kenneth Starr
RC 47496
by James Carville 
read by Gregory Gorton
1 cassette
A Democratic political analyst contends that U.S.
independent counsel Ken Starr's four-year (1994-1998),
forty-million-dollar investigation of the Whitewater affair
was a right-wing conspiracy to unseat President William
Clinton. Alleges that Republicans bribed and threatened
people in pursuit of their goals. Bestseller 1998.

All Too Human: A Political Education RC 48272
by George Stephanopoulos 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
After brief recollections of his childhood, Stephanopoulos
provides an insider's account of his years on Capitol Hill
during President Bill Clinton's first term in office. Also
offers a self-deprecating view of the author and a glimpse
of others who were close to the president, including Hillary
Rodham Clinton and Al Gore. Bestseller 1999.

Betrayal: How the Clinton Administration Undermined American
Security RC 48196
by Bill Gertz 
read by Roy Avers
2 cassettes
Washington Times reporter on national security and defense
issues cites Pentagon, State Department, and White House
sources to argue that president Clinton's foreign policy
decisions have weakened U.S. prospects for peace and
stability. Includes copies of government documents to
support his claims. Bestseller 1999.

Conversations with Carter RC 47970
edited by Don Richardson 
read by Randy Davidson
3 cassettes
Interviews with former president Jimmy Carter from 1976
through 1997. Initially the questions were designed to learn
more about the relatively unknown candidate. The discussions
held during his term in office are more focused and formal.
Later conversations describe the ex-president's work on
behalf of charitable organizations and international peace.
1998.

Damages: One Family's Legal Struggles in the World of
Medicine RC 47619
by Barry Werth 
read by Randy Davidson
4 cassettes
Examines the medical liability system by detailing the Sabia
family's experiences surrounding the birth of their son and
his stillborn twin. The surviving boy, Tony, was profoundly
brain damaged and physically handicapped, but it was years
later that the Sabias were advised--by a stranger--to sue.
Strong language. 1998.

Diplomacy for the Next Century RC 47522
by Abba Eban 
read by Rick Foucheux
2 cassettes
A former Israeli foreign minister reflects on the world of
diplomacy, intrusive media, and highlights of the Cold War
era. The author draws upon his vast experience to offer
insights into the nature and practice of statecraft, as well
as perspectives on international affairs in the 1990s. 1998.

Down the Tube: An Inside Account of the Failure of American
Television RC 48125
by William F. Baker and George Dessart 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Two industry insiders argue that television "has failed to
achieve its potential to deliver a superior product or
contribute to the public good." The authors assert that the
U.S. government has abdicated its regulatory responsibility,
allowing mediocre programming by profit-driven commercial
television interests. 1998.

The Dying President: Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1944-1945 RC
47735
by Robert H. Ferrell 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
An account of Franklin Roosevelt's performance as president
during the last year of his life. Avers that he concealed
serious health problems that impaired his ability to
concentrate for long periods and led to some unfortunate
policy decisions toward the end of World War II. 1998.

East and West: China, Power, and the Future of Asia RC 47752
by Christopher Patten 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
The last governor of Hong Kong recounts his experiences
there and offers perspectives on the booming Asian city and
on issues that stand to affect its future. Describes Hong
Kong as a progressive and successful city and a model "of
what China as a whole could become." 1998.

An Exhibit Denied: Lobbying the History of Enola Gay RC
47104
by Martin Harwit 
read by Roy Avers
4 cassettes
Former director of the National Air and Space Museum
discusses the original Enola Gay exhibit, planned to mark
the fiftieth anniversary of World War II, and the ensuing
controversy. Traces the research and preparations for the
display that prompted the U.S. Congress to demand its
cancellation and led to Harwit's resignation. 1996.

Faith of My Fathers RC 48807
by John McCain 
read by Robert Sams
3 cassettes
Senator John McCain of Arizona chronicles his family's
history of military service to the country. McCain followed
his father and grandfather, both four-star admirals, to the
Naval Academy. Describes his career including more than five
years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, where his father's
words helped sustain him. 1999.

Flawed Giant: Lyndon Johnson and His Times, 1961-1973 RC
47275
by Robert Dallek 
read by Jeff Baker
6 cassettes
This sequel to Lone Star Rising (RC 34378) concludes a two-
volume biography of President Lyndon B. Johnson, whose
ambitious domestic agenda became overshadowed by America's
deepening military involvement in Vietnam. Depicts a
troubled and enigmatic leader struggling to manage a failing
war policy. Some strong language. 1998.

George Bush: The Life of a Lone Star Yankee RC 48100
by Herbert S. Parmet 
read by Jake Williams
5 cassettes
Depicts George Bush as the president who led the U.S.
through the end of the cold war. Traces his youth in New
England; service in the navy; years at Yale; and careers as
oilman, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, C.I.A.
director, vice president, and forty-first president. 1997.

George Washington and Slavery: A Documentary Portrayal RC
47650
by Fritz Hirschfeld 
read by Michael Consoli
2 cassettes
Traces the first president's private and public concerns
about slavery, relying on diaries, letters, eyewitness
accounts, and other documents. Describes how abolitionists
advocated the elimination of slavery after the Revolutionary
War, while others emphasized the economic necessity of cheap
labor. Portrays Washington's main concern as the
preservation of the new country. 1997.

Honor's Voice: The Transformation of Abraham Lincoln RC
48119
by Douglas L. Wilson 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Explores events and themes in Lincoln's early life that were
important to his success: self-education, career choices,
relations with women, and political encounters. Relies
primarily on "reminiscent testimony"--recollections and
anecdotes reported long after events that were not recorded
in writing--even with its implicit risks. 1998.

 I Ain't Got Time to Bleed: Reworking the Body Politic from
the Bottom Up RC 48828
by Jesse Ventura 
read by Phil Regensdorf
2 cassettes
The former professional wrestler who was elected mayor of
Brooklyn Park and then governor of Minnesota describes his
politics and his life. With his background as a Navy SEAL,
radio host, and movie actor, Ventura was not the typical
candidate for public office. Some strong language.
Bestseller 1999.

Jewish Power: Inside the American Jewish Establishment RC
47704
by J.J. Goldberg 
read by Butch Hoover
3 cassettes
Journalist Goldberg discusses the myths and realities
surrounding Jewish leadership and influence in America. He
examines the extent of Jewish involvement in the media,
politics, and U.S. foreign policy. He also looks at the
complexities of the Jewish community and at organizations
such as the Anti-Defamation League and the Conference of
Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. 1996.

John McCain: An American Odyssey RC 49113
by Robert Timberg 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Biography of the Arizona senator, written as he sought the
Republican presidential nomination in 2000; expands on
excerpts from Timberg's The Nightingale's Song (RC 42316).
Attributes McCain's reputation to his P.O.W. years in
Vietnam, his association with the Keating Five scandal, and
his naval family background. Some strong language. 1999.

The Lexus and the Olive Tree RC 48435
by Thomas L. Friedman 
read by Richard Hauenstein
3 cassettes
Asserts that in the 1990s, the process of globalization
shapes domestic and international relations for most
countries and that worldwide interdependence has replaced
the Cold War in maintaining order among nations. Explores
the impact on individuals, communities, and the environment,
and emphasizes the need for the United States to stabilize
the system. Bestseller 1999.

The Life and Times of Ron Brown: A Memoir by His Daughter RC
46580
by Tracey L. Brown 
read by Barbara Pinolini
3 cassettes
Biography of the late secretary of commerce by his only
daughter. Traces Ron Brown's family history and his career
until the fatal 1996 plane crash in Bosnia. With a foreword
by U.S. president Bill Clinton. 1998.

Lift Every Voice: Turning a Civil Rights Setback into a New
Vision of Social Justice RC 48377
by Lani Guinier 
read by Nanette Savard
3 cassettes
After being nominated by President Bill Clinton to be
assistant attorney general for civil rights in 1993 and
having her name withdrawn following widespread criticism of
her beliefs, Guinier describes her reaction to the whole
affair. She explains her views on civil rights and calls for
new dialog between racial groups. 1998.

Madam Secretary: The Story of Madeleine Albright RC 47911
by Jeremy Byman 
read by Kristin Allison
1 cassette
Provides an account of Albright's life, from her childhood
in Czechoslovakia to adulthood in the United States. Traces
Albright's career as she becomes interested in politics,
earns a political science degree, raises a family, gets
involved in the Democratic Party, and is appointed secretary
of state. For junior and senior high readers. 1998.

Making a Killing: The Business of Guns in America RC 48329
by Tom Diaz 
read by Randy Davidson
2 cassettes
Contends that those who manufacture and sell guns in the
United States represent the country's last unregulated
consumer product industry--one that has never been
investigated by Congress. Delves into the secrecy
surrounding most arms producers and their marketing
strategies. Offers suggestions on reform. 1999.

The Man Who Once Was Whizzer White: A Portrait of Justice
Byron R. White RC 48013
by Dennis J. Hutchinson 
read by Roy Avers
4 cassettes
Biography of the Supreme Court justice who was appointed by
John F. Kennedy in 1962 and retired in 1993. Describes how
White--both a Rhodes scholar and a professional football
player--has shunned publicity. Presents his work on the
Court in a term-by-term perspective. Portrays a complex
figure who has done little to clarify his own image. 1998.

The Minuteman: Restoring an Army of the People RC 47344
by Gary Hart 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A former senator and presidential candidate critiques
America's post-Cold War military structure as "muscle-bound,
confused, wasteful, and desperately in search of a mission."
Argues for maintaining a small, professional "911 force"
backed up by a larger reserve "army of the people." 1998.

No One Left to Lie To: The Triangulations of William
Jefferson Clinton RC 48716
by Christopher Hitchens 
read by Jake Williams
1 cassette
A journalist's appraisal of the public and private Clinton:
a polemic attacking "a crooked president and a corrupt and
reactionary administration." Also evaluates the presidency's
legacy and relationship with the international community.
Bestseller 1999.

A Prayer for the City RC 46708
by Buzz Bissinger 
read by Randy Atcher
4 cassettes
Portrait of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the mid-1990s and
its mayor, Edward Rendell, whom U.S. vice president Al Gore
called "America's mayor." Asserts that the city was in
crisis and on the brink of bankruptcy when Rendell took over
in 1992. Traces the key challenges that the civic leader
faced in keeping the city afloat. Strong language. 1997.

Secrecy: The American Experience RC 47852
by Daniel Patrick Moynihan 
read by Phil Regensdorf
2 cassettes
Traces the growth of secrecy in American government as a
"mode of regulation" from World War I through the end of the
Cold War and beyond. Attributes several major policy errors
to the penchant for classifying and restricting access to
information. Advocates a culture of openness in decision
making. 1998.

Shadow: Five Presidents and the Legacy of Watergate RC 48525
by Bob Woodward 
read by Gregory Gorton
4 cassettes
Traces the effects of the Watergate scandal on the American
presidency through five administrations. Contends that one
legacy is the tendency to view political leaders with
suspicion and doubt; argues that all chief executives since
Richard Nixon have underestimated the importance of intense
public scrutiny. Bestseller 1999.

The Story of American Freedom RC 47732
by Eric Foner 
read by John Richardson
3 cassettes
Explores the development of liberty in America since the
nation's inception. Views liberty as a "contested concept,"
which is reinterpreted by successive generations in a
process that often involves "struggles, tragic failures,
tears, sacrifices, and sorrow." 1998.

Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary RC 47943
by Juan Williams 
read by Jake Williams
4 cassettes
Describes Marshall's importance to the 1960s civil rights
movement, not only for his legal victory in Brown v. Board
of Education of Topeka, which outlawed school segregation in
1954, or even for his appointment as the first African
American Supreme Court justice in 1967,  but for his
lifelong pursuit of the principle of equality before the
law. 1998.

Unbridled Power: Inside the Secret Culture of the IRS RC
48182
by Shelley L. Davis 
read by Margaret Strom
3 cassettes
A former historian with the IRS contends that she uncovered
evidence of corruption, including the illegal destruction of
documents, within the agency during her tenure. She also
maintains that the IRS acted unfairly in retaliating against
her for investigating these allegations. Some strong
language. 1997.

The Unfinished Presidency: Jimmy Carter's Journey beyond the
White House RC 47796
by Douglas Brinkley 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
Explores Jimmy Carter's continuing work with programs and
policies he espoused while in the White House and after.
Explains his efforts in human rights, peace, democracy, and
health as themes in his post-presidential work. Depicts his
involvement with Habitat for Humanity and the Atlanta
Project. 1998.

Home Management

Fix It Fast and Easy! America's Master Handyman Answers the
Most Asked "How to" Questions RC 47676
by Glenn Haege 
read by John Rayburn
1 cassette
A do-it-yourself guide to house maintenance and repair for
the home owner. Tells how to fix a wide range of common
problems with walls, floors, furniture, and exterior
surfaces. Companion to Fix It Fast and Easy 2: Upgrading
Your House (RC 47677). 1991.

Making Scrapbooks: Complete Guide to Preserving Your
Treasured Memories RC 47555
by Vanessa-Ann 
read by Kristin Allison
1 cassette
Presents more than seventy ideas for creating a personal
scrapbook. Offers suggestions for various themes around
which to create a book and ideas for making covers and
bindings. Describes various techniques and necessary tools.
1998.

The Party: A Guide to Adventurous Entertaining RC 46968
by Sally Quinn 
read by Laura Giannarelli
1 cassette
Quinn, known for her coverage of the social scene in
Washington, D.C., as well as the parties she gives, offers
suggestions on how to have a successful party for a few or
for a few hundred people. Her two main rules are to treat
her guests as she likes to be treated, and to have a good
time. 1997.

Speed Cleaning RC 48058
by Jeff Campbell 
read by various narrators
1 cassette
A step-by-step guide to cleaning an entire house in forty-
two minutes. Recommends tools, techniques, and
environmentally approved products for working quickly,
safely, and thoroughly. Advises how to get the most from a
housecleaner or cleaning service. Includes a summary in
Spanish. 1991.

Humor

Age and Guile Beat Youth, Innocence, and a Bad Haircut RC
47321
by P.J. O'Rourke 
read by Jim Zeiger
3 cassettes
Twenty-five years of essays from the journalist's past.
Evolving from a drug-using hippie to a right-wing
conservative, O'Rourke writes about everything from
automobiles in "The Ultimate Politically Incorrect Car" to
politics in "Whitewater." Some strong language. 1995.

The Big Five-Oh! Fearing, Facing, and Fighting Fifty RC
46321
by Bill Geist 
read by Arnie Warren
2 cassettes
A baby boomer takes humorous stock of his life at the half-
century mark. Offers zany observations on some of the
traumas of middle age--the receipt of an AARP membership
card; declining faculties such as eyesight, hearing, and
memory; waning interest in sex; and the inexorable weight
gain of advancing years. 1997.

Dave Barry Turns Fifty RC 47313
by Dave Barry 
read by Jim Zeiger
1 cassette
Florida columnist and author focuses his humor on the aging
of baby boomers. He gives highlights of each of the
"formative boomer years" from 1947, when he was born, to
1974. Barry grumbles about such issues as failing eyesight,
retirement planning, and not being "hip" anymore. Bestseller
1998.

I'm Not Really Here RC 47356
by Tim Allen 
read by Jim Zeiger
2 cassettes
Known for his starring role in the sitcom Home Improvement,
Allen humorously describes an unusual weekend. Alone while
his wife and daughter have gone camping, he puzzles over
"the big questions" brought on by his midlife crisis--while
he searches for a missing hood ornament. Strong language.
1996.

Milton Berle's Private Joke File: Over Ten Thousand of His
Best Gags, Anecdotes, and One-Liners RC 46571
by Milton Berle 
read by Jack Fox
6 cassettes
The thousands of jokes from Berle's sixty years in
vaudeville, radio, television, and the movies are arranged
alphabetically by more than five hundred subjects. Includes
an introduction and a "tricks of the trade" advice section.
1989.

Our Dumb Century: The Onion Presents 100 Years of Headlines
from America's Finest News Source RC 48431
edited by Scott Dikkers 
read by Barry Bernson
4 cassettes
The editors offer headline articles from the satirical
newspaper the Onion. Includes tongue-in-cheek commentaries
on both world wars, movie stars, television, and presidents.
Some strong language. Bestseller 1999.

Ranting Again RC 47083
by Dennis Miller 
read by Barry Bernson
1 cassette
In this companion to The Rants (RC 42042), the television
comedian continues to humorously seethe. Topics include
President Bill Clinton, immigration, and parenthood. His
solution for quickly obtaining gun control is to remove the
metal detectors in Washington, D.C., congressional
buildings. Strong language. 1998.

The 2,000-Year-Old Man in the Year 2000: The Book; Including
How to Not Die and Other Good Tips RC 46760
by Mel Brooks and Carl Reiner 
read by Ray Hagen
1 cassette
A zany memoir of a two-thousand-year-old man. Traces his
imagined life--his childhood in a prehistoric cave, his five
hundred marriages, and his facetious encounters with Jesus,
Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, and other historic figures. Takes
aim at some absurd aspects of civilization. Strong language.
1997.

Why Not Me? The Inside Story of the Making and Unmaking of
the Franken Presidency RC 47913
by Al Franken 
read by Jim Zeiger
2 cassettes
The author, formerly a comedian from Saturday Night Live,
campaigns for president on the platform of no more ATM fees.
Describes his campaign for office, his 144 days as
president, and the accomplishments of his term. Bestseller
1999.

You Got to Dance with Them What Brung You: Politics in the
Clinton Years RC 47959
by Molly Ivins 
read by Carole Jordan Stewart
2 cassettes
A collection of humorous opinions and observations by a
political commentator from Texas. Topics range from pop
culture to the hypocrisy of elected officials. Ivins rails
against the radical right, large corporations, and the
media, and pays tribute to some deceased heroes. Some strong
language. 1998.

Inspiration

A Calendar of Wisdom: Daily Thoughts to Nourish the Soul
Written and Selected from the World's Sacred Texts by Leo
Tolstoy RC 47390
by Leo Tolstoy 
read by Janis Gray
2 cassettes
This last major work of Tolstoy's contains philosophical and
spiritual writings he collected over fifteen years. Each day
is arranged by a theme. Includes a name index with brief
biographies. 1997.

Chicken Soup for the College Soul: Inspiring and Humorous
Stories about College RC 48882
by Jack Canfield and others 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Collection of anecdotes offering support and encouragement,
and a little laughter, for students throughout their college
years. Includes sections on getting accepted, adjusting to a
new environment, getting good grades, making friends, and
finally graduation. Bestseller 1999.

Chicken Soup for the Couple's Soul: Inspirational Stories
about Love and Relationships RC 48107
edited by Jack Canfield and others 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Includes poems, stories, and reminiscences about love
through good times and bad including death and illness.
Illustrates the meaning of commitment, understanding, and
family. Bestseller 1999.

Chocolate for a Woman's Heart: Seventy-seven Stories of
Love, Kindness, and Compassion to Nourish Your Soul and
Sweeten Your Dreams RC 47318
edited by Kay Allenbaugh 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Collection of heartfelt essays by a wide variety of female
contributors, including ministers, professional speakers,
novelists, and mothers. Topics range from divine
intervention to falling in love to overcoming depression.
1998.

Ethics for the New Millennium RC 48810
by Dalai Lama XIV Bstan-'dzin-rgya-mtsho 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Appeals to all human beings to practice a "positive ethical
conduct" toward others based on universal principles.
Expounds the need for love and compassion as guiding forces
in behavior that will lead to happier, fulfilled lives.
Bestseller 1999.

The Meaning of Prayer RC 47339
by Harry Emerson Fosdick 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Gives daily readings with biblical support for the power of
prayer. Questions appear at the end of each chapter for
individual or group use. 1949.

She Said Yes: The Unlikely Martyrdom of Cassie Bernall RC
49115
by Misty Bernall 
read by Jill Fox
1 cassette
Woman whose daughter was murdered at Columbine High School
reminisces about Cassie's life and the problems she
experienced as a troubled teenager. The anguished mother
describes how she and her husband sacrificed to save their
daughter from evil influences and how Cassie reclaimed her
faith in God. Bestseller 1999. 

When Bad Things Happen to Good People RC 48900
by Harold S. Kushner 
read by Bill Wallace
1 cassette (Reissue)
Impelled by personal tragedy in his own life, the author, a
rabbi, helps others cope with grief, guilt, rage,
bitterness, and bewilderment at God's "unfairness." In his
search for answers to why tragedies seemingly strike those
undeserving of them, he offers comfort and reassurance to
the troubled. 1981.

Journalism and the Media

Ernie Pyle's War: America's Eyewitness to World War II RC
47264
by James Tobin 
read by Ted Stoddard
3 cassettes
Biography of the journalist whose columns on the German
bombing of London in December 1940 were immediately popular
back in the United States. Provides information on Pyle's
personal life and career; traces his perspective on covering
the war from the ordinary soldier's viewpoint; includes
quotes from his writings that ended with his death near
Okinawa in April 1945. 1997.

Reporting Live RC 47756
by Lesley Stahl 
read by Pam Ward
4 cassettes
Autobiography of the television journalist. Describes how
Stahl began her career in 1972, her emergence into the
public eye during the Watergate scandal, her appearances on
Face the Nation and 60 Minutes, and her White House
reporting during three presidencies. Discusses the evolution
of the media; provides glimpses into her personal life.
Bestseller 1999.

The Times of My Life and My Life with the Times RC 48379
by Max Frankel 
read by Timothy Hayes Lynch
4 cassettes
Memoir of the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist's career at
the New York Times. Includes some personal details from his
private life, but the emphasis is on the world events and
political figures that he covered for forty-five years
before retiring in 1994. Reveals the inner workings of a
prestigious newspaper. Bestseller 1999.

Language and Linguistics

How Reading Changed My Life RC 47722
by Anna Quindlen 
read by Janis Gray
1 cassette
A noted writer and avid bookworm contemplates the history,
value, and pleasure of reading. Discusses the development of
reading, changes in attitudes and habits regarding the
practice, and the impact of innovations in information
technology. Includes reading lists. 1998.

The Man Made of Words: Essays, Stories, Passages RC 46821
by N. Scott Momaday 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A collection of more than thirty years of writing by the
prizewinning Native American author. Momaday grew up hearing
Kiowa but thinking and speaking English and enchanted by
words. In these pieces recording a variety of experiences as
he journeys through the world, he reflects on the miracle of
language that defines human beings. 1997.

The Names of Things: A Passage in the Egyptian Desert RC
46940
by Susan Brind Morrow 
read by Nanette Savard
1 cassette
In this memoir-cum-travelog, Morrow describes her upstate
New York family and how her love of language and nature
developed. Originally attracted to Egyptian hieroglyphs more
than Egypt itself, she first went there with an
archaeological team in 1980. She muses about the origins of
words while exploring the solace of the desert wilderness.
1997.

The Professor and the Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity,
and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary RC 46906
by Simon Winchester 
read by Corrie James
2 cassettes
An account of the unusual circumstances leading to the
friendship between the Oxford English Dictionary's editor,
Dr. James Murray, and one of its most prolific contributors,
Dr. W.C. Minor, an American criminal. Relates the details of
Dr. Minor's crime and its aftermath and how he first began
his correspondence with Dr. Murray. Bestseller 1998.

The Right to Write: An Invitation and Initiation into the
Writing Life RC 47961
by Julia Cameron 
read by Janis Gray
2 cassettes
Encouragement from a lifelong writer to cast off inhibition
and self-imposed restrictions and simply begin to practice
this natural form of self-expression. Discusses forty-three
elements of writing, ending each segment with a short
exercise--jotting down notes, lists, or a few paragraphs--to
help the novice put pen to paper. Bestseller 1998.

Simply Speaking: How to Communicate Your Ideas with Style,
Substance, and Clarity RC 47267
by Peggy Noonan 
read by Barbara Pinolini
2 cassettes
A former speechwriter for U.S. presidents Ronald Reagan and
George Bush offers "advice and anecdotes about the writing
and giving of speeches." Exhorts both veteran and novice
speakers to organize their message using logic, sincerity,
humor, and short sentences, while keeping the speech under
twenty minutes. 1998.

Literature

Ake: The Years of Childhood RC 47295
by Wole Soyinka 
read by Christopher Walker
2 cassettes
A lyrical memoir of boyhood experiences in the Nigerian
village of Ake by the 1986 recipient of the Nobel Prize for
Literature. Utilizing his novelist's techniques of narrative
and dialog, Soyinka describes the mixture of traditional
African customs and Christian influences that shaped his
first eleven years. 1981.

Alexander Solzhenitsyn: A Century in His Life RC 46653
by D.M. Thomas 
read by Ken Kliban
5 cassettes
A portrait of the celebrated Russian author, whose writings
awakened the world to the horrors of the Stalinist regime.
Traces his childhood following the Russian Revolution, his
heroic service during World War II, his internment in the
gulags, and his years of exile and repatriation. Violence.
1998.

Another Life: A Memoir of Other People RC 48538
by Michael Korda 
read by Roy Avers
4 cassettes
Korda offers a brief portrait of his early life and then
shares his experiences in the book publishing industry. As
he chronicles the evolution that has taken place in the
trade, he offers portraits of the many authors with whom he
has worked. Some strong language. Bestseller 1999.

Anton Chekhov: A Life RC 48130
by Donald Rayfield 
read by Ken Kliban
5 cassettes
Depicts the life of Anton Chekhov from his youth, years as a
medical doctor, and achievement as one of Europe's leading
prose-writers and dramatists in the nineteenth century.
Examines his relationships with family and friends and
describes the disease that altered his life. 1997.

Badge of Courage: The Life of Stephen Crane RC 48045
by Linda H. Davis 
read by Ted Stoddard
4 cassettes
Biography of the American writer who died at age twenty-
eight in 1900. Describes his childhood and family life in
New York state. Traces his development as a writer and
examines his relationships with women. Evokes his zest for
new experiences and travel. 1998.

The Best American Essays, 1998 RC 48542
edited by Cynthia Ozick 
read by Fred Major
2 cassettes
This year's editor writes in her introduction, "Portrait of
the Essay as a Warm Body," that in its genuine form an essay
"is the movement of a free mind at play." She selects
twenty-five works by Saul Bellow, Sven Birkerts, John
McPhee, Oliver Sachs, John Updike, and others. 1998.

Casanova: The Man Who Really Loved Women RC 46475
by Lydia Flem 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
2 cassettes
A psychoanalyst examines the life and memoirs of the self-
professed great lover. Describes Giacomo Casanova's pleasure
in reliving his experiences as he wrote twelve volumes of
his reflections. Analyzes his amorous pursuit of women. Some
descriptions of sex. 1997.

Dean Koontz: A Writer's Biography RC 48324
by Katherine Ramsland 
read by Bob Askey
4 cassettes
Describes how Koontz, born in 1945, endured a troubled
childhood, married, taught briefly while writing books in
various genres, and then began producing his string of
bestselling suspense novels that include Fear Nothing (RC
45719) and The Eyes of Darkness (RC 42555). Includes
chronologies of his work and life. 1997.

The Dreams Our Stuff Is Made Of: How Science Fiction
Conquered the World RC 48231
by Thomas M. Disch 
read by John Richardson
2 cassettes
The author explores the influence that science fiction
writing has had on American culture. He describes how the
genre affects politics, religion, and daily life; traces the
evolution of this style of writing beginning with Edgar
Allan Poe; and discusses well-known writers and their works.
1998.

In My Own Time: Almost an Autobiography RC 47422
by Nina Bawden 
read by Mitzi Friedlander
2 cassettes
Memoir of a novelist. Recounts her childhood evacuation from
London in World War II; her years at Oxford, where she knew
Richard Burton and Margaret Thatcher; and her later life.
Relates stories of her family, including the struggles of
her schizophrenic son, who committed suicide. For junior and
senior high and older readers. 1994.

Landscapes of the Heart: A Memoir RC 47156
by Elizabeth Spencer 
read by Pam Ward
2 cassettes
Recollections of the twentieth-century southern writer known
for her short stories and novels. Spencer describes her
formative years in Carrollton, Mississippi. She explains how
her education at Vanderbilt University expanded her world.
Spencer also discusses her friendships with Eudora Welty,
Saul Bellow, and John Cheever, among other authors. 1998.

Long Life RC 48079
by Nigel Nicolson 
read by John Horton
2 cassettes
The British writer recalls people and events from his
eighty-year life, choosing a thematic rather than strictly
chronological approach. He tells anecdotes about his parents
(Harold Nicolson and Vita Sackville-West), his mother's
friend Virginia Woolf, and other famous people. He recounts
his disappointments and triumphs: ventures in marriage,
politics, business, and publishing. 1998.

Making Waves RC 48382
by Mario Vargas Llosa 
read by Michael Scherer
3 cassettes
Forty-six essays on literature and politics by the Peruvian
author. Discusses many facets of his work and his interests
as an art critic, football commentator, film buff,
polemicist, autobiographer, and short-story writer. Includes
opinions on Sartre, Hemingway, Camus, Faulkner, and Bellow
and perspectives on socialism and the Cuban revolution.
1996.

The Man Made of Words: Essays, Stories, Passages RC 46821
by N. Scott Momaday 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A collection of more than thirty years of writing by the
prizewinning Native American author. Momaday grew up hearing
Kiowa but thinking and speaking English and enchanted by
words. In these pieces recording a variety of experiences as
he journeys through the world, he reflects on the miracle of
language that defines human beings. 1997.

The Merry Heart: Reflections on Reading, Writing, and the
World of Books RC 45506
by Robertson Davies 
read by Phil Regensdorf
3 cassettes
A collection of essays, speeches, and miscellanea from the
Canadian novelist and playwright Robertson Davies. In
"Canadian Author," an acceptance speech for an award
presented in New York, Davies remarks on the differences
between Canadian and "American" writers. In "A Chapter of
Autobiography," he describes his early education in Ontario.
1996.

The Most Wonderful Books: Writers on Discovering the
Pleasures of Reading RC 47143
edited by Michael Dorris and Emilie Buchwald 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A collection of short essays by fifty-seven authors who
reflect on favorite childhood books or the significance of
reading. Sherman Alexie recalls that he learned to read with
a Superman comic book. Confined to her house by polio, Bapsi
Sidhwa discovered "an alternate existence" in books.
Contains brief biographical notes on contributors. 1997.

The Oxford Book of Ireland RC 48078
edited by Patricia Craig 
read by Terry Donnelly
5 cassettes
An anthology of Irish writing from Celtic times to the late
1990s. Includes excerpts from novels, poetry, and philosophy
by peasants and the famous. Many passages lament the
occupation of the land by the British. 1998.

The Proper Study of Mankind: An Anthology of Essays--Isaiah
Berlin RC 48212
edited by Henry Hardy and Roger Hausheer 
read by Butch Hoover
6 cassettes
To introduce Berlin's work to a new generation of readers,
the editors present seventeen compositions by the twentieth-
century philosopher, writer, and historian. In "The
Originality of Machiavelli," Berlin analyzes the central
view and the basic political attitude of The Prince (RC
39689). 1997.

Reluctantly: Autobiographical Essays RC 48363
by Hayden Carruth 
read by Fred Major
2 cassettes
A twentieth-century American poet reflects on various
aspects of his life and writing. Episodic essays written
between 1970 and 1996 chronicle memorable events and
feelings such as his love of jazz, his suicide attempt at
age sixty-seven in 1988, and its aftermath when Carruth felt
newly connected with the world. 1998.

Rita Will: Memoir of a Literary Rabble-Rouser RC 46957
by Rita Mae Brown 
read by MaryBeth Wise
4 cassettes
Autobiography of the openly lesbian novelist who has
coauthored mysteries with her cat, Sneaky Pie. Describes her
illegitimate birth, adoption by relatives, and southern
childhood; how she became an advocate for women's rights;
and her relationships with tennis star Martina Navratilova
and author Fannie Flagg. Some strong language. 1997.

Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human RC 47038
by Harold Bloom 
read by Gordon Gould
6 cassettes
Bloom, a Shakespeare professor for the past twelve years,
offers a play-by-play analysis of the playwright's works to
prove his thesis that Shakespeare created human nature as we
know it in the late twentieth century. Bloom discusses the
comedies, histories, and tragedies, as well as what he
considers problem plays, and the late romances. Bestseller
1998.

Sir Vidia's Shadow: A Friendship across Five Continents RC
48402
by Paul Theroux 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
Theroux's memoir of his thirty-year literary relationship
with V.S. Naipaul. Recalls details of their conversations
and their influence on each other, beginning in 1960s Uganda
and ending with a terse exchange on a London street.
Describes Theroux's shifting perceptions of the older writer
from mentor to former friend. Some strong language. 1998.

Summer of Deliverance: A Memoir of Father and Son RC 47717
by Christopher Dickey 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Foreign correspondent Chris Dickey recalls his difficult
relationship with his father, James Dickey, the famous poet
and writer. Argues that the success of his father's first
novel, Deliverance (RC 25291)--the 1971 movie--changed him
for the worse. Chris describes avoiding his father for
several years until shortly before James's death in 1997.
Some strong language. 1998.

Tom: The Unknown Tennessee Williams RC 44747
by Lyle Leverich 
read by Conrad Feininger
6 cassettes
A portrait of American playwright Tennessee Williams. Traces
his life from a childhood marred by his parents' marital
traumas and his beloved sister's mental illness to his early
writing successes and later battles with his "blue devils"--
addictive behaviors, fear of madness, and homosexuality.
1995.

The True Story of the Novel RC 43142
by Margaret Anne Doody 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Vanderbilt University professor propounds the idea that the
novel was not invented by the English but has a longer,
broader history that includes non-Western writers and a
range of themes. A scholarly presentation incorporating
allusions to Greek and Roman mythology, writings of the
Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and more. 1996.

Truman Capote: In Which Various Friends, Enemies,
Acquaintances, and Detractors Recall His Turbulent Career RC
47682
by George Plimpton 
read by Ray Hagen
4 cassettes
An "oral biography" consisting of interviews with people who
recall Capote's work and personality, beginning with his
childhood in Monroeville, Alabama. Discussions of his
nonfiction "novel" In Cold Blood (RC 22726), the social
event dubbed the "black-and-white ball," and his whirl on
the celebrity circuit. Some strong language. 1997.

The Undertaking: Life Studies from the Dismal Trade RC 46348
by Thomas Lynch 
read by John Lescault
2 cassettes
Twelve essays on death and grief and their effect on the
living with the insight of a poet who is also a funeral
director. In "Words Made Flesh," Lynch recounts the
dissolution of a poet's second marriage--the death of love--
and the role of a poem in the birth of new love. In "The
Golfatorium," he contemplates combining a cemetery with a
golf course. 1997.

Victor Hugo RC 47196
by Graham Robb 
read by Annie Wauters
5 cassettes
Biography of the nineteenth-century French author, Victor
Hugo. In addition to writing poems, plays, and novels, Hugo
was a painter and architect. Living through the French
Revolution and Napoleonic eras, Hugo became a radical
political thinker who was exiled from both France and Great
Britain. Winner of the Whitbread Award. 1997.

A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers RC 47885
by Henry David Thoreau 
read by Jeremy Gage
3 cassettes
Henry David Thoreau's account of a week he and his brother
John spent on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers of New
England in 1839. Written at Walden Pond (after John's
death), it includes digressions on topics such as Native
American history, friendship, literature, and sacred
writings. 1849.

William Shakespeare: A Compact Documentary Life RC 47027
by S. Schoenbaum 
read by Bob Kuhn
3 cassettes
Schoenbaum presents a scholarly biography based on written
records. Recounts Shakespeare's simple life story as
evidenced in documents found in Stratford, where he was
born, raised, and died, and in London, where he gained his
livelihood. 1977.

William Styron: A Life RC 48245
by James L.W. West 
read by Mitzi Friedlander
4 cassettes
An authorized biography of the American writer based on
interviews and documents provided by the subject. A
chronological survey of his education, service in the
marines, marriage, and the development of his career.
Discusses his literary friendships, his feud with Norman
Mailer, his major novels, and his bouts with depression.
1998.

With Chatwin: Portrait of a Writer RC 47214
by Susannah Clapp 
read by Corrie James
2 cassettes
Bruce Chatwin's editor recounts her recollections of the
nomadic connoisseur writer who died in 1989 at age forty-
eight. She describes Chatwin's personal characteristics and
his various endeavors as an art expert, an archaeologist, a
journalist, and a world traveler. She interprets his books
and offers insights into what it was like to work with him.
1997.

The World of William Saroyan RC 48184
by Nona Balakian 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
Traces William Saroyan's Armenian youth, his years in
California, and the development in his writings from an
emphasis on ethnicity to an identification with the
"American character." Describes his innovations in poetry,
storytelling, and theater; reconstructs the literary climate
of the 1930s-and-later decades in which he wrote. 1998.

Medicine and Health

AIDS and HIV: Risky Business RC 47995
by Daniel Jussim 
read by Gary Tipton
1 cassette
Victims of the HIV virus speak out about their experiences
with a top killer of young American adults. Discusses the
prevention and treatment of AIDS and HIV. Offers practical
advice on protecting oneself from contracting the disease.
For junior and senior high and older readers. 1997.

Body for Life: Twelve Weeks to Mental and Physical Strength
RC 48773
by Bill Phillips and Michael D'Orso 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Physical fitness trainer offers a program for transforming
your body in just twelve weeks, without turning your life
upside down. Phillips suggests his plan can lower
cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart trouble even after
years of physical neglect. Includes exercises and diet
information plus testimonials from participants in the
program. Bestseller 1999.

The Breast Cancer Survival Manual: A Step-by-Step Guide for
the Woman with Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer RC 47548
by John Link 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
An oncologist advises women on how to obtain the data they
need in order to make an informed choice regarding treatment
that is right for them. Examines quality-of-life issues,
available drugs and operations, lifestyle choices, and
genetic risks. Explains how to work the medical system and
essential record-keeping. Gives specific questions to ask
the physician of choice. 1998.

Buzz: The Science and Lore of Alcohol and Caffeine RC 47152
by Stephen Braun 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Explains how two popular substances, alcohol and caffeine,
work in the human body and their effect on the brain.
Describes cultural differences in attitudes toward the two
chemicals and individual variations in response to their
consumption. 1996.

Buzzed: The Straight Facts about the Most Used and Abused
Drugs from Alcohol to Ecstasy RC 48002
by Cynthia Kuhn and others 
read by Bruce Huntey
3 cassettes
Describes the physiological effects of drugs on the body,
including dangerous interactions and addiction potential.
Discusses caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol as well as illegal
and prescription drugs. Provides information on the brain
and medical and legal issues involving drugs. Glossary of
drug slang is appended. 1998.

Cancer: Increasing Your Odds for Survival; a Resource Guide
for Integrating Mainstream, Alternative, and Complementary
Therapies RC 47600
by David Bognar 
read by Butch Hoover
3 cassettes
Review of a wide range of resources, studies, and cancer-
related information to help patients determine a course of
action. Born out of the author's research during his lover's
fight against breast cancer, this guide was developed in
conjunction with a PBS documentary narrated by Walter
Cronkite. 1998.

The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies RC 48003
by Vasant D. Lad 
read by Jill Fox
3 cassettes
A presentation of ayurveda--the art of living in harmony
with the laws of nature in order to maintain a healthy body.
Lad explains three fundamental forms of energy, or doshas,
within the body and how to identify each type. Offers more
than one hundred home remedies. 1998.

The Complete Guide to Alzheimer's-Proofing Your Home RC
47663
by Mark L. Warner 
read by Michele Schaeffer
4 cassettes
An architect and gerontologist describes what is needed to
provide a safe and comfortable home for the Alzheimer's
patient. Gives practical suggestions and emphasizes the
importance of providing a haven that does not increase the
individual's anxiety. Includes a glossary and a list of
products and manufacturers. 1998.

Conquering Bladder and Prostate Problems: The Authoritative
Guide for Men and Women RC 47608
by Jerry G. Blaivas 
read by Andy Chappell
3 cassettes
A urologist describes common bladder problems for both sexes
and prostate conditions in men. Discusses basic anatomy,
symptoms, tests, diagnoses, medications, and surgery.
Includes a glossary and relevant organizations. 1998.

Coping with Diabetes RC 47119
by Pat Kelly 
read by Patricia McDermott
1 cassette
Describes different types of diabetes and how they are
diagnosed. Explains the role of diet, exercise, medication,
and monitoring techniques in treating the disease. For
junior and senior high and older readers. 1998.

Coping with Migraines and Other Headaches RC 47095
by Andrea Votava 
read by Carol Dines
1 cassette
Provides a definition and discussion of headaches--types,
causes, cures, and self-help techniques for alleviating
them. Explores alternative as well as traditional
approaches. Includes a glossary and a list of relevant
organizations and web sites for further research. For senior
high and older readers. 1997.

Coping with PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) RC 46903
by Barbara Moe 
read by Jill Fox
1 cassette
Explains puberty, ovulation, and menstruation as well as the
physical and emotional aspects of PMS. Includes sources for
additional information and recipes and lifestyle changes to
facilitate self-improvement. Also provides a glossary. For
senior high and older readers. 1998.

Dancing at the Edge of Life: A Memoir RC 47702
by Gale Warner 
read by Jill Fox
2 cassettes
At age thirty in 1990, the author complained of an aching
shoulder, and she was surprised when the diagnosis was
lymphoma. Her writing reveals initial optimism about her
chances of survival as she embraced a variety of treatments
and then her acceptance of her approaching death as new
tumors appeared. 1998.

Diabetes A to Z: What You Need to Know about Diabetes--
Simply Put RC 48006
by American Diabetes Association 
read by Andy Chappell
1 cassette
Simple, basic answers to common questions about diabetes.
Includes information on medicines, weight and diet,
complications, and exercise. 1997.

Epilepsy 199 Answers: A Doctor Responds to His Patients'
Questions RC 46942
by Andrew N. Wilner 
read by Kimberly Schraf
2 cassettes
A guide for helping people with epilepsy to understand and
manage the disease. Discusses the nature of the disorder;
its diagnosis, treatment, and effects; and the challenges
that epilepsy presents to those afflicted. 1996.

Estrogen: How and Why It Can Save Your Life RC 48336
by Adam Romoff 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Obstetrician-gynecologist advocates hormone replacement
therapy for postmenopausal women to improve their quality of
life and to live longer. Explains the author's conviction
that the positive effects outweigh any possible negatives.
Warns against the use of "designer" estrogen. 1999.

The Eye Book: A Complete Guide to Eye Disorders and Health
RC 47103
by Gary H. Cassel and others 
read by Kerry Cundiff
3 cassettes
Two ophthalmologists and an optometrist provide an "owner's
manual for your eyes." They describe vision changes that
occur over time and health problems that affect the ability
to see. Topics include coping with low vision, eye trauma
and emergencies, glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related
macular degeneration. 1998.

Facing and Fighting Fatigue: A Practical Approach RC 47423
by Benjamin H. Natelson 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A physician who directs a chronic fatigue syndrome center
discusses different levels of fatigue and possible causes.
He then describes treatment options including drug therapy,
gentle physical conditioning, and cognitive behavioral
therapy. 1998.

False Hopes: Why America's Quest for Perfect Health Is a
Recipe for Failure RC 47807
by Daniel Callahan 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
Critiques America's health care system as the "most
expensive, least equitable" in the world. Advocates
replacing the prevailing aims and values of most providers
with an approach called sustainable medicine, which would
emphasize disease prevention rather than acute care. 1998.

Foods That Fight Pain: Revolutionary New Strategies for
Maximum Pain Relief RC 47400
by Neal Barnard 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
Physician maintains that specific foods can help alleviate
many types of pain while other foods can trigger pain. He
outlines recommendations for using diet and supplements to
treat such conditions as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome,
migraines, stomachaches, and cancer pain. 1998.

The Gospel of Germs: Men, Women, and the Microbe in American
Life RC 46833
by Nancy Tomes 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
An account of the advances in public health standards and
practices between 1870 and 1930, which resulted from
Americans' growing awareness of germs and the diseases they
cause. Traces the scientific discoveries, progress in
education, and improvements in personal hygiene that
transformed American society. 1998.

Headache Relief for Women: How You Can Manage and Prevent
Pain RC 47976
by Alan M. Rapoport and Fred D. Sheftell 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Two physicians from the Headache Inpatient Unit of Greenwich
Hospital define four types of headaches and provide advice
on managing them. They discuss influences such as
menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, and stress. The doctors
also review diet, nutrition, and  medications. 1995.

Healing Back Pain Naturally: The Mind-Body Program Proven to
Work RC 48248
by Arthur H. Brownstein 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
The author, a medical doctor, describes the physiology of
the back and of pain. Gives detailed yoga exercises to help
strengthen the body and reduce discomfort. Offers
nutritional advice as well as stress management techniques.
Counsels readers on returning to work and enjoying life.
1999.

Healthy Living with Diabetes RC 47367
by Margot Joan Fromer 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
The author emphasizes control of lifestyle as key to
controlling the disease. Provides practical tips for diet
and exercise. Recommends methods of self-monitoring of blood
glucose level and following medication instructions
correctly. Discusses prevention of health complications.
Includes chapters on childhood diabetes and parental
responsibilities. 1998.

Hepatitis C: The Silent Killer RC 47420
by Carol Turkington 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Explains the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Hepatitis
C; the role of the liver in the body; and chronic conditions
caused by acute cases of the disease. Includes relevant
organizations, web sites, and newsletters. 1998.

Her-2: The Making of Herceptin, a Revolutionary Treatment
for Breast Cancer RC 48588
by Robert Bazell 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Account of the development and marketing of a gene-based
therapy for one of the most lethal forms of breast cancer.
Discusses the medical research of oncologist Dennis Slamon
and the role of Genentech Inc. in producing the drug.
Includes case histories of women treated in the experimental
trials. 1998.

Herbal Defense: Positioning Yourself to Triumph over Illness
and Aging RC 47572
by Robyn Landis 
read by Kristin Allison
4 cassettes
Discusses the history of using herbs for healing. Describes
how they can work with the immune system to maintain health
and explains which herbs to use for a variety of conditions
including arthritis, allergies, diabetes, and digestive
problems. 1997.

Homeopathic Self-Care: The Quick and Easy Guide for the
Whole Family RC 47403
by Robert Ullman and Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman 
read by Butch Hoover
3 cassettes
Describes homeopathy, a medical system governed by the
principle of "like cures like" or treating symptoms of
illness with minute doses of substances that could produce
similar symptoms in a healthy person. Explains treatments
for a variety of medical conditions and suggests specific
homeopathic medicines to keep on hand. 1997.

How to Eat Away Arthritis RC 47542
by Lauri M. Aesoph 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
The author offers traditional and alternative ways to ease
the pain of arthritis. She lists restorative and "stressor"
foods and provides hints for better health, citing anecdotes
of numerous sufferers who have improved their ability to
cope with the condition. 1996.

Insomnia: Fifty Essential Things to Do RC 48963
by Theresa Foy DiGeronimo 
read by Butch Hoover
1 cassette
Advice on potential causes of insomnia and techniques to
improve and maintain healthy rest. Considers different life
stages of children, women, and the elderly. Includes a
section on homeopathic treatments, including massage, herbs,
foods, and acupuncture. Gives suggestions on keeping up to
date with the latest information. 1997.

TheIsland of the Colorblind and Cycad Island RC 44628
by Oliver Sacks 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A neurologist investigates the high prevalence of
colorblindness and other genetic conditions among inbred
South Sea island populations. Describes the history,
geography, and botany of the remote islands, as well as the
contemporary threats posed by development and tourism. 1996.

Jane Brody's Allergy Fighter RC 47983
by Jane E. Brody 
read by Kerry Cundiff
1 cassette
Explains nasal allergies--their causes, cures, and
prevention. Describes seasonal and perennial problems,
reactions to various foods, and ways to alleviate them.
Includes information on over-the-counter and herbal
remedies. 1997.

Just Checking: Scenes from the Life of an Obsessive-
Compulsive RC 47681
by Emily Colas 
read by Kimberly Schraf
1 cassette
The author describes her obsessive-compulsive habits--which
she calls "insanity lite"--that include checking everything
from food to sidewalks to avoid blood, drugs, needles,
germs, and other dangers. Her husband eventually tires of
acting as her shield, and Colas reluctantly agrees to
medication. Strong language. 1998.

The Light in the Skull: An Odyssey of Medical Discovery RC
47100
by Ronald Glasser 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A historical survey of medical research examines a broad
sample of infectious diseases and the scientists who studied
them. Discusses the fact that initial observations are often
refuted in favor of prevailing beliefs. For senior high
readers. 1997.

Living with Spina Bifida: A Guide for Families and
Professionals RC 47399
by Adrian Sandler 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A physician explains the birth defect spina bifida and
possible associated impairments, and offers advice on
promoting good health and optimal development at every stage
from childhood through young adulthood. 1997.

The Macular Degeneration Handbook: Natural Ways to Prevent
and Reverse It RC 48616
by Chet Cunningham 
read by Rick Rohan
1 cassette
Explains how the eye works, basic care, and traditional
treatments for macular degeneration and other eye
conditions. Includes alternative approaches such as diet,
vitamins and minerals, and proper nutrition. Discusses drugs
that can adversely affect the eyes and the benefits of
trying acupressure, reflexology, and exercises to improve
vision. 1999.

Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and
Maximizing Your Sight RC 48615
by Lylas G. Mogk and Marja Mogk 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
Describes the condition of age-related macular degeneration. 
Covers treatments and research, preventative measures, and
useful tips for family and friends. Discusses coping with
low vision, dealing with depression, Charles Bonnet
Syndrome, visual rehabilitation programs, and sources for
help. 1999.

Making Peace with Chronic Pain: A Whole-Life Strategy RC
48237
by Marlene E. Hunter 
read by Kerry Cundiff
2 cassettes
A doctor discusses coping mechanisms to deal with chronic
pain. Uses case histories to illustrate ways to respond to
pain and discusses appropriate medication. Reviews
literature about pain control and  comments on research
findings. 1996.

The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition RC
46894
edited by Robert Berkow 
read by Lou Harpenau
21 cassettes
A consumer version, in everyday language, of the manual used
by doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. Discusses disease of
all parts of the human body and drugs used in treatment.
Includes sections on men's, women's, and children's health
issues and an appendix covering legal issues, medical tests,
and resources for help. 1997.

The Mozart Effect: Tapping the Power of Music to Heal the
Body, Strengthen the Mind, and Unlock the Creative Spirit RC
47110
by Don Campbell 
read by Andy Chappell
2 cassettes
A classical musician and educational director explains how
music can be an alternative healing method. He cites his
personal experiences and those of many others. He also
illustrates how people integrate the concept of musical
healing--using ears, voice, and choice of music--into their
daily lives. 1997.

My Year Off RC 47448
by Robert McCrum 
read by Phil Regensdorf
2 cassettes
Recalls the stroke suffered in 1995 by the forty-two-year-
old editor-in-chief of the British publishing firm Faber and
Faber. Describes the impact on many aspects of his life,
including his two-month-old marriage to journalist Sarah
Lyall. Includes day-to-day observations by both spouses
during the following year. 1998.

Natural Foot Care: Herbal Treatments, Massage, and Exercises
for Healthy Feet RC 47860
by Stephanie Tourles 
read by Margaret Strom
2 cassettes
A holistic guide to care and maintenance of the foot, "an
often ignored body part." Offers advice on nutrition,
exercise, herbal treatments, and fitting shoes. Discusses
common foot problems and remedies. 1998.

Natural Hand Care: Herbal Treatments and Simple Techniques
for Healthy Hands and Nails RC 48262
by Norma Pasekoff Weinberg 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Describes how the hand works and suggests remedies for
problems of the nails, skin, and joints of fingers, thumbs,
wrists, and elbows. Provides appendixes on herbal
ingredients, equipment and tools, and relevant terms and
techniques. 1998.

No More Hot Flashes--and Even More Good News RC 47417
by Penny Wise Budoff 
read by Carole Jordan Stewart
3 cassettes
Updates Dr. Budoff's 1984 book, No More Hot Flashes, and
Other Good News (RC 20041). Explains perimenopause,
menopause, estrogen, and osteoporosis, as well as cancers
that frequently affect women. Also discusses urinary
functions, hysterectomies, vitamins, and alternatives to
drugs and surgery. 1998.

Older and Wiser: How to Maintain Peak Mental Ability for as
Long as You Live RC 47348
by Richard M. Restak 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Neurologist and neuropsychiatrist Restak maintains age does
not bring inevitable cognitive decline. He explains how
normal age-related brain changes differ from Alzheimer's
disease and other dementias and outlines steps to enhance
the mature brain's function. 1997.

The Other Diabetes: Living and Eating Well with Type 2
Diabetes RC 48958
by Elizabeth Hiser 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Describes the condition of adult-onset diabetes, how the
body works, and what goes wrong to cause the illness.
Explains optimum lifestyle practices needed to deal with the
disease and how to incorporate such changes into daily
living. Offers sample meals, recipes, and a resource guide.
1999.

Our Bodies, Ourselves for the New Century: A Book by and for
Women RC 47117
by Boston Women's Health Book Collective 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
12 cassettes in 2 containers
This updated version of The New Our Bodies, Ourselves (RC
38308) discusses aspects of women's health, including
holistic medicine, emotional well-being, relationships,
sexual behavior, and childbearing. Also includes information
concerning disabilities and aging. Explicit descriptions of
sex. 1998.

Pain Free: A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain
RC 46887
by Pete Egoscue 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Anatomical physiologist describes a menu of exercises
designed to rediscover the human template. He believes these
"E-cises" restore proper movement and eliminate pain by
pinpointing specific musculoskeletal functions that may have
been compromised by a variety of factors including a
sedentary lifestyle. 1998.

Prescription for Disaster: The Hidden Dangers in Your
Medicine Cabinet RC 47109
by Thomas J. Moore 
read by Jill Fox
2 cassettes
Noting that almost a million people per year suffer from the
side effects of medication, the author warns patients to
discuss the potential dangers of their medicine with a
physician. Presents effective methods of conversing with
doctors. Describes the way medicine is regulated in this
country and calls for an overhaul of the system. 1998.

Running on Ritalin: A Physician Reflects on Children,
Society, and Performance in a Pill RC 47661
by Lawrence H. Diller 
read by Bob Moore
3 cassettes
A behavioral pediatrician addresses the dilemma of attention
deficit disorder. He contrasts the notion of a biologically
and neurologically based illness easily "cured" with
medication against the idea of an environmental condition
stemming from child-rearing methods. Suggests parents use a
form of behavior therapy before resorting to medicine. 1998.

The Science, Spread, and Therapy of HIV Disease: Everything
You Need to Know but Had No Idea Who to Ask RC 46966
by Michael A. DiSpezio 
read by Faith Potts
2 cassettes
In question-and-answer format, the book explains what the
AIDS virus is and how to treat it. Includes tests for each
segment and a list of Internet sites that provide further
information. For senior high and older readers. 1998.

The Scleroderma Book: A Guide for Patients and Families RC
48957
by Maureen D. Mayes 
read by Gary Tipton
1 cassette
Physician recognized for specializing in scleroderma
explains this autoimmune system breakdown that affects
connective tissues, blood vessels, and collagen. Describes
various forms of the disease, its symptoms, and available
treatments. She also offers advice on coping with this
puzzling condition that has no known cause and no
established cure. 1999.

Survivor: Taking Control of Your Fight against Cancer RC
47590
by Laura Landro 
read by Jill Fox
2 cassettes
At age thirty-seven in 1991, Landro, a Wall Street Journal
editor, was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia. She
stresses the patient's need to research options as she
describes her search for the optimal treatment and her
hospital experience. 1998.

Tourette Syndrome RC 47777
by Elaine Landau 
read by Jill Ferris
1 cassette
Describes the neurological disorder that is characterized by
tics--involuntary movements or sounds. Discusses coping with
the syndrome, which becomes apparent in childhood and can
range from mild to severe. Profiles of people living with
Tourette Syndrome include an athlete, a surgeon, and a
musician. For junior and senior high and older readers.
1998.

What to Eat If You Have Cancer: A Guide to Adding
Nutritional Therapy to Your Treatment Plan RC 48581
by Maureen Keane and Daniella Chace 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Nutritional advice and therapy to aid in denying cancer the
food elements it needs to grow. Discusses various cancer
treatments and how to strengthen the body against disease.
Includes different diet plans and resources. 1996.

What to Expect in Your Fifties: A Woman's Guide to Health,
Vitality, and Longevity RC 48209
compiled by Judy Mandell 
read by Patricia McDermott
3 cassettes
Describes physical and emotional changes women go through in
their sixth decade. In addition to typical topics like
menopause, osteoporosis, and heart disease, deals briefly
with stress, chronic pain, alternative medicine, and plastic
surgery. Gives preventive health strategies and advice on
each topic. 1998.

Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and
Emotional Health and Healing RC 48380
by Christiane Northrup 
read by Nanette Savard
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Gynecologist combines Western medicine and alternative
therapies for female mind-body wellness. This revised
edition covers recent developments in nutrition, pregnancy,
and menopause. Includes many patients' experiences
evidencing the connection between mental state and physical
condition. Provides a twelve-step plan for personal healing
with advice on choosing a health-care provider. Bestseller
1998.

Multicultural

The Accidental Asian: Notes of a Native Speaker RC 47838
by Eric Liu 
read by Terence Aselford
1 cassette
Journalist and former Clinton speech writer, Liu, twenty-
nine, examines his and others' attitudes about being Asian.
A second-generation Chinese American or ABC (American-born
Chinese), Liu had a suburban middle-class upbringing and
married a woman of Scottish, Irish, and Jewish descent. He
explores his ambivalence about choosing  to assimilate or
embrace his cultural heritage. 1998.

The African American Book of Values: Classic Moral Stories
RC 48048
edited by Steven Barboza 
read by Bob Moore
6 cassettes
Collection of narratives, letters, songs, poems, speeches,
and folktales focusing on African American experiences,
intended to help parents and teachers impart social values
to children, and as a resource to guide and comfort adults.
Divided into two parts, "The Book of Self-Mastery" and "The
Book of Empathy." 1998.

All the Way to Heaven: An American Boyhood in the Himalayas
RC 46589
by Stephen Alter 
read by Terence Aselford
2 cassettes
Memoir of the son of Presbyterian missionaries, who grew up
in northern India with periodic visits to the United States.
His recollections of childhood in the 1960s and early 1970s
provide scenes from Indian life and describe the
difficulties of growing up in two cultures. Covers boyhood
and school adventures, ending with his arrival at an
American college. 1997.

Amazing Grace: A Life of Beauford Delaney RC 46953
by David Leeming 
read by Mary Kane
2 cassettes
Biography of the African American modernist painter who was
born in 1901 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and died in Paris in
1979. Describes his family's religious background, his
upbringing in the segregated South, and his later problems
with alcoholism and mental illness. Traces his artistic
career through Boston, New York, and Paris, where his
friends included James Baldwin and Henry Miller. 1998.

America in Black and White: One Nation, Indivisible RC 47944
by Stephan Thernstrom and Abigail Thernstrom 
read by Jake Williams
6 cassettes
An overview of race relations in America from the 1940s
through the 1990s, including discussion of the history of
segregation, the civil rights movement, and the increasing
progress that African Americans have made economically.
Concludes with suggestions for improving race relations.
1997.

American Beach: A Saga of Race, Wealth, and Memory RC 48308
by Russ Rymer 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Journalist describes the social and economic history of two
African American towns in northeast Florida and the killing
of an unarmed motorist by police. American Beach was founded
as a resort; Eatonville is the oldest black town in America.
Both are threatened by wealthy developers. Some strong
language and some violence. 1998.

Choteau Creek: A Sioux Reminiscence RC 48748
by Joseph Iron Eye Dudley 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A Methodist minister remembers his childhood on a Native
American reservation in South Dakota where his maternal
grandparents raised him in the 1940s and 1950s. In spite of
their poverty, they taught him the social, cultural, and
spiritual values that have enriched his life. 1992.

Dancing with Strangers: A Memoir RC 47358
by Mel Watkins 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Autobiography by the first African American editor at the
New York Times Book Review and author of a book on African
American humor, On the Real Side (RC 41288). Watkins recalls
his upbringing in Ohio during the forties and fifties, his
scholarship at Colgate University, and the resulting culture
shock. Watkins there decided that he would personally
abandon the concept of race. Some strong language. 1998.

Dr. Ana Nogales' Book of Love, Sex, and Relationships: A
Guide for Latino Couples RC 47551
by Ana Nogales 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
2 cassettes
A popular TV psychologist and newspaper columnist presents
case studies to illustrate the common problems that couples
from diverse ethnic backgrounds face. Nogales discusses the
conflicts that affect Latino-Anglo relationships including
attitudes towards family, gender roles, machismo, and other
issues that arise from cultural differences. Some
descriptions of sex. 1998.

Everything You Need to Know about America's Jews and Their
History RC 47499
by Roy A. Rosenberg 
read by David Elias
2 cassettes
Rabbi Rosenberg portrays Jewish life in America from
colonial times to the 1990s. Using a question-and-answer
format, he discusses the roles of Jews during the Civil War
and World Wars I and II; in movements for social equality
and rights for women; and in the areas of medicine, law,
education, and film. 1997.

Falling Leaves: The True Story of an Unwanted Chinese
Daughter RC 47146
by Adeline Yen Mah 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
2 cassettes
The author recalls her childhood in mainland China and Hong
Kong. Enduring an abusive upbringing, Mah's intellect
enabled her to escape to Great Britain at the age of
fourteen to further her studies. Nevertheless, throughout
Mah's life, her family relationships continued to torment
her. 1997.

The Hacienda: A Memoir RC 48152
by Lisa St. Aubin de Tern 
read by Anne Flosnik
2 cassettes
Autobiographical account of a British woman married as a
teenager to a Venezuelan exile twice her age and their
return to his sugarcane plantation. She recalls the
hardships of his neglect and the satisfactions of learning
to manage the estate, care for the workers, and raise a
daughter before escaping with her to England. 1997.

Half and Half: Writers on Growing Up Biracial and Bicultural
RC 47296
edited by Claudine Chiawei O'Hearn 
read by Mary Kane
2 cassettes
Eighteen writers recount their experiences growing up in two
cultures. Garrett Hongo describes the boredom of living in a
homogeneous suburb where his children's friends all have the
same worldview. Roxane Farmanfarmaian recalls being
"rootless"--half-Mormon and half-Muslim--in Europe. Includes
brief author biographies. For senior high and older readers.
1998.

A Hope in the Unseen: An American Odyssey from the Inner
City to the Ivy League RC 47795
by Ron Suskind 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
The author follows Cedric Jennings, an African American
teenager, from a blighted environment in Washington, D.C.,
to Brown University. Although in the top of his high school
class, Cedric at first has neither the educational
background nor the social experience to meet the demands of
the Ivy League college. Some strong language. 1998.

In a Barren Land: American Indian Dispossession and Survival
RC 48890
by Paula Mitchell Marks 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
A historian chronicles European settlers' conquest of Native
American lands from their initial contacts in 1607 up to the
1990s. Describes the indigenous inhabitants' struggle to
maintain their traditional cultures despite forced
relocations, the elimination of customs, and their own
diminishing numbers. 1998.

In the Garden of Our Dreams: Memoirs of a Marriage RC 47675
by Shirlee Taylor Haizlip and Harold C. Haizlip 
read by Faith Potts
3 cassettes
In alternating voices, a husband and wife recount the joys
and sorrows of their forty-year marriage, an ongoing loving
relationship. They reminisce about their first "study date"
in 1957 and their lifelong commitment as an African American
couple to achieving integration in U.S. society. Some strong
language. Bestseller 1998.

Latinos in Bisbol: The Hispanic Experience in the Americas
RC 48060
by James D. Cockcroft 
read by Peter Gil
1 cassette
Explores the history of Hispanic baseball players in both
the United States and Latin America. Reflects on the
experience of being discriminated against in North America,
while highlighting the achievements of individual athletes.
For senior high and older readers. 1996.

Muddy Cup: A Dominican Family Comes of Age in a New America
RC 48046
by Barbara Fischkin 
read by Ilona Dulaski
3 cassettes
In the 1980s, Javier Almonte travels from his village in the
Dominican Republic to New York. When he sends for his
family, Immigration will not allow his wife Roselia to bring
all of their children. She reluctantly leaves behind the two
youngest children for the good of the family. 1997.

One Nation Indivisible: How Ethnic Separatism Threatens
America RC 46585
by J. Harvie Wilkinson 
read by Bob Moore
2 cassettes
Examines the nature of ethnic diversity in America and the
ways that polarization undermines national unity. Warns that
certain laws and programs, such as affirmative action, which
are aimed at redressing past wrongs, are also serving to
foster racial separatism. 1997.

Pueblo Nations: Eight Centuries of Pueblo Indian History RC
47541
by Joe S. Sando 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Cultural history written by a man from Jemez Pueblo reveals
the literary and spiritual heritage of the peoples of the
southwestern United States. Provides an account of their
origins; discusses developments since the Spanish conquest
and the impact of the United States on the society's
survival. Includes biographical sketches of nine
distinguished Pueblo Indians. 1992.

Strangers among Us: How Latino Immigration Is Transforming
America RC 47514
by Roberto Suro 
read by Peter Gil
3 cassettes
Examines Latino immigration to the United States--its
history and the challenges it presents. Provides an overview
of the individuals and communities that make up the Latino
population. Proposes immigration controls, social programs,
the development of new perceptions, and ethnic advocacy to
enhance the assimilation of this growing minority. 1998.

Tonto's Revenge: Reflections on American Indian Culture and
Policy RC 47337
by Rennard Strickland 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
In these essays, a Native American lawyer and historian
discusses the law in relation to Native rights. He urges
Natives to adhere to their culture and spirituality.
Discusses Indian art, media image, and the ideals of
justice. 1997.

Trouble in Mind: Black Southerners in the Age of Jim Crow RC
48090
by Leon F. Litwack 
read by Rick Foucheux
5 cassettes
This sequel to Been in the Storm So Long (RC 48089)
continues the history of African Americans in the south from
Reconstruction until World War I. Explores the development
of social and cultural institutions. First-person narratives
illustrate the hardships under which the "freedmen" lived.
Violence. 1998.

Voices in Black and White: Writings on Race in America from
Harper's Magazine RC 48297
edited by Katharine Whittemore and Gerald Marzorati 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Twenty articles concerning race relations in America culled
from Harper's Magazine, which was founded in 1850. Includes
Mark Twain's observations regarding his mother and her
slaves and William Styron's research for Confessions of Nat
Turner. Traces the role of race among numerous interracial
families. Introduction by Henry Louis Gates Jr. Some strong
language. 1993.

With Ossie and Ruby: In This Life Together RC 48586
by Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee 
read by Jake Williams
4 cassettes
Autobiographical account of Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee, told
in alternating voices. The book discusses their lives before
they met, their courtship, and their marriage. The discourse
provides a social history of the black experience in
American theater and an account of the couple's behind-the-
scenes roles in "the Struggle." Some strong language.
Bestseller 1998.

Music

The American Opera Singer: The Lives and Adventures of
America's Great Singers in Opera and Concert, from 1825 to
the Present RC 46444
by Peter G. Davis 
read by Frank Coffee
5 cassettes
Chronicles the arrival of Italian opera in the United States
and the efforts of American singers to transform a foreign
art form into a part of the national culture. Traces the
evolution of this musical style and its demands on the
voice. Includes biographical sketches and anecdotes about
leading singers. 1997.

Between Each Line of Pain and Glory: My Life Story RC 48051
by Gladys Knight 
read by Samarra Mbenga
2 cassettes
Knight recalls the ups and downs of her life. She describes
her struggle to become well known, first along with the Pips
and later as a solo performer, and discusses her family, her
various addictions, her failed marriages, and her feelings
of isolation within the world of show business. 1997.

Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley RC 47746
by Peter Guralnick 
read by Barry Bernson
5 cassettes
This sequel to Last Train to Memphis (RC 40087) depicts
Elvis Presley's life from 1958 until his death in 1977.
Suggests that his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, treated him
like a product to be marketed. Describes the musician as
living in an isolated world, consumed by love affairs and
drugs. Some strong language. Bestseller 1999.

Cash: The Autobiography RC 48368
by Johnny Cash 
read by Randy Atcher
2 cassettes
The country-western star relates his life in rural Arkansas
as a boy picking cotton, his early career, and his continual
concert touring. Chronicles his ups and downs with
amphetamine addiction and his various rehabilitation
attempts; describes his homes in Tennessee, Florida, and
Jamaica. Includes a discography. 1997.

Catch a Fire: The Life of Bob Marley RC 47518
by Timothy White 
read by Gary Telles
5 cassettes
The life and times of the reggae musician who popularized
Caribbean music throughout the world. In this revision of
the 1983 edition, the author investigates Marley in the
context of his island country of Jamaica and the power of
his religion, Rastafarianism. Strong language. 1998.

Chopin in Paris: The Life and Times of the Romantic Composer
RC 47805
by Tad Szulc 
read by Ted Stoddard
4 cassettes
Biography concentrates on the eighteen years (nearly half
his life) that the Polish musical genius spent in France.
Portrays his artistic and political friends who fashioned
European culture from 1831 to 1849, including Sand, Balzac,
Hugo, Lamartine, Delacroix, Liszt, Berlioz, Schumann, and
Mendelssohn. 1998.

Comfort from a Country Quilt RC 48555
by Reba McEntire 
read by Pam Ward
1 cassette
The country western star reminisces about her childhood on a
ranch in Oklahoma where her father worked in rodeos, her
singing career including the 1991 crash that killed members
of her band, and her favorite role--as a mother. Bestseller
1999.

Dear Rogue: A Biography of the American Baritone Lawrence
Tibbett RC 48165
by Hertzel Weinstat and Bert Wechsler 
read by Lewis Grenville
2 cassettes
Examines the life of Lawrence Tibbett, a mainstay of New
York's Metropolitan Opera for twenty-seven years. Recounts
his work in motion pictures during the 1930s and 1940s.
Relays how Tibbett later replaced Frank Sinatra on the radio
show Your Hit Parade and eventually became a reclusive
alcoholic, dying in 1960. 1996.

Eddy Arnold: Pioneer of the Nashville Sound RC 47048
by Michael Streissguth 
read by Robert Sams
3 cassettes
Recounts the life of country singer Richard Edward (Eddy)
Arnold from his birth in Tennessee in 1918. Discusses
Arnold's interest in playing the guitar at an early age, his
first radio appearance while still in high school, his rise
to fame, and his struggle to remain popular as Elvis Presley
and rock-and-roll music began to overtake country music in
the 1960s. 1997.

hip hop america RC 48179
by Nelson George 
read by Bob Moore
2 cassettes
Survey of African American rap music. Chronicles the twenty-
year rise of hip-hop from the streets of New York City and
describes its importance in the multinational industry of
the 1990s. Highlights the major players and some of the
effects of rap on society. For senior high and older
readers. 1998.

Hit Me with Music: How to Start, Manage, Record, and Perform
with Your Own Rock Band RC 43650
by Stephanie Powell 
read by Kristin Allison
1 cassette
Handbook on organizing and managing one's own rock music
group. Powell offers both creative and technical tips on all
phases of the music business: using public address systems;
mixing live music; utilizing recording studios; promoting a
band; negotiating contracts; and avoiding the perils of the
business. For junior and senior high readers. 1995.

Jussi RC 48139
by Anna-Lisa Bjrling and Andrew Farkas 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
4 cassettes
Jussi Bjrling's wife and singing partner presents a
portrait of the Swedish opera star, who began his musical
career singing in a quartet with his father and brothers.
She describes him as a gifted performer and a kind and
loving man, who was caught up in a lifelong struggle with
alcoholism. 1996.

Light My Fire: My Life with The Doors RC 47533
by Ray Manzarek 
read by Jim Zeiger
3 cassettes
A member of the 1960s band The Doors recalls his childhood
steeped in Chicago's jazz and blues. He recounts meeting Jim
Morrison, forming the band, and achieving fame and
notoriety. Manzarek notes that he regrets not intervening in
Morrison's decadent lifestyle, which led to his death.
Strong language and some explicit descriptions of sex. 1998.

Loretta Lynn: Coal Miner's Daughter RC 47599
by Loretta Lynn 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
2 cassettes (Reissue)
The country music star from Butcher Holler, Kentucky,
recalls her life from rags to riches. Lynn emphasizes the
importance of her twenty-five-year-old marriage and her
faith in people and in God. 1976.

Louis Armstrong: An Extravagant Life RC 47274
by Laurence Bergreen 
read by Bob Moore
5 cassettes
A biography of the jazz trumpeter known as Satchmo who was
born in 1901 in New Orleans. Portrays the city's influence
on his character and musical development. Relates the
details of his career with bands, personal relationships,
and reaction to fame. Satchmo's story encompasses a history
of jazz in the United States until 1971, the year of his
death. Some strong language. 1997.

Mahler: A Biography RC 47184
by Jonathan Carr 
read by Peter Gil
2 cassettes
Traces the late-Romantic composer's path from Austria to
America. Highlights Mahler's childhood and musical life in
Central Europe until his early forties when he met and
married the beautiful and much younger Alma Schindler. In
the last decade of his life, he composed some of his most
renowned works and moved from Europe to New York. 1997.

Making People's Music: Moe Asch and Folkways Records RC
47147
by Peter D. Goldsmith 
read by Lewis Grenville
4 cassettes
The story of Asch's founding of Folkways Records and an
account of his life from his birth in Poland in 1905 to his
death in America in 1986. Describes how his recording studio
helped preserve musical and oral traditions from the United
States and other countries. 1998.

Mary Garden RC 45507
by Michael T.R.B. Turnbull 
read by Miriam Wagner
3 cassettes
In this biography of Scottish American opera singer Mary
Garden, Turnbull chronicles Garden's career beginning in
Paris in 1900 and continuing for more than thirty years.
Garden excelled in acting and developed sensuous roles.
Includes debut dates and a list of Garden's recordings.
1997.

Memoirs RC 47294
by Georg Solti 
read by Lewis Grenville
2 cassettes
Twentieth-century international conductor traces his musical
training in Hungary and career as a pianist and music
director. Born in 1912, Solti relates how he survived two
world wars in Europe and advanced his musical life despite
anti-Semitism. He discusses his interpretation of various
composers and his twenty-two years with the Chicago
Symphony. 1997.

The Mozart Effect: Tapping the Power of Music to Heal the
Body, Strengthen the Mind, and Unlock the Creative Spirit RC
47110
by Don Campbell 
read by Andy Chappell
2 cassettes
A classical musician and educational director explains how
music can be an alternative healing method. He cites his
personal experiences and those of many others. He also
illustrates how people integrate the concept of musical
healing--using ears, voice, and choice of music--into their
daily lives. 1997.

Nickel Dreams: My Life RC 48356
by Tanya Tucker 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
3 cassettes
Tanya Tucker reminisces about her childhood when she and her
sister La Costa began singing in contests with the
encouragement of their parents. She describes her
professional triumphs and personal setbacks, including drug
and alcohol abuse, and her numerous affairs with other
entertainers. Some strong language. 1997.

On Stage, Off Stage: A Memoir RC 46945
by Rgine Crespin 
read by Nanette Savard
2 cassettes
Autobiography of the French opera singer, who says that
singing is her joy and priority. She recalls childhood
memories of duets with her Italian grandmother and discusses
her musical career from the late 1950s to her farewell galas
in Paris in 1990. She also describes her family, her love
life, and her battles with cancer. 1997.

A Prima Donna's Progress: The Autobiography of Joan
Sutherland RC 47305
by Joan Sutherland 
read by Faith Potts
5 cassettes
Memoir of her performing career and family life by the
Australian soprano. Briefly covers her early years and
musical training in Australia before moving to London where
she married Richard Bonynge, her coach and conductor.
Provides details of her international career as a dramatic
coloratura soprano specializing in Italian and French opera.
1997.

Renata Tebaldi: The Voice of an Angel RC 48186
by Carlamaria Casanova 
read by Laura Giannarelli
2 cassettes
Authorized biography pays tribute to the Italian soprano
opera star. Traces her childhood (at three she contracted
polio) and her musical education. Follows her career, her
feud with Maria Callas, and her personal relationships.
Includes a chronology of performances from 1944 to 1976 and
a list of her recordings. 1995.

Ruth Crawford Seeger: A Composer's Search for American Music
RC 47331
by Judith Tick 
read by Catherine Byers
4 cassettes
Biography of Ruth Crawford, who was already a successful
classical musician when she met fellow composer Charles
Seeger. Marrying in 1932, the two became involved in radical
politics. Moving to Washington, D.C., in 1936, Charles
worked on the Federal Music Project, where they both became
involved in the folk music movement. Ruth became a noted
transcriber of folk anthologies. 1997.

Visions of Jazz: The First Century RC 48253
by Gary Giddins 
read by Brian Conn
6 cassettes
Jazz critic presents seventy-nine essays about American
performers, including some of the "big names" as well as
lesser-known artists whose distinct musical expression
contributed to the "magic of the jazz phenomenon." Eight
chapters, roughly chronological, trace the art form's
evolution. 1998.

Nature and the Environment

The Aye-Aye and I: A Rescue Mission in Madagascar RC 48729
by Gerald Durrell 
read by Graeme Malcolm
1 cassette
Recounts the adventures of Durrell's team on the island of
Madagascar as they attempt to capture an elusive and almost
extinct magic-fingered aye-aye to build up a breeding
colony. Includes encounters with giant jumping rats, flat-
tailed tortoises, and gentle lemurs from the reed beds of a
vanishing lake. 1992.

The Edges of the Civilized World: A Journey in Nature and
Culture RC 47960
by Alison Hawthorne Deming 
read by Kerry Cundiff
2 cassettes
Examines the concept of civilization in relation to the
environment and culture. Observes that tourism development
often destroys natural resources and can hinder economic
cooperation among nations. Reflects on a way of life that
could reconcile the rift between societies' advancement and
the need to preserve the wilderness. 1998.

The Everglades: River of Grass RC 47215
by Marjory Stoneman Douglas 
read by MaryBeth Wise
3 cassettes (Reissue)
Fiftieth-anniversary edition of the 1947 history and
folklore of a North American region that had been viewed as
a swampy "wasteland." This volume includes two new chapters,
describing efforts to restore and preserve this valuable
source of wildlife and water. 1997.

The Greening of Faith: God, the Environment, and the Good
Life RC 47788
edited by John Carroll and others 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Examines the relationship between religion and the
environment. The essays are written by representatives of
different faiths including Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist,
Jewish, and Native American religions. Urges readers to
simplify and to respect the earth. 1997.

How the Canyon Became Grand: A Short History RC 47948
by Stephen J. Pyne 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
The author describes how conquistadors and later explorers
dismissed the Grand Canyon as being useless until
nineteenth-century artists and intellectuals began to
proclaim its unique beauty. Portrays the changing attitudes
toward the environment culminating in a more ecological view
of natural phenomena. 1998.

In a Desert Garden: Love and Death among the Insects RC
46577
by John Alcock 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes
A biologist recounts the experience and the results of
converting his Tempe, Arizona, yard into a desert ecosystem.
Describes his fascination with observing the march of
milkweed bugs, fighting earwigs, pollinating zucchini bees,
and the copulating cannibalism of mantises. 1997.

Life in the Balance: Humanity and the Biodiversity Crisis RC
48141
by Niles Eldredge 
read by Suzanne Toren
2 cassettes
Paleontologist warns that the rapid extinction of thousands
of species of plants and animals could lead to the earth's
destruction. Explains biodiversity, evolution, and ecology,
and suggests solutions to the problems that humans have
created. Includes a list of animals that have died out since
1600. 1998.

The Meadowlands: Wilderness Adventures at the Edge of a City
RC 47407
by Robert Sullivan 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Just outside New York City, near Newark airport and the New
Jersey Turnpike, is a swamp that has become a receptacle for
trash in the region, as well as a refuge for wildlife.
Describes the area called the Meadowlands, its history, the
flora and fauna, and the people who have populated the area
since Native American times. 1998.

Red-Tails in Love: A Wildlife Drama in Central Park RC 47451
by Marie Winn 
read by Miriam Wagner
2 cassettes
Winn tells about joining a band of bird watchers and nature
lovers in New York City. She records stories about Central
Park and its wildlife--especially a pair of captivating
hawks--during a six-year period. 1998.

The Sense of Wonder RC 47494
by Rachel Carson 
read by Kimberly Schraf
1 cassette
In this essay first published in 1956, Carson talks about
sharing the wonders of nature with a child, as she did with
her nephew, beginning before he was two years old. She
explains how an adult can teach an appreciation of the
beauty of the outdoors, even without a scientific
understanding of plants and animals. 1956.

Song for the Blue Ocean: Encounters along the World's Coasts
and beneath the Seas RC 47775
by Carl Safina 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
Record of author's journey to evaluate the overfishing and
depletion of marine resources in major commercial fishing
areas. A scientist, observer, advocate, guide, tourist, and
fisherman, he describes what he encountered and the changes
that have occurred. He says setting a "sea ethic" will
reverse the devastation. 1997.

Stalking the Wild Amaranth: Gardening in the Age of
Extinction RC 47631
by Janet Marinelli 
read by Anne Hancock
2 cassettes
Explores gardeners' options to rescue nearly extinct species
and restore natural communities. When Marinelli joins a
botanist to search the Long Island shores for an endangered
species of seabeach amaranth, it starts her thinking about a
gardener's role in a biologically homogenizing world. She
also examines perceptions of what is "natural." 1998.

Water: A Natural History RC 47857
by Alice Outwater 
read by Marilyn Gleason
2 cassettes
An environmental engineer advocates returning to water's
natural cleansing cycle. She describes the historical
symbiosis between water and the land and discusses how
native animals such as buffalo, prairie dogs, and beaver can
help restore water quality. 1996.

Wild Thoughts from Wild Places RC 47155
by David Quammen 
read by Erik Sandvold
3 cassettes
Essays from a science writer recounting his travels
throughout the world in search of the last remaining wild
places. Describes wildlife in various locales, including
pigeons in New York City and coyotes in Los Angeles. 1998.

A Wilderness Within: The Life of Sigurd F. Olson RC 48148
by David Backes 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Authorized biography of the American environmental writer
and activist based on his papers and diaries. Describes the
man who was a national parks advocate in the mid-twentieth
century. Focuses on understanding Olson's character and the
development of his ideas on conservation issues. 1997.

The Occult

Confirmation: The Hard Evidence of Aliens among Us RC 48175
by Whitley Strieber 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
UFO researcher and author of Communion (RC 25976) argues
that evidence of extraterrestrials visiting Earth is
credible. Reviews data on unidentified aircraft; emphasizes
the importance of metal implants in apparent abduction
victims. Includes an interview with a Vatican scholar who
advocates an open-minded attitude toward claims of
witnessing alien activity. 1998.

Imagining Atlantis RC 47917
by Richard Ellis 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
3 cassettes
Ellis reviews many theories about the "lost continent" of
Atlantis. He covers a wide range of arguments, from oral
traditions to scientific studies, only to conclude that no
evidence--either historical or geographical--supports the
existence of the landmass. 1998.

Isaac Newton: The Last Sorcerer RC 48163
by Michael White 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
Depicts Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) as a scientist who
researched the universe by studying biblical prophecy,
astrology, and magic. Traces his youth in Grantham and years
at Cambridge. Discusses how alchemy helped him to invent
calculus, conceive the laws of motion and gravity, and
investigate optics. 1997.

Storm of the Century RC 47485
by Stephen King 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Screenplay for a TV miniseries. General store owner Mike
Anderson recounts what happened when a blizzard struck
Little Tall Island, Maine, and Andre Linoge arrived for a
horror-filled visit. Eighty-year-old Martha Clarendon was
the first to see the stranger, and he killed her with his
wolf-headed cane. Some violence. Bestseller 1999.

Philosophy

The Burden of Responsibility: Blum, Camus, Aron, and the
French Twentieth Century RC 48188
by Tony Judt 
read by Annie Wauters
2 cassettes
Examines the writings and public roles of three French
intellectuals--Lon Blum, Albert Camus, and Raymond Aron--to
explore the importance of moral integrity and personal
responsibility in the political debates of the twentieth
century. Concludes that, unlike many others, they have won
public respect by addressing anti-Semitism, decolonization,
and communism. 1998.

Isaiah Berlin: A Life RC 48288
by Michael Ignatieff 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
3 cassettes
Traces Isaiah Berlin's youth in Russia, fellowship at All
Souls College, and rise to fame as biographer of Karl Marx.
Follows his life as a historian of ideas, philosopher of
liberal social thought, defender of freedom in the Soviet
Union, and president of the British Academy. Discusses his
association with world leaders. 1998.

The Marriage of Sense and Soul: Integrating Science and
Religion RC 47154
by Ken Wilber 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Explores the question of whether religion and modern science
can unite in an effort to ensure the future of humanity.
Proposes that, instead of an adversarial relationship, the
two fields could work toward greater harmony between the
physical and spiritual realms. 1998.

Martin Heidegger: Between Good and Evil RC 47094
by Rdiger Safranski 
read by Randy Wieck
4 cassettes
Portrait of a noted twentieth-century philosopher whose work
helped inspire the existentialist movement. Traces his youth
as a German Catholic seminarian, his service with the Nazi
Party, and his later years pondering the question of human
alienation in a modern technological world. 1998.

Poetry

The Art of the Lathe: Poems RC 48111
by B.H. Fairchild 
read by Jim Zeiger
1 cassette
Lyrical poems that depict the stark, arduous lives of
machinists, farmers, and other working-class Kansans in the
mid-twentieth century. In "Body and Soul," a gifted fifteen-
year-old boy bests his elders at baseball, demonstrating
"the vast gap between talent and genius." Some strong
language. 1998.

Collected Poems: 1937-1971 RC 45491
by John Berryman 
read by Jim Zeiger
3 cassettes
All of the short poems that Berryman wrote, arranged, and
published, plus "Homage to Mistress Bradstreet," one of his
two long poems. The collection opens with a cold and silent
scene from an early poem, "Winter Landscape," which is
followed by the sonnets and the epic "Homage." The final
group contains confessional poems, such as "Freshman Blues,"
and poems on thoughts and feelings as fanciful as what
Beethoven heard in his sleep. 1989.

Conversations with Joseph Brodsky: A Poet's Journey through
the Twentieth Century RC 48162
by Solomon Volkov 
read by Michael Scherer
3 cassettes
Transcripts of taped conversations between the Russian poet
and a musician begun in 1978 in New York City. Brodsky
recalls his trial and expulsion from the Soviet Union;
discusses the poet's role in the modern world; and talks
about Robert Frost, W.H. Auden, and Anna Akhmatova. 1998.

Earth-Shattering Poems RC 46532
edited by Liz Rosenberg 
read by Peggy Gilleland
1 cassette
An international selection of more than forty poets
presented in chronological order. Includes Sappho of ancient
Greece, Charles Baudelaire of France, Pablo Neruda of Chile,
and J.E. Wei of Taiwan. Editor chose poems that "shook" her.
For junior and senior high readers. 1998.

Imagine the Angels of Bread RC 46133
by Martin Espada 
read by Lewis Grenville
1 cassette
Autobiographical poems that starkly depict the harsh plight
of Hispanics as victims of political oppression and as
impoverished immigrants. One of the works relates a Chilean
man's harrowing experience of lying his way out of being
shot by a firing squad. Violence. 1996.

Keats RC 46837
by Andrew Motion 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
A biography of the English Romantic poet John Keats, who
died at twenty-five. Emphasizes Keats's political views as
well as his character and poetry. Reevaluates earlier
biographies and quotes from Keats's correspondence. Provides
the historical context of Keats's life in the early
nineteenth century. 1997.

Primate Behavior RC 47937
by Sarah Lindsay 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
1 cassette
Poet/musician explores musical and natural history themes in
sixty-eight poems. Circus animals and Joseph Merk's cello
tudes inspire her flights of imagination in the fourteen-
poem group titled "Circus Merk." In "Primate Behavior,"
Lindsay notes similarities in the actions of apes and
humans. 1997.

Red Signature: Poems RC 47733
by Mary Leader 
read by Mitzi Friedlander
1 cassette
Thirty-four poems expressing a contemporary woman's feelings
about events, occurrences, and moments, some past and others
present. Her themes include unrequited love, jealousy, being
a mother, and thoughts evoked by paintings or music. 1997.

Report from Part One RC 47475
by Gwendolyn Brooks 
read by Gail Nelson
2 cassettes
Autobiographical writings and interviews with the poet
laureate born in 1917. Contains a brief account of her
childhood, marriage, family, and career. Describes her
increasing awareness of her racial heritage and her role as
an African American poet. Includes an appendix of personal
entries entitled "Collage." 1972.

Report from Part Two RC 48088
by Gwendolyn Brooks 
read by Gail Nelson
1 cassette
A selection of essays and poems about events, people, and
travel that were important to Brooks. In "Keziah," she pays
loving tribute to her mother. These writings are a
continuation of themes found in Report from Part One (RC
47475). 1996.

Versos Sencillos: Simple Verses RC 48158
by Jos Mart 
read by Peter Gil
1 cassette
A collection that represents a spiritual autobiography of
the famous Cuban poet and patriot of the nineteenth century.
Mart distills his sentiments as philosopher, troubadour,
soldier, and lover in these brief verses. The poems and
original prolog are in Spanish and English. This edition
includes an English introduction by Manuel Tellechea. 1891.

Psychology and Self Help

Are You Old Enough to Read This Book? Reflections on Midlife
RC 47392
edited by Deborah H. DeFord 
read by Janis Gray
3 cassettes
Advice and reassurance for baby boomers reaching their fifth
decade. Includes practical suggestions, medical information,
and psychological tidbits in the form of essays and
interviews. Introduction by Linda Ellerbee. Some
descriptions of sex. 1997.

The Art of Dying: How to Leave This World with Dignity and
Grace, at Peace with Yourself and Your Loved Ones RC 47454
by Patricia Weenolsen 
read by Cyn Delafield
2 cassettes
A guide to help people facing death make the best of their
remaining days and cope with practical and psychological
concerns. Includes advice on preparation and planning,
retaining and relinquishing control, and making the gradual
transformation from a physical to a spiritual existence.
1996.

The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living RC 47827
by Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes
Following conversations with the Dalai Lama, psychiatrist
Cutler presents the Buddhist leader's methods for
maintaining happiness. The Dalai Lama's basic belief is hope
and connectedness. He offers genuine and lasting inner peace
through trust in the fundamental gentleness and goodness of
all human beings, compassion, and a policy of kindness.
Bestseller 1998.

As Parents Age: A Psychological and Practical Guide RC 48733
by Joseph A. Ilardo 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Psychotherapist summarizes physical and emotional changes
that occur over time and discusses reactions of adult
children to their aging parents. Explains how to determine
care requirements, adjustments that might allow a person to
remain at home in later life, and steps to take if
institutionalization is necessary. 1998.

Beauty Fades, Dumb Is Forever: The Making of a Happy Woman
RC 48103
by Judy Sheindlin 
read by Pam Ward
1 cassette
Televised family court judge offers advice to women on how
to avoid ruining their lives. Uses her years of experience
in the courtroom and her own life to illustrate ten lessons
about achieving happiness, confidence, and success.
Bestseller 1999.

Carl Gustav Jung RC 47353
by Frank McLynn 
read by Dennis Rooney
5 cassettes
Examines the early days of Sigmund Freud's protege and
rival, Carl Gustav Jung, and the influence of his Swiss
upbringing on his theories. Details Jung's contributions to
alchemy, astrology, psychotherapy, religion, the study of
myth, and the theory known as synchronicity. 1996.

Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II: 101 More Stories of
Life, Love, and Learning RC 47252
compiled by Jack Canfield and others 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Poems, stories, and anecdotes written by teenagers are
arranged by theme including relationships, friends and
family, growing up, and making a difference. Sequel to
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul (RC 44853). For senior
high and older readers. Bestseller 1998.

Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom RC 47571
by William Glasser 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Psychiatrist asserts that most human problems--including
violence, addictions, and abuse--are caused by flawed
relationships and by people who presume to know "what is
right for us." He advocates "choice theory" as an approach
to help people to develop healthy associations and lives.
1998.

Dealing with People You Can't Stand: How to Bring Out the
Best in People at Their Worst RC 47664
by Rick Brinkman and Rick Kirschner 
read by Barbara Pinolini
2 cassettes
A guide to interacting with people whose behavior patterns
try one's patience. Describes and analyzes the "ten most
unwanted" character types, offering strategies and
communication techniques for dealing with them. Gives advice
to help people manage their own difficult behaviors. 1994.

Don't Say Yes When You Want to Say No RC 48174
by Herbert Fensterheim and Jean Baer 
read by Terence Aselford
2 cassettes (Reissue)
Distinguishes between assertiveness and aggression, and
shows how ineffective behavior patterns can be changed.
Offers techniques for standing up for individual rights,
expressing feelings, and coping with fears. Includes
suggestions on dealing with intimacy and sexual problems,
diet and lifestyle, and workplace issues. 1975.

The Dreamer's Companion: A Young Person's Guide to
Understanding Dreams and Using Them Creatively RC 47894
by Stephen Phillip Policoff 
read by Lindsay Ellison
1 cassette
Introduction to the science and mythology of dreaming,
including theories of Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, and others.
Explains causes and interpretations of childhood nightmares
and the role of neurochemicals. Offers suggestions such as
keeping diaries and joining discussion groups to make
creative use of dreams. For senior high and older readers.
1997.

Emotional Resilience: Simple Truths for Dealing with the
Unfinished Business of Your Past RC 47431
by David Viscott 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
The author, a psychiatrist, offers a ten-step program that
he contends will lead to emotional healing. Discusses
mourning, defense mechanisms, personality types, and "toxic"
nostalgia. 1996.

Finding Flow: The Psychology of Engagement with Everyday
Life RC 47088
by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi 
read by Randy Davidson
1 cassette
Advises taking charge of one's life by choosing activities
that engage the entire body and the mind. The author
describes "flow" as a source of psychic energy that focuses
attention and motivates people to act. Argues that using
individual initiative and personal choice leads to a more
interesting existence. 1997.

Finish Strong: Living the Values That Take You the Distance
RC 43654
by Richard G. Capen 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Capen identifies personal values that lead to success and
that benefit family and community. Each chapter focuses on a
specific value--such as character, humility, and optimism--
and includes comments from political, business, and
spiritual leaders like Barbara Jordan and John Gardner.
1996.

Grow Up! How Taking Responsibility Can Make You a Happy
Adult RC 47368
by Frank Pittman 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A psychiatrist depicts the traits that lead people to
happiness as adults--mainly by becoming responsible. He
laments the collapse of patriarchy and the rise of a
narcissistic society that has led to a nation of victims.
Discusses marriage, parenting, divorce, and how to become a
grown-up man or woman. 1998.

Grown-Up Children, Grown-Up Parents: Opening the Door to
Healthy Relationships between Parents and Adult Children RC
47460
by Phyllis Lieber and others 
read by Miriam Wagner
2 cassettes
Discusses methods of obtaining a healthy relationship with
one's grown children while pursuing personal interests.
Proposes ways to prevent co-dependence and to accept
changing lifestyles for both generations. 1994.

He's Scared, She's Scared: Understanding the Hidden Fears
That Sabotage Your Relationships RC 47559
by Steven Carter and Julia Sokol 
read by Kristin Allison
3 cassettes
Explores issues and anxieties about individual commitment
that prevent people from finding or keeping the love they
need. Examines why people may be afraid of a serious ongoing
relationship, differentiates between male and female fears,
and suggests ways to resolve conflicts. Uses case studies to
illustrate problems and solutions. 1993.

Helping Your Depressed Teenager: A Guide for Parents and 
Caregivers RC 47166
by Gerald D. Oster and Sarah S. Montgomery 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Guide to the symptoms and various treatments available for
teenagers dealing with depression. Discusses the difference
between typical teen behavior and serious psychological
depression. Includes information on suicide, substance
abuse, sexuality, and inheritable conditions. 1995.

How to Get What You Want and Want What You Have: A Practical
and Spiritual Guide to Personal Success RC 48106
by John Gray 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
The author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus (RC
35918) discusses ways to become happy and confident. A
former monk, Gray analyzes behavior that helps individuals
to succeed and offers advice on stress management and
negative emotions. Includes meditation instruction with
practice exercises. Bestseller 1999.

How We Grieve: Relearning the World RC 48247
by Thomas Attig 
read by Kerry Cundiff
2 cassettes
A philosopher discusses the concept of grieving using
examples to illustrate how people mourn and how life is
reshaped after the death of a loved one. 1996.

Life Strategies: Doing What Works, Doing What Matters RC
47962
by Phillip C. McGraw 
read by Brian Conn
2 cassettes
Behavioral scientist McGraw, an advisor to Oprah Winfrey,
demonstrates how to take control of your life: assume
responsibility for past actions, change bad habits, and
reverse negative conditioning to prepare the mind and body
for greater happiness. Describes ten "life laws" that
improve the chances of success. Bestseller 1999.

Living with Death and Dying: How to Communicate with the
Terminally Ill RC 48207
by Elisabeth Kbler-Ross 
read by John Richardson
2 cassettes (Reissue)
The author of On Death and Dying (RC 47351), a physician,
suggests ways in which the death of a family member can be a
positive, meaningful experience--even for children. She
advocates open expressions of feelings of denial, fear,
anger, and guilt to help people face the imminent loss of a
loved one. 1981.

Mars and Venus Starting Over: A Practical Guide for Finding
Love Again after a Painful Breakup, Divorce, or the Loss of
a Loved One RC 47134
by John Gray 
read by Erik Sandvold
2 cassettes
The author of Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus (RC
35918) offers suggestions on opening one's self to love
after the death of a mate or after a divorce. Describes the
healing process common to both men and women. Explains the
differences in the ways males and females resolve loss.
Bestseller 1998.

Napoleon Hill's Keys to Success: The Seventeen Principles of
Personal Achievement RC 47975
by Napoleon Hill 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
The documented experience and writings of the author are
updated with business success stories. Suggests ways to
create an attractive personality and establish a positive
mental attitude. 1994.

On Death and Dying RC 47351
by Elisabeth Kbler-Ross 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes (Reissue)
A physician and psychiatrist contends that societal changes
have created a fear of death at a time when the aging
population needs to understand and contend with it. The
doctor summarizes coping mechanisms that help terminally ill
people to achieve acceptance and to find hope. Discusses
family issues and therapy. 1969.

One Day My Soul Just Opened Up: Forty Days and Forty Nights
Towards Spiritual Strength and Personal Growth RC 48199
by Iyanla Vanzant 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Spiritual readings and exercises that offer a way to find
peace through contemplation and writing journal entries.
Examples from the author's life illustrate how she worked
through emotional pain and distress to achieve a more
balanced perspective on life. Bestseller 1998.

A Piaget Primer: How a Child Thinks RC 47442
by Dorothy G. Singer and Tracey A. Revenson 
read by Kimberly Schraf
2 cassettes
An introduction in nontechnical language to Piaget's theory
of cognitive development. Explores the development of
intelligence, language, and both numerical and ethical
concepts. Uses comic strips and quotes passages from
children's literature to clarify major points. Concludes
with a discussion on applying Piaget's theory in learning
situations. 1996.

A Simple Program: A Contemporary Translation of the Book
Alcoholics Anonymous RC 47614
by J 
read by Patricia McDermott
1 cassette
This revision of Alcoholics Anonymous, first published in
1939, uses modern language without gender or relationship
assumptions. Explains alcoholism and AA's twelve-step method
of recovery. In AA tradition, the author remains anonymous.
1996.

Straight Talk about Death and Dying RC 48747
by Robert DiGiulio and Rachel Kranz 
read by Bill Wallace
1 cassette
Discusses attitudes toward death in the United States. Uses
three case studies about teenagers coping with death to
provide self-help tips. Explains Dr. Elisabeth Kbler-Ross's
five-stage theory of coming to terms with dying. Includes
advice on obtaining further information. For junior and
senior high readers. 1995.

Straight Talk about Death for Teenagers: How to Cope with
Losing Someone You Love RC 48899
by Earl A. Grollman 
read by Bill Wallace
1 cassette
Discusses ways to cope after the death of a loved one.
Examines the different stages of grieving and how to resume
one's own life. Includes samples of exercises to assist in
expressing emotions. For senior high and older readers.
1993.

Survival Stories: Memoirs of Crisis RC 47180
edited by Kathryn Rhett 
read by Pam Ward
3 cassettes
Anthology of twenty-two pieces by American writers each
articulating a personal crisis. Selected from already
published sources for their power to convey such emotional
experiences as death, divorce, and suicidal depression.
Authors include Jamaica Kincaid, Alan Shapiro, William
Styron, and Isabel Allende. 1997.

Unstoppable: Forty-five Powerful Stories of Perseverance and
Triumph from People Just Like You RC 48249
by Cynthia Kersey 
read by Jack Fox
2 cassettes
Examples of people who have overcome supposedly
insurmountable odds to succeed in their goals. Discusses
seven characteristics common to each. Includes Anita
Roddick, who created The Body Shop chain of natural
cosmetics stores without advertising, and Tom Monaghan, who
founded Domino's Pizza despite numerous bankruptcies. 1998.

What Do You Stand For? A Kid's Guide to Building Character
RC 47579
by Barbara A. Lewis 
read by Randy Davidson
4 cassettes
Advice on developing character traits such as a positive
attitude, imagination, courage, citizenship, endurance, and
empathy. Includes teen profiles, self inventories, and
character dilemmas to ponder. Provides suggested readings
and activities and a list of web sites. For junior and
senior high readers. 1998.

Where's Your Head? Psychology for Teenagers RC 47878
by Dale Carlson and Hannah Carlson 
read by Liz Solar
2 cassettes
The authors discuss what psychology is and how young people
can use it to understand their own adolescence. Discusses
the major theories of psychology and their founders, mental
illness, different forms of therapy, and how to cope with
growing up. Revised edition of book originally published in
1977. For junior and senior high readers. 1998.

Yesterday, I Cried: Celebrating the Lessons of Living and
Loving RC 48444
by Iyanla Vanzant 
read by Margaret Strom
3 cassettes
An empowerment specialist and ordained minister, Vanzant
offers help in turning painful situations into learning
experiences. She discusses the various pains she has endured
and the fact that crying about them can allow healing to
begin. She encourages celebrating life each and every day.
Bestseller 1998.

Religion

All Saints: Daily Reflections on Saints, Prophets, and
Witnesses for Our Time RC 46628
by Robert Ellsberg 
read by Anne Hancock
6 cassettes
A hagiography of ancient and modern "men and women whose
lives and messages . . . speak to the spiritual needs of our
day." Profiles formally canonized saints and others who
evinced "heroic sanctity," such as Mohandas Gandhi, Anne
Frank, and Cesar Chavez. 1997.

Amazing Grace: A Vocabulary of Faith RC 47755
by Kathleen Norris 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
3 cassettes
Traces the author's conversion through reconciliation with
theological terminology. Proposes that belief in a living
Christ and the use of ancient words and rituals continually
help the church renew itself. Explores the meaning of
Christian expressions, concluding that religious language is
active and meaningful. 1998.

The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living RC 47827
by Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes
Following conversations with the Dalai Lama, psychiatrist
Cutler presents the Buddhist leader's methods for
maintaining happiness. The Dalai Lama's basic belief is hope
and connectedness. He offers genuine and lasting inner peace
through trust in the fundamental gentleness and goodness of
all human beings, compassion, and a policy of kindness.
Bestseller 1998.

Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions among the Converted
Peoples RC 47472
by V.S. Naipaul 
read by John Horton
3 cassettes
Personal accounts of people encountered by Naipaul during
his travels in four non-Arab Muslim countries--Indonesia,
Iran, Pakistan, and Malaysia--for five months in 1995. He
contends that these stories reveal the effects of Islamic
conversion on the national culture. Companion to Among the
Believers (RC 17364). 1998.

Conversations with God: An Uncommon Dialogue, Book 3 RC
47255
by Neale Donald Walsch 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
In Conversations with God, Book 1 (RC 44643), Walsch
discussed individual truths, and in Book 2 (RC 44644),
global truths. In this volume, which deals with universal
truths, Walsch answers such questions as "What is time?"
"What happens when you die?" and "What will be the fate of
the planet?" Bestseller 1998.

The Curse of Cain: The Violent Legacy of Monotheism RC 47635
by Regina M. Schwartz 
read by Connie Crawford
2 cassettes
Examines the biblical story of Cain and Abel in an attempt
to trace the roots of twentieth-century national violence to
the concept of group identity formation. Argues that a
collective self-image may spawn conflict in a time of
perceived scarcity, and links these ideas to theological
portrayals of God as a withholder rather than a provider.
1997.

Decoding the Bible Code RC 48205
by John Weldon 
read by Bruce Huntey
1 cassette
Explores the popular theory of a hidden Bible message, a
"cryptogram set by the Almighty." Examines evidence and
research, as well as arguments of critics who deny the
phenomenon. Discusses problems with the code and warns
against improper use. 1998.

Don't Know Much about the Bible: Everything You Need to Know
about the Good Book but Never Learned RC 48042
by Kenneth C. Davis 
read by Margaret Strom
4 cassettes
Examines the culture and environment in which the Bible was
written and explores the Good Book by placing some of its
accounts in historical perspective. Details views on when
and by whom the Old and New Testaments were written and how
other traditions influenced their contents and structure.
1998.

Entering the Silence: Becoming a Monk and Writer; the
Journals of Thomas Merton, Volume 2, 1941-1952 RC 46167
by Thomas Merton 
read by Gordon Gould
5 cassettes
In these diaries the author tells of entering the novitiate
and adjusting to the ascetic Trappist regimen. His comments
reveal his early impressions of the monastery, the conflict
he felt between writing and contemplation, and his embrace
of prayer and solitude as a way of life. 1996.

Faith in Sports: Athletes and Their Religion on and off the
Field RC 47808
by Steve Hubbard 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Explores the religious revival openly demonstrated by many
professional athletes in the 1990s. Discusses the Christian
"God Squad" and devout Muslims, Buddhists, and Jews
participating in American sports. Presents personal views of
major players on the importance of religion in their lives.
1998.

From the Holy Mountain: A Journey among the Christians of
the Middle East RC 48012
by William Dalrymple 
read by Roy Avers
4 cassettes
Inspired by the journey of Orthodox monk John Moschos in
A.D. 578, the author recreates his itinerary, visiting
Christian monasteries and churches at the eastern end of the
Mediterranean. Describes his travels and his conversations
with religious figures and laypeople to gain insight into a
vanishing culture within the Muslim world. 1997.

God among the Shakers: A Search for Stillness and Faith at
Sabbathday Lake RC 47781
by Suzanne Skees 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
2 cassettes
A "cynical, worldly" woman recounts her experience of
sharing "a bit of life with the last eight Shakers" at
Sabbathday Lake farm in Maine. Traces the history of the
devout Christian community known for its simplicity,
celibacy, and relations with the spirit world. Offers a
perspective on the dying sect. 1998.

God: The Evidence; the Reconciliation of Faith and Reason in
a Postsecular World RC 47421
by Patrick Glynn 
read by Randy Atcher
1 cassette
Chronicles a trend away from atheism and details the
correlation between religious commitment, mental health,
physical health, and morality. Examines scientific, medical,
and psychological studies that corroborate the author's
belief in the existence of soul and God. 1997.

The Greening of Faith: God, the Environment, and the Good
Life RC 47788
edited by John Carroll and others 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Examines the relationship between religion and the
environment. The essays are written by representatives of
different faiths including Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist,
Jewish, and Native American religions. Urges readers to
simplify and to respect the earth. 1997.

The Human Christ: The Search for the Historical Jesus RC
47662
by Charlotte Allen 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
A scholarly perspective on the various historical figures
and intellectual movements that have used Jesus "as a
vehicle for some of the best and worst ideas of Western
civilization over the past 2,000 years." Avers that Jesus-
searchers have tended to emphasize an image of Jesus that
reflects their own aims and views. 1998.

Initiation: A Woman's Spiritual Adventure in the Heart of
the Andes RC 46200
by Elizabeth B. Jenkins 
read by Laura Giannarelli
2 cassettes
Memoir of an American woman's mystical odyssey in the
Peruvian Andes. Describes her encounters with mountain
spirits, her spiritual awakening under the guidance of
Q'eros priests, and her initiation into the religious
tradition of the Incas. 1997.

Joyful Noise: The New Testament Revisited RC 48365
edited by Rick Moody and Darcey Steinke 
read by Kerry Cundiff
2 cassettes
Twenty-one writers offer their personal views on the New
Testament and Christianity. Their essays explore the meaning
of faith and spirituality for the younger generation in the
last part of the twentieth century. Authors include Madison
Smartt Bell, Benjamin Cheever, bell hooks, Ann Patchett, and
Stephen Westfall. 1997.

Just like Jesus RC 48578
by Max Lucado 
read by Bill Wallace
1 cassette
The author uses analogies and scripture to lead people into
behaving like Jesus in their daily lives and their
relationships. Behavior changes are possible, he contends,
and one can eliminate guilt, bad habits, fear, and anxiety
by following Jesus' example. Includes a study guide. 1998.

Kaddish RC 47043
by Leon Wieseltier 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
4 cassettes
Wieseltier had not lived according to Jewish law for more
than twenty years. Yet when his father died in 1996,
Wieseltier recited the mourner's kaddish and continued to do
so three times a day for a year. He also began to question
what he was saying and why. This spiritual journal recounts
his inquiry into the origins and meanings of the kaddish and
of his responsibility to his parents and to the past.
Bestseller 1998.

The Living of Maisie Ward RC 48170
by Dana Greene 
read by Annie Wauters
2 cassettes
Traces the development of a major figure in twentieth-
century Catholicism. Describes Ward's upbringing in England,
activities in the Catholic Evidence Guild, publication of
works by authors of the Church, translations of writings of
European theologians, and foundation of the Catholic Housing
Aid Society. 1997.

Man of the Century: The Life and Times of Pope John Paul II
RC 46403
by Jonathan Kwitny 
read by Peter Gil
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Portrays Pope John Paul II as a man who has uniquely touched
and been touched by great events of the twentieth century.
Discusses his theology, philosophy, and moral principles,
describing his active efforts to promote his beliefs
publicly. Avers that he was a primary influence in the
collapse of Soviet communism. 1997.

The Message and the Kingdom: How Jesus and Paul Ignited a
Revolution and Transformed the Ancient World RC 47641
by Richard A. Horsley and Neil Asher Silberman 
read by Connie Crawford
3 cassettes
Two historians trace connections between religion and
politics in ancient times, relying in part on first-century
archaeological evidence. They argue that early Christianity
challenged a government that preached personal achievement
and self-reliance but denied most of its subjects
opportunities for advancement. 1997.

Moses: A Life RC 47585
by Jonathan Kirsch 
read by Fred Major
4 cassettes
A reexamination of what is known about the biblical leader
in order to portray him as a real, human person. Focuses on
scriptural accounts of his actions, prophecies, and
relationship with God to counter some exaggerated historical
and artistic interpretations. 1998.

Mother Teresa: A Complete Authorized Biography RC 47315
by Kathryn Spink 
read by Yolande Bavan
3 cassettes
The life of the nun who was born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu in
Skopje, Macedonia, in 1910. Mother Teresa's work in
Calcutta--helping the poor, those with leprosy and other
illnesses, and abandoned and orphaned children--earned her
the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 and worldwide recognition long
before her death in 1997. 1997.

Paul: The Mind of the Apostle RC 44964
by A.N. Wilson 
read by Don Feldheim
3 cassettes
A portrait of Paul, the early Jewish convert to
Christianity, whose written and spoken words served to
advance and popularize the new faith. Traces his travels
around the Roman Empire spreading Christ's word and
proselytizing. Discusses the teachings set forth in Paul's
epistles. 1997.

Paul: The Mind of the Apostle RC 44964
by A.N. Wilson 
read by Don Feldheim
3 cassettes
A portrait of Paul, the early Jewish convert to
Christianity, whose written and spoken words served to
advance and popularize the new faith. Traces his travels
around the Roman Empire spreading Christ's word and
proselytizing. Discusses the teachings set forth in Paul's
epistles. 1997.

Presences: A Bishop's Life in the City RC 47584
by Paul Moore 
read by Andy Chappell
3 cassettes
An Episcopal bishop reflects on how faith, family, war,
activism, and commitment to underprivileged people have
shaped his life. Discusses his belief in God's presence and
examines the importance of the church's mission as a witness
against injustices in the world. 1997.

Reaching to Heaven: A Spiritual Journey through Life and
Death RC 48403
by James Van Praagh 
read by Anne Hancock
1 cassette
Spiritual medium Van Praagh's guidebook for charting the
soul's journey through life, death, and rebirth. He
discusses what it means to be spiritual, encourages 
reexamination of earthly illusions, and demonstrates taking
charge of one's life. Companion to Talking to Heaven (RC
45101). Bestseller 1999.

Run to the Mountain: The Story of a Vocation; the Journals
of Thomas Merton, Volume 1, 1939-1941 RC 45953
by Thomas Merton 
read by Gordon Gould
5 cassettes
This volume of Merton's diaries recalls events as America
stands on the brink of war and the author, on the threshold
of a religious vocation. Entries describe the intellectual
and quotidian life of the young writer and college
instructor, and his spiritual journey from the secular world
to monastic seclusion. 1995.

A Search for Solitude: Pursuing the Monk's True Life; the
Journals of Thomas Merton, Volume 3, 1952-1960 RC 46803
by Thomas Merton 
read by Gordon Gould
4 cassettes
In these diaries the author reflects on the monastic life,
his spiritual and intellectual interests, and his personal
struggles to balance solitude with social action outside the
monastery. Offers observations on nature, religion, and
philosophy. 1996.

Shopping for Faith: American Religion in the New Millennium
RC 48620
by Richard Cimino and Don Lattin 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
The authors contend that the United States is one of the
world's most religious countries, with ninety-five percent
of the population believing in God. Americans, however, view
religion as another commodity and shop for a church that
fulfills them spiritually regardless of its doctrine. Offers
predictions on the future of religion. 1998.

The Ten Commandments: The Significance of God's Laws in
Everyday Life RC 46912
by Laura Schlessinger and Stewart Vogel 
read by Susan Nardone
3 cassettes
With the help of a rabbi, Dr. Laura, a syndicated radio
talk-show therapist, explains the importance of each of the
Ten Commandments in late-1990s society. Using quotations
from both the Old and New Testament, she reinforces the
concepts that are the basis for Western civilization.
Bestseller 1998.

Thomas Merton: Poet, Prophet, Priest RC 47557
by Jennifer Fisher Bryant 
read by Jake Williams
1 cassette
Portrait of a troubled youth's spiritual journey from a life
of dissolute pleasure to the ascetic seclusion of a Trappist
monastery. Describes his difficult childhood, his conversion
to Catholicism, his monastic life, and his years as a writer
and social activist. For junior and senior high readers.
1997.

Traveling Mercies: Some Thoughts on Faith RC 47831
by Anne Lamott 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
2 cassettes
Lamott first relates her childhood and her vacillation with
Christianity, and describes the night of her conversion
following an abortion and a week of drugs and alcohol. She
then explains how she continues to struggle with the faith
that now sustains her. Some strong language. Bestseller
1999.

Science and Technology

American Railroads RC 48484
by John F. Stover 
read by Robert Sams
2 cassettes
Portrays the vital role of railroads in the economy and
development of the nation. Includes the immeasurable service
trains provided in the Civil War and both world wars.
Recounts the emergence of trucks and airplanes during the
1950s until the establishment of Amtrak and renewed freight
traffic. Foreword by Daniel J. Boorstin. 1997.

The Cosmological Milkshake: A Semi-Serious Look at the Size
of Things RC 47893
by Robert Ehrlich 
read by Ken Kliban
2 cassettes
A physicist's humorous short essays concerning the size,
weight, and distance of objects. Answers such questions as
"How Tall Can Trees Grow?" "How Far Is the Sun?" and "What
Does Air Weigh?" 1994.

Dreamland: Travels inside the Secret World of Roswell and
Area Fifty-One RC 47952
by Phil Patton 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
Patton provides background on planes such as the U-2, the
SR-71 Blackbird, and the F-117 Stealth fighter--all
developed in Area 51, formerly a top-secret air base in
Nevada that is also called Dreamland. He suggests that test
flights staged there may account for supposed UFO sightings.
1998.

The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions, and
the Quest for the Ultimate Theory RC 48203
by Brian Greene 
read by Butch Hoover
4 cassettes
Explains research on the fundamental laws of the universe
and the search for a single theory capable of describing all
physical phenomena. Discusses the major achievements of
physics since Einstein and Heisenberg. Summarizes special
relativity, general relativity, quantum mechanics, and
string theory. Bestseller 1999.

Fermat's Enigma: The Epic Quest to Solve the World's
Greatest Mathematical Problem RC 48338
by Simon Singh 
read by Bruce Huntey
2 cassettes
Chronicles historical developments in mathematics from the
work of Pythagoras in ancient Greece to that of Pierre de
Fermat in seventeenth-century France. Describes Fermat's
arrival at a profound riddle in his discipline and others'
efforts to explain his hypothesis. Details Andrew Wiles's
eight-year ordeal and his history-making success in 1995.
1997.

The Genius of China: Three Thousand Years of Science,
Discovery, and Invention RC 47818
by Robert Temple 
read by Mary Kane
3 cassettes
Reveals the Chinese origins of such "modern" inventions as
paper and printing, gunpowder, and the magnetic compass.
Temple's eleven topics--including astronomy, engineering,
medicine, and warfare--provide historical context and show
that more than half of the basic discoveries considered
"Western" were developed earlier in China. 1986.

Global Warming: Opposing Viewpoints RC 48081
edited by Tamara L. Roleff and others 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
2 cassettes
The opposing viewpoints in this volume concern the
environment. Scientists debate the causes and effects of
global warming, whether it poses a serious threat to human
life, and how to preserve the rain forests that are
endangered by slowly rising temperatures. For junior and
senior high and older readers. 1997.

How the New Technology Works: A Guide to High-Tech Concepts
RC 47726
by Robert J. Cone and Patricia Barnes-Svarney 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Explains the concepts and operating principles behind
seventeen high-tech devices and systems that affect daily
life. Covers electromagnetism, communications, and
measurement concepts, discussing their development,
applications, and future prospects. For junior and senior
high and older readers. 1998.

Is the Temperature Rising? The Uncertain Science of Global
Warming RC 47135
by S. George Philander 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
A scientific probe of global warming, which involves the
Earth's ability to adjust to an atmospheric concentration of
greenhouse gases that result from industrial and
agricultural activities. Explains the complex processes
involved and argues the case for prompt action. 1998.

Isaac Newton: The Last Sorcerer RC 48163
by Michael White 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
Depicts Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) as a scientist who
researched the universe by studying biblical prophecy,
astrology, and magic. Traces his youth in Grantham and years
at Cambridge. Discusses how alchemy helped him to invent
calculus, conceive the laws of motion and gravity, and
investigate optics. 1997.

Living with Our Genes: Why They Matter More Than You Think
RC 47085
by Dean Hamer and Peter Copeland 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A geneticist explores the links between DNA and a person's
temperament. Avers that specific genes predispose
individuals toward anxiety, thrill-seeking, violence,
homosexuality, and addiction. Cautions that our genes
influence who we are but do not predestine our lives. 1998.

The Man Who Loved Only Numbers: The Story of Paul Erds and
the Search for Mathematical Truth RC 48056
by Paul Hoffman 
read by Michael Scherer
2 cassettes
Biography of the Hungarian mathematical genius. Hoffman
combines factual details and colleagues' anecdotes to
describe the man who devoted his life to providing solutions
to the most difficult problems in his field. Examines
Erdos's focus on numbers and his lack of personal interests
outside his intellectual sphere. 1998.

101 Things You Don't Know about Science and No One Else Does
Either RC 47284
by James Trefil 
read by Kimberly Schraf
2 cassettes
The author, an educator and National Public Radio
commentator, presents short essays on scientific topics. He
considers questions being researched in the 1990s such as:
Is the climate getting warmer? Can humans live forever? What
causes cancer? He then summarizes the progress that has been
made. For senior high and older readers. 1996.

1001 Things Everyone Should Know about the Universe RC 46891
by William A. Gutsch 
read by Lou Harpeneau
3 cassettes
Facts and comments about the solar system, including
chapters on the sun, the moon, stars, black holes, and the
search for extraterrestrial life. For senior high and older
readers. 1998.

Portraits of Discovery: Profiles in Scientific Genius RC
47791
by George Greenstein 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Examines the lives of ten twentieth-century scientists, some
of whom overcame daunting challenges to achieve recognition
and greatness. Includes portraits of astronomy pioneer Annie
Jump Cannon, atomic theorist Ludwig Boltzmann, and George
Gamow of Big Bang fame. 1998.

Racing to the Beginning of the Road: The Search for the
Origin of Cancer RC 47988
by Robert A. Weinberg 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Biologist Weinberg discusses advances in cancer research,
focusing on known carcinogens and viruses that may
contribute to the development of the disease. He describes
people who are involved in the search for answers, instances
of cooperation and competition for funding, and the dead
ends that often follow promising breakthroughs. 1998.

Remaking the World: Adventures in Engineering RC 47728
by Henry Petroski 
read by Bruce Huntey
2 cassettes
Nineteen essays from American Scientist magazine describing
famous engineers and engineering feats such as the Panama
Canal, the Hoover Dam, and the Channel Tunnel between
England and France. 1997.

Rocket Boys: A Memoir RC 47833
by Homer H. Hickam 
read by John Polk
3 cassettes
Retired NASA engineer reminisces about boyhood in the
Sputnik era in West Virginia when his first rocket attempt
burned down his mother's garden fence. He and his friends
improved their models culminating in winning the 1960
National Science Fair. Movie October Sky is based on this
book. 1998.

The Science of Jurassic Park and The Lost World RC 47940
by Rob DeSalle and David Lindley 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
An examination of scientific theories that were explored in
the popular Jurassic Park (RC 32018) and The Lost World (RC
41160). Investigates the feasibility of producing a dinosaur
using samples of DNA. Reconstructs social behavior of the
prehistoric creatures. For senior high and older readers.
1997.

The Science of The X-Files RC 48475
by Jeanne Cavelos 
read by Margaret Strom
3 cassettes
Describes episodes from the television show and movie The X-
Files and explains the science behind the script. Includes
phenomena like UFOs and aliens, technology including robots
and implants, and unusual disorders such as a contaminated
tattoo that causes the wearer to kill. For senior high and
older readers. 1998.

T. Rex and the Crater of Doom RC 47624
by Walter Alvarez 
read by Norm Thibeault
1 cassette
A geologist recalls the first scientific proposals of the
theory that a large asteroid or comet had collided with
Earth sixty-five million years ago, causing the extinction
of the dinosaurs. Describes the vehement debate that
followed, the accumulation of evidence, and the discovery of
a crater beneath the Yucatan peninsula that appears to
substantiate the impact claim. 1997.

Tainting Evidence: Inside the Scandals at the FBI Crime Lab
RC 48157
by John F. Kelly and Phillip K. Wearne 
read by Bob Moore
3 cassettes
Examines the FBI's crime laboratory and challenges the
reliability of its forensic work. Cites ineptness in solving
several notable criminal cases, including those associated
with O.J. Simpson, the Unabomber, the Ruby Ridge crisis, the
World Trade Center bombing, and the Oklahoma City bombing.
1998.

Taking Wing: Archaeopteryx and the Evolution of Bird Flight
RC 47360
by Pat Shipman 
read by Mary Woods
3 cassettes
Anthropologist discusses the evolution of birds' ability to
fly and attempts to answer the question, "are birds living
relatives of dinosaurs?" Begins with the 1861 discovery of a
fossil with wings and feathers. Delves into the process of
scientific inquiry and the detective work it entails. 1998.

To Seek Out New Life: The Biology of Star Trek RC 48584
by Athena Andreadis 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Uses the original Star Trek television series, spinoffs, and
movies to explain concepts in bioscience. Investigates the
probability of other life-forms in the universe. Discusses
human immortality, the transporter, and the universal
translator as well as cloning, robots, and virtual reality.
1998.

To the Young Scientist: Reflections on Doing and Living
Science RC 47630
by Alfred B. Bortz 
read by Liz Solar
1 cassette
Scientists working in various fields present their
viewpoints on scientific careers, their personal interests,
and why they chose a particular discipline. Includes an
anthropologist, an astronomer, chemists, engineers, and
geneticists. For junior and senior high readers. 1997.

The Universe and the Teacup: The Mathematics of Truth and
Beauty RC 46769
by K.C. Cole 
read by Kimberly Schraf
2 cassettes
Explores mathematics as a tool for understanding nature,
solving problems, and discerning knowledge and truth. Delves
into such uses as the statistical estimation of risk, the
measurement of intelligence, and the application of
numerical calculations in public policy decision making.
1998.

Venus Revealed: A New Look below the Clouds of Our
Mysterious Twin Planet RC 46319
by David Harry Grinspoon 
read by Len Mailloux
3 cassettes
Reviews the evolving concepts about the planet Venus from
early mythological associations to modern scientific
discoveries. The author, who worked on the 1990 Magellan
space probe, describes the task of mapping the surface of
Venus and explains the hostile environment of a planet that
is much less like the Earth than once believed. 1997.

The Victorian Internet: The Remarkable Story of the
Telegraph and the Nineteenth-Century's On-Line Pioneers RC
47958
by Tom Standage 
read by Randy Atcher
1 cassette
History of the invention of the telegraph, which was the
technological marvel of its time. Describes how the machine
changed the way the world operated, including its direct
effects on warfare, espionage, and love affairs. Provides
anecdotes about the inventors, hackers, and cheats. 1998.

What Remains to Be Discovered: Mapping the Secrets of the
Universe, the Origins of Life, and the Future of the Human
Race RC 47743
by John Maddox 
read by Butch Hoover
3 cassettes
Presents a "survey of outstanding problems in science" and
an agenda for future discovery. Reviews science history,
including key findings in physics, cosmology, and life
science. Assesses potential risks from global warming and
other threats of nature. 1998.

Wings and Warriors: My Life as a Naval Aviator RC 46955
by Donald D. Engen 
read by Jeff Baker
4 cassettes
Memoir of a naval aviator over "twenty-five years of
technological and flying development in the U.S. Navy from
the 1940s into the 1960s." Traces the integration of jet
aircraft into naval operations, describing how jets have
transformed aviation warfare. 1997.

Social Sciences

Another Country: Navigating the Emotional Terrain of Our
Elders RC 47836
by Mary Pipher 
read by Catherine Byers
2 cassettes
A psychologist uses examples from her practice to study
aging in American society. Contends that families need to
become involved in their elders' lives in order to preserve
a sense of community. Deplores the segregation of
generations. Suggests ways to grow old gracefully and to
cope with dying parents. Bestseller 1999.

Buzz: The Science and Lore of Alcohol and Caffeine RC 47152
by Stephen Braun 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Explains how two popular substances, alcohol and caffeine,
work in the human body and their effect on the brain.
Describes cultural differences in attitudes toward the two
chemicals and individual variations in response to their
consumption. 1996.

Consumer Rites: The Buying and Selling of American Holidays
RC 47371
by Leigh Eric Schmidt 
read by Anne Hancock
3 cassettes
A social study of the origin and evolution of U.S. holidays
into highly commercialized events that clash with religious
practices and the original intent. Includes chapters on
Christmas and Easter, and covers Mother's, Father's, and St.
Valentine's Days, as well as Halloween. Provides brief
information on recent innovations such as Kwanzaa and Earth
Day. 1995.

The Curse of Cain: The Violent Legacy of Monotheism RC 47635
by Regina M. Schwartz 
read by Connie Crawford
2 cassettes
Examines the biblical story of Cain and Abel in an attempt
to trace the roots of twentieth-century national violence to
the concept of group identity formation. Argues that a
collective self-image may spawn conflict in a time of
perceived scarcity, and links these ideas to theological
portrayals of God as a withholder rather than a provider.
1997.

The Geography of Nowhere: The Rise and Decline of America's
Man-Made Landscape RC 46797
by James Howard Kunstler 
read by Barry Bernson
2 cassettes
Examines the evolution of the American landscape and how it
has changed since the arrival of the automobile. Kunstler
argues that the car has done away with downtown Main Streets
and coherent communities, and he explores the social,
spiritual, and economic impacts on human lives. Prequel to
Home from Nowhere (RC 46798). 1993.

Home from Nowhere: Remaking Our Everyday World for the
Twenty-First Century RC 46798
by James Howard Kunstler 
read by Barry Bernson
2 cassettes
In this sequel to The Geography of Nowhere (RC 46797),
Kunstler assails America's architectural environment in
which suburbs are "profoundly uncivil" and cities are "empty
shells." He calls for remaking our flawed surroundings to be
conducive to a more civil society. Strong language. 1996.

How Alcoholics Anonymous Failed Me: My Personal Journey to
Sobriety through Self-Empowerment RC 48143
by Marianne W. Gilliam 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
2 cassettes
Gilliam advocates a holistic, spiritual approach to
addiction that leads to permanent recovery. She draws on her
experience as an alcoholic and drug addict for half of her
life and her failure with Alcoholics Anonymous and other
groups. Includes a directory of alternatives to twelve-step
programs. 1998.

The Lost Tomb RC 47513
by Kent R. Weeks 
read by Gary Telles
3 cassettes
The personal account of an American Egyptologist's discovery
and excavation of the largest tomb in the Valley of the
Kings. Weeks describes his 1995 entry into a multichambered
burial site that some consider the most important
archaeological find of the twentieth century. He discusses
the new revelations about the sons of Ramesses II, stressing
that there is more to be explored. 1998.

The Magic Kingdom: Walt Disney and the American Way of Life
RC 46970
by Steven Watts 
read by Steven Carpenter
4 cassettes
Both a biography of Walt Disney and a social study of the
Disney enterprise and its influence on American values.
Traces Disney's family, the growth of his company, and the
cultural impact of the multi-billion-dollar corporation.
1997.

Miss Manners' Basic Training: The Right Thing to Say RC
46964
by Judith Martin 
read by Barbara Pinolini
1 cassette
Martin asserts that in the 1990s people often feel compelled
to say too much in an effort to be honest. She offers advice
on how to respond to such thoughtless remarks in areas such
as a death, an engagement, a pregnancy, or a divorce. She
also discusses rudeness in the workplace and among the
general public. 1998.

A Nation of Victims: The Decay of the American Character RC
47739
by Charles J. Sykes 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
The author contends that with the rise of psychology,
Americans have become a nation of "whiners" who abandon
personal responsibility. Self-help groups abound, and blame
is placed everywhere except on the individual. Uses numerous
examples of absurd court cases where victimization is the
standard. Asserts that political correctness also negates
moral responsibility and hard work. 1992.

One Nation, after All: What Middle-Class Americans Really
Think about God, Country, Family, Racism, Welfare,
Immigration, Homosexuality, Work, the Right, the Left, and
Each Other RC 47639
by Alan Wolfe 
read by Dan Bloom
3 cassettes
A sociologist surveys American middle-class views on a range
of controversial public concerns. Refutes the belief that
Americans are politically polarized and asserts that the
majority of people are closely aligned on most issues. 1998.

Report from Engine Co. 82 RC 48762
by Dennis Smith 
read by Jim Zeiger
2 cassettes (Reissue)
Recounts the experiences of Fireman First-Grade Dennis Smith
and his colleagues in the New York City Fire Department.  In
the South Bronx,  the crew not only fights fires but handles
drug overdose cases, settles marital spats, breaks up
brawls, and waters down the streets on hot summer nights.
Bestseller 1972.

The Right Women: A Journey through the Heart of Conservative
America RC 48734
by Elinor Burkett 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Examines the status and impact of feminism in the United
States. For two years Burkett traveled across the country
conducting interviews outside the mainstream women's
movement. She finds that many who reject official feminist
dogma are, nonetheless, able to make nontraditional choices
about their own lives.  Strong language. 1998.

Sensible Justice: Alternatives to Prison RC 47336
by David C. Anderson 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Discusses a variety of rehabilitative programs being used as
less costly alternatives to imprisoning criminals. Analyzes
the effectiveness of such sanctions as house arrest,
community service, military-style boot camps, and various
therapeutic regimes. 1998.

Shopping for Faith: American Religion in the New Millennium
RC 48620
by Richard Cimino and Don Lattin 
read by Rick Rohan
2 cassettes
The authors contend that the United States is one of the
world's most religious countries, with ninety-five percent
of the population believing in God. Americans, however, view
religion as another commodity and shop for a church that
fulfills them spiritually regardless of its doctrine. Offers
predictions on the future of religion. 1998.

Stiffed: The Betrayal of the American Man RC 48820
by Susan Faludi 
read by Annie Wauters
6 cassettes
Prize-winning journalist reassesses the masculine role in
U.S. society. Focuses on men born after World War II who
feel angry at the discrepancy between perceived promises and
the reality of their existence. Begins at a domestic
violence meeting and progresses to numerous interviews with
individuals in a wide range of occupations. Bestseller 1999.

Unafraid of the Dark: A Memoir RC 48191
by Rosemary L. Bray 
read by Michele Schaeffer
2 cassettes
Autobiography of a successful writer who grew up in the
Chicago slums and later attended Yale University. Bray
laments that welfare has been reformed and will no longer
create opportunities for people to achieve. Uses her family
as an example of how welfare helps impoverished women stay
home and care for their children. 1998.

The Virtues of Aging RC 47259
by Jimmy Carter 
read by Michael Consoli
1 cassette
A former U.S. president provides suggestions on how to live
a happy and productive life after retirement. Discusses the
challenges that confront people as they age, including
finances, health, and leisure time. Describes how the
Carters, like millions of others, encountered unpleasant
circumstances and remedied the situations. Bestseller 1998.

Who's Afraid of Human Cloning? RC 46621
by Gregory E. Pence 
read by David Elias
2 cassettes
A professor of philosophy and bioethics writes to allay some
of the fears about cloning, a practice he feels has been
condemned without logical discussion or debate. He examines
misconceptions surrounding cloning and presents arguments
both for and against human asexual reproduction using
religious and scientific rationalizations. 1998.

Why We Watch: The Attractions of Violent Entertainment RC
47762
edited by Jeffrey Goldstein 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Examines the ubiquitous appeal of violent imagery and its
depiction in popular entertainment. Traces the history of
this phenomenon from bloody gladiatorial games of ancient
Rome to graphic films, sports, and video games of the 1990s.
Explores the effects of such brutality on society. 1998.

Wrath of Angels: The American Abortion War RC 47594
by James Risen and Judy L. Thomas 
read by Richard Hauenstein
3 cassettes
Investigates the anti-abortion movement in America since the
1973 Roe v. Wade decision. The authors trace the abortion
issue that evolved from a Catholic anti-killing movement to
a right-wing political agenda. Profiles anti-abortion
militants whose violence, contend the authors, has led to
the failure of the movement. 1998.

You Can't Be Neutral on a Moving Train: A Personal History
of Our Times RC 47809
by Howard Zinn 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Through this book, a veteran anti-war and civil rights
activist responds to an angry student's critical question,
"Why do you live in this country?" The author recounts
experiences from thirty years on the front lines of social
activism, fighting, he claims, "for the country, for the
people." 1994.

Sports and Recreation

American Zoom: Stock Car Racing--from the Dirt Tracks to
Daytona RC 47516
by Peter Golenbock 
read by Robert Sams
5 cassettes
An oral history of stock car racing from the informal
contests between moonshiners to the NASCAR tracks and
corporate sponsors. Includes profiles of the great drivers
and highlights of famous races. 1993.

Baseball: A History of the National Pastime RC 47727
by Mark Stewart 
read by Barry Bernson
2 cassettes
Focuses on baseball's evolution, momentous events, and key
personalities such as Joe DiMaggio, Jackie Robinson, and
Greg Maddux. Examines how social, financial, and
organizational issues influence this sport and why, with its
century and a half of traditions, baseball remains an
important part of American culture. For high school and
older readers. 1998.

The Best American Sports Writing, 1997 RC 46929
edited by George Plimpton 
read by Robert Sams
3 cassettes
Twenty-one articles from 1997 written about sports of all
types. Includes an excerpt on the tragic climbing of Mount
Everest from Jon Krakauer's Into Thin Air (RC 44525), a
piece by Gay Talese on Muhammad Ali in Cuba, and another by
Gary Smith on Tiger Woods. 1997.

Bunts: Curt Flood, Camden Yards, Pete Rose, and Other
Reflections on Baseball RC 48342
by George F. Will 
read by Richard Hauenstein
3 cassettes
Essays from 1974 to 1998 on the sport of baseball. Covers
many aspects of the game, including profiles of
personalities such as Billy Martin, Babe Ruth, and George
Steinbrenner. Includes thoughts on the future of the game.
1998.

Chicken Soup for the Golfer's Soul: 101 Stories of Insight,
Inspiration, and Laughter on the Links RC 48880
by Jack Canfield and others 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Professionals, amateurs, and caddies relate how they were
transformed by the game of golf. They describe making the
impossible shot, getting out of a sand trap, overcoming
obstacles, forging new friendships, and other memories.
Bestseller 1999.

Faith in Sports: Athletes and Their Religion on and off the
Field RC 47808
by Steve Hubbard 
read by Gregory Gorton
2 cassettes
Explores the religious revival openly demonstrated by many
professional athletes in the 1990s. Discusses the Christian
"God Squad" and devout Muslims, Buddhists, and Jews
participating in American sports. Presents personal views of
major players on the importance of religion in their lives.
1998.

Glory for Sale: Fans, Dollars, and the New NFL RC 48645
by Jon Morgan 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
Discusses the economics of football franchises of the 1990s
where even the most loyal owners leave their home bases for
the luxury of a new stadium and the revenue it produces.
Illustrates the big business of sports with the move from
Cleveland to Baltimore by Art Modell in 1995. 1997.

A Great and Glorious Game: Baseball Writings of A. Bartlett
Giamatti RC 47461
by A. Bartlett Giamatti 
read by Bruce Nelson
1 cassette
A collection of nine essays by the former Yale president who
was the commissioner of baseball when he died in 1989. The
articles convey Giamatti's lifelong devotion to the sport
and his belief in the integrity of the game. One essay,
"Baseball and the American Character," interweaves the
history of the country with that of its national pastime.
1998.

High Exposure: An Enduring Passion for Everest and
Unforgiving Places RC 48725
by David Breashears 
read by Peter Jay Fernandez
2 cassettes
Autobiography of American mountaineer and cinematographer
who made the IMAX film Everest in 1996. Discusses his
motivation and recounts many of his hazardous exploits
climbing vertical cliffs and scaling the world's highest
peaks. Provides details about his filmmaking expedition on
Everest during the notorious blizzard that took nine lives.
Bestseller 1999.

Latinos in Bisbol: The Hispanic Experience in the Americas
RC 48060
by James D. Cockcroft 
read by Peter Gil
1 cassette
Explores the history of Hispanic baseball players in both
the United States and Latin America. Reflects on the
experience of being discriminated against in North America,
while highlighting the achievements of individual athletes.
For senior high and older readers. 1996.

The Majors: In Pursuit of Golf's Holy Grail RC 48273
by John Feinstein 
read by Robert Sams
4 cassettes
Portrays the best of the 1998 golf season, covering the
Masters, the U.S. and British Opens, and the PGA. Combines
tournament history with game analysis. Describes the
personalities of players such as Mark O'Meara, Lee Janzen,
and Tiger Woods. Bestseller 1999.

A March to Madness: The View from the Floor in the Atlantic
Coast Conference RC 47302
by John Feinstein 
read by Ted Stoddard
4 cassettes
Overview of the nine basketball coaches of the collegiate
Atlantic Coast Conference in the late 1990s. Describes their
work and their teams and the incredible pressure they endure
while trying to achieve the championship title. 1998.

No Fear: Ernie Irvan, the NASCAR Driver's Story of Tragedy
and Triumph RC 48337
by Ernie Irvan and Peter Golenbock 
read by Randy Davidson
2 cassettes
Autobiography of a NASCAR stock-car driver who survived a
horrific crash in 1994. Irvan grew up in a racing family and
had won fifteen Winston Cup races by the time of his first
major wreck at age thirty-five. Describes his career and his
painful rehabilitation as well as his return to the track.
1999.

No Mountain Too High: A Triumph over Breast Cancer; the
Story of the Women of Expedition Inspiration RC 47349
by Andrea Gabbard 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Explains how breast cancer survivor Laura Evans's return to
mountain climbing led to the formation of Expedition
Inspiration, a venture for breast cancer survivors.
Describes the excursion to Mount Aconcagua in Argentina and
discusses the women participating on the two climbing teams
and their experiences. 1998.

Playing for Keeps: Michael Jordan and the World He Made RC
48035
by David Halberstam 
read by Gregory Gorton
4 cassettes
Examines the basketball superstar's career and character
from high school to the professional ranks. Describes
championship games and fellow players. Discusses 1980s and
1990s changes in media coverage and how Jordan evolved from
athlete to cultural phenomenon. Bestseller 1999.

The Real McKay: My Wide World of Sports RC 48759
by Jim McKay 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
McKay, involved in sports television for fifty years,
briefly recounts his childhood and describes how his career
developed. He devotes most of his story to the hundreds of
different events he has covered around the world, especially
his most memorable--the day Palestinian terrorists took
Israeli wrestlers hostage at the 1972 Olympics. 1998.

Soccer: A History of the World's Most Popular Game RC 47811
by Mark Stewart 
read by Terence Aselford
1 cassette
Presents soccer's timeline, memorable events, and stars,
including Stanley Matthews of England, Pel of Brazil, Roger
Milla of Cameroon, and Alexi Lalas of the United States.
Explores the sport's origins, global appeal, and social and
political implications. For high school and older readers.
1998.

Tim McCarver's Baseball for Brain Surgeons and Other Fans:
Understanding and Interpreting the Game So You Can Watch It
like a Pro RC 48371
by Tim McCarver 
read by Jack Fox
3 cassettes
Veteran ballplayer-turned-sportscaster Tim McCarver explains
the game of baseball. Details aspects of the sport from the
pregame warmup to stealing bases. Describes what goes on
during a game including pitching, hitting, defense, and
strategy. 1998.

Whitewater Rafting: An Introductory Guide RC 46615
by Cecil Kuhne 
read by Terence Aselford
1 cassette
A description of the thrills of whitewater rafting. Includes
the equipment, technique, and safety basics of the sport.
Also describes the anatomy of a river and environmental
protection information. Glossary and nationwide list of
rivers to explore. For junior and senior high and older
readers. 1995.

Stage and Screen

After the Fall: How I Picked Myself Up, Dusted Myself Off,
and Started All over Again RC 48537
by Suzanne Somers 
read by Sharon Murray
2 cassettes
In this sequel to Keeping Secrets (RC 26968), the sitcom
actress discusses past problems with career and family. Best
known for her role in Three's Company, Somers faced
resentment from costars and network management. Meanwhile,
she struggled to blend her and her new husband's families.
1998.

Banjo Eyes: Eddie Cantor and the Birth of Modern Stardom RC
47395
by Herbert G. Goldman 
read by Bruce Huntey
4 cassettes
Born on Rosh Hashanah in 1892 and soon orphaned by his
mother's death and father's disappearance, Cantor (born
Israel Iskowitz) was raised by his grandmother. Goldman
recounts Cantor's life from his days on the streets of New
York's Lower East Side through his rise to fame, discussing
his days in vaudeville and the movies, his family, and his
charitable work. 1997.

Becoming Mae West RC 46768
by Emily Wortis Leider 
read by Susan McInerney
4 cassettes
Biography of the film star, who had more than thirty years
of experience in burlesque, vaudeville, and plays before
heading for Hollywood in 1932. West had also been her own
writer and producer in New York and came to Paramount
Studios demanding star treatment. After achieving fame and
fortune, the Hays Office successfully censored West's career
in the late 1930s. 1997.

Bogart RC 46921
by A.M. Sperber and Eric Lax 
read by Ray Hagen
5 cassettes
Description of movie star Humphrey Bogart's life and times.
Discusses his childhood and marriages, the Hollywood studio
system, and the House Un-American Activities Committee of
the 1950s. 1997.

Cagney RC 47070
by John McCabe 
read by Gary Telles
4 cassettes
A portrait of Hollywood's celebrated "tough guy," who from
1930 to 1981 made more than sixty films. Traces his
impoverished New York City childhood, his years as a
vaudeville dancer, his movie career, and his stable, though
somewhat eccentric, personal life. Some strong language.
1997.

Colleen Dewhurst: Her Autobiography RC 45509
by Colleen Dewhurst 
read by Celeste Lawson
4 cassettes
Based on a series of informal interviews with Tom Viola,
Dewhurst's recollections of her childhood, her love of the
theater, and her professional life. The actress died before
completing the manuscript, so Viola talked to friends and
colleagues to fill in the gaps. Some strong language. 1997.

Duke: The Life and Image of John Wayne RC 46583
by Ronald L. Davis 
read by Michael Consoli
3 cassettes
Biography of movie star John Wayne, who began his Hollywood
career as a summer prop mover for actor Tom Mix at Fox
Studios. Wayne was befriended by director John Ford and soon
realized that a career as an actor was more interesting than
that of the lawyer he had left home to become. After ten
years of hard work, Wayne was a popular screen personality.
1998.

Easy Riders, Raging Bulls: How the Sex-Drugs-and-Rock-'n'-
Roll Generation Saved Hollywood RC 46342
by Peter Biskind 
read by Gary Telles
5 cassettes
From interviews with directors, producers, stars, spurned
spouses, and burned partners, Biskind looks at the landmark
movies of the 1970s and the people who made them while
frequently destroying themselves in the process. He
describes an era of gritty new realism and ethnicity
starring the likes of Al Pacino, Jack Nicholson, Dustin
Hoffman, and Jane Fonda. Bestseller 1998.

Gary Cooper: American Hero RC 48426
by Jeffrey Meyers 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
Gary Cooper, raised in Montana by straight-laced British
parents, describes how he discovered that money could be
made as a movie extra and how his good looks and riding
ability made him prime "star material." Recalls his numerous
love affairs, his films, and his conservative convictions
during the blacklist years. 1998.

Hollywood Diva: A Biography of Jeanette MacDonald RC 47763
by Edward Baron Turk 
read by John Stratton
3 cassettes
Presents the career and personal life of one of America's
top musical film stars of the 1930s and 1940s. Describes her
performances from the comedies with Maurice Chevalier and
romantic roles with Nelson Eddy to her later recital hall
concerts. Includes listings of her stage and film credits
and her principal recording sessions. 1998.

The Magic Kingdom: Walt Disney and the American Way of Life
RC 46970
by Steven Watts 
read by Steven Carpenter
4 cassettes
Both a biography of Walt Disney and a social study of the
Disney enterprise and its influence on American values.
Traces Disney's family, the growth of his company, and the
cultural impact of the multi-billion-dollar corporation.
1997.

Me and My Shadows: A Family Memoir RC 47492
by Lorna Luft 
read by Barbara Rappaport
3 cassettes
Autobiography of singer Lorna Luft that encompasses life
with her family, including mother Judy Garland, half-sister
Liza Minnelli, and father Sid Luft. The performer recounts
her musical career after her mother's early death, her
marriages, and her struggle with drug addiction. Some strong
language. 1998.

The Million Dollar Mermaid RC 48987
by Esther Williams 
read by Nanette Savard
3 cassettes
Williams describes the movie spectaculars she made for MGM
Studios and the physical injuries she sustained. She also
discusses her traumatic childhood (the death of her oldest
brother and being raped at thirteen), her place on the
cancelled 1940 Olympic team, her use of LSD, and her four
marriages. Bestseller 1999. 1999.

Rat Pack Confidential: Frank, Dean, Sammy, Peter, Joey and
the Last Great Showbiz Party RC 47691
by Shawn Levy 
read by Gary Telles
3 cassettes
Levy discusses the rise and fall of the group originally
named by Lauren Bacall. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy
Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop became some of the
most popular entertainers in the early 1960s. Strong
language. 1998.

Richard Rodgers RC 48463
by William G. Hyland 
read by Terence Aselford
3 cassettes
An account of Rodgers's life and many of the musicals he
wrote. Born in 1902 to an affluent Russian-Jewish family, he
began developing his talent at an early age. Describes the
evolution of his work, which included more than forty shows
produced over sixty years, first with Lorenz Hart and later
with Oscar Hammerstein II. 1998.

With Ossie and Ruby: In This Life Together RC 48586
by Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee 
read by Jake Williams
4 cassettes
Autobiographical account of Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee, told
in alternating voices. The book discusses their lives before
they met, their courtship, and their marriage. The discourse
provides a social history of the black experience in
American theater and an account of the couple's behind-the-
scenes roles in "the Struggle." Some strong language.
Bestseller 1998.

Travel and Recreation

Among Warriors: A Woman Martial Artist in Tibet RC 48232
by Pamela Logan 
read by Jill Fox
2 cassettes
Travel account of a karate-trained scientist in search of
Tibet's fabled Khampas warriors, who live by the martial-
arts principle of fighting to the death against the Chinese.
Describes her encounters and her journey by bicycle, train,
and truck, and on foot, into areas seldom visited by
Westerners. 1996.

The Aye-Aye and I: A Rescue Mission in Madagascar RC 48729
by Gerald Durrell 
read by Graeme Malcolm
1 cassette
Recounts the adventures of Durrell's team on the island of
Madagascar as they attempt to capture an elusive and almost
extinct magic-fingered aye-aye to build up a breeding
colony. Includes encounters with giant jumping rats, flat-
tailed tortoises, and gentle lemurs from the reed beds of a
vanishing lake. 1992.

Bella Tuscany: The Sweet Life in Italy RC 48030
by Frances Mayes 
read by Suzanne Toren
2 cassettes
Continues Mayes's account begun in Under the Tuscan Sun (RC
44847). Now that the house and garden restoration is
essentially complete, Mayes and her husband begin exploring
the rest of Italy. She describes her fondness for the people
she encounters and the joys of Italian food. Includes
recipes. Bestseller 1999.

Days and Nights on the Grand Trunk Road RC 47507
by Anthony Weller 
read by Gary Telles
3 cassettes
The highway adventures of an American journalist traveling
the fifteen hundred miles of the Grand Trunk Road from
Calcutta across northern India and Pakistan to the Khyber
Pass. Weller recounts the region's religious and political
history; describes the cities, countryside, and people he
encounters; and conveys his joy at traveling in an area he
has read much about. 1997.

Encore Provence: New Adventures in the South of France RC
48526
by Peter Mayle 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
2 cassettes
Mayle and his wife return to Provence after a four-year
absence. On this visit he discusses his favorite markets,
vineyards, and bakeries; his search for the perfect
corkscrew; the "school for noses" where blind children learn
to identify fragrances for perfumes; and ways to spend a
summer's afternoon. Bestseller 1999.

An Evening among Headhunters and Other Reports from Roads
Less Traveled RC 48047
by Lawrence Millman 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes
A travel writer's account of his daring forays to unusual
and remote places. His adventures include trekking through
Amazon jungles, exploring far-flung islands, and dining on
raw seal eye with Inuits. Some strong language. 1998.

From the Holy Mountain: A Journey among the Christians of
the Middle East RC 48012
by William Dalrymple 
read by Roy Avers
4 cassettes
Inspired by the journey of Orthodox monk John Moschos in
A.D. 578, the author recreates his itinerary, visiting
Christian monasteries and churches at the eastern end of the
Mediterranean. Describes his travels and his conversations
with religious figures and laypeople to gain insight into a
vanishing culture within the Muslim world. 1997.

The Great Hill Stations of Asia RC 47582
by Barbara Crossette 
read by Janis Gray
3 cassettes
In 1997 this New York Times journalist traveled across Asia,
visiting the classic hill towns built by several colonial
powers. She recalls her journeys to these remote locations,
discusses their history, and describes how each has evolved
since being inherited by an independent nation. 1998.

Guerrero Viejo RC 46988
by Elena Poniatowska 
read by Peter Gil
1 cassette
The well-known Mexican author and journalist presents her
essay on Guerrero Viejo, the Mexican colonial town on the
Rio Grande that was abandoned and destroyed as the result of
a flood-control dam built in the 1950s. Poniatowska speaks
of the land, architecture, heritage, and daily life of a
historic and proud community sacrificed to twentieth-century
progress. Bilingual book in English and Spanish. 1997.

The Island of the Colorblind and Cycad Island RC 44628
by Oliver Sacks 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
A neurologist investigates the high prevalence of
colorblindness and other genetic conditions among inbred
South Sea island populations. Describes the history,
geography, and botany of the remote islands, as well as the
contemporary threats posed by development and tourism. 1996.

Lasso the Wind: Away to the New West RC 47951
by Timothy Egan 
read by Bill Wallace
3 cassettes
A journalist assesses the status of ten western states in
fourteen essays examining history, local personalities, and
trends encountered while roaming the countryside. Reflects
on the differences between the "old west" and the new, and
vociferously condemns what he perceives as misuse of the
land. 1998.

Legends of the American Desert: Sojourns in the Greater
Southwest RC 46376
by Alex Shoumatoff 
read by Rick Rohan
4 cassettes
Explores the history, myths--cowboy and Indian--people,
topography, plants, and animals of the Southwest, where the
scarcity of water is a dominant factor in survival.
Shoumatoff has traveled and studied the area since his first
trip there twenty-five years ago. 1997.

The Names of Things: A Passage in the Egyptian Desert RC
46940
by Susan Brind Morrow 
read by Nanette Savard
1 cassette
In this memoir-cum-travelog, Morrow describes her upstate
New York family and how her love of language and nature
developed. Originally attracted to Egyptian hieroglyphs more
than Egypt itself, she first went there with an
archaeological team in 1980. She muses about the origins of
words while exploring the solace of the desert wilderness.
1997.

Open Lands: Travels through Russia's Once Forbidden Places
RC 46500
by Mark Taplin 
read by Ken Kliban
3 cassettes
An American diplomatic officer chronicles his travels
through seven Russian cities and regions that were
restricted zones prior to 1992. Describes the local scenes,
people, and historical events that took place in these areas
during the Soviet era. Violence. 1997.

Paris in the Fifties RC 46441
by Stanley Karnow 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
3 cassettes
An American Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist reminisces
about the decade he spent in France beginning in 1947. Based
on voluminous reports written for Time, Karnow recalls the
atmosphere of post-war Paris and provides insights into
French cultural life of the 1950s. Some descriptions of sex.
1997.

Pilgrimage on a Steel Ride: A Memoir about Men and
Motorcycles RC 47870
by Gary Paulsen 
read by Michael Kramer
1 cassette
In contemplating the facts of his life on his fifty-seventh
birthday, Paulsen decides that having heart disease is no
reason to stop having adventures.  He fulfills a longtime
dream to own a Harley and take to the road. He describes his
reflections on his round-trip from New Mexico to Alaska.
Some strong language. 1997.

A Place in Normandy RC 47655
by Nicholas Kilmer 
read by Peter Gil
2 cassettes
His ancestral home in France tugs at the American author's
heart, and he longs to purchase it. As part of his decision-
making process, he visits the rural property one day in May
to evaluate its structural soundness. As he pokes and prods,
he stirs up memories and associations with his family
history. 1997.

The Practical Nomad: How To Travel around the World RC 47573
by Edward Hasbrouck 
read by Jake Williams
5 cassettes
A handbook for the independent, around-the-world traveler.
Advises on key aspects of planning international journeys,
including choosing destinations, arranging for visas and
permits, personal finances, packing, local transportation,
safety, and health. 1997.

Riddle of the Ice: A Scientific Adventure into the Arctic RC
47405
by Myron Arms 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
Nautical adventure aboard a fifty-foot sailing cutter
exploring the Arctic Ocean near Labrador. Perturbed by the
large quantities of pack ice in the area in the summers of
the early 1990s, the author investigates weather patterns
and climate changes for explanations. 1998.

Sahara Unveiled: A Journey across the Desert RC 46670
by William Langewiesche 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
2 cassettes
The author chronicles his journey through the Sahara Desert,
south from Algiers to Senegal, mostly by public
transportation. Describes his grueling travel across a harsh
terrain, the region's colonial history and current political
unrest, and the hardscrabble life of the indigenous Tuareg
nomads. 1996.

The Secret Life of the Seine RC 47891
by Mort Rosenblum 
read by Anne Hancock
2 cassettes
An American journalist who lives on a fifty-four-foot
houseboat on the Seine describes his journey along the
French river. He recounts his trials and tribulations,
learning to navigate as he traveled, and some of the things
he loves about the region: its history, the scenery, and his
fellow travelers. 1994.

Terra Incognita: Travels in Antarctica RC 48147
by Sara Wheeler 
read by Jill Ferris
3 cassettes
Detailed account of seven-month sojourn spent physically and
metaphorically exploring Antarctica. While recounting her
own experiences and perceptions, Wheeler includes
commentaries on famous earlier explorers of the frozen
expanse. Describes the landscape, people she encounters, and
personal changes. 1996.

A Thousand Miles from Nowhere: Trucking Two Continents RC
46328
by Graham Coster 
read by Phil Regensdorf
2 cassettes
An account of life on the road for long-haul truckers.
Describes a journey carrying beer and ice cream from England
to Russia, as well as coast-to-coast trips across the United
States. Depicts the trucking subculture with its language,
values, diet, music, and lore. Strong language. 1995.

Too Young to Travel Abroad: Journal of a Year of European
Travel in 1856-7 RC 45079
by Agnes Woolsey 
read by Suzanne Toren
3 cassettes
The reflections and observations of an eighteen-year-old on
the "grand tour" through Europe in 1856. The author's log
provides a lucid account of the historical and cultural
sites visited on her year-long journey, including the
Coliseum, the Sistine Chapel, and the Louvre. 1862.

Tracking the Serpent: Journeys to Four Continents RC 47769
by Janine Pommy Vega 
read by Suzanne Toren
2 cassettes
A poet briefly relates childhood and youthful trips as
preludes to her lifelong enjoyment of exploring new
territory geographically and psychically. At greater length
she describes travels in England and Ireland, the Amazon
jungle basin and the Andes mountains of Peru, and the
Himalayas of Nepal. 1997.

A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers RC 47885
by Henry David Thoreau 
read by Jeremy Gage
3 cassettes
Henry David Thoreau's account of a week he and his brother
John spent on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers of New
England in 1839. Written at Walden Pond (after John's
death), it includes digressions on topics such as Native
American history, friendship, literature, and sacred
writings. 1849.

U.S. History

Acheson: The Secretary of State Who Created the American
World RC 47030
by James Chace 
read by Dan Bloom
5 cassettes
Details Dean Acheson's life, including his carefree years in
an Ivy League college, his service as a protg of a Supreme
Court justice, and his role as advisor to several
presidents. Acheson, a prolific author, is described as the
architect of a number of foreign policy initiatives and a
major influence on international institutions in the post-
World War II era. 1998.

The African-American Soldier: From Crispus Attucks to Colin
Powell RC 47314
by Michael Lee Lanning 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
History of the role of African Americans in the armed
services from colonial days to the 1990s. The author, a
retired lieutenant colonel, describes the military climate
of each conflict and the contributions of African Americans
in defense of their country. 1997.

Africans in America: America's Journey through Slavery RC
48153
by Charles Johnson and Patricia Smith 
read by Bob Moore
3 cassettes
This companion to a PBS documentary series traces the
development of slavery in the U.S. Details the economic
forces that prompted kidnappings in Africa, language of the
Declaration of Independence that motivated the enslaved to
pursue freedom, and the issue of slavery that moved the
nation toward civil war. 1998.

Agent of Destiny: The Life and Times of General Winfield
Scott RC 47093
by John S.D. Eisenhower 
read by Lou Harpenau
4 cassettes
A portrait of a distinguished military leader in the first
half of the nineteenth century. Traces his youth in
Virginia, his legal training, and his performance in the War
of 1812 and the Mexican War of the 1840s. Depicts the
personal vanity and arrogance that marred his reputation as
a brilliant soldier. 1997.

All on Fire: William Lloyd Garrison and the Abolition of
Slavery RC 47934
by Henry Mayer 
read by Jake Williams
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Presents William Lloyd Garrison as a great politician,
crusader, and publisher who challenged the conscience of
America before the Civil War. Details how he insisted upon
equal rights for African Americans and women and influenced
two generations of activists--female and male, black and
white--to demand social reforms. 1998.

America 1900: The Turning Point RC 47649
by Judy Crichton 
read by Barbara Pinolini
3 cassettes
A monthly chronicle of life in America during 1900. Recounts
a time of transition as the young nation comes to terms with
new technologies, an expanding economy, and a growing role
in world affairs. Depicts a confident American people facing
a new century. 1998.

The American Century RC 47580
by Harold Evans 
read by Roy Avers
9 cassettes in 2 containers
Evans surveys U.S. history from 1889 to 1989. Declaring that
the nineteenth century belonged to the British and the
twenty-first century may belong to the Chinese, he portrays
the twentieth century as that of the Americans by
highlighting key political events and personalities of the
time. Bestseller 1998.

The Americans: The Colonial Experience RC 47246
by Daniel J. Boorstin 
read by Robert Sams
4 cassettes
Covering American history up to the 1780s, historian
Boorstin discusses how settlers' dreams were transformed by
the reality of life in America, how communities were
developed with visions not obstructed by the past, how a new
language style developed, and how these experiences shaped
Americans' views on peace and war. Prequel to The Americans:
The National Experience (RC 47247). 1958.

The Americans: The National Experience RC 47247
by Daniel J. Boorstin 
read by Robert Sams
6 cassettes
In this sequel to The Americans: The Colonial Experience (RC
47246), historian Boorstin covers American history from the
Revolution to the Civil War. He discusses Americans' search
for a better way of life, discovering themselves and their
capabilities, and coming together to establish a better
community. 1965.

At the President's Side: The Vice Presidency in the
Twentieth Century RC 47365
edited by Timothy Walch 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Collection of essays about twentieth-century vice presidents
from Theodore Roosevelt to Dan Quayle and about the office
itself. Contributors include American history professors,
journalists, directors of presidential libraries, and
political advisors. 1997.

Been in the Storm So Long: The Aftermath of Slavery RC 48089
by Leon F. Litwack 
read by Rick Foucheux
6 cassettes (Reissue)
Describes the complex changes that occurred in the southern
United States after the Civil War and explains the
significance of emancipation to four million slaves. Relies
on private papers, records of the Freedman's Bureau, and
interviews with ex-slaves compiled by the Federal Writers'
Project. Prequel to Trouble in Mind (RC 48090). Pulitzer
Prize. 1979.

Confederates in the Attic: Dispatches from the Unfinished
Civil War RC 47299
by Tony Horwitz 
read by Steven Carpenter
3 cassettes
Reviving a childhood passion, journalist Tony Horwitz spends
a week with a hardcore Civil War reenactor, traveling to
battle sites in the south. Along the way, he learns why many
people are still obsessed with the war and how views of the
past are often divided along racial lines. Some strong
language. 1998.

Daniel Webster: The Man and His Time RC 46184
by Robert V. Remini 
read by Ted Stoddard
8 cassettes in 2 containers
A portrait of the legendary political figure and orator who
lived from 1782 to 1852 and helped form the young American
republic. Traces his New England youth, his career as a
member of Congress and secretary of state, and his failed
bids for the presidency. Depicts a gifted man who was also
subject to arrogance and moral lapses. 1997.

Eleanor Roosevelt: Volume 2, 1933-1938 RC 48521
by Blanche Wiesen Cook 
read by Barbara Caruso
6 cassettes
Portrait of ER during her first six years as first lady.
Discusses what made her controversial--the social issues she
championed and her influence on FDR. Reveals the private
woman behind the public image and the difficult choices she
faced. Sequel to Eleanor Roosevelt: Volume 1, 1884-1933 (RC
34892). Bestseller 1999.

Empire by Default: The Spanish-American War and the Dawn of
the American Century RC 47112
by Ivan Musicant 
read by Bruce Huntey
5 cassettes
A military and diplomatic account of the 1898 Spanish-
American War, which established the United States as a
global power and marked the beginning of "the American
century," in the author's view. Chronicles events leading up
to the conflict and describes land and sea battles of the
war. 1998.

Empires Lost and Won: The Spanish Heritage in the Southwest
RC 45995
by Albert Marrin 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Beginning with Spain during the late Middle Ages, the author
provides a vivid description of the Spanish culture,
including the lives of conquistadors and soldiers. Using
primary sources, he describes the perils of crossing the
Atlantic, encounters with Native Americans, and conquest of
the new land by Europeans. For junior and senior high and
older readers. 1997.

The Epic of New York City RC 46643
by Edward Robb Ellis 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
5 cassettes
The social history of New York, New York. Covers the island
from its European discovery in the 1500s until Mayor John
Lindsay took office in the mid 1960s. Includes its scandals,
riots, innovations, and improvements through four and one-
half centuries. 1966.

Florence Harding: The First Lady, the Jazz Age, and the
Death of America's Most Scandalous President RC 46805
by Carl Sferrazza Anthony 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
5 cassettes
In this biography Florence Harding is portrayed as an
immensely popular first lady. During the 1920s she
championed women's rights, helped establish the Veterans
Bureau, welcomed African American women to the White House,
and was her husband's political partner. She also endured
his adulterous affairs and numerous scandals. 1998.

From Selma to Sorrow: The Life and Death of Viola Liuzzo RC
48314
by Mary Stanton 
read by Pam Ward
2 cassettes
Traces the youth of southerner Viola Liuzzo, her college and
young adult years in Detroit, her involvement in civil
rights protests, and her participation in a 1960s voting-
rights march in Selma, Alabama. Details the search for the
truth about her life and the circumstances surrounding her
death. 1998.

Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898 RC 47282
by Edwin G. Burrows and Mike Wallace 
read by Annie Wauters
16 cassettes
A comprehensive history of New York City from the Ice Age to
1898. Focuses on the area as a center for commerce.
Discusses inhabitants, including Native Americans,
businessmen, politicians, African Americans, and immigrants.
Describes impact of war and financial concerns and the
city's emergence as a world-class powerhouse. 1999.

Great Lakes Shipwrecks and Survivals RC 47621
by William Ratigan 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
History of maritime disasters on each of the North American
inland seas: Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie, Superior, and
Ontario. Describes how vessels and their crews functioned
during catastrophic storms. A separate section details the
November 1975 wreck of the cargo ship Edmund Fitzgerald.
1977.

The Greatest Generation RC 47490
by Tom Brokaw 
read by Phil Regensdorf
2 cassettes
Recalling his coverage of the fortieth anniversary of D-Day
in 1984, reporter Brokaw describes World War II veterans as
"the greatest generation any society has produced." Profiles
individuals who sacrificed for their country, including
Thomas Broderick--who founded the Blinded Veterans
Association--and businessman Bob Bush, who lost an eye in a
heroic rescue mission. Bestseller 1998.

Hamilton's Blessing: The Extraordinary Life and Times of Our
National Debt RC 47354
by John Steele Gordon 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Traces the history of the U.S. government and economic
thinking over two hundred years. Examines the origins and
importance of the national debt, the banking and tax
systems, the establishment of the federal reserve, and the
invention of the war bond. Explains how policies instituted
by Hamilton and Jefferson remain relevant. 1997.

Home Town RC 48507
by Tracy Kidder 
read by Arnie Warren
3 cassettes
Kidder portrays life in the small town of Northampton,
Massachusetts, recalling its history and chronicling events
of the 1980s and 1990s. Focusing on police sergeant Tommy
O'Connor, Kidder describes O'Connor's relationships with
area residents, including a longtime friend who is accused
of child abuse. Some strong language. Bestseller 1999.

In a Barren Land: American Indian Dispossession and Survival
RC 48890
by Paula Mitchell Marks 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
A historian chronicles European settlers' conquest of Native
American lands from their initial contacts in 1607 up to the
1990s. Describes the indigenous inhabitants' struggle to
maintain their traditional cultures despite forced
relocations, the elimination of customs, and their own
diminishing numbers. 1998.

Isaac's Storm: A Man, a Time, and the Deadliest Hurricane in
History RC 48811
by Erik Larson 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Galveston, Texas; September 8, 1900. A massive hurricane
approaches the city. Isaac Cline, head of the Weather
Bureau's Galveston station, fails to receive advance warning
because of bureaucratic blundering and scientific snobbery.
No evacuation is ordered and more than 8,000 citizens are
subsequently lost, including Cline's wife. Bestseller 1999.

Killing the Dream: James Earl Ray and the Assassination of
Martin Luther King Jr. RC 48164
by Gerald Posner 
read by Jeff Baker
4 cassettes
Reexamination of King's murder in Memphis in 1968, the
background of convicted killer James Earl Ray, and some
conspiracy theories about the case. The lawyer-author's
analysis of the murder scene and of Ray's character,
criminal record, and probable motivation leads to the
conclusion that Ray was the shooter and killer. 1998.

Like Judgment Day: The Ruin and Redemption of a Town Called
Rosewood RC 46947
by Michael D'Orso 
read by Rick Foucheux
3 cassettes
In January 1923 the African American mill town of Rosewood,
Florida, was destroyed by a mob seeking a rape suspect. An
unknown number of people were killed, and the townspeople
never returned. For decades no one spoke of the tragedy
until Sixty Minutes broadcast the story in December 1983.
Violence and strong language. 1996.

Lindbergh RC 46913
by A. Scott Berg 
read by Richard Hauenstein
5 cassettes
The authorized biography of the pilot who became a symbol of
the aviation age. Describes Lindbergh's 1927 transatlantic
flight as the defining moment of his life. Discusses his
role in the development of aviation for use in war and
peacetime. Explores facets of Lindbergh's public and private
images. Bestseller 1998.

Many Thousands Gone: The First Two Centuries of Slavery in
North America RC 47971
by Ira Berlin 
read by Lou Harpenau
3 cassettes
History professor Berlin discusses the evolution of slavery
from a social practice to a central pillar of the U.S.
economy. He outlines three stages in this development--the
charter generation, the plantation generation, and the
revolutionary generation--and distinguishes among four
geographical areas--the North, the Chesapeake, the Carolina
low country, and the Mississippi Valley. 1998.

Mutual Contempt: Lyndon Johnson, Robert Kennedy, and the
Feud That Defined a Decade RC 47524
by Jeff Shesol 
read by Margaret Strom
5 cassettes
Reconstructs the personal and political animosity between
two of the most powerful Democrats of the 1960s and how
their rivalry influenced the American social and political
landscape. 1997.

Our Country's Founders: A Book of Advice for Young People RC
47574
edited by William J. Bennett 
read by Bill Wallace
2 cassettes
Adapted for young adults, excerpts from Our Sacred Honor (RC
46472) illustrate the timeless principles and virtues
espoused by the founding fathers of the United States.
Included are the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of
Independence, a time line of the American Revolution, and
brief biographies. For senior high and older readers. 1998.

Richard S. Ewell: A Soldier's Life RC 47332
by Donald C. Pfanz 
read by Bill Wallace
5 cassettes
Presents a detailed account of Ewell's life, and a balanced
view of the Confederate general's personality. Discusses his
military training and expeditions, including his service in
Mexico and the Civil War, and his postwar career as a stock
farmer. 1998.

Spies of the Confederacy RC 46860
by John Bakeless 
read by Randy Atcher
3 cassettes
An account of the Confederate espionage system, which at the
start of the Civil War was "already organized and highly
efficient, with tentacles reaching into the vital secrets of
the Federal government." Describes the daring exploits of
Rebel Rose, the Gray Ghost, and other agents. 1970.

Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement RC 47543
by John Lewis 
read by Jake Williams
5 cassettes
African American congressman discusses the civil rights
movement of the 1960s, its struggles, triumphs, leadership,
and champions. Lewis, an advocate of nonviolence,
acknowledges his devotion to Martin Luther King Jr., and
credits the success of the movement to the thousands of
working-class blacks who risked their lives confronting
southern tyranny. 1998.

Wars

The 756th Tank Battalion in the European Theatre RC 48707
edited by Cheryl A. Esposito 
read by Lou Harpenau
2 cassettes
Unit history dedicated to blinded war veteran George (Buck)
Gillispie and other veterans who fought in World War II as
part of the U.S. Army's 756th Tank Battalion. Covers the
intensive combat action of the battalion from its entry into
France in 1944 until the end of the war in 1945. 1999.

A-Train: Memoirs of a Tuskegee Airman RC 47159
by Charles W. Dryden 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Autobiography by a retired lieutenant colonel of the United
States Air Force who was one of the original African
American fighter pilots in World War II. Dryden discusses
his experiences in a segregated military institution where
he and his colleagues, although they never lost a bomber,
were denied privileges at American bases because of their
race. 1997.

And There Was Light: Autobiography of Jacques Lusseyran,
Blind Hero of the French Resistance RC 46611
by Jacques Lusseyran 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes (Reissue)
Lusseyran describes his life up to the age of twenty.
Blinded at seven, he was a teenager when the Nazis invaded
France. After he joined the Resistance, his group was turned
in by informers and imprisoned. He tells of surviving in a
German concentration camp until the war's end. Includes an
introduction by the editors. 1963.

Back to the Front: An Accidental Historian Walks the
Trenches of World War I RC 47703
by Stephen O'Shea 
read by Roy Avers
2 cassettes
A journalist's record of frequent visits to battle sites
along the Western Front between 1985 and 1995 while he was
living in Paris. Combines military history and travel
accounts with contemplations on the lessons and meaning of
war. 1996.

Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War RC 48028
by Mark Bowden 
read by Lou Harpenau
3 cassettes
Recreates the U.S. military operation in Mogadishu, Somalia,
on October 3-4, 1993, when ninety-nine American soldiers
were surrounded and trapped. Describes how the planned one-
hour mission turned into an overnight fight for survival.
Based on journalist's interviews with the soldiers,
helicopter pilots, and Somali clan leaders. Some strong
language. Bestseller 1999.

The Black Sheep: The Definitive Account of Marine Fighting
Squadron 214 in World War II RC 48259
by Bruce Gamble 
read by Randy Atcher
4 cassettes
Gamble recounts actual events behind the legends of World
War II fighters in marine squadron 214. Describes
exaggerations among the images portrayed in a popular
television series and even in "Pappy" Boyington's
autobiography. Presents a roster of pilots and a chronology
of VMF-214 operations. 1998.

Blind Man's Bluff: The Untold Story of American Submarine
Espionage RC 47258
by Sherry Sontag and others 
read by Gregory Gorton
3 cassettes
Accounts of the development of Cold War-era submarine spying
on the Soviet Union by Americans. Tales about the people who
made it happen, like the naval officer who figured out how
to tap underwater communication cables. Includes new
information on the mysterious sinking of the USS Scorpion in
1968. Bestseller 1998.

Blood and Vengeance: One Family's Story of the War in Bosnia
RC 48044
by Chuck Sudetic 
read by Steven Carpenter
3 cassettes
An American journalist recounts the horrific wartime
experiences of the Muslim Celik family in rural Bosnia.
Traces the family history through generations of civil
strife and recounts their tragic ordeal during the 1995
slaughter of several thousand Muslims near Srebrenica. 1998.

Blue Skies and Blood: The Battle of the Coral Sea RC 48911
by Edwin P. Hoyt 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Account of the spring 1942 battle between American and
Japanese aircraft carriers that marked a new era in warfare
and was considered a turning point in World War II. The
unfolding drama is based on action reports of the U.S. and
Japanese navies and participants' diaries and narratives.
1975.

Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, the
Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to Vietnam RC
47926
by H.R. McMaster 
read by Jake Williams
3 cassettes
Makes the case that America's failed Vietnam War strategy of
"gradual pressure" was driven by domestic political
considerations with the timid acquiescence of military
advisors. Avers that American leaders' "arrogance, weakness,
[and] lying in the pursuit of self-interest" led to one of
America's worst foreign policy debacles. 1997.

Ernie Pyle's War: America's Eyewitness to World War II RC
47264
by James Tobin 
read by Ted Stoddard
3 cassettes
Biography of the journalist whose columns on the German
bombing of London in December 1940 were immediately popular
back in the United States. Provides information on Pyle's
personal life and career; traces his perspective on covering
the war from the ordinary soldier's viewpoint; includes
quotes from his writings that ended with his death near
Okinawa in April 1945. 1997.

The First World War RC 48770
by John Keegan 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
British military historian examines the chain of events that
led to the conflict that began in August 1914. He analyzes
major battles and the role of mechanized warfare; discusses
the political outcome of World War I, its long-term
implications, and impacts still felt at the end of the
century. Bestseller 1998.

The Forbidden Diary: A B-24 Navigator Remembers RC 48698
by John L. Stewart 
read by Rick Rohan
1 cassette
World War II navigator who guided B-24 Liberator bombers
over Europe at age nineteen reveals entries from the journal
he kept in defiance of military orders in 1944. Reminisces
about members of his crew and life in wartime England.
Illustrates flight routes; appendix explains calculations.
1998.

Lasting Valor RC 47493
by Vernon J. Baker 
read by Chuck Young
2 cassettes
African American winner of the country's highest decoration
for battlefield valor, Vernon Baker recalls his childhood in
Wyoming after being orphaned at age four, his career in the
army, his leadership of a platoon in Italy in World War II,
and his retirement years in Idaho. President Clinton awarded
him the Medal of Honor in 1997. Some violence. 1997.

Life in War-Torn Bosnia RC 47182
by Diane Yancey 
read by Steven Carpenter
1 cassette
Describes ancient feuds between Serbs, Croats, and Muslims
that exploded into civil war in the former country of
Yugoslavia in the 1990s. Examines the history of the region
and its different cultures, religions, and multiple wars.
Depicts everyday struggles including those unique to
children. Violence. For senior high and older readers. 1996.

Like Men of War: Black Troops in the Civil War, 1862-1865 RC
47179
by Noah Andre Trudeau 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
A producer at National Public Radio reconstructs the combat
history of African American troops during the Civil War.
Describes skirmishes and battles, including the massacre of
captured African American Union soldiers at Fort Pillow,
Tennessee, and the defeat of Fort Fisher, North Carolina.
Some violence and some strong language. 1998.

Patton's Ghost Corps: Cracking the Siegfried Line RC 48562
by Nathan N. Prefer 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Account of troops in the 94th Infantry Division of the XX
Corps who were left to defend the entire front line while
the Battle of the Bulge raged north of their position.
Describes how the new recruits faced seasoned veterans of
the Third Reich, as well as freezing snow, ice, and fog.
1998.

River of Time RC 46582
by Jon Swain 
read by David Cutler
2 cassettes
Account of the exodus in Vietnam and the fall of Cambodia to
the Khmer Rouge, which Swain witnessed as a foreign
correspondent in Indochina from 1970 to 1975. Although
shocked and horrified by the senseless killing around him,
Swain admired and appreciated both the French colonists and
native cultures he encountered. Violence and some
descriptions of sex. 1995.

The River War: An Account of the Re-Conquest of the Soudan
RC 46843
by Winston S. Churchill 
read by John Horton
2 cassettes
This eyewitness account of the British military campaign in
the Sudan was written by a future prime minister and first
published in 1899. Describes how, at age twenty-three, the
young Churchill maneuvered to become part of a military
action, hoping to lay the foundation for a political career.
The fourteen-year "river war" ultimately left Britain in
control of the Nile. 1997.

Sisterhood of Spies: The Women of the OSS RC 47558
by Elizabeth P. McIntosh 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
3 cassettes
During World War II the author, a war reporter, was
recruited by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS)--later
the CIA--to work in the propaganda division. She describes
other female operatives, some of whom were spies with hair-
raising duties behind enemy lines. Concludes with the role
women play in intelligence, including uncovering the Soviet
mole Aldrich Ames. 1998.

Song of Survival: Women Interned RC 47801
by Helen Colijn 
read by Nanette Savard
2 cassettes
Autobiography of a young girl who was held captive by the
Japanese army in southeast Asia during World War II. Helen
and her two sisters endured hunger and disease for three and
a half years until the war ended. During their internment,
writing and singing music were their only pleasures. 1995.

The Swiss, the Gold, and the Dead RC 47323
by Jean Ziegler 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
Swiss citizen Ziegler presents his views of his country's
role in financing Hitler's regime. Topics include the use of
Swiss banks to fence looted gold, Switzerland's tax policies
aimed at Jews in the country, the denial of political asylum
to others, and arms sales to Germany. An afterword updates
the book through November 1997. 1998.

The Victors: Eisenhower and His Boys; the Men of World War
II RC 47706
by Stephen E. Ambrose 
read by Roy Avers
3 cassettes
Drawing material from his previous works on World War II and
General Eisenhower, Ambrose provides an account of the last
year of the war. Portrays Eisenhower as supreme commander
and those who served under him from D-Day, June 6, 1944, to
Germany's unconditional surrender on May 7, 1945. 1998.

War in the Air: True Accounts of the Twentieth Century's
Most Dramatic Air Battles--by the Men Who Fought Them RC
47379
edited by Stephen Coonts 
read by Don Feldheim
3 cassettes
Twenty-five excerpts from accounts of aerial fighting
covering World War I through the Vietnam War. Includes
stories by pilots from both sides of the conflicts. Some
violence. 1996.

War's End: An Eyewitness Account of America's Last Atomic
Mission RC 47989
by Charles W. Sweeney 
read by Roy Avers
2 cassettes
Memoir of the American Army Air Corps pilot who flew both
atomic bomb missions over Japan in August 1945. Feeling
"outraged and betrayed" by revisionist accounts of those
events, the author tells his own career story and describes
the tension and drama surrounding the world's first use of
atomic weapons. 1997.

Women's Concerns

Beauty Fades, Dumb Is Forever: The Making of a Happy Woman
RC 48103
by Judy Sheindlin 
read by Pam Ward
1 cassette
Televised family court judge offers advice to women on how
to avoid ruining their lives. Uses her years of experience
in the courtroom and her own life to illustrate ten lessons
about achieving happiness, confidence, and success.
Bestseller 1999.

Bitch: In Praise of Difficult Women RC 48293
by Elizabeth Wurtzel 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
4 cassettes
A history of manipulative female behavior, from the biblical
Delilah to Amy Fisher, Courtney Love, and Nicole Brown.
Explores the actions of women whose power derives from their
sexuality and describes the results they produce. Contends
that Americans deplore strong, independent women and even
enjoy seeing them suffer. Strong language. 1998.

The Breast Cancer Survival Manual: A Step-by-Step Guide for
the Woman with Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer RC 47548
by John Link 
read by Jake Williams
2 cassettes
An oncologist advises women on how to obtain the data they
need in order to make an informed choice regarding treatment
that is right for them. Examines quality-of-life issues,
available drugs and operations, lifestyle choices, and
genetic risks. Explains how to work the medical system and
essential record-keeping. Gives specific questions to ask
the physician of choice. 1998.

Do They Hear You When You Cry RC 47468
by Fauziya Kassindja and Layli Miller Bashir 
read by Lisette Lecat
4 cassettes
The account of a young Muslim girl who flees from her home
in Togo, West Africa, to escape female genital mutilation.
Arriving illegally in the United States, Fauziya Kassindja
is held for more than a year in prisons where she is further
degraded. Aided by Layli Miller Bashir, a young law student,
Fauziya is eventually granted asylum. 1998.

Fearless Girls, Wise Women, and Beloved Sisters: Heroines in
Folktales from around the World RC 48129
edited by Kathleen Ragan 
read by Catherine Byers
4 cassettes
Multicultural anthology of one hundred folktales featuring
women. Resurrects neglected female protagonists--courageous
mothers, clever young girls, women warriors--who rescue male
relatives, rule over kingdoms, solve riddles, and outwit the
opposition. Arranged by geographical areas: Europe, North
and South America, Asia, the Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa,
and North Africa and the Middle East. 1998.

Headache Relief for Women: How You Can Manage and Prevent
Pain RC 47976
by Alan M. Rapoport and Fred D. Sheftell 
read by Patricia McDermott
2 cassettes
Two physicians from the Headache Inpatient Unit of Greenwich
Hospital define four types of headaches and provide advice
on managing them. They discuss influences such as
menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, and stress. The doctors
also review diet, nutrition, and  medications. 1995.

In Search of Islamic Feminism: One Woman's Global Journey RC
46841
by Elizabeth Warnock Fernea 
read by Mary Woods
4 cassettes
An American professor of Middle Eastern studies presents the
results of a two-year trip researching the status of women
in Muslim societies. After conducting interviews in
Uzbekistan, Morocco, Kuwait, Turkey, Egypt, Iraq, Saudi
Arabia, Israel, and Palestinian settlements, she finds that
women's rights are interpreted differently in each region.
1998.

Murder Most Rare: The Female Serial Killer RC 47023
by Michael D. Kelleher and C.L. Kelleher 
read by Jeremy Gage
2 cassettes
A study of nearly one hundred female serial killers
outlining their motives, methods, and eventual punishments.
Organized into ten chapters by category of murder such as:
black widows, revenge, angels of death, and team killers.
Some violence. 1998.

No More Hot Flashes--and Even More Good News RC 47417
by Penny Wise Budoff 
read by Carole Jordan Stewart
3 cassettes
Updates Dr. Budoff's 1984 book, No More Hot Flashes, and
Other Good News (RC 20041). Explains perimenopause,
menopause, estrogen, and osteoporosis, as well as cancers
that frequently affect women. Also discusses urinary
functions, hysterectomies, vitamins, and alternatives to
drugs and surgery. 1998.

No Regrets: The Life of Marietta Tree RC 47708
by Caroline Seebohm 
read by Terry Hayes Sales
4 cassettes
Biography of the socialite and Democratic Party supporter.
Examines the accomplishments of a woman born into the
Massachusetts Peabody family in 1917 when matrimony rather
than career was the female path to power. Recounts her
romances, two marriages, and her rise to political
prominence. 1997.

No Time to Die RC 47011
by Liz Tilberis 
read by Mary Ann Nichols
3 cassettes
Transplanted Briton Liz Tilberis, editor-in-chief of
Harper's Bazaar, describes her battle with ovarian cancer
since 1993, played out against the background of a star-
studded career and her family life with husband Andrew and
their adopted sons. Some strong language. 1998.

Not Guilty: The Good News about Working Mothers RC 47896
by Betty Holcomb 
read by Catherine Byers
3 cassettes
Arguing that the stereotypical roles of women are not in
their best interest economically or psychologically, the
senior editor of Working Mother magazine examines this
controversial issue. Topics include "pregnancy
discrimination" and the effect a two-career household may
have on children's development. 1998.

Our Bodies, Ourselves for the New Century: A Book by and for
Women RC 47117
by Boston Women's Health Book Collective 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
12 cassettes in 2 containers
This updated version of The New Our Bodies, Ourselves (RC
38308) discusses aspects of women's health, including
holistic medicine, emotional well-being, relationships,
sexual behavior, and childbearing. Also includes information
concerning disabilities and aging. Explicit descriptions of
sex. 1998.

The Right Women: A Journey through the Heart of Conservative
America RC 48734
by Elinor Burkett 
read by Kristin Allison
2 cassettes
Examines the status and impact of feminism in the United
States. For two years Burkett traveled across the country
conducting interviews outside the mainstream women's
movement. She finds that many who reject official feminist
dogma are, nonetheless, able to make nontraditional choices
about their own lives.  Strong language. 1998.

The Roosevelt Women RC 47612
by Betty Boyd Caroli 
read by Mitzi Friedlander
4 cassettes
Traces generations of Roosevelt women by focusing on several
main characters. Describes these wealthy New York socialites
as both powerful in their own right and influential in the
lives of their male relatives. Explores the ties between two
branches of the family. Profiles include Edith, Sara,
Eleanor, Ethel, and Alice. 1998.

See Jane Win: The Rimm Report on How One Thousand Girls
Became Successful Women RC 49118
by Sylvia Rimm 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
3 cassettes
Summary and conclusions of research by the author and her
two daughters, who surveyed successful women about their
achievements. The report formulates twenty suggestions on
how to raise competent daughters; includes anecdotal and
statistical data. Also offers inspiration and guidance.
Bestseller 1999.

Sisterhood of Spies: The Women of the OSS RC 47558
by Elizabeth P. McIntosh 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
3 cassettes
During World War II the author, a war reporter, was
recruited by the Office of Strategic Services (OSS)--later
the CIA--to work in the propaganda division. She describes
other female operatives, some of whom were spies with hair-
raising duties behind enemy lines. Concludes with the role
women play in intelligence, including uncovering the Soviet
mole Aldrich Ames. 1998.

Song of Survival: Women Interned RC 47801
by Helen Colijn 
read by Nanette Savard
2 cassettes
Autobiography of a young girl who was held captive by the
Japanese army in southeast Asia during World War II. Helen
and her two sisters endured hunger and disease for three and
a half years until the war ended. During their internment,
writing and singing music were their only pleasures. 1995.

Spirit Moves: The Story of Six Generations of Native Women
RC 46850
by Loree Boyd 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
3 cassettes
An account of the author's matrilineal family beginning with
Bird Song, her grandmother's grandmother. Portrays women
overcoming obstacles--abusive men, family patterns of
alcoholism, and the barriers created by a prejudiced
society--to create meaningful lives for themselves. Some
violence and some descriptions of sex. 1996.

What Do Women Want? Bread, Roses, Sex, Power RC 47974
by Erica Jong 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
2 cassettes
Feminist Erica Jong contemplates women of the 1990s--what
they want and what society expects from them. Considers
issues such as work, power, sex, and relationships. Essays
discuss such public figures as Princess Diana and Hillary
Rodham Clinton, and muse on "the perfect man." Some strong
language and some descriptions of sex. 1998.

What Our Mothers Didn't Tell Us: Why Happiness Eludes the
Modern Woman RC 48228
by Danielle Crittenden 
read by Sharon Murray
2 cassettes
The author contends that feminism defies human nature and
has caused misery for generations. She urges women to look
beyond themselves and their personal ambitions, and to
compromise in their relationships with men. Advocates
marrying early and having children before embarking on a
career. 1999.

What to Expect in Your Fifties: A Woman's Guide to Health,
Vitality, and Longevity RC 48209
compiled by Judy Mandell 
read by Patricia McDermott
3 cassettes
Describes physical and emotional changes women go through in
their sixth decade. In addition to typical topics like
menopause, osteoporosis, and heart disease, deals briefly
with stress, chronic pain, alternative medicine, and plastic
surgery. Gives preventive health strategies and advice on
each topic. 1998.

When She Was Bad: Violent Women and the Myth of Innocence RC
48240
by Patricia Pearson 
read by Madelyn Buzzard
2 cassettes
Disputes the contention that males are violent and females
are nurturers. Examines research and case histories to argue
that women are aggressors but often use indirect or verbal
methods rather than outright physical acts like men.
Discusses women serial killers and the consequences of
cultural misconceptions. Some strong language. 1997.

Woman: An Intimate Geography RC 48278
by Natalie Angier 
read by Martha Harmon Pardee
4 cassettes
A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist explains the biological
makeup of female physiology and psyche. Examines feminine
anatomical structure and systems, the hormonal and neural
underpinnings of actions and longings. Discusses various
misconceptions of womanhood while celebrating being a woman.
Bestseller 1999.

A Woman's Guide to Savvy Investing: Everything You Need to
Know to Protect Your Future RC 47177
by Marsha Bertrand 
read by Jill Ferris
2 cassettes
Practical advice on managing money--from investing in stocks
and bonds to choosing an advisor and reading newsletters
while having fun doing so. Explains financial terminology
and how to analyze a company. Glossary included. 1998.

Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and
Emotional Health and Healing RC 48380
by Christiane Northrup 
read by Nanette Savard
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Gynecologist combines Western medicine and alternative
therapies for female mind-body wellness. This revised
edition covers recent developments in nutrition, pregnancy,
and menopause. Includes many patients' experiences
evidencing the connection between mental state and physical
condition. Provides a twelve-step plan for personal healing
with advice on choosing a health-care provider. Bestseller
1998.

World History

Aftermath: The Remnants of War RC 47190
by Donovan Webster 
read by Steven Carpenter
2 cassettes
Following a brief biographical sketch of Alfred Nobel and
his creation of dynamite, blasting caps and gelatin, and
smokeless gunpowder, Webster looks at the lasting effects on
the world from instruments of destruction. His topics
include the skeletons and unexploded mines that still lie in
the fields of France, Germany, and Vietnam and the toxic
waste dumps of the United States. 1996.

The Beautiful Days of My Youth: My Six Months in Auschwitz
and Plaszow RC 48364
by Ana Novac 
read by Jill Fox
2 cassettes
In 1944, a Jewish-Hungarian teenager, Ana Novac, was plucked
off a train and incarcerated. In two concentration camps she
secretly kept this journal, describing daily life and how
she managed to survive with the help of her "camp sisters."
Violence and strong language. For senior high and older
readers. 1997.

Black Dog of Fate: A Memoir RC 46395
by Peter Balakian 
read by Steven Carpenter
2 cassettes
The author recalls his astonishment when, as a graduate
student, he discovers that his ancestors were victims of a
genocide in their native Armenia in 1915. Balakian's
relatives chose silence as a way of survival. Since that
time, the author claims, the Turkish government has run a
campaign to keep the story quiet. Violence and some strong
language. 1997.

The Century RC 47535
by Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster 
read by Bill Wallace
7 cassettes in 2 containers
Researched and compiled by the staff of ABC News, this
chronicle of the twentieth century charts changes in popular
attitudes in the United States and describes key events in
other countries as they affected the American worldview.
Personal interviews and a series of story-filled essays
provide a "coherent picture of a remarkable time."
Bestseller 1998.

The Children of Henry VIII RC 47484
by Alison Weir 
read by Corrie James
4 cassettes
Account of the lives of Henry VIII's three children--Edward
VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I--and his great niece--Lady Jane
Grey--all of whom ascended to the throne. Weir emphasizes
their personal lives and the relationships between them from
1547 to 1558. Companion to The Six Wives of Henry VIII (RC
47483). 1996.

Explaining Hitler: The Search for the Origins of His Evil RC
47933
by Ron Rosenbaum 
read by Bill Wallace
4 cassettes
An analysis of fifty years of historical research concerning
Adolf Hitler. Discusses various theories that scholars have
pursued in their efforts to discover the dictator's true
nature. Suggests that the existence of evil provides a
logical starting point for an explanation of Hitler's
actions. 1998.

From Plato to NATO: The Idea of the West and Its Opponents
RC 47900
by David Gress 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
6 cassettes
Explores "the logic of world history and the changing
identities of Western civilization." Traces the evolution of
political liberty, not just as an abstract concept, but as a
positive practice that inexorably "grew because it served
the interests of power." 1998.

The Genius of China: Three Thousand Years of Science,
Discovery, and Invention RC 47818
by Robert Temple 
read by Mary Kane
3 cassettes
Reveals the Chinese origins of such "modern" inventions as
paper and printing, gunpowder, and the magnetic compass.
Temple's eleven topics--including astronomy, engineering,
medicine, and warfare--provide historical context and show
that more than half of the basic discoveries considered
"Western" were developed earlier in China. 1986.

Great Catherine RC 48283
by Carolly Erickson 
read by Gabriella Cavallero
3 cassettes
Biography of the German princess Sophia, who became
Catherine II, Empress of Russia, in the eighteenth century.
Emphasizes her intelligence, political insight, and
accomplishments in modernizing her country. Discusses her
relationships with her mother, her husband, lovers, and
children. Based on Catherine's memoirs and letters, and on
documents written by her contemporaries. 1994.

The Handbook of the Former Soviet Union RC 48347
by Michael G. Kort 
read by Butch Hoover
2 cassettes
A history and description of the fifteen nations that arose
out of the former Soviet Union, including Russia, Ukraine,
Belarus, Moldova, and the states of the Baltic,
Transcaucasus, and Central Asian regions. Includes a
chronology of the post-soviet era and a brief encyclopedia
describing major leaders and geographic features. For senior
high and older readers. 1997.

In the Land of the Taj Mahal: The World of the Fabulous
Mughals RC 47521
by Ed Rothfarb 
read by Mary Kane
2 cassettes
Traces the history of the three-hundred-year Mughal dynasty
in northern India. Describes the Mughals' arrival in the
fifteenth century led by Babur, who conquered and remained
to rule. Examines the development of Islam during the
interchange of cultures, as the Mughals interacted with the
local Hindu traditions. For junior and senior high readers.
1998.

Irish Rebel: John Devoy and America's Fight for Ireland's
Freedom RC 46658
by Terry Golway 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
3 cassettes
Portrait of an exiled Irish nationalist, who organized
American support for the liberation of his native land.
Traces his Dublin youth, his years as a Fenian activist
before coming to America in 1871, and his relentless
campaign abroad to advance the cause of a free Ireland.
1998.

Islam and the West RC 47506
by Bernard Lewis 
read by Ted Stoddard
2 cassettes
Eleven essays by a Princeton professor of Near Eastern
studies explore 1,400 years of historic relations between
the Islamic nations and the Christian world referred to as
the West. The subjects addressed are grouped under three
headings: encounters, perceptions, and responses. 1993.

Israel: A History RC 48223
by Martin Gilbert 
read by Bruce Huntey
6 cassettes
Traces the history of Israel from the nineteenth century to
the 1990s. Describes the Balfour Declaration of 1917, the
United Nations partition resolution of 1947, and statehood
in 1948. Examines the society, economy, and political
events. Surveys personalities from David Ben-Gurion to
Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, and Binyamin Netanyahu. 1998.

The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara RC 46662
by David I. Kertzer 
read by Frank Coffee
3 cassettes
An account of the 1858 abduction of a six-year-old Jewish
boy in Bologna by Papal authorities. The boy had been
secretly baptized by a servant girl, and church dogma
dictated that he be raised as a Catholic. The author asserts
that the resulting furor hastened the collapse of the
Vatican's temporal power in Italy. Strong language. 1997.

Kosovo: A Short History RC 47467
by Noel Malcolm 
read by Ken Kliban
4 cassettes
History of a disputed area in southeastern Europe that was
once part of Yugoslavia. Both Serbs and Albanians contest
the region known as Kosovo, based on historical records and
mythology. Explores the effects of Ottoman expansion in
Europe, the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, national developments
in 1912, World War II, and the years of Marshal Tito's rule
until 1980. 1998.

Kundun: A Biography of the Family of the Dalai Lama RC 46813
by Mary Craig 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
3 cassettes
Describes the family of the fourteenth Dalai Lama and the
importance of their support for him, especially during the
religious and political turmoil in Tibet after the 1950s.
Explains local Buddhist traditions and cultural history;
recounts the family's move from their rural village to live
as royalty in Lhasa and their exile from their country as
refugees. 1997.

The Life of Elizabeth I RC 48025
by Alison Weir 
read by Vanessa Maroney
5 cassettes
Beginning with Elizabeth's accession to the throne in 1558,
Weir describes the queen's private and public life in the
context of the political and social events of her time. Weir
also explores Elizabeth's reasons for not marrying.
Companion to The Children of Henry VIII (RC 47484). 1998.

The Masada Myth: Collective Memory and Mythmaking in Israel
RC 48330
by Nachman Ben-Yehuda 
read by Lou Harpenau
4 cassettes
An Israeli sociologist examines historical records about the
mass suicide at Masada in A.D. 73 and compares the facts
with the once-popular version of heroic defiance. Explains
how mythmaking helped develop the new nation's image and how
it declined in importance as a stronger, more self-reliant
Israel emerged. 1995.

The Message and the Kingdom: How Jesus and Paul Ignited a
Revolution and Transformed the Ancient World RC 47641
by Richard A. Horsley and Neil Asher Silberman 
read by Connie Crawford
3 cassettes
Two historians trace connections between religion and
politics in ancient times, relying in part on first-century
archaeological evidence. They argue that early Christianity
challenged a government that preached personal achievement
and self-reliance but denied most of its subjects
opportunities for advancement. 1997.

Napoleon Bonaparte RC 46389
by Alan Schom 
read by Ted Stoddard
8 cassettes in 2 containers
A critical portrait of the legendary ruler of France, whose
empire controlled much of Europe. Covers "all aspects of his
life," tracing his obscure Corsican youth, his rise to
power, his military campaigns, his defeat at Waterloo, and
his death in exile in 1821. Violence. 1997.

One Hell of a Gamble: Khrushchev, Castro, and Kennedy, 1958-
1964 RC 46210
by Aleksandr Fursenko and Timothy Naftali 
read by Peg Gill
4 cassettes
Chronicles the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, when the world's
two superpowers came to the brink of nuclear war. Using
Russian archives opened in the 1990s, this account traces
and analyzes events surrounding a confrontation that was, in
the authors' view, the most serious of the Cold War. 1997.

Philippe, Duc d'Orleans: Regent of France RC 48413
by Christine Pevitt 
read by Robert Blumenfeld
3 cassettes
Chronicles the years after the death of Louis XIV, the Sun
King, in 1715, when Philippe d'Orleans became the regent for
the new king, a five-year-old. Until his death eight years
later, Philippe--although known as a rake and philanderer--
managed to keep France out of war, expanded emigration to
the New World (New Orleans was named in his honor), and
tried to restore the economy. Some descriptions of sex.
1997.

The Queen: A Biography of Elizabeth II RC 47203
by Ben Pimlott 
read by Vanessa Maroney
5 cassettes
The author describes how Elizabeth, who was never expected
to become queen, was thrust toward the role after her
uncle's abdication as king. Pimlott suggests that through no
fault of Elizabeth's, political and social upheavals and
scandals involving her children have come to threaten the
existence of the monarchy since she began her reign in 1952.
1996.

Rasputin: The Saint Who Sinned RC 46655
by Brian Moynahan 
read by Gordon Gould
4 cassettes
Portrays the life of the charismatic monk, bibulous lecher,
and trusted adviser of Russia's imperial Romanov family.
Sought out by the empress to aid her ailing son using
spiritual powers, Rasputin rose to a position of official
influence, with disastrous results. Strong language and
descriptions of sex. 1997.

Rhodes: The Race for Africa RC 46657
by Antony Thomas 
read by John Horton
3 cassettes
The life of Cecil Rhodes, who was born in 1853 and sailed to
Africa at sixteen because of poor health. Describes his
modest beginning as a cotton farmer and his transformation
into a diamond magnate, who also earned a fortune in gold.
Rhodes annexed much of Africa for Great Britain and became
one of the most powerful, and mistrusted, men of his time.
1996.

Romania RC 48405
by Mark Sanborne 
read by Jeremy Gage
1 cassette
Describes the history, culture, and future of the eastern
European country. Explains the relationship of its
geographical location as a crossroads for trade to its long
history of invasions. Analyzes the coup against the dictator
Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 and the mass adoption of orphans.
For junior and senior high and older readers. 1998.

Russia: People and Empire, 1552-1917 RC 46501
by Geoffrey Hosking 
read by Ralph Lowenstein
4 cassettes
Traces the history of Russia as a nation and an empire up to
the year 1917. Asserts that the economic and political
processes of state building impeded the development of a
sense of national identity and cohesiveness among the
Russian people. 1997.

The Seekers: The Story of Man's Continuing Quest to
Understand His World RC 47037
by Daniel J. Boorstin 
read by Gordon Gould
3 cassettes
The former librarian of congress completes his trilogy begun
with The Discoverers (RC 20145), followed by The Creators
(RC 35507), with this account of the people he considers
"seekers." Boorstin defines three epochs of searching: the
age of prophets and philosophers, the age of communal
seeking, and finally the age of social science. 1998.

A Short History of Byzantium RC 47025
by John Julius Norwich 
read by Lindsay Ellison
5 cassettes
Condensed from a three-volume work. The author describes the
civilization of Byzantium, founded in A.D. 330 by
Constantine the Great, as the Roman Empire of the East. It
survived until being conquered by the Ottoman Turks in 1453.
During those thousand years, the Byzantines preserved the
heritage of Greece and Rome, protected Europe from eastern
invasion, and created magnificent art. 1997.

The Six Wives of Henry VIII RC 47483
by Alison Weir 
read by Vanessa Maroney
5 cassettes
Account of the six very different women who married Henry
VIII and the marks they made on England's history. Weir
discusses their distinctive traits and how they handled
their primary responsibilities, which were to produce heirs
and to set high moral standards for the kingdom. Companion
to The Children of Henry VIII (RC 47484). 1991.

The Taliban: War, Religion, and the New Order in Afghanistan
RC 48185
by Peter Marsden 
read by Bob Moore
2 cassettes
Examines the beliefs and policies of the Taliban and their
rise to power. Traces the history of other radical movements
in the area. Discusses the gender issue and how it affects
the interactions of the Taliban with the international
community. Considers foreign support and opposition to the
group. 1998.

Understanding China: A Guide to China's Economy, History,
and Political Structure RC 48241
by John Bryan Starr 
read by Richard Hauenstein
2 cassettes
Provides history, geography, and figures of China as an
introduction for study and research. Identifies problems
confronting the nation and discusses its culture, political
system, army, and individual rights and freedoms, as well as
uncertainties about its development and international
relations. 1997.