Keen observations are powerful and build a sense of imagery to reveal how one man’s struggles have shaped his perspective. Author R. M. A. Spears explores themes of machismo and being a man, while shedding light on military culture, in... Read More

Averill captures the essence of Christmas as a woman struggles to hold onto her rituals. Cheery yuletide traditions are hampered by modern-day distractions in "A Carol Dickens Christmas" by Thomas Fox Averill, a charming story that... Read More

Raskin easily balances humor and drama in this novel about parenting, reality TV, and family. Erika Raskin’s "Close" is a welcoming and nuanced novel that offers a window into the life of the Marcheson family—with ultimately much of... Read More

Chronologically detailed artistic developments of the Harlem Renaissance are placed in context. From Ella O. Williams, retired professor of African-American literature, comes a work designed to introduce students and curious readers to... Read More

Huang offers a subtly powerful portrait of a confused Chinese girl’s growth through tragedy and conflict into a strong young woman. A highly competitive university student and an elusive panda bear might seem to have little in common,... Read More

Ullrich’s photos and essays capture the tension between tradition and modernity in classic state fairs. The idea of a state fair evokes a certain sense of nostalgia, and nostalgia is a theme resounding throughout Kurt Ullrich’s... Read More

Wright uses her experience doing business in China to adeptly suggest ways both countries can improve their cultural understanding. Readers of Debra Wright’s "Why China?" will likely still ask themselves at the end of the book, why... Read More

This comprehensive rundown of the great names in astronomical detection makes for compelling biographical reading. "Starlight Detectives" throws light on the lives of many of astronomy’s greats, from the well-known Edwin Hubble to the... Read More