Lifestyle
In her earlier work, Swedish author Margareta Magnusson introduced the world to the Swedish tradition of “dostadning” or “death cleaning”—systematically getting rid of your stuff so that others won’t be burdened with it when you’re gone. It’s a liberating and beneficial exercise. Elaborating on the theme of aging gracefully, she now offers tips to make each day worth living once you’ve uncluttered. Fresh discoveries abound. Humorous and practical, she has much joy to share for all ages.
Business History
The oilfield boat business, a worldwide industry today, was born in Louisiana’s bayous. This book tells the history of that industry, from its birth in the late 1930s to the present. It traces four families from Bayou Lafourche, pioneers in hauling supplies for the oil men. The story follows them from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Sea and the Persian Gulf and then into the Pacific. There’s a rough romance in this history, one of hard work, big paydays, failed gambles, and men against the sea.
Military History
For military history enthusiasts, Angus Konstam’s “100 Greatest Battles” is a collector’s item. In short and concise sections, he describes what made a specific battle great—whether it be for defying great odds, changing the course of history, or the mass scale of destruction. Starting in Ancient Greece and ending with Desert Storm, this is an enjoyable run through the history of warfare and how history often hinges on warfare. Beautiful artwork by Osprey artists accompanies each battle.
Commentary
Known for his biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (the pastor executed for resisting the Nazis), Metaxas compares the American church, especially its leaders, to those German Christians who acquiesced to fascism. Silence leads only to defeat in a clash between the church and the state. Metaxas urges believers to resist the attacks on faith and religious morality by speaking out with love and Biblical truth. Clear, succinct arguments and his use of history make this book well worth reading.
Classics
In this collection of 18 stories and numerous poems, Blaisdell includes well-known works by writers such as Mark Twain, Ambrose Bierce, Walt Whitman, and Julia Ward Howe. Here too, however, readers will find more obscure pieces on the war, such as John Phelan’s “Ye Men of Alabama!” and Edmund Stedman’s “How Old Brown Took Harper’s Ferry.” With each entry, Blaisdell includes a short but helpful introduction, along with tidbits of history and biography. The book was issued for the 150th anniversary of the war.
For Kids
This beautiful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale features rich, descriptive language and vivid, engaging illustrations that bring to life the classic story of hardship, forbearance, truth, and beauty. Lessons abound in this heartwarming story, a perfect read-aloud for spring and a wonderful addition to a child’s library.
