Braille Book Review, Vol. 64, No. 4, Sept.-Oct. 1995 Braille Book Review September-October 1995 Volume 64, Number 4 National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped _Braille Book Review_ is published bimonthly and distributed free to blind and physically handicapped individuals who participate in the Library of Congress free reading program. It lists braille magazines and books available through a network of cooperating libraries. The braille edition also lists recorded books, giving abbreviated annotations. News about library services is featured in both editions. The annotated list in this issue is limited to titles recently added to the national collection, which contains thousands of fiction and nonfiction titles, including classics, biographies, gothics, mysteries, and how-to and self-help guides. These books will continue to be available from your cooperating library and will be listed again in _Braille Books 1995-1996._ To learn more about the wide range of books in the national collection, readers may order catalogs and subject bibliographies from cooperating libraries. Librarians can check other resources for titles and answer requests for special materials. To order books, contact your local cooperating library. Correspondence regarding editorial matters should be sent to: Publications and Media Section, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, Washington, DC 20542 Library of Congress, Washington 1995 Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 53-31800 ISSN 0006-873X Contents: In Brief Books for Adults Nonfiction Fiction Books for Children Nonfiction Fiction Handcopied Braille--Other Agencies Braille Magazines _In Brief_ _Braille Book Review on Diskette_ In response to patron and library requests, NLS will make _Braille Book Review_ and _Talking Book Topics_ available on computer diskette. A one-year pilot project beginning with the January-February issues will give you the opportunity to subscribe to this diskette product. The diskette edition will contain both _Braille Book Review_ and _Talking Book Topics_ as two separate ASCII text files on one 3-1/2-inch IBM-compatible diskette. The data will be readable by nearly all editing or file-reading software. Each file will consist of the "In Brief" section, the book listings complete with annotation, and a magazines listing. Indexes and order forms will not be included. This format is already available through the Internet by accessing LC MARVEL. Each diskette will be packaged in a standard diskette mailer and sent directly to patrons who subscribe. You will receive the diskette around the same time as you receive other formats of _Braille Book Review_ and _Talking Book Topics_ to which you currently subscribe. You will continue to receive __these formats also during this pilot project, unless you request a change. The diskette is to be kept, not returned to the producer or your library. If you would like to receive _Braille Book Review_ and _Talking Book Topics_ on a diskette, contact your local cooperating library to subscribe. Survey on Recorded Discs with _Braille Book Review_ During September readers of the braille edition of _Braille Book Review_ were sent a survey asking their preference in regard to the recorded discs included with the braille version of _Braille Book Review_. These discs contain the complete respective issue of _Talking Book Topics_. Recently the NLS National Advisory Group on Collection- Building Activities, which is made up of reader representatives and librarians, recommended that the recorded discs no longer be sent with _Braille Book Review_. The committee suggested that if it were not necessary to wait for the recorded discs to be produced, _Braille Book Review_ could be mailed earlier in the bimonthly schedule. That way readers would be aware of the arrival of braille books at their libraries in a more timely manner. If this change were made, everything else would stay the same. The short descriptions of recorded books incorporated into the _Braille Book Review _magazine, and the braille order forms for recorded books would still be included. _Talking Book Topics_ on recorded disc or cassette would still be available as a separate subscription. The change would begin in January 1996. Any readers who have not received the survey may send a letter indicating their preference (in print or braille) to the Publications and Media Section, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, Washington, DC 20542. The results of this survey and the decision regarding a change will be announced in a future issue of _Braille Book Review_. _NLS Publishes Circular on Disabilities_ NLS has published a new reference circular listing titles and sources of audiovisual materials on visual and physical disabilities. _Sources of Audiovisual Materials on Disabilities_ is compiled from catalogs and descriptive brochures from producers, distributors, and organizations in the United States. It provides titles, sources, and current prices and includes a complete listing of addresses of sources. The circular is available in regular print. To request a copy, contact the Reference Section, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Library of Congress, Washington, DC 20542. The circular is also available to Internet users through the LC MARVEL system. _Annual Factsheet Available in Braille_ The 1995 edition of the NLS factsheet Books for Blind and Physically Handicapped Individuals is now available in braille. The factsheet describes the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped and contains current statistics and a list of available publications. To request a copy of the factsheet, contact the Reference Section at the address given above. _Datefinder_ Braille datefinders are available free from NLS. The 2-1/2 by 3-1/4-inch datefinders give the day of the week on which the first day of the month falls for the months of July 1995 through June 1996. The datefinders also incorporate a signature guide. To receive one or more of these datefinders, contact the NLS Publications and Media Section at the address given above. _What's New?_ The 1995 edition of What's New? is now available in braille. It describes some of the latest NLS publications and other program developments. Request What's New? from the NLS Reference Section at the address given above. What's New? can also be accessed on LC MARVEL. _Books for Adults _ The following books were recently produced for the NLS program. To order books, complete the order form and return it to your braille-lending library. Note: For the information of the reader, a notice may appear immediately following the book description to indicate occurrences of strong language, explicit descriptions of sex, or violence. The word "some" before any of these terms indicates an occasional or infrequent occurence, as in "some strong language." _Nonfiction_ Windows from the Keyboard BR 9411 by Nicholas Baran 3 volumes How to operate Microsoft Windows with increased speed, efficiency, and interface consistency without a mouse, or with reduced reliance on a mouse, by using a set of keystroke commands applicable to laptop and desktop computers. Following an overview of Windows, the author devotes individual chapters to specific programs such as WordPerfect and Lotus 1-2-3. 1993. Polish Heritage Cookery BR 9460 by Robert and Maria Strybel 11 volumes Warsaw-based American author of the "Polish Chef" column and his Polish wife present more than 2,000 recipes arranged in twenty-nine categories, from spices, herbs, and seasonings to bread and rolls. Directions are in American standard temperatures, measures, and weights. Includes historical and cultural background and ideas for reducing cholesterol and fat in traditional recipes. 1993. The Comedy of Errors BR 9544 by William Shakespeare 1 volume Late sixteenth-century farce. Egeon and Emilia name each of their twin sons Antipholus and hire twin attendants, each named Dromio. A shipwreck separates the family, dividing it in half. The son who lives with Egeon takes his Dromio in search of his mother and his twin and fails to return. Egeon goes to Ephesus, an unfriendly place for a man from Syracuse, to look for them, but a demand for ransom and mistaken identity complicate matters. 1963. Acts of Faith: Daily Meditations for People of Color BR 9565 by Iyanla Vanzant 2 volumes Daily meditative statements that Vanzant hopes will "assist the children of the earth in the redevelopment of their minds, bodies, and spirits." Divided into sections on self, world, others, and money and abundance, the book includes quotations from the Bible and Yoruba proverbs, as well as from persons such as Maya Angelou, Les Brown, James Baldwin, and Marvin Gaye. 1993. Death by Chocolate: The Last Word on a Consuming Passion BR 9566 by Marcel Desaulniers 2 volumes Chef of the Trellis Restaurant in Colonial Williamsburg reveals recipes for his famous desserts. Desaulniers's instructions, appropriate for home kitchens, include his version of old favorites such as brownies and chocolate chip cookies, as well as recipes that may cause "chocolate dementia." The author adds "bits and pieces of information about chocolate" and accompanies most recipes with "the chef's touch." 1992. Cooking with Master Chefs BR 9586 by Julia Child 2 volumes Child brings together sixteen professional chefs who contribute recipes written for the serious home cook. The techniques for preparation and cooking are explained in detail. Notes provide many useful tips about finding exotic ingredients, making substitutions, judging the freshness of the ingredients, and using proper equipment. 1993. Aristotle BR 9593 by Jonathan Barnes 1 volume A brief introduction to the writings of an ancient Greek thinker whose ideas earned him an ardent if controversial following during his lifetime, dominated the Middle Ages, and continue to influence modern thought. Barnes portrays Aristotle as a philosopher who was equally respected for his scientific studies and his opinions about art and poetry. 1982. Wheels and Waves: A Cruise, Ferry, River, and Canal Barge Guide for the Physically Handicapped BR 9690 by Genie and George Aroyan 2 volumes A high door sill for keeping water out is just one of the barriers to shipboard travel for those with physical handicaps. The authors (one well-traveled and paraplegic) give data about which cruises and boats (from large ships to small sailboats) are accommodating. They note the size of passageways, the availability of elevators and "handicapped" cabins, and the need for an attendant. 1993. A Literary Christmas: Great Contemporary Christmas Stories BR 9703 edited by Lilly Golden 3 volumes In one story, a poor child's last thread of hope snaps. Another tale reveals the tension that builds up when some families gather. The ubiquitous Christmas play includes a part for a small girl with a big voice, who happens to be Jewish. In all, twenty-seven stories explore the spirit of Christmas and what it means in cultural, psychological, secular, religious, and emotional terms. Some strong language. 1992. The Day of the Dead: And Other Mortal Reflections BR 9719 by F. Gonzalez-Crussi 1 volume Pathologist Gonzalez-Crussi collaborated on a BBC documentary that was a "stark visual record of mortality." These six essays are "an attempt to cast into literary form the varied reflections or meditations sparked . . . and the experiences incurred . . . in the course of the production." An embalmer tells of the many adventures of the well-preserved corpse of Evita Peron, and the author's uncle complains that he can't finish dying. 1993. Tower of Secrets: A Real Life Spy Thriller BR 9733 by Victor Sheymov 4 volumes Major Victor Sheymov, a loyal KGB employee, was head of the Soviets' cipher-communications security worldwide. The more Sheymov became disillusioned with Communism, the more concerned he was for his and his family's safety. Sheymov relates his decision to defect and inflict damage on the Soviet Union. After his escape to the United States, he discloses facets of Russia's game of espionage. Strong language and some violence. 1993. Becoming a Man: Half a Life Story BR 9742 by Paul Monette 3 volumes Author of _Borrowed Time: An AIDS Memoir (BR 7469)_ explains in this prequel how he wasted years of his life before he came out of the closet. Monette's self-portrait depicts his personal resentment of the duplicity of his life, his struggle to come to terms with his homosexuality, and the relief he felt once he met Roger, his longtime companion. Strong language and explicit descriptions of sex. 1992. After the Baby's Birth . . . A Woman's Way to Wellness: A Complete Guide for Postpartum Women BR 9757 by Robin Lim 3 volumes Asserting that a woman is pregnant for nine months but postpartum for the rest of her life, Lim describes ways to make the transition into the postpartum state easier and more enjoyable. Discussed are breastfeeding and weaning, exercises, diet, and herbs, as well as the emotional changes new mothers face. Lim's advice is laced with the philosophy of Eastern medicine. 1991. A Guide to Guide Dog Schools, Second Edition BR 9759 by Ed and Toni Eames 2 volumes A resource for blind individuals considering partnership with guide dogs. Following an overview of considerations, including the costs and benefits of having a guide dog, the book lists seventeen training programs, describing each school in detail. 1994. The Longest Day: June 6, 1944 BR 9765 by Cornelius Ryan 3 volumes A reconstruction of the D-Day invasion of Europe, covering the hours before and after the massive landing in Normandy. The author depicts the Nazi enemy the Allied forces fought and the civilians who were caught in the epic battle that would determine the course of fascism. Bestseller 1959. Oh! Say Can You See . . . BR 9771 by The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults 1 volume An agency that specializes in services for blind children, elderly blind persons, and deaf-blind individuals provides this volume describing the types of assistance and products available through agency offices and government programs. The book introduces readers to a person who is both deaf and blind and to a family with a teenager who was born blind and lost his hearing. 1992. Roommates: My Grandfather's Story BR 9790 by Max Apple 2 volumes From three generations living under the same roof in Michigan, young Max chose his grandfather, Rocky, for a roommate. A Jewish baker from Lithuania, Rocky finally accepted the sad fact that Max was not cut out to be a rabbi. In graduate school, Max again shared his apartment with feisty, widowed, ninety-three-year-old Rocky. A woman broke the duo up, but until Rocky died at 106, he remained a central figure in Max's life. Some strong language. 1994. _Fiction_ The Client BR 9551 by John Grisham 4 volumes The client is eleven-year-old Mark Sway, who retained lawyer Reggie Love with a one-dollar bill. The reason Mark needs a lawyer is the same reason his eight-year-old brother is comatose in the hospital from shock--they witnessed a suicide. The victim was a lawyer and unfortunately he told Mark something before he died--something the police, the FBI, and the mafia are very interested in. Strong language and some violence. Bestseller 1993. Strange Devices of the Sun and Moon BR 9553 by Lisa Goldstein 3 volumes London, 1590. A band of faeries invades the city as conspirators plot to unseat Queen Elizabeth I. The sprites are looking for their long-awaited king, Arthur--son of Alice Wood, a widowed bookseller. But also searching are alchemist Paul Hogg and famed London author Christopher Marlowe. As their paths cross with the faeries, a battle between good and evil ensues. For high school and older readers. 1993. The Cover Artist BR 9561 by Paul Micou 2 volumes Satire on the art world. Oscar Lemoine, a cartoonist and caricaturist, and his dog Elizabeth return to New York after escaping for more than a year in the south of France. Known for his wicked nude drawings of public figures on the cover of _Lowdown_, Oscar fled in confusion when he belatedly learned that the magazine was pornographic. But the peace he found abroad was short-lived when he fell in love with a manipulative woman. Descriptions of sex and some strong language. 1990. The Slow Natives BR 9564 by Thea Astley 2 volumes The Australian Leverson family consists of affable music teacher Bernard; his wife, Iris; and their sullen son, Keith. Bernard really doesn't mind when he learns that Iris is having an affair, but for Keith it is definitely the last straw. Keith loathes everything about his parents even though he loves them, and he secretly admits he could use some disciplining. A last act of rebellion finally tests his parents' limits. Strong language. 1965. Ride the Dark Trail BR 9568 by Louis L'Amour 2 volumes Widow Emily Talon is wearing down. Since the last worker on her Colorado ranch was killed, she has kept a twenty-four-hour vigil against Jake Flanner and his men, who are conspiring to take over her ranch. Hearing of the woman's plight, drifter Logan Sackett discovers that, like him, Emily is a Tennessee Sackett. Vowing to help her until her wandering sons return, Logan is determined to teach Jake Flanner's men a lesson. Some strong language and violence. 1972. The Sackett Brand BR 9571 by Louis L'Amour 1 volume Forty gunslingers from the Lazy A Ranch plan to hang Tell Sackett if they can catch him, but the rest of the Sacketts--politicians, outlaws, cattlemen, bankers, and tinkers--come to Tell's rescue. Some strong language and some violence. 1965. The Lonely Men BR 9572 by Louis L'Amour 2 volumes When Tell Sackett receives an urgent plea from the wife of his brother, Orrin, to rescue Orrin's son from the Apaches, Tell has no idea that the embittered woman is setting a trap for him. But by the time he and his comrades have completed their adventure in the mountainous Arizona Apache territory, Tell has devised a way to pay her back. Some strong language and some violence. 1969. The Shaman's Knife BR 9573 by Scott Young 3 volumes After solving _Murder in a Cold Climate (BR 8160)_, Matteesie Kitologitak, the diminutive Inuit inspector with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, has a personal stake in his new case. While visiting relatives, Matteesie's ancient nomadic mother was struck down by the fleeing murderer of a young Inuit man and his grandmother. Matteesie looks to the young Inuit crowd for a killer with a surprising murder weapon. Some violence and some strong language. 1993. The Sky-liners BR 9576 by Louis L'Amour 2 volumes The two Sackett brothers, Flagan and Galloway, run into Black Fetchen's gang in town, and a feud develops. The Sacketts are good fighters, but they must contend with the best gunslingers in the country. Some strong language and some violence. 1967. The Morning Gift BR 9577 by Eva Ibbotson 3 volumes Ruth Berger, separated from her family during the early days of World War II, marries longtime English family friend, Quinton Somerville, in order to get out of Vienna. They plan to annul the marriage upon arrival in England so Ruth may marry Cousin Heini, a musician from Budapest. But the situation becomes complicated when Ruth and Quinton finally consummate their marriage and he gives her a gift the next morning. 1993. Under the Silk Cotton Tree BR 9594 by Jean Buffong 2 volumes Beginning and ending with the account of the wedding of her two admired teachers, a "fete for so," young Flora gives a fast-paced, rambling account of the highs and lows of her life thus far on Grenada. She lives with her mother and siblings after her father leaves for St. Croix to strike it rich and never returns. Some strong language. For high school and older readers. 1993. The Virgin Suicides BR 9600 by Jeffrey Eugenides 2 volumes The neighborhood boys are obsessed with the five Lisbon sisters. The boys are attending the strict Lisbons' first party when thirteen-year-old Cecilia Lisbon succeeds on her second attempt to kill herself. They are on hand again a year later when the other sisters follow Cecilia's lead. Even after the boys become men, they still try to sort out what happened and why. Strong language, violence, and some explicit descriptions of sex. 1993. The Terminal Man BR 9630 by Michael Crichton 2 volumes After a car accident, thirty-four-year-old computer scientist Harry Benson experiences blackouts during which he engages in violent behavior. In addition, he has a growing paranoia that machines are taking over the earth. In a test case, doctors implant a computer in Harry to control the blackouts. But before they can perfect the interface, Harry escapes. Will the computer fuel his violent paranoia? Violence and strong language. 1972. Song of Solomon BR 9632 by Toni Morrison 3 volumes (Reissue) This novel surveys nearly a century of American history as it impinges upon four generations of a single black family. Macon Dead III, known as Milkman, is the first black baby allowed to be born in Mercy Hospital in the 1930s. Milkman undertakes an epic journey into an understanding of his family's heritage and, hence, himself. Strong language and descriptions of sex. 1977. Hula BR 9633 by Lisa Shea 1 volume A ten-year-old girl and her slightly older sister fill their summer days with imaginative activities in their backyard. One is to hula dance the way their mother taught them. But their father takes away the grass skirts their mother brings home from the dance studio. Disturbed since the Vietnam War, their father is prone to rages and shooting sprees, so the girls are careful to stay out of his way. Some violence. For high school and older readers. 1994. The Wedding Dress: Stories from the Dakota Plains BR 9634 by Carrie Young 1 volume In the title story, Ildri, a seamstress of Norwegian descent, is asked to model an intricately made wedding dress. Upon leaving her position, Ildri buys the dress and lends it to a succession of brides in her homesteading community before finding her own bittersweet use for it. The collection's other stories are also peopled with Norwegian Americans on the Dakota Plains. Some strong language. 1992. Dead Man's Island BR 9684 by Carolyn G. Hart 2 volumes Retired newspaper reporter Henrietta O'Dwyer Collins (Henrie O.) is surprised to be summoned by her long-ago lover, powerful Chase Prescott. Chase has also invited all of his close associates and family to the island he owns to determine with Henrie O. which of them tried to murder him. This task is made more difficult when a repeat of the hurricane that gave Dead Man's Island its name occurs. Strong language and violence. 1993. Criminal Damage BR 9685 by Margaret Yorke 2 volumes Mrs. Newton, an English widow, never stays long in one house; she fixes it up and moves on. But her enjoyable, tidy, solitary life begins to unravel when her daughter Jennifer's live-in boyfriend leaves her for another woman. Jennifer reacts badly, stalking the couple and vandalizing their things. Mrs. Newton's secret past makes her qualified to counsel Jennifer, but now she has some dreadful problems of her own. 1992. The Plymouth Cloak: The Second Tale of Roger the Chapman BR 9706 by Kate Sedley 2 volumes Roger the Chapman is in Exeter to peddle his wares when he is summoned by the king's brother, the duke of Gloucester. The duke, familiar with Roger's previous daring deeds, requests that he join the king's messenger, who is delivering an important letter. Roger learns there are many who want to cause harm to messenger Philip Underdown, and not just because of the letter. Some strong language and some violence. 1992. The Firm BR 9707 by John Grisham 4 volumes Bendini, Lambert, and Locke is a Memphis law firm specializing in taxes and making millionaires. The extensive dossier it has on Mitchell Y. McDeere indicates he is just the man for their firm. To Mitch, their job offer seems too good to be true. He accepts, and it isn't long before he begins to realize that the firm is not what it appears to be. Suddenly Mitch finds himself between a rock and a hard place. Some strong language. Bestseller 1991. Stark's Justice: A Judge Earl Stark Western BR 9708 by James Reasoner 2 volumes When stagecoach guard Earl Stark listens in on a murder trial, he realizes a man is going to be hanged illegally. Compelled to step in and straighten things out, Stark displays a knowledge of the law that earns him a quick entrance into the bar. But when Stark's lady friend is shot down, he forgets his new profession. As far as he's concerned, her killers are already tried and convicted. Strong language and violence. 1994. Shadow Play BR 9711 by Charles Baxter 3 volumes Wyatt Palmer, artistic and clever as a boy, is now an assistant city manager in a small town. When an old school chum turns up with an offer to bring in business and jobs in the form of a chemical plant, a deal is cut. Citizens of the local community seem pleased with what WaldChem has done for them. But Palmer knows the awful truth about what the company is doing to their environment, and now he must make a dreadful decision. Some strong language. 1993. The Bold Thing BR 9712 by Mark Daniel 3 volumes Micky Brennan was a horseman before he was sent to Her Majesty's prison for running someone down while drunk and drugged. Now free, Micky, shunned by old acquaintances, reluctantly agrees to go back home to Ireland to run a disabled American woman's horse farm. But Micky's troubles are not over: the woman is being pressured to pay extortion for being a "guest of Ireland." Strong language, violence, and explicit descriptions of sex. 1990. Uncertain Magic BR 9713 by Laura Kinsale 3 volumes In the eighteenth century, Roderica Delamore is cursed with the family's psychic gift. Her fear that she will never marry or lead a normal life is lifted when she meets the infamous Faelan Iveragh and cannot penetrate his mysterious mind. Faelan is puzzled by Roderica's offer of marriage but accepts--much to the dismay of Roderica's family. Is Faelan's wicked reputation true? Strong language, explicit descriptions of sex, and some violence. 1987. Murder on the Potomac BR 9715 by Margaret Truman 2 volumes When the body of Pauline Juris, secretary to Wendell Tierney, is found alongside the Potomac River, Tierney seeks the advice of law professor Mac Smith. Incriminating evidence in the form of love letters turns up in Pauline's apartment. It seems that more than one of the Tierneys is suspect. Meanwhile they all take part in a playacting group that re-creates old Washington murders. Some strong language. Bestseller 1994. The Courtship of Princess Leia BR 9716 by Dave Wolverton 3 volumes Princess Leia of the New Republic considers marrying Prince Isolder of the Hapes Consortium in order to form a military alliance against the Empire. Han Solo, shocked to learn he now has a rival for the hand of Princess Leia, takes a last, desperate gamble to win her back. His ploy brings Leia, followed by Luke Skywalker and Prince Isolder, to the untamed planet Dathomir, where new dangers await. A Star Wars novel. 1994. The Waters of Thirst BR 9717 by Adam Mars-Jones 2 volumes William is a gay British actor who works doing voice-overs, has a monogamous live-in relationship with an airline worker, and suffers from kidney disease. William humorously describes his bittersweet life: elaborate dinner parties, encounters with the couple's strange neighbors and friends, his obsession with a pornographic model, and his hope that a careless motorcyclist will provide a kidney. Strong language and some descriptions of sex. 1993. Almost Home BR 9736 by Debra S. Cowan 2 volumes Leah Becker, a widow, really loved her husband Robert and knows she will never love anyone else. But the shipping business Robert started is in great trouble, and Leah can't save it alone. She goes to businessman Cabot Montgomery for assistance and is shocked by the offer he makes. He will help her if she agrees to marry him and give him the legitimate heir he wants. But can Leah forget Robert? Some descriptions of sex. 1994. Peter Nevsky and the True Story of the Russian Moon Landing BR 9737 by John Calvin Batchelor 5 volumes Russia, 1968. Peter Nevsky, son of a World War II flying ace who was murdered by Stalin's men, arrives at Starry Town, home of the cosmonaut corps. At twenty-two, Peter has come to keep a childhood appointment with the moon. But his life will be ruled by the Martian Troika (three men who flew with his father and are the soul of the space program) and by two powerful women--Katya and Daemonia. Strong language. 1993. The Fire Eaters BR 9738 by William Cobb 2 volumes Damon Bell is five when he begins his story of growing up with his widowed mother, his four siblings, a fruit jar containing his father's severed ear, and the family secret of a black grandfather. His mother soon marries Barry, with three children and an alcohol problem. After Barry's deserts them, the expanded family struggles along, the mother marries again, and a grown Damon tries to come to terms with his family history. Strong language. 1994. A World for Julius BR 9739 by Alfredo Bryce Echenique 5 volumes Julius is a young boy growing up among the social elite in Lima, Peru, during the 1940s and 1950s. His father died when he was two, and he rarely sees his mother. His time is spent playing in the great carriage that once belonged to his great-grandfather, the president of the republic. But as Julius's world expands through school and trips abroad, he starts to realize the changes the outside world is bringing to his country. Strong language. 1970. Secrets of Paris BR 9740 by Luanne Rice 3 volumes Shortly after her father shocks Lydie and her mother by shooting himself and a woman he secretly loved, Lydie's husband Michael gets a year-long assignment in Paris. Upset when Lydie is unable to enjoy the romance of the city, Michael falls in love with a colleague. Meanwhile, Lydie has finally made friends: an American married to a Frenchman and their Filipino housekeeper. Strong language and some explicit descriptions of sex. 1991. Hard Road to Gettysburg BR 9743 by Ted Jones 3 volumes Caroline Wade's happiness when her twin sister, Victoria, visits from Alabama turns to horror when two men break in to kill Caroline--on her husband's orders. Victoria's slave rescues the twins but an injured and pregnant Victoria is bedridden until the birth of her triplets. She leaves one infant with Caroline in Illinois and returns south, not realizing that the siblings will meet again--on opposite sides of the Civil War. Strong language and violence. 1993. Burning Bright BR 9744 by Melissa Scott 3 volumes Starpilot Quinn Lioe needs to have some work done on her starship at the planet Burning Bright. She plans to take the opportunity to play a game of virtual reality also. But Quinn finds herself becoming a pawn in a power struggle between two empires--the human and the hsai. Some strong language and some explicit descriptions of sex. 1993. The Grub-and-Stakers House a Haunt BR 9746 by Alisa Craig 2 volumes Widow Zilla Trott is in her kitchen making a cup of camomile tea for herself and her cat when the ghost of Hiram Jellyby suddenly appears. He was murdered some years ago, and he wants Zilla to find his bones and bury them decently so he can rest in peace. Hiram also wants her to look for a wooden box of gold that he buried. When Zilla and her friends begin digging, they uncover more than bones and gold. 1993. "Earth Angel" BR 9748 by Eileen Hehl 3 volumes Fifty-three-year-old Kathryn Stuart is shocked when former high school classmate Jamie Chandler answers an ad for her fifties' records. Jamie is thrilled to find Kath, who had dated and married his best friend Gary. Kath refuses to discuss the past, including Gary, who died in Vietnam. But Jamie, who is opening a fifties' restaurant, is stuck on the past and has always loved Kath. Some strong language and some descriptions of sex. 1993. In a Pig's Eye BR 9750 by Robert Campbell 2 volumes Jimmy Flannery, sewer inspector, has just become the Democratic councilman for Ward Twenty-seven. His wife Mary, a nurse working with pregnant women, is herself expecting. While Flannery works out at his club one day, a man known only as P. Pig drops dead. Of course Flannery wants to know who he is and why he died, especially when the cops tell him to butt out. Some strong language. 1991. The Diary of Emily Dickinson BR 9760 by Jamie Fuller 1 volume This fictional diary of the thirty-seventh year of nineteenth-century poet Emily Dickinson contains 102 entries, twenty-five "new" poems, and biographical and other editorial comments. The premise is that a workman found this diary hidden in a wall after Dickinson's death. Enthralled, he kept it secret until shortly before he died. This "window into her thoughts" reflects the themes found in Dickinson's poems and letters. 1993. The Quilt BR 9762 by T. Davis Bunn 1 volume Mary can hardly remember when she was a little girl, the years seem to have gone so fast. Now she is old, and she hopes she has raised her family the way the Lord would have wanted her to. But something has been keeping her awake at night, and she finally realizes what it is: she is to make a quilt, and "not a stitch is to be sewn without a prayer of thanks." As the quilt-making draws to an end, so does Mary's life. 1993. The Twenty-third Dream BR 9767 by Kathlyn Whitsitt Egbert 2 volumes When middle-aged Adam Stauffer is diagnosed with Stage IV cancer, he and his family try to prepare for his impending death. After a difficult period when Adam is temporarily put on a respirator, he convinces his wife to travel with him and their three children back to his father's Texas ranch. As Adam explains, slowly dying feels like getting ready to go back to where you came from. Adam's journal entries describe his growing acceptance. 1993. Jedi Search: The Jedi Academy Trilogy, Volume 1 BR 9768 by Kevin J. Anderson 3 volumes In the wake of the Republic's victory over the evil Empire, Luke Skywalker wants to reinstate the order of Jedi knights. He begins a precarious mission to find descendants of the nearly exterminated Jedis. Meanwhile, Han Solo and Chewbacca discover a remnant base of the Empire under the command of a ruthless woman who has at her disposal a weapon more destructive than the Empire's death stars. A Star Wars novel. Bestseller 1994. The Tracks of Angels BR 9773 by Kelly Dwyer 2 volumes The afternoon of her father's funeral, young Laura Neuman takes a Greyhound bus from California to Boston to start a new life. Shaking off the creepy feeling that she's being watched, Laura takes a waitressing job and begins to educate herself with an encyclopedia. A slightly irritable angel appears in Laura's apartment, as Laura thinks back on the sad events that led her to Boston. Some strong language and some explicit descriptions of sex. 1994. A Brief History of Male Nudes in America BR 9781 by Dianne Nelson 1 volume In the title story, the seventeen-year-old protagonist observes her mother's parade of lovers. As she explains, "There is a way to stare politely. . . . I think it's fair to say I'm an expert with my eyes." Many entries in this recipient of the Flannery O'Connor Award capture fleeting, poignant moments. In "Ground Rules," a man and his son swoop into the ex-wife's yard to kidnap the younger son she took with her. Some strong language. 1993. Breath, Eyes, Memory BR 9784 by Edwidge Danticat 2 volumes Until age twelve, Sophie is raised by her aunt in Haiti. Her mother then sends for her to come to New York and explains that Sophie is the product of rape. When a grown Sophie is befriended by an older musician, her mother tests her virginity. Sophie rebels by violently deflowering herself, an act that will later cause her to seek sexual phobia therapy. She marries the musician and tries to come to terms with her past as her mother does the same. Some violence. 1994. The Trick Is to Keep Breathing BR 9787 by Janice Galloway 2 volumes Drama teacher Joy Stone is going through depression. As her mouth (which knows more about her than the rest of her put together) explains to her psychiatrist: her mother died, her live-in lover shook her hand at the funeral, they broke up, her married lover moved in, they went on vacation, and he drowned. Joy's friend tells her just to last until it's better, but Joy's question is, "What will I do while I'm lasting?" Strong language. 1989. Waltz in the Shadows BR 9796 by Catherine Rieger 2 volumes Vienna, 1888. Emily Hopkins, twenty-two, has come to Vienna at the request of Dr. Franz Joseph Demel to help write a biography of her father that will, she hopes, dispel the lies about him. But when Emily arrives, she doesn't remember Dr. Demel. Mysterious events are occurring in the dark house, which has become a sanitarium, and someone is attempting to scare her with strange notes. She turns to Dr. Maximillian Schaller for help. 1993. _Books for Children_ The following books were recently produced for the NLS program. To order books, complete the order form and return it to your braille-lending library. _Nonfiction_ The First Christmas BR 9916 1 volume Retells the story of the very first Christmas--the birth of Jesus--through selections from the book of Luke, King James version of the Bible. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1992. _Fiction_ Matilda BR 9591 by Roald Dahl 1 volume Matilda is an adorable four-year-old genius totally unappreciated by her crass, dishonest, used-car-salesman father and her blowsy, bingo-playing mother. Neither her parents nor her older brother, Michael, can understand why anyone would rather read a book than watch TV! Matilda's life is made bearable by her chance discovery of the public library and dear Mrs. Phelps, the librarian. For grades 3-6. 1988. Onion John BR 9631 by Joseph Krumgold 2 volumes Andy Rusch befriends Onion John, the town's old odd-job man who lives near the city dump. Andy's father cannot understand Andy's affection for Onion John, and conflict develops when Mr. Rusch tries to reform Onion John. For grades 5-8 and older readers. Newbery Medal 1959. It's Like This, Cat BR 9722 by Emily Cheney Neville 1 volume The story of a fourteen-year-old New York boy and his relationships with a stray tomcat, an eccentric old woman, a troubled older boy, his first female friend, and his father. For grades 5-8. Newbery Medal 1963. Little Women BR 9758 by Louisa May Alcott 4 volumes The author's home life in New England is the basis for this book, which has been popular for more than a century. The tale tells of the four March sisters--quick-tempered Jo, who is restless for freedom; Beth, who loves her home and family; Meg, who longs for pretty clothes; and self-absorbed Amy. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 1868. Sister of the Bride BR 9777 by Beverly Cleary 2 volumes Barbara McLane's romantic ideas about married life are shattered when she helps her down-to-earth sister prepare for her wedding. For grades 5-8. 1963. Skylark BR 9786 by Patricia MacLachlan 1 volume In this sequel to _Sarah, Plain and Tall (BR 9531)_, mail-order bride Sarah goes back East with children Anna and Caleb, leaving husband Jacob, whose name is "written in the land," to deal with their drought-stricken farm. The children are impressed with Sarah's home in Maine, but they miss their father and fear that they will never return to their beloved prairie. For grades 3-6. 1994. _Rats on the Range_ and Other Stories BR 9791 by James Marshall 1 volume Eight humorous stories about an unusual assortment of animals including a rat family that vacations at a dude ranch owned by rat terriers, a mouse who is the housekeeper for a tomcat, and a buzzard who may or may not leave his money to the Society for Stray Cats. Companion to _Rats on the Roof and Other Stories (BR 8896)_. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 1993. Charley Skedaddle BR 9799 by Patricia Beatty 2 volumes A Civil War story revolving around the maturing of twelve-year-old Charley Quinn. Charley is one of the youngest and toughest Bowery Boys in New York. He enlists as a drummer boy in the Union Army to see action and avenge his brother's death--only to run away terrified when battle comes. For grades 4-7 and older readers. 1987. Peppe the Lamplighter BR 9924 by Elisa Bartone 1 volume Peppe, though just a boy, has to go to work to help support his eight sisters. So he takes a job lighting the streetlamps in Little Italy in New York City. Peppe's father is ashamed of Peppe's job until one night when Peppe does not light the lamps and his sister Assunta cannot find her way home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 2-4. 1993. _Handcopied Braille--Other Agencies_ The following books have been hand transcribed for the library indicated with each entry and are available from that library for circulation throughout the country. Please write or call directly to the library indicated. JBI Jewish Braille Institute of America The Library 110 East 30th Street New York, NY 10016 212-889-2525, 800-433-1531 LLB Lutheran Library for the Blind 1133 South Kirkwood Road St. Louis, MO 63122 314-965-9000, 800-433-3954 Adult Nonfiction Dating: Guidelines from the Bible LLB by Scott Kirby 3 volumes Answers questions asked by young Christians who have little biblical knowledge in the areas of love, sex, and dating. Chapters include discussion questions and scripture references. Snowflakes in September: Stories about God's Mysterious Ways LLB by Corrie Ten Boom and others 2 volumes Inspirational short stories of unusual happenings in people's lives. The authors show how they believe God directs their lives, supplies their needs, preserves their lives, and speaks to them. This Is the Torah JBI by Alfred J. Kolatch 10 volumes Popular in orientation, this book uses a question-and-answer format to address more than 500 questions frequently asked about the Torah. Included are queries regarding its origin, its handling in the synagogue, and its use in the liturgy and service. Twelve Jewish Steps: A Personal Guide to Turning from Alcoholism and Other Addictions JBI by Kerry M. Olitzky and Stuart Copans 2 volumes Offers a Jewish perspective on the twelve-step recovery program used by Alcoholics Anonymous and others. Within the Shadow LLB by Shelley Chapin 4 volumes Shelley Chapin was diagnosed with cancer and given nine months to live. She discusses the handling of grief and suffering and tells how to find meaning in a life of pain. Adult Fiction The Unorthodox Murder of Rabbi Wahl by Joseph Telushkin 4 volumes When Rabbi Wahl is murdered after her appearance on a radio talk show hosted by Rabbi Winter, Winter develops a talent for detection and for unlocking mysteries of the heart and motives for murder. Braille Magazines The following is a list of braille magazines in the Library of Congress program. Readers may obtain free personal subscriptions to these magazines. For information on the availability of specific magazines, consult the library that sends you braille materials. Asimov's Science Fiction (monthly plus mid-December) Better Homes and Gardens (monthly) Boys' Life (for children and teens, monthly) Braille Book Review (bimonthly) Braille Chess Magazine (British quarterly) Braille Journal of Physiotherapy (British monthly) Braille Music Magazine (British monthly) Braille Variety News (monthly) Children's Digest (for children, 8 issues) Consumers' Research (monthly) Cooking Light (bimonthly plus Christmas) Fortune (biweekly plus specials) Inside Sports (monthly) Jack and Jill (for children, 8 issues) Journal of Rehabilitation (quarterly) Ladies' Home Journal (monthly) Madam (British monthly) The Musical Mainstream (quarterly) National Geographic (monthly) New Beacon (British monthly) The _New York Times_ Large Type Weekly (weekly) News (NLS quarterly) Parenting (monthly except January and July) PC/Computing (monthly) Playboy (monthly) Poetry (monthly) Popular Communications (monthly) Popular Mechanics (monthly) Popular Music Lead Sheets (irregular) Progress (British monthly) Science News (weekly) Seventeen (for teens, monthly) Update (NLS quarterly) The _Washington Post_ Book World (weekly) The following sports schedules are also available: American Baseball League Schedule National Baseball League Schedule National Basketball Association Schedule National Football League Schedule National Hockey League Schedule ***9/18/95 (gft)***