Who knew there were Jewish Pirates? I always associated the early New World with Spain and Portugal and the Catholic Church, or England and the Protestants, not Jews. The Inquisition created a huge population of `conversos`, Jews who pretended to be Catholic to prevent being tortured. `Everyone` knew it was a pretense. Some of them left for the New World, islands. They hoped that distance would allow them some religious freedom. The New World had gold, slaves and trade goods that were bought, sold and stolen. The Jews provided manpower and trade knowledge. Read about the gold mines, privateers and lots about the islands we now go to on vacation.

Reviewed by Thea J., South County Regional

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Reading and traveling, two of life`s greatest pleasures. Travel blogger Terri Smith claims the best of all worlds is combining reading and travel, but smart to plan ahead and travel with fellow bibliophiles. Visit the setting of your favorite novel or the birthplace of an author. Arrange a book club trip around your current month`s title selection. Not sure where to go first? Try Smith`s Off the Beaten Page, a literary travel guide with practical advice, reading lists and detailed itineraries for 15 favorite literary destinations. Visit Boston with Dennis Lahane`s Mystic River, or explore New Orleans with Anne Rice`s Vampire Chronicles. Armistead Maupin is an excellent tour guide to seeing the sights of San Francisco. So grab your favorite book, and get packing!

Reviewed by Kim W., University City Regional

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In American consciousness the War of 1812 has long been a distant memory known best by a 1950’s popular song about a US victory fought after the peace treaty was signed. The War’s bicentennial has seen a number of books published regarding that long ago conflict. Ronald Utt’s Ships of Oak tells us how the American Navy came of age during those years. Ship for ship the US Navy was better than the equivalent British one and would best then in individual combat (there were major exceptions of course). In the end the British would simply overwhelm the US Navy and blockade the coast. Utt’s work does not neglect the US Army although their efforts were more likely to end in defeat.

Reviewed by John C., Main Library

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We humans seem naturally preoccupied with appearance and body modification. Modern culture sells health and well-being in slim, athletic packages. If we all could achieve ambitious weight and fitness goals, advertisers promise us happier lives. Couple this message with a society that demands instant gratification, and it is no wonder dramatic weight loss surgery, such as the duodenal switch, is so popular. Journey with blogger and author Jen Larsen in Stranger Here, as she diminishes to a size 4, after topping out at over 300 pounds. Is she automatically healthier and happier? Not so much. But she does provide readers of all size and shapes with a sharp-witted yet entertaining cautionary tale on the road to learning to love herself.

Reviewed by Lydia T., Main Library

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Though it should, the name Charles Cullen would probably not come to mind if one thought of the most infamous serial killers in history. Cullen, the subject of this book, is suspected of causing upward of 300 deaths while working as a nurse over the course of 16 years and in 10 different health care facilities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The author does not condone or excuse the crimes, but simply provides a picture of the killer`s horrendously horrific childhood and a murderous journey that began with animal cruelty. This book will definitely make your blood run cold.

Reviewed by Barbara C., Morrison Regional

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