Wisconsin Books

This book is my favorite of the whole series. It brings things to a nice close. You find out that Anders really does care about his stepsister, (they don't seem like steps after a while) Kate. He actually cries when he thinks she might be dead! A big deal for Anders! It also promises a relationship, that is more than just friendship, between Erik and Kate. When they're older, that is. For now it just is a sweet friendship. The mystery is awesome too. What I have come to expect from Mrs. Johnson's books.

My name is Holly Joy Tammaru. I'm 11 years old. This is the best book of the series! I really enjoyed reading about Kate and her horses Windsong and Breeza. It is really interesting how Kate discovers the mystery about her two horses. After you read the part about the barnfire you just have to find out if Windsong really died or if she escaped.What really surprised me was how Anders turned out to be so nice afterall. Mrs. Johnson you did a great job on this book!It was so exciting that I couldn't put it down. Too bad this is the last book of the series!

A wonderful collection of artwork that ranges from the history of the Holocaust to how it's dangers are still present in modern society. I have the honor of attending a university that is displaying the artwork and the having the artist visit. It is a must see for every race and nationality. If you are unable to see the work in person, this book is a MUST have!

A terrific book by one of the most famous feminist artists. When one considers the cruelties of males against Jewish women during and after the Holocaust, it is a pleasure to discover this book, which shows Judy Chicago's passionate work to remind us of the horrors while also discovering her Jewishness just as she contemplated the victimization of the Jews. I love this book.

Written by retired history teacher Thomas C. Reeves, Distinguished Service: The Life of Wisconsin Governor Walter J. Kohler, Jr. is an in-depth, studious biography of Walter J. Kohler, Jr. (1904-76) who served as Wisconsin's governor during the mid-twentieth century. Distinguished Service spares no detail, from its recounting of Kohler's genealogy to the meticulous analysis of his life and gubernatorial service to its contemplation of his legacy. An inset section of black-and-white photographic plates and an index complement this scholarly account, especially recommended for public library and biography shelves.

Prof. Thomas Reeves (University of Wisconsin, retired) has written the final, full length biography of his career. It is a fitting end, and a refreshing read which returns to the seemingly unfashionable historical tradition of simply "telling the story." Here, we enter the story of arguably Wisconsin's royal family, the Kohlers, and one of its most famous sons, Walter Jr. (The purple dust jacket is a fitting royal image, even if not intended to be.) For anyone interested in corporate dynasties, be it the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts, etc., this biography contains more than just dry politics. It is a regional history, to be sure, but the influence of the Kohlers sheds light on how much fame does not necessarily bring with it good character or an end to one's vices. Indeed, good character becomes harder to nurture in the world of money, politics, and power, but Walter Jr. worked hard in this regard. Reeves' biography shows all sides to Kohler's character, and Reeves is unique among biographers in this regard too. With unprecedented access to the Kohler family and Kohler Co. archives, Reeves is careful about not writing a hagiographical account, considering the privileges extended to him as a researcher. But, those who know and admire Reeves' writing will see that this was never a possibility anyway; Reeves is first and foremost a "finder of facts," and we can be thankful that the Kohlers left as many facts as they did, for it sheds light on not only politics, but life in general, especially a life of privilege, which is often only a blessing in disguise.

This is the first of two books about Wisconsin ghost legends written by this outstanding folklorist and author. I have to say that this and his "Northern Frights" are two of my favorite non-fiction books out there. It's not just a dusty collection of old spook-tales attached to lonely places, this is a volume of living legends. Mr. Boyer writes from a personal perspective, he amusingly recounts how he collected each tale and his own impressions of the place, the tale and the teller. You follow along with him as he travels through the driftless area of Wisconsin finding unique characters and listening to the stories they have to tell. Whether it be fearsome ghosts on horseback frightening motorists off the road or the eerie sound of a disembodied polka band, the spirits he encounters are the living spirits of this state, colorful and rich in culture and history. I recommend this book to anyone interested in Wisconsin folklore, ghost stories and culture.

This author always has a lot to say in a very creative way. The book is no exception. A fun read and another great book from this seasoned folklorist.

Informatively written by Jerry Minnich (a professional restaurant critic regularly published in the Madison, Wisconsin newspaper "Isthmus"), Eating Well In Wisconsin is an expert survey of more than 250 of the very best Wisconsin restaurants. Whether one prefers outdoor dining, light meals, birthday parties for children, vegetarian food, or other specialized culinary interests, Eating Well In Wisconsin has a top-quality recommended locale suited for the occasion. Each review is clear, concise, and to the point. If you plan on dining out in Wisconsin, then Eating Well In Wisconsin is the reference book for you!

Here is one fantastic guidebook on restaurants that makes the whole state of Wisconsin seem like a delicious destination. The book has a perfect layout, very easy to use and understand. Each restaurant featured is given with thorough information which includes the street address, telephone and/or fax numbers, web addresses, general cost, hours when open and what signature dishes they're known for. Also noted is if the restaurant has a bar/cocktail lounge, vegetarian entrees, a children's menu, wheelchair accessibility, smoking/non-smoking, if reservations are recommended or if the restaurant is available for private parties and for what maximum amount, plus what credit cards are accepted or if out-of-town checks are okay with ID. Not to mention the inviting personal description of menu choices and ambiance presented by the author. He even brings some humorous insight to explaining the "fish fry" phenomenon of the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin as well as the variance in super club definition to the locality.

After the great introduction comes the list of restaurant recommendations, which are sectioned off by regions and arranged in chapters titled: Madison, Just Beyond Madison, Middleton, Baraboo Area, Southeastern Gateway, Milwaukee, Just Beyond Milwaukee, Lake Geneva & Vicinity, Beloit & Janesville, East Shore, Green Bay, Fox River Valley, Door County, WI Dells & Lake Delton, Central WI, North Woods, Lake Superior Shore, Southwest, La Crosse & Vicinity, and finally Eau Claire & Vicinity. What follows next is an index of restaurants in each region grouped for easy reference according to special accommodations, with such preferences as vegetarian, outdoor dining, birthday parties, senior discounts, early bird specials and light menus. On the final few pages is a very handy town/city index plus a separate restaurant index.

With a pinch of humor and a dash of genuine honesty from the author you can be sure to locate a great place to dine in Wisconsin, either casual or not quite so. You'll find that the restaurants featured here are surely above the ordinary in everything you could ever ask for in a good place to eat. Every imaginable type of cuisine is represented, from French to Italian to Swedish to German, from Mediterranean to Mexican, American Steakhouse to Midwest Regional and Contemporary, from Chinese to Thai to Seafood and Sushi, from Supper Club and pub to family dining. There is a scrumptious variety of restaurant choices served up to truly satisfy the hungry traveler. A recommendable, one of a kind guidebook.

It's easy to forget the importance of alternative media figures like de Antonio, but he was Michael Moore before there was Michael Moore (and he did it with an intellectual seriousness that MM can't touch). I read this book in a college class and was blown away: the author writes beautifully (how many academics do that?), he really brings the 60s and 70s alive as we read about Nixon, Ho, Weatherman, the Berrigans, and he shows the importance of using media creatively/politically for cultural critique. If this isn't relevant in the age of Bush, when every media appearance is stage managed like a puppet show, I don't know what is. A must read for anyone interested in the noisy intersection of media and politics. Well done.

I had never even heard of de Antonio, but Randolph Lewis has now sparked my interest in his films, and in American documentary filmmaking more generally. A truly masterful work!

In The Conference Board's magazine, "Across the Board," in a Nov/Dec 2000 article on the best business books read over the past year, I wrote:

"Over the past couple of years, I must have read 10 to 20 management books every month. Unfortunately, before long, many of these titles start reading the same, hoping to capitalize on the management trend of the moment. But every once in a while a book comes along that includes unique and clear-headed thinking and writing. When I was working on an article about environmental ethics in business, I came across a new collection of the writings of Aldo Leopold, the legendary conservationist of the 1930s and 1940s perhaps best known for A Sand County Almanac. Edited by Curt Meine and Richard L. Knight, The Essential Aldo Leopold: Quotations and Commentaries is not, strictly speaking, a business book, but contained here in many previously unpublished observations are the thoughts and ideas of a natural (in all senses of the word) manager. Leopold was a rare combination of someone who saw the need for conserving nature, but who also understood and encouraged experiencing the beauty and functionality of the outdoors." --Across the Board, Nov/Dec 2000

One of my favorite quotes of Leopold's from this collection:

"Relegating conservation to government is like relegating virtue to the Sabbath. Turns over to professionals what should be daily work of amateurs."

Aldo Leopold was the author of "A Sand County Almanac" and one of the most influential conservationists of his day. In The Essential Aldo Leopold, Curt Meine and Richard Knight have collaborated to assembled a comprehensive collections of quotations from Leopold's extensive and diverse writings. These gems of wisdom, insight, and encouragement are organized in twenty-one chapters under the broad themes of conservation science and practice, conservation policy, conservation and culture. Each chapter begins with an introductory essay by a prominent conservation scholar to provide the reader with perspective on Leopold's numerous and varied contributions. The Essential Aldo Leopold is an essential, core title for any personal, academic, and professional environmental and conservation studies collection, and highly recommended reading for all Aldo Leopold admirers within the modern conservation movement.

ETERNAL PEOPLE is a wonderful book that touches the heart and mind. It tells the story of Joseph Abrams, a Ukranian Jew who comes to America in the early 1900s. The book beautifully depicts Jews in America and their adjustments to a new life. The characters leap off the pages. Joseph becomes a correspondent for the Jewish Daily Forward, then moves to a small commune in Wisconsin where he's introduced to the Utopian philosophy of the Am Olam movement. He falls in love with two women there, and is reunited with his only living relative. Joseph is sweet and tough, smart and sympathetic, and the two women are vividly described. We see Joseph's growth and change, his tenderness and determination. We watch as a threat to the commune's existence becomes real. The novel's last sections depict the powerful and gripping conclusion. The book moves from intellectual debate to drama to poignant love scenes and lyrical memories. ETERNAL PEOPLE is beautifully written, and Joseph's story lingers long after a reader has left his world.

I started reading this book more because of interest in a historical subject I knew nothing about than because I was looking for a good read. How nice to have found both. After just a couple of chapters, the characters draw you in. Joesph is my idea of a hero, intense and with good instincts and intentions, but still flawed, complex and most important, real. Milofsky writes sharply and simply, but every now and then, he describes something with such tenderness and truth that you find the phrase popping back into your head, even when you aren't reading. Eternal People passed my most important test for a great read. After I turned the last page, I wished there were more.

If you ever wondered (like I do), just how the contestants of TV programs such as Jeopardy and Do you want to be a millionaire? prepare to answer their questions; we have to assume they do their homework. By this I mean, in preparation, they must burn the midnight oil over a selection of reference books such as: The Bible, an Encyclopedia, a Dictionary, the Guinness Book of World Records and the latest copy of Who's Who?

Well, I have now discovered another set of books that I would definitely add to the above list. It is Exploring America's Highways - Trip Trivia. My review here covers three of the books, specifically relating to: Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. In the near future, the author, Michael Heim, will be releasing another 12 books covering the States of: Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, North and South Dakota.

But, even if you are not a quiz show contestant, these books will provide you with a wealth of pleasure and information. And, if you know your destination and you thoroughly enjoy traveling by car, motorcycle, bicycle or recreational vehicle, you most certainly should not be without this series of books.

You've heard the expression, "Half the fun of arriving is in the "getting there". Well, I can assure you, almost ALL of the fun in getting there is to be accompanied by Michael Heim's trip trivia books.

Not only do these books inform you "how to get there" but they provide the reader with a wealth of travel trivia about the history of how towns and cities received their names, local landmarks, all significant happenings associated with each location, prominent people from each place as well as all historical events and a wealth of general trivia.

I must add that these highly entertaining and informative books are intended to open your eyes and minds to the thousands of facts, details, historical references and anecdotes about the many hundreds of places within these three states. They are also a guaranteed remedy for any possible boredom that might develop while driving, especially with children. As such, do not expect to find listings of addresses and phone numbers for hotels, motels, restaurants or other places normally associated with the contents of traditional travel guides.

After reading only a few pages of any one book, you will find you have ventured into a cornucopia of interesting information. For example, for years I have been driving to Chicago from Detroit and I usually stop in Kalamazoo, Michigan as my half way respite for a snack and cup of coffee. Well now, I know a great deal more about my rest stop. The actual name comes from the Native Americans who originally named the place "Kalamazoo", a place where water boils. However, the location was first called Bronson after its first settler, Titus Bronson from Connecticut. I'll let you read the facts on why the townsfolk eventually petitioned to have the name changed from Bronson to Kalamazoo, however, I will also leave you with a piece of trivia. Did you know that Kalamazoo is the only town in Michigan where Abraham Lincoln ever spoke? Neither did I!

And, what about Manistique in Northern Michigan? If your trip happens to be taking you from Ironwood to St. Ignace, you will learn that Manistique comes from the Indian word "monistique" which means the color vermilion in reference to the color of the local water.

Over in Wisconsin, where my husband was born, he has a cousin living in Ixonia. In Mr. Heim's Wisconsin Trip Trivia book, I learned the town was named by a Mary Piper who randomly picked out letters of the alphabet. When written down, they formed the word Ixonia. And, the name, Ixonia, is the only town of that name in the entire United States.

Of course, as your routing may take you through other areas of Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota, you will find the vastly important role Native American Indians contributed in the naming and historical significance of today's villages, towns and cities.

Although I could provide dozens of more pieces of trivia that excited me, I hope you now have the flavor of Mr. Heim's almost monumental collection of facts. I can only imagine these books being read to children as families travel across our nation's highways. And, I can only envy them in having this modern, factual and absolutely fun way of learning history.

And, who knows? Someday, you or someone you know may actually be invited to be a quiz show contestant.

Three hefty volumes dissect Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin respectively from your car window. Each book is packed with easy to read facts and trivia. Heim organizes the fun, not by territory, but by highway. If you found yourself on Route 169 outside Winnebago, Minnesota (i.e. named after the Indians, not a motorized trailer), you'd know that Scottish settlers there introduced curling to the state, or if you approached Laurium, Michigan on Route 41, you'd know that this was the birthplace of halfback George Gipp who once told Knute Rockne on his deathbed to "win one for the Gipper."

This book is a multidiciplinary collection of essays and research reports on forgiveness: philisophical, psychological, religious, legal, law enforcement, sociological and political. Each author dicusses the study and impact of forgiveness in their specialty field as of the date of publication.

"Forgiveness" is a thought provoking springboard for anyone interested in improving interpersonal relationships, justice in our society, and peace in our world. The reader is compelled to conclude that a clearer development of the concept of forgiveness and the study of the best means to promote forgiveness should be the life work of our brightest minds. Forgiveness study, education and implementation is just as important as ecology to save the human race. This book is a cause for hope.

In the first chapter, the two editors state that this book emerged out of the very first conference ever held on the topic of interpersonal forgiveness at any university. That fact alone is worth picking up this book. Besides this, you will be challenged to see how forgiveness fits into a wide variety of areas such as family studies, psychotherapy, law and politics. In every chapter there are golden nuggets of information about how to successfully apply forgiveness to help people's lives. Even Desmond Tutu's brief foreword is filled with great ideas (he even seemed to derive the title of his popular book on forgiveness from one of the sentences in that foreword). Marietta Jaeger's tender story of forgiving the murderer of her daughter will make you weep. This book successfully explores forgiveness and readers are the beneficiaries.