I Could Pee on This and Other Poems by Cats by Francesco Marciuliano

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

Cats live by their own set of rules and just when you think you may have slightly grasped what makes your kitty tick, everything will change. That ought to be one of the universal laws. Anyone who has shared a home with a feline for even the briefest of times will agree. 

We share our home with multiple cats and I never tire of witnessing their little personality quirks.  Here are a couple of examples from our own household:

Sugar is a 3 year old kitty who is challenged somewhat. She is deaf and always has been. She also has a very aloof personality and will rarely allow herself to be petted. That changes once we leave the house.  She instantly dashes to the window and parades up and down the window sill inside. She brushes herself against the glass and even stands on two legs, stretching against the window, teasing and begging to be petted. 

Sabrina is a 5 year old kitty who does a great impression of the dog from 'Spanglish' (Check it out - Great movie!) Sabrina started to bring us one of her favourite toys and I'm not quite sure what inspired us to throw it, but we did, only to watch as she brought it back for us to do that again, and again, and again…..

In I Could Pee on This and Other Poems by Cats we are treated to a number of cute, sometimes funny, almost always entertaining little poems. Each of these poems give us a glimpse into the mind of a cat and what they are really thinking when they bring you dead mice, curl up on the clean and folded laundry, or even reach up and pat you in the face repeatedly. More than a few of these poems resonated with me and I often found myself giggling maniacally but still found it difficult to raise it any higher than a 3/5 star rating (meaning I like it).

One of my favourites is:  

The World Outside My House 

In the world outside my house
The mice jump in your mouth
And birds serve themselves in butter
Rather than fly south 

In the world outside my house
The sun is a laser light
Each cloud a snuggly blanket
And the doors are not shut tight 

In the world outside my house
All the trees they dangle string
The flowers brush from head to tail
And the neutered cat is king 

In the world outside my house
I can never go
But as an indoor cat I know these things
Because the dog does tell me so.

It’s a cute book and I’d recommend it as a gift for any cat-lover.

Author's website: http://mediumlarge.wordpress.com/

Deck Z: The Titanic by Chris Pauls and Matt Solomon

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

The story is familiar. The period of history is April 1912 and the passenger liner Titanic had set off for America, via the Atlantic Ocean. With the Titanic being much larger than any ship previously, she was considered to be unsinkable, but the events of April 14th and 15th proved otherwise.  Various sources of information would lead us to believe that the ship approached a massive iceberg and while efforts were made to try and avoid the mass of ice, it was too little, too late. If only the crew could have heeded the reports that were received earlier, things might have been much different.

Unfortunately, the crew, and many of the passengers on the ship at that time, had other priorities. The first of which was trying to stop, or at least slow down, the strange epidemic that was raging through the ship. Passengers and crew alike are displaying a multitude of symptoms, including: weeping sores, guttural groans, and an appetite for flesh.

Deck Z: The Titanic brings to light for the first time, what  really, likely, may have happened on the Titanic. (Okay, so it probably didn't happen this way but what the heck, it's far more entertaining!)

I have to admit to a little bias here. I'm a zombie junkie. When I saw this title, I knew I had to check it out, and I hoped that it wouldn't disappoint.

What I love about this book is that it starts off like a brilliant espionage tale. Weiss, a German scientist, has uncovered a plague, and the military plan to use it as their next biological weapon.  Weiss does the only thing he can; he takes the only existing vial and runs. His plan? To gain a ticket for the maiden voyage of the Titanic and head to America and safety from those who would cause harm.

I was hooked from the beginning, due to not only the fascinating plot, but the great writing style. Some of the characters I found familiar due to previously viewed information regarding the Titanic and her fate. Others were brand new, including one young lady known as 'Lou', who fast became a firm favourite of mine.  I found it difficult to put this book down for any real length of time since it has such a wonderful blend of history, technical info, mystery, and of course, imagination. 

While reading it, I was guided through such a vast range of intense emotions. It's one of those books that if I think of one word to define it, the word would be 'exhilerating'. It will be interesting to see if the book still maintains that quality during subsequent readings. I'll be sure to update when I read it again.

There's a quote that frequently shows up on social networks. It states:

That moment when you finish a book, look around, and realize that everyone is just carrying on with their lives as though you didn't just experience emotional trauma at the hands of a paperback.

For me, it's not a huge leap to imagine that the person, who stated this, had read Deck Z.  It's easily one of my favourite books for 2013 so far. While the cover states it's a first novel for Chris Pauls and Matt Solomon, I hope it won't be the last.

Obsessed with Star Trek: Test Your Knowledge of the Star Trek Universe by Chip Carter

Published by Chronicle Books

Distributed by Raincoast Books

This interactive game features 2,500 Star Trek related questions that span across all of the TV shows and movies. Do you think you know everything Star Trek? If you aren't the type who likes to play group games there is a single player mode so you can just challenge yourself or if you want to challenge a friend simply switch to the two player mode. You can also set up the game with your preference as to whether you want random questions or whether you would rather input your own question numbers. The results are charted via way of how many correct answers out of how many questions asked (example: 3/10) as well as a percentage format. It's a fun and interesting way to learn more about Star Trek too if you are not so familiar with it. It takes just a few seconds to set up with your preferences and is so easy to use.

I had quite a bit of fun with this book. I don't consider myself a Trekkie but I did think I knew enough to at least avoid a totally humiliating score. I was so wrong. I found myself struggling to answer at least the first 10 - the example score above is probably the same score I had at that point - but the more I got into it, the more I got right which I was pretty relieved about. Of course, given that all the questions are written in a 4 answer multiple choice format, it could have been due to my luck improving rather than skill. Regardless, I found this book to be entertaining and informative and I couldn't help but find myself wanting to watch more Star Trek after playing, if only so I can have a better score next time! I especially seem to be lacking in knowledge of the original Star Trek with Captain Kirk and crew but my knowledge all through seems pretty pitiful. It's to be expected from a bookworm I guess.

A fun gift and if you have a Trekkie in your life, this should definitely be on your 'to buy' list. I personally could see myself playing this with a few friends on those cold winter nights just for fun.

Author's website - http://chipcarter.com/

F in Exams: The Very Best Totally Wrong Test Answers by Richard Benson

Published by Chronicle Books

Distributed by Raincoast Books

Most - if not all - of us have been there. Seated at a desk in some intimidating room, complete silence, facing a question that we realize we have zero chance of getting right. When faced with that situation, the students featured in 'F in Exams' get creative and decide to have fun.

When I attended school, I recall facing my exams and our teachers often gave us the same advice. Never, ever leave a question unanswered even if it means guessing. Somehow I don't think the examples in this book are what they had in mind but they certainly entertained me. Who knew that living closer to power lines means you get your electricity faster, or that a regular triangle is a triangle with three sides. Perhaps you are one of those physics students who knows that a transformer is a robot who can change into a sports car in 3 seconds, or a history/geography student who is certain that a migration is a headache.

When I sat down and read this, I was laughing out loud and repeating many of the examples to my husband who was also entertained by the content. Mostly funny, sometimes hilarious but always creative, this book will bring happiness to every reader. It's also probably the only book that will make you feel incredibly smarter in under an hour!

Ten Little Zombies: A Love Story by Andy Rash

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

An original and fun take on the old children's rhyme 'Ten Little Indians'. The book begins with Ten Little Zombies, zombies that dwindle rapidly in numbers as each of them comes to a tragic end by way of campfires, fence spears, shotguns and so much more. Can there be any survivors?

This is such a fun and quirky little book. While it may appear to be almost child-like in appearance, due to the graphic violence, blood etc I would definitely avoid buying it for little people but it makes a fantastic unique gift for a loved one, and it's an ideal gift for anyone who, like myself, adores all things zombie. It takes mere minutes to read through this book but the rhyme, and the smiles it brings, will last much longer. Take a peek at a video created by the author, for a glimpse into this wonderful little book and also visit his website which is listed below.

Author's website: http://www.rashworks.com/

Mother Goose Manners by Harriet Ziefert. Illustrations by Pascale Constantin.

Published by Blue Apple Books
Distributed in the US by Chronicle Books
Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

Nursery rhymes and childhood go hand-in-hand. Even as adults we often remember them enough to repeat to our own offspring or those of family and friends. In Mother Goose Manners these rhymes are brought to life by the vibrant and original illustrations of Pascale Constantin. Each image is printed on a fold out page that - when lifted - reveals a whole new image accompanied by the words of Harriet Ziefert that encourage the young reader to develop their manners. Never has learning to be polite been so fun.

This hardcover book contains 12 nursery rhymes within 32 pages and is recommended for ages 4-8.

I found this read to be cute and entertaining and really wished that such a title had been available as my own children were growing up. I like the idea of introducing manners to a child by using such a fun method, especially when it encourages children to read.

Harriet Ziefert encourages children to not just consider each rhyme carefully but also how manners could have improved the situation. Who knows how many creative and considerate ideas your young reader can suggest!

This is definitely one of my favourite picks for a child's bookcase.

Illustrator's website: http://www.pascaleconstantin.com/

Permanence: Tattoo Portraits by Kip Fulbeck

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

While tattooing is becoming increasingly popular there is often still a great amount of stigma surrounding those who decide to decorate their bodies in this fashion. Kip Fulbeck takes images of a diverse group of these people and puts them into this book along with their own stories regarding their experiences with ink.

Whether you sport tattoos or not, you are sure to find this book an eye opener. Great photography and a very voyeuristic look into the personal choices behind each piece of art. A great gift for those who are into body modification and for anyone who has a curiosity as to why anyone would get inked.

Myself, I have three tattoos though it looks like two. I have a wolf with native feathers on my right arm and later had my husband's name placed alongside. Both of those are a symbol of my commitment to him. I also have a more personal tattoo on the back of my neck to remind me of my spirit and strength.

I loved this book and hope it is the start of a new trend. I would love to see more books on the subject of body modifications.

Bad Sex: We Did It, so You Won't Have To by the writers of Nerve.com

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

Most adults can share at least one or two personal bad sex stories, though admittedly many would be too embarrassed. The writers of Nerve.com have put together this collection of their own dodgy experiences which are funny, sad, and often just plain weird. There is the guy who ejaculates so often that he could probably put a fire out quicker than the local fire department, a sleeping cat (easily my favourite story!), intimidating vibrators, drunk sex, and the handjob from hell. These are just a few of the situations that arise in this slightly naughty, greatly voyeuristic read.

Bad sex stories. Many of us have them. There is the time I had a knock on the door and opened it only to find that my ever-so-helpful neighbours had called the police in concern for my safety. Imagine my surprise when they asked if I was okay, and their surprise when I answered with a perfectly straight face that I was just having sex. Then there is the drunken exchange with a younger guy which has led some of my British friends to repeatedly sing Paul Hardcastle's song "19" at me just so they can see me blush. Or perhaps the bondage scene in the woods where I packed everything we could need including a spare blouse since my husband was going to cut mine off. Imagine his amusement, and my horror when I realised that I had left it at home on the arm of the couch which was thankfully only a short distance (and a VERY fast sprint through the yards of 4 neighbours) away.

Your enjoyment of this book will depend on how adventurous you are. I am admittedly a little too adventurous at times and I think that is a big part of why I found some of the stories (okay, a lot of them) fell short of the entertaining mark. To someone else, they could be pretty shocking and funny. That said, the book can also be looked at as a way of discovering things to try and those not to. A perfect example would be the licking of eyeballs as foreplay. (In my wildest dreams I could never have thought to do that!)

If You're Afraid of the Dark: Add One More Star to the Night/Remember the Night Rainbow (2-in-1) by Cooper Edens

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

In this 2-in-1 book, the reader is treated to a magical and whimsical look at the world. Whether dealing with emotions, or the every day trials that face us, there is a little pearl of wisdom on each page and an illustration which is sure to bring a smile. Some of you may recognise the title from when the original was published in 1979, for others it may be an unknown. One thing is for certain, this book is a one which will be treasured by the young and old alike.

I loved this book. Both titles are presented in a unique flip-book format. The covers are simple yet eye-catching and sprinkled with shiny silver stars.

The illustrations within the pages are bright and cheery. A perfect match for the positive messages alongside. I love the idea of children reading this when they are young and being inspired to hold on to their imagination and positivity. I love that the lines inspire the reader to think about them, and take away whatever message the reader desires. I can imagine sitting reading and discussing this with a child. A great choice for personal development. My own personal favourite wisdoms (and boy was it hard to choose!) were:

Remember the Night Rainbow:
If you lose a memory... embroider one to take it's place.
If the sun never shines again.. hold fireflies in your hands to keep warm.

and

Add One More Star to the Night:
If you're at the end of your rope... untie the knot in your heart.
If the sky fills with clouds.. let the rain do your crying for a while.

This book is simply a joy to read and I consider it timeless. I find it hard to imagine a child ever growing too old to enjoy it. It says a lot that at 33, almost 34 years old, I love it and will enjoy it for many years to come.

Great idea for a gift!

Training People: How to Bring Out the Best in Your Human by Tess of Helena with Brian Kahn. Photographs by Gretchen Lemaistre

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

This is a training book with a difference. It's written for dogs, by a dog and discusses how to bring out the best in their human companions. Subjects covered in this book are: How to Choose a Human, Male Female or Both?, Basic Training, Discipline, Getting the Food You Want, Advanced Training, The Human Pup, and When They Get Old. Each subject is accompanied by many photographs to make it more simple to follow the techniques included.

This book is by far my favourite training book ever. I couldn't help but laugh out loud while reading it and I know I must have been constantly grinning. It reminded me of books I read as a child by Sheila Hocken (Emma's Story, Emma and I, Emma VIP - I so need to track these down and buy them again!) in which the books are written in the hand of Emma, a puppy learning to be a guide dog. Though it has been twenty years since I read those books, I still remember Emma's first experience with snow. It still makes me smile.

In this book, Tess provides a number of techniques designed to help dogs around the world with the training of their humans. A section that made me laugh the most I think, was the section on dealing with cats who share the household. As a pet lover who shares our home with both a dog, and cats, I found that highly amusing.

A great read that makes it fun to learn about life with dogs. I learned so much more from this than I did reading many other pet training books and it's certainly easier to remember the content. Who said pet training can't be fun?

Photographer's site: http://www.gretchenlemaistre.com/

Bagel's Lucky Hat by Hector Mumbly: Illustrated by Dave Cooper

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

Hector Mumbly brings us an amusing little tale featuring a dog named Bagel, and his friend - a cat named Becky. Bagel gets frantic when he realises he has lost his lucky hat. Becky calms him and asks him to think back to when he remembered wearing it last, but soon wonders what she started. Bagel recounts his day, including his visit with laughing fishes, a helpful flock of birds, a strange and mysterious laboratory, and so much more. Becky, needless to say, is quite unimpressed and who wouldn't be with such a tall tale? Becky starts to give Bagel a lecture on honesty but is interrupted by unexpected and unusual guests.

This book is a laugh a minute. It's for ages 4-8 but even at my age it was a fun and playful read. I can imagine it would make a great bedtime book as it isn't too long with just 40 pages which are wonderfully illustrated by Dave Cooper. The illustrations match the story's whimsical nature perfectly.

A great choice that begs to be read again, and again...

Illustrator's website: http://www.davegraphics.com/ (site is not suitable for children)

Dirty Talk: Speak the Language of Lust by Lynne Stanton. Illustrations by Stan Chow

Published by Chronicle Books

Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books

Lynne Stanton gives us a cute little book that is a breeze to read. This book oozes sensuality, even the smooth velvet style cover screams out with it and while it jumped out at me as making a great valentines gift, it would be a fabulous addition to any bedroom, any time.

The book has an introduction, 3 sections: Finding Your Voice, Sharing the Love, and Ramp It Up and a closing. The introduction shows the reader that when it comes to learning new languages, the language of lust is one that will add extra fuel to the love life. It teaches the reader that it's not something to be ashamed of but rather, should be practiced and used lots!

In the first section, we are given some examples of things we could say and tips on finding yet more inspiration. For the book lovers, some erotic titles or perhaps if you are a movie buff, the movie list would be more to your taste. In this section we also learn about the fun of sexy phone calls.

Section 2 takes it to the next level. Now that the reader is a little more at ease with the language of lust, we bring in the partner and talk about sharing ideas, fantasies, thoughts and more. Little hints for adding spice are given. Notes in brief cases, lipstick messages on mirrors, a subtle whisper before a public gathering and many more ideas that will set your creative juices flowing.

Section 3 takes it still further and shows how to add a new twist to your love life. From dressing up and role playing, to taking it outside the bedroom, the options are limitless. I especially liked that learning to speak more openly will get you more of what you in the bedroom too. The book is illustrated throughout with fun and flirty images which add to fuelling the reader's imagination.

I had a lot of fun with this one!

Stan Chow's website: http://www.chinkyafro.com/

Smart Women Read between the Lines: Reader's Journal by Julie Hellwich & Haley Johnson

Published by Chronicle Books

Julie Hellwich brings us a reader's journal which is the best one I have seen and which deserves a place on any womans bookshelf. This spiral bound journal has four main sections, which are: Books Read & Reviewed, Novel Ideas, Books to Read and Lists.

Books Read & Reviewed contains pages in which you can note the titles, whether fact or fiction, page turner or ripper, the author, genre, publisher info, who you want to recommend the books to and notes as well as giving the title a star vote.

Novel Ideas is a section in which to make notes on your favourite authors, passages, plots, characters and of course, ideas for your own novels if you are that way inclined.

Books to Read is for keeping track of titles you want to read. This is brilliant useful since I know all too many readers, myself included, who keep track of this info via favourites, scraps of paper and just about anywhere else you can think of. In this section you write down the title, author, publisher, who recommended it, notes and when and where you plan on reading it. Especially useful for keeping track of your reading goals.

Lists is my favourite section. The following lists are included:

• Book Tracker: Keep tabs on books lent and borrowed
• Gift Tracker: Keep tracks of possible book related gifts for family and friends.
• Book Club Tracker: Book Club selections, future themes and titles.
• Books About My Favourite Subjects: Self Explanatory
• Books by My Favourite Authors: Self Explanatory
• The Fearless World of Books: Read from a New Genre
• Food & Drink for Thought: Note recipes, food themes and good food to read by
• Books as Motion Pictures: Rate which is better (I love this section)
• Smart Women A-Z: A list of amazing women writers.
• 100 Best Books by Smart Women: A fun way to explore different writers.
• My Favourite Childhood Books: Self Explanatory
• My All-Time Favourite Books: Self Explanatory
• My Favourite Books, Authors & Characters: Self Explanatory
• My Favourite Book Sources: bookstores, libraries, catalogues and more.
• Smart Women are Resourceful: Recommended literary websites
• Favourite Book Review Sources: Self Explanatory
• Literary Dates: Keep track of book launches, author readings, book releases etc.
• Literary Connections: Address book just for your literary buddies.

Also included are bookmarks, bookplates and a pocket for keeping slips of paper in.

Great tool for any reader. I love this to bits and it would make a great gift for the female book lovers in your life.