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"Prettiness is a state of mind,” according to ‘80s film icon, Molly Ringwald. Turning forty inspired her to encourage women to embrace their experience and take care of themselves by sharing advice on how to do a mid-life makeover from the inside out. She offers her take on dating, fashion, friendship, parenting, cooking and self-image. Part memoir, self-help manual, cook book, and coffee table book with color illustrations, she uses a unique format for her memoir. Each chapter includes articles like Finding the Perfect Lipstick and the Joys of Being Single. Fans of Ringwald will enjoy learning about her life and how she has coped with the aging process. This is an informative and entertaining read.

Reviewed by Megan M., Main Library

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Soon after the fall of the Taliban, Holland, Michigan native, Deborah Rodriguez, went on her first humanitarian mission to Afghanistan. Debbie discovered quickly that despite her limited post-9/11 disaster relief training, she had a valuable skill set in high demand: high quality salon services, including haircutting, foiling, manicures, waxing, and make-up. Not only did she have other Westerners in Kabul seeking her out, but she realized that training Afghani beauticians would give these eager, talented women and their families a chance at a better life through their own successful businesses. During her journey establishing and graduating many classes, Debbie gained skill and insight into funding her school, navigating local politics and Afghani traditions with the help of her students and her own Afghani husband.

Reviewed by Lydia T., Main Library

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Growing up Tara Weaver's family was vegetarian long before it was popular. Weaver never had a problem following the vegetarian lifestyle until she developed some health problems and more than one doctor recommended she add meat to her diet. With much trepidation she starts out with chicken broth and over time eventually works her way up to eating steak. While exploring the world of meat for the first time, Weaver also explores the role meat has in our culture, the realm of butcher shops, and also visits local, organic meat farms. This is a very unique look into the world of meat and Weaver may surprise you with her stand in the end.

Reviewed by Jessica B., University City Regional

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One event that can change your life is parenthood. When bestselling author Brad Meltzer became a parent he decided to create a list of people, heroes really, who embody the ideals all parents wish for their children. This book contains fifty-two such wonderful individuals. One will find such popular individuals as Nelson Mandela, John Lennon and Harriet Tubman. Also included are some people who are not perhaps as familiar such as team Hoyt, a father and son who are long-distance runners, or Officer Frank Shankwitz, co-founder of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This book will inspire all to reach for the stars.

Reviewed by Angela A., Cornelius Branch

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Gracie was born into a puppy mill and because of her good coat and coloring she was kept as a breeder dog. Her whole life was spent in a small wire cage where she had litter after litter of puppies, never had good human interaction, and was plagued by illness. But, when her owner's kennel was raided by the Chester County Pennsylvania SPCA she was rescued from her horrific life. Saving Gracie tells not only Gracie's story of rescue and rehabilitation, but also the story of her owner’s puppy mill and how it was shut down by authorities. It also shines light on the terrible business of puppy mills and how agencies like the SPCA are trying to shut down this industry for good.

Reviewed by Jessica B., University City Regional

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