The Bodhisattva's Brain: Buddhism Naturalized by Owen Flanagan — Having authored several books and article on the philosophy of mind and cognitive science, Owen Flanagan's perspective on the intersection of Buddhism, psychology and Western philosophy is well informed and generally unbiased. Bracketing supernatural elements that are inconsistent with science, this treatise emphasizes the practical potential of Buddhist spirituality for attaining a philosophically informed state of happiness. Buddhist principles are examined in light of Aristotle's emphasis on reason and virtue, with added focus on compassion.

1493: uncovering the new world Columbus created by Charles C.

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith — Fans of Alexander McCall Smith, author of several series, including The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, 44 Scotland Street, and Isabel Dalhousie's novels will enjoy this recent interview by Connie Fletcher in BookList Online (12/01/2011).