Take note, dog-lovers: you'll find a couple of canine-centered books amongst the releases, one in fiction, one in non.
Clint: A Retrospective
by Richard Schickel, Clint Eastwood (Introduction)
Uncharacteristic as it may be, I imagine Clint Eastwood might be a little choked-up about the publication of Clint: A Retrospective by prominent film critic and celebrated documentary filmmaker Richard Schickel. The Tinseltown and American icon could conceivably be squinty-eyed with emotion — to hold back a tear or two, no doubt – and find his voice has a catch, or a catch-phrase or two, as he tries to speak.
But who could blame him for any pride and gratitude felt over a project that, amongst Schickel's enlightening commentary, celebrates his 50-year, 60-film career with over 300 images, including stills from superb cinematic performances, and behind-the-scenes photos? From "spaghetti westerns" and Dirty Harry to Invictus, Clint salutes its subject as both actor and director, for his musical compositions, and as multiple Oscar-winner for his achievements in front of and behind the camera, contributing to his continuing allure and his critical and box office success.
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
by Seth Grahame-Smith
Either I missed this day in school, or revisionist history has gone really awry. Or, most likely, the author of the bestselling Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is back for another monster mash-up on the history hullaballoo dance floor. The title says it all: Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, by Seth Grahame-Smith, but you'll want to know more. All is revealed with the discovery that Abe's mother was slain by a vampire, provoking Lincoln’s bloody and lifelong vendetta against vampires and their slave-owning allies. Honest. Picking up an axe to begin a campaign of vampire annihilation, the 16th President of the United States – in his role in a hidden history behind the Civil War — unearths the massive undertaking vampires play in the development and near-death of our nation, becoming the most skilled and successful vampire hunter in America. …Okay – but just think of what political hay Stephen Douglas could’ve made during the debates with this bit of sensationalism. "My opponent’s a what?"
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