Foundation by Isaac Asimov, Bantam, 1991 (reissue)

Psychohistorian Hari Seldon is preparing for the future-a bleak future marked by 30,000 years of warfare. Seldon assembles the brightest and greatest minds to create an Encyclopedia that will preserve knowledge after the inevitable fall of the current civilization.

This is what I would classify as "hard" or "serious" science fiction. I needed to research the story after reading it to understand what I had read. For science fiction buffs, Asimov rates as a god but I'd be reluctant to read this brand of science fiction again.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also enjoy The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury, Doubleday, 1958. The tranquility of Mars is disrupted by Earthlings determined to conquer space, colonize the planet, and escape a doomed Earth. Similar to Foundation, this books is also a combination of short stories spun into one larger whole. Psychohistorical Crisis by Donald Kingsbury, TOR, 2002 is based on an article by Asimov that explains his basis for Foundation and also includes elements of that story such as power and war addicts, and male dominance.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also enjoy these non-fiction titles: A Scientific Model of History: Where is the Future Leading Us? by Juan Jose Gomez-Ibarra, Author House, 2003 explains why civilizations decay, wars recur, and other historical cycles and also addresses the limits of social organization. Voyage to the Milky Way by Donald Goldsmith, TV Books, 1999. Although nearly 10 years old, rather than being outdated, this volume is science fiction-like in its predictions (including one for 2008)and includes coverage on space colonization.

The Chosen by Chaim Potok, Simon & Schuster, 1967

Set at the end of World War II, The Chosen tells the story of Danny and Reuven, teenagers who meet following a freak accident at a baseball game between their two opposing teams. Both boys are the same age, live near each other, and have never met because while they are both Jewish, they are radically different. Danny, a genius, is recluctant to follow his predisposed life purpose of succeeding his tyrannical father as the leader of their extreme Hasidic Jewish sect. Reuven, while still a dedicated Jew, has experienced a much different upbringing with his own father, a gentle scholar and rabbi, whose footsteps he plans to follow. As the horrors of the Holocaust are revealed, the reactions of the opposing Jewish camps threaten the existence of the boys' friendship, but they ultimately come to terms with their own faith and beliefs, as well as an acceptance and understanding of the other's.

Potok has crafted an intriguing insight to the Jewish religion and the passion that accompanies unwavering beliefs. Strong character development and skillful writing have helped this story seem timeless and relevant despite being first published more than 40 years ago. This is one novel I wouldn't have minded reading in my high school or college English classes.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Septembers of Shiraz: a Novel by Dalia Sofer, Harper Perennial, 2008 hones in on the Jewish persecution of a religious family living in Iraq. In turn, their non-religious son living in New York falls for the pious daughter of his Hasidic landlord. Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev, Heritage Reprints, 1943 (reissue). This literary fiction classic skillfully describes the growing divide between two generations of Russians.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: My Jesus Year: A Rabbi's Son Wanders the Bible Belt in Search of his own Faith by Benyamin Cohen, HarperOne, 2008. Cohen, raised as an Orthodox Jew, had a crisis of faith that led him to visit a myriad of denominational churches before finding his way back to his religious origins. My Father's Paradise: A Son's Search for his Jewish Past in Kurdish Iraq by Ariel Sabar, Algonquin Books, 2008. The author grew up never understanding his own father. When he himself has a son, he finds himself trying to understand his father and embarks on a personal journey to achieve this goal.

Rurouni Kenshin Volume 1: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story by Nobuhiro Watsuki, VIZ, 2003

Wonderfully illustrated and teeming with historical significance, Rurouni Kenshin tells the tale of Himura Kenshin (rurouni means "wanderer"), a Meiji swordsmen of legendary status who was once an assassin, or "hitokiri" protecting the empire. Kenshin joins up early in the story with Kaoru, and helps her secure her late father's dojo (martial arts training hall) that is under attack from a gang of men wishing to forcefully take it from her. Mid-story, the pair rescues Yahiko and make the scrappy orphan the first, if not reluctant, student of Kaoru's dojo.

The author intersperses a few narratives throughout the book to explain the evolution of certain characters and a glossary and reading diagram also help ease novice readers into the manga format. With 28 total volumes in the series, fans of this title are provided with ample further reading.

While I would still not consider myself a fan of manga, I have a new respect for the genre. These are not easy "comic books", but instead are often beautiful works of art that are somewhat difficult, at least for a novice, to get the hang of reading.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Snow Fox by Susan Fromberg Schaeffer, W.W. Norton, 2004 is set in medieval Japan and centers on a love story between a poet and a samurai. This title also includes rich cultural details and some realistic violence. The entire Fruits Basket series, by Natsuka Tayaki, Tokyopop, 2004- is my second recommendation and is largely based on the insane popularity this manga series enjoys. The storyline here is that the Sohma family members are possessed by the spirits of the Chinese Zodiac, which they turn into when they are hugged. The link here may be a little weak, but I do believe that if you like manga, you will enjoy both of these series.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Emperor of Japan: Meiji and his World, 1852-1912 by Donald Keene, Columbia, 2005. Although this is rather scholarly, and long, this work is glowingly praised for presenting a completely comprehensive history of the emergence of modern Japan. Japanese Sword Fighting: Secrets of the Samurai by Masaki Hatsumi, Kodansha International, 2006 is both informative and aesthetic, with it's strong historical facts and coverage of legendary figures as well as its elaborate illustrations, including calligraphy drawings from the masters of the craft.

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1970

Eleven year old Pecola Breedlove is an African American girl barely existing at a time when only blond haired, blue eyed children are seen as beautiful. Her father, Cholly, is haunted by the demons of his past, and the abusive home Pecola is raised in leaves her little chance of thriving, much less survival. Pecola wishes for blue eyes, believing that trait alone will make herself, and the world, beautiful.

The narrative voice of the story changes throughout the book, offering various insights and angles to Pecola's tortured life. The author also does not follow a traditonal "start to end" format of storytelling, but instead, chapters often appear out of order, when in reality, they skillfully combine to craft this powerful story.

Oprah finally got one right. This is an important story that made a lasting impression on me.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Color Purple by Alice Walker, Harcourt Brace, 1982 is equally effective in highlighting the low position of black females in American social culture, even amongst fellow African Americans. Conception by Kalisha Buckhanon, St. Martin's Press, 2009 is a direct recommendation from Booklist and is a modern tale of urban black girls following a vicious cycle of falling for the wrong man, having their children, and falling into poverty and despair.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, Random House, 1970. Angelou uses her autobiography to illustrate the ways in which she utilized her strong character and love of literature to overcome racism and trauma. Somebody's Someone by Regina Louise, Agate Bolden, 2008 recounts the author's dream to be wanted and respected, rather than the neglected and abused child she really was.

True Story Swear to God: Chances Are by Tom Beland, AIT, 2003

As the title professes, this graphic novel is the true story of how the author, Tom Beland, met the love of his life, Lily Garcia, while waiting for a bus in Disney World. Tom, a journalist and aspiring cartoonist from Napa, and Lily, a radio personality from Puerto Rico, are both there to cover the opening of the Animal Kingdom theme park and after they meet, spend one incredible evening together. The connection is so immediate and strong, that upon returning to their prospective homes, a long distance relationship ensues. The story ends with Tom wondering if his real home is his beloved Napa, or if home is where his heart is.

With minor sexual situations and the overall subject matter, this is a graphic novel for adults or mature teens. The illustrated format adds depth to the story. This is a beautifully written, introspective, and romantic story that should leave readers feeling hopeful, inspired, and perhaps even a little jealous.

This was my first experience reading a graphic novel. I couldn't put it down and placed his sequel on hold for myself the next day.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Which Brings Me to You: a Novel in Confessions by Steve Almond, Algonquin Books, 2006. A chance meeting between two strangers at a wedding results in a long distance relationships of friendship growing into love as the two main characters get to know each other by writing letters detailing how they failed in their past relationships. The Trial of True Love by William Nicholson, Doubleday, 2005. Bachelor Bron is a writer who's working on a new book about true love when he himself unexpectedly finds love.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: David Chelsea in Love by David Chelsea, Reed Graphica, 2003 is an autobiographical graphic novel with a long distance romance theme. However, its mature content and depictions are strictly for adults. Janet and Me: an Illustrated Story of Love and Loss by Stanley Mack, Simon & Schuster, 2004. A cross of narrations and comics, this book tells the story of Mack, a cartoonist, and his relationship with young adult author Janet Bode. They too experienced an unexpected first meeting and love and spent 18 years together before cancer claimed Bode's life.

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner, Washington Square Press, 2001

Cannie Shapiro has just been outed in a national magazine as a "larger woman" by her ex-boyfriend. After the urge to kill has passed, Cannie is forced to evaluate her life,come to terms with her dysfunctional family, and take charge of her future-which is about to involve becoming a single mother. This is a realistic and contemporary romance that is laugh-out-loud funny in many parts and heartbreaking in others.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: Conversations with the Fat Girl by Liza Palmer, 5 Spot, 2005 features Maggie, who is the plus-size heroine of this light romance focusing on self-acceptance. Watermelon: a Novel by Marian Keyes, Perennial, 2002. After her husband leaves her the day their baby is born, Claire retreats to her childhood home in Dublin and gradually begins to discover who she really is.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Labyrinth of Desire: Women, Passion, and Romantic Obsession by Rosemary Sullivan, Counterpoint, 2003 attempts to show why intelligent women fall in love with the wrong man. It's Called a Breakup because its Broken: the Smart Girl's Breakup Buddy by Greg Behrendt, Broadway, 2006 is a light self-help book showcasing how women can permanently end bad relationships and find a brighter romantic future.

The Sleeping Beauty Proposal by Sarah Strohmeyer, Dutton, 2007

When her longtime boyfriend Hugh proposes on national television to an anonymous female, 36 year old Genie panics and lets her family, friends, and co-workers believe that she was the target of the proposal and starts living a double life of her own. Under the guise of a bride-to-be, Genie blossoms, gaining the self-confidence to move in the right direction regarding her career, housing situation, and even her love life.

This is classic chick lit, light and fluffy, but oh, so fun to read. Despite being lightweight, Strohmeyer weaves an enjoyable tale interspersed with characters that readers should be able to identify and empathize with.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: A Mile in My Flip-Flops by Melody Carlson, Waterbrook Press, 2008. Another light and fun read about a young woman who embarks on an enterprise as a house flipper after being dumped. Daring Chloe by Laura Jensen Walker, Zondervan, 2008. When cautious Chloe's fiance backs out the day before the wedding her girlfriends convince her to take the honeymoon anyways--with them. This jump starts Chloe's transformation from a girl afraid to take risks into a girl who is willing to risk anything, including her heart again.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Why there are no Good Men Left: the Romantic Plight of the New Single Woman by Barbara Dafoe Whitehead, Broadway, 2003. Whitehead explains why independent, professional, and highly-independent women find it so difficult to find the perfect mate. Five Men who Broke my Heart: a Memoir by Susan Shapiro, Delacorte, 2004. Although happily married, author Shapiro was in a mid-life funk as she approached her 40th birthday, resulting in her embarkment on a humorous journey to track down her former boyfriends.

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb, Berkley Books, 1995

This first offering in Robb's long running "In Death" series introduces us to Detective Eve Dalls, a New York City police homicide detective in the year 2058. A senator's granddaughter who works as a prostitute is found murdered and is just the first of several employees in this now legalized profession to meet the same fate. The main suspect in the case, Roark, also doubles as Eve's love interest. Furthermore, political corruptions is still running rampant in the 21st century.

This is a fast paced and slightly steamy thriller. The futuristic aspect was not apparent upon beginning the book and resulted in some initial confusion on my part. While this is not among the best books or best mysteries I've ever read, it was enjoyable enough that I would be open to continuing on with this still running series.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these fiction titles: The Darker Side by Cody McFadyen, Bantam, 2008 also features a female detective investigating the murder of a senator's family member. However, this police procedural thriller is a bit darker and contains quite a bit more violence. Amaryllis by Jayne Castle, Pocket Books, 1998 is lighter and more humorous but also involves a female detective pursuing a case and a futuristic romance.

Readers who enjoyed this book may also like these non-fiction titles: Portrait of a Killer: Jack the Ripper--Case Closed by Patricia Cornwell, Putnam, 2002. Cornwell,popular author of the fictional Kay Scarpetta mystery series, tackles this expose on the famous real life serial killer who targeted prostitutes. Detective: the Inspirational Story of the Trailblazing Woman Cop who wouldn't Quit by Kathy Burke, Scribner, 2008. Burke's autobiographical account shares the details of her career that led her to become the most highly decorated female detective in New York City's police department.

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich, Scribner, 1994

Heroine Stephanie Plum is out of work and her car has just been repossessed. She convinces her cousin Vinny, by way of a blackmail threat, to hire her as a bounty hunter. Stephanie's first assignment will net her $10,000 if she can bring in Joe Morelli, a cop on the run. While growing up together, Joe took Stephanie's virginity and she reciprocated by running him over with a Buick. With well developed characters, witty dialogues, plenty of action, and just a hint at romance, this novel hooks the reader and leaves them wanting more, which is achieved through the 13 sequels to date.

I found this book enjoyable enough that I would like to read more in the series. However, while it was humorous, I did not find it as wildly funny as other readers have mentioned.

Readers may also enjoy these fiction books: Florida Roadkill by Tim Dorsey, Warner, 1999 for its clever characters, suspense, and wild humor. Cha Cha Cha by Jane Heller, Kensington Books, 1994 features a female main character who finds herself working at a previously unthinkable job and also in the unlikely position of having to solve a crime. Heller consistently provides readers with humorous books featuring likeable and identifiable female leads.

Readers may also enjoy these non-fiction books: The Huntress: The True Saga of Dottie and Brandi Thorson, Modern-Day Bounty Hunters by Christopher Keane, Forge Books, 2000 which tells the tale of a wife and daughter who take over the family business when their husband/father bounty hunter is murdered. You Can Run But You Can't Hide by Duane Chapman,Orion Books, 2007 details the past life and current occupation of "Dog the Bounty Hunter", who also has a popular show on A&E.