“MS and Your Feelings: Handling the Ups and Downs of Multiple Sclerosis,” by Allison Shadday, LCSW

Shadday shares real-life MS success stories and gives insightful professional advice derived from years of counseling hundreds of chronically ill patients.

Her book offers readers hope, inspiration and validation, teaching them how to come to terms with a diagnosis; strategies for identifying and managing stress triggers; ways to cope with fear, guilt, anger, loss, depression, and isolation; steps to enhance intimacy and develop a greater sense of emotional security.

Shadday wants islanders to know that her book is applicable for people with many types of chronic illness in addition to MS.

“Of the Law,” by Susan M. Wingate

Set on a fictionalized San Juan island called Dahl Island, this murder mystery has received review comments such as “dark and retentive, it lurks in your mind” and “You despise the victim. You begin to care about Dahl Island, the little town of Thirsty Cove and the man who has sworn to uphold justice for his people.”

The book is available in paperback and e-book format.

“Naturally Attracted: Connecting with Michael J. Cohen,” by Michael J. Cohen

This DVD is about the truly original local teacher, psychologist and singer, Mike Cohen.

Mike’s understanding of how humans interact with the natural world and his contributions to folk music are extolled by students, colleagues and friends; islanders will recognize many familiar faces.

“Getting Around in China: Notes from an American Traveler,” by Fred Richardson

From Waldron Island, Richardson rights a practical handbook for anyone traveling, living or doing business in China.

The first section of the book covers the basics; maps, getting around on boats, bicycles, and trains, and travelers’ concerns like safety, hotels and food, and other given separate chapters.

The second section loosely mirrors the organization of the first section and comprises Richardson’s journal entries over several visits to China over the years.

Some entries evoke the strangeness of travel in Asia, while some reflect the changes in China over the last two decades making travel there easier. These travel tales satisfy anyone interested in China, even those who have no intention of traveling there.

— Beth Helstien is the outreach coordinator for the San Juan Island Library. She may be reached at bhelstien@sjlib.org, or contacted at the library most Wednesdays through Fridays.