Books to the Rescue!

The Bible

By Karen Armstrong

Atlantic Monthly Press, $21.95

Virtually everyone owns a Bible, maybe two or three. Yet even those who have never read it would like to know just who wrote it.

Armstrong, a former nun and prolific author of many religious bestsellers, attempts to answer that question in this slim, yet weighty tome, in which she traces the Bible’s history from the Torah to the Scriptures. It’s wonderfully illuminating, but requires careful study. She includes generous notes and a helpful glossary. Fascinating reading, it’s the perfect companion to the Holy Book.

Schulz and Peanuts

By David Michaelis

Harper, $34.95

Fans of Charley Brown, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang (that’s most of us, I’d guess) will delight in this fascinating biography of their creator, Charles M. Schulz.

Nicknamed “Sparky,” Schulz had a natural talent for drawing and knew from early childhood that he would be a cartoonist. Interestingly, lovable Snoopy was named for “snupi,” a Norwegian term of endearment used by his mother. Shy and lonely when he entered the U.S. Army, Schulz became, surprisingly, a sharp shooter and leader of his squad. The book features many family photos and dozens of Peanuts’ strips inspired by them.

I Am America (And So Can You)

By Stephen Colbert

Grand Central Publishing, $26.99

Although Colbert has abandoned his candidacy for president (he was only running in his home state, South Carolina, but was refused a place on the ballot), he has gifted us with his words of wisdom in this lively and immensely funny tome.

The slightly oversized book (to accommodate his ego, no doubt) includes place markers labeled, “How True,” “Tell My Wife” and other clever reminders. Even if you’ve never seen his “Colbert Report” TV show, you’ll get a charge out of his book.

The Oxford Companion to WINE

By Jancis Robinson

Oxford University Press, $65

If you have a wine lover on your list, or just someone who wants to know more about it, this is, without a doubt, the ultimate source of information and enjoyment.

This six-pound, 600-page, third edition of Robinson’s encyclopedia will please the palate of all who love the sound of uncorking a new bottle of fine wine. Unfamiliar labels will soon become favorites as one learns to try new vintages and wineries. A must for every wine lover’s library.

Mozart’s Sister

By Rita Charbonnier

Crown Publishing, $23.95

Wolfgang had a sister? Yep. Maria Anna Walburga Ignatia Mozart, affectionately (and mercifully) called Nannerl, was an extremely talented pianist who amazed her audience at her first public performance at the age of five.

After brother Wolfgang was born, the two traveled and performed together. But when Papa Mozart chose Wolfgang to carry the family mantle, Nannerl was relegated to teaching piano to support her brother’s career. Her life, however, was happily rounded with the entrance of a potential suitor. This historical novel will delight lovers of music, history, love, or just a darn good story.

Walker Percy Remembered

By David Horace Harwell

University of North Carolina Press, $24.95

The cover picture of Walker Percy illustrates the gentle nature of the man who rose to fame with the publication of his novel, “The Moviegoer.”

He earned a medical degree but never practiced medicine; contracted tuberculosis and was hospitalized for two years. Later, he moved to Covington, La., where he spent the rest of his life, writing and championing civil rights. He converted to Catholicism, yet continued to search for the “ultimate” truth.

The 13 interviews here, with his two brothers, lifelong friend and equally famous Southern writer Shelby Foote and others will endear you to the man and introduce you to his many wonderful books.

And now, something for the kids…

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

By Kate DiCamillo

Candlewick Press, $18.99

Children will thrill to Edward’s misadventures and cheer his amazing return home. Equally enjoyable are the delightful illustrations by Bagram Ibatoulline.

The Night Before Christmas

By Clement C. Moore

Rabbit Ears Book & Audio, $15.95

The classic story is read by Meryl Streep as children follow along. The CD includes 14 traditional Christmas songs. Kids (and parents) will love it.

A Gingerbread Christmas & the Steadfast Tin Soldier

Rabbit Ears Audio, $ 11.95

Stars Susan Saint James and Jeremy Irons bring these stories to life.