Eclectic B&N Shopping Spree

Flush by Carl Hiaasen. The funny Floridian is at it again with a tale of money-grubbing casino operators polluting the waters of his fair state. Aimed at kids, it's has the usual mix of strange characters. A good read, but not as funny as his previous effort, Hoot. For a real hoot, check out Hiaasen's books aimed at adults.

Dispatches from the Edge by Anderson Cooper. The CNN anchor who became a household word with his gripping coverage of Hurricane Katrina gives us a view of other hellish corners of the world. Man's inhumanity to man is interspersed with stories of his own personal hell: Trying to come to terms with his father's early death and his brother's suicide. Thanks, Anderson, for being our conscience. But, hey, dude, I hope you have a good counselor.

San Juan Islands from Moon Handbooks. Continuing my search to find the perfect retirement spot. This book actually included Lummi Island, a small gem west of Bellingham which was recently discovered by Sunset Magazine. (Watch those real estate prices rise now!)

Cesar's Way by Cesar Millan. Laugh if you want, but I love watching Dog Whisperer on National Geographic Channel. From agressive cases to Hollywood pampered pooches, Cesar (in his own words) "rehabilitates dogs and trains people."

And one last one, The Rules of Life by Richard Templar. OK, so I'm a sucker for this type of stuff and , hey it was on the bargain table!