New and delightful cookbooks and memoirs highlighting cuisines from many cultures.

Mastering the art of Soviet cooking: a memoir of love and longing by Anya von Bremzen — This witty memoir captures the feasts and famines of three generations of Russian women.

Japanese soul cooking: ramen, tonkatsu, tempura, and more from the streets and kitchens of Tokyo and beyond by Tadashi Ono and Harris Salat ; photography by Todd Coleman — Comfort food Japanese-style.

Mastering the art of French eating: lessons in food and love from a year in Paris by Ann Mah — When her diplomat husband is assigned to Paris, Ann plots gastronomic adventures à deux. But when he is called to Iraq on a year-long post, Ann must stay alone in the City of Light.

The year 2012 is The Year of the Dragon in China and the Chinese New Year begins on January 23rd. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules, and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. So, if you were born in any years designated as "Year of the Dragon," you may exhibit these characteristics. To check and see which sign dominates the year you were born, see the China Today website. For more on Chinese horoscopes that you can check out in our library, see:

The handbook of Chinese horoscopes by Theodora Lau

The Chinese horoscopes library by Kwok Man Ho

Since 1967, on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday, April 2, International Children's Book Day (ICBD) is celebrated to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children's books. This years theme, The Book Remembers, comes from Estonia. ICBD promotes the idea that children's books can help children learn about people from other countries, learn to appreciate and respect other cultures, and learn to get along with others. Here are some of the great books available to help you celebrate the day:

Global babies

Ten little fingers and ten little toes by Mem Fox; illustrations by Helen Oxenbury

Say hello! by Rachel Isadora

The Year of 2011 is the Year of the Golden Rabbit, which begins on February 3, 2011 and ends on January 22, 2012. The Rabbit is the 4th sign in the Chinese zodiac which consists of 12 animals signs. To find your sign, click on China Today web. The Rabbit is a lucky sign. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are reasonably friendly individuals who enjoy the company of a group of good friends. For more information on Chinese horoscopes, see these sources in our library. For information on how Chinese New Year is celebrated, including legends, food, and taboos, see this China Facts page.