Global warming is a large, amorphous and frightening topic. Most of us avoid it. If you want a clear, short read that gives you a handle on global warming, this is the book for you. It explains why and how it is happening and where the most emissions are coming from--and recommends actions and strategies for solving the problem. Excellent for high school students as well as adults. It would be a wonderful Christmas present that would deliver a lot of bang for the buck.

Bill Nighy's body language alone makes this film worth watching--his self-conscious twists and tics are mesmerizing and hilarious. A sweet film with some political punch about an unlikely pair matching up to take on world poverty. Good to see the G-7 portrayed from a British, rather than North American point of view--check out the two minutes of Canadian participation in these momentous meetings.

The Malarkeys' first CD will bounce you out of your seat--or in it, if you happen to be driving (it makes great road music). This Kelowna-based group will invigorate you with their Celtic drive and swing. The two main singers, Karl and Gail Hourigan, play guitar and bass. Jay Dallamore adds the drums and percussion and Eddie Plotnikoff plays fiddle and sings back-up vocals. In different tracks you will hear guitars, fiddle, mandolin, keyboard and tin whistle as well as the warm honey tones of singer Lisa Grekul. So many Celtic groups play the old traditional favourites, and there is nothing wrong with that--but this group writes its own songs, often evoking local western Canadian landscape and history. Gail Hourigan's unique smoky-sweet voice is haunting in the song "Comfort Me," and her "bloody brilliant" lyrics sing the lament of immigrants from Ireland forced to become settlers in a Canada belonging to other peoples. Another treat on this album is Lisa Grekul's "Heart's Desire." Karl Hourigan's lyrics, voice and guitar are strong throughout. Celtic fans, Canadian music fans--get this album!