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Catching the Ebb: Drift-fishing for a Life in Cook InletBy Bert Bender; drawings by Tony Angell (Oregon State University Press, $22.95)
The blurb: " 'Catching the Ebb' will appeal to readers interested in Alaska, the sea and the fishing life. In addition to its stories of people, boats and fish, Bender's compelling memoir addresses the critical question: Can we restrain our heedless pollution of the sea and avoid depleting ocean resources?" Excerpt: "Any fisherman will tell you that you never feel more alive than when you're 'out there.' On the water, we feel the throb of life and take our place in the ecological web, including the ways we compete and cooperate with each other."Ice: Great Moments in the History of Hard, Cold WaterBy Karal Ann Marling (Borealis Books, $24.95)The blurb: "From frozen wastelands to visionary explorers, from frosty desserts to shimmering castles, cultural historian Marling weaves together fantastic and fascinating topics related to 'hard, cold waters.' " Excerpt: "At the 2007 Kentucky Derby, one bar offered a special $1,000 mint julep. The cup was gold-plated, the straw was silver, the bourbon was aged and smooth. The real attraction? It was served over ice imported from above the Arctic Circle."