Real Alaskan Magazine: Alaskans at Work & Play

By Jeff Brown (Dr. Rudolph Spengler, $10)

The blurb: From the "Alaskan Businessman" zoo exhibit to zip line commuters, "Real Alaskan Magazine" is a humorous account of all that has gone on in Alaska over the past year.

Excerpt: "Beginning this month, Alaskan Airlines will be using wood-burning jet engines on most of its flights, according to spokespilot, Luther 'Deadeye' Morganschnifter. 'With the rising costs of jet fuel, we see it primarily as a cost-cutting measure,' he said. 'But we're discovering that our passengers like the 'Alaskan' feel of the woodsmoke aroma.' To help usher in the new changes, marshmallows, chocolate bars and graham crackers will be available soon as in-flight snacks."

Bear Country Behavior: Essential Skills and Safety Tips for Hikers

By Bill Schneider, ($12.95)

The blurb: This pocket guide serves as a source of information on how to stay safe while hiking, backpacking, camping or biking in bear country.

Excerpt: "Myth: Smoke from campfires attracts bears.

"Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this theory, nor have there been any encounters linked to campfire smoke. It's just as likely that campfire smoke serves as a deterrent by alerting bears for miles around of your presence. However, cooking over a campfire (as opposed to a backpacking stove) could disperse food odors more widely and, perhaps, attract bears. Never burn leftovers unless you're positive the campfire will stay hot enough long enough to completely burn all food and destroy odors."

-- Compiled by Marlaina Ross, Anchorage Daily News