Oh, chalice of raindrops

I replied, they say, cool as milk

Scientists haven’t studied the isotopes of heartache

As Sam Tanenhaus makes clear in 'Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America,' it is impossible to understand American politics and culture without grasping Buckley’s immense influence.

In "Sister, Sinner: The Miraculous Life and Mysterious Disappearance of Aimee Semple McPherson,' Claire Hoffman delivers with a fast-paced page turner on the life of Aimee Semple McPherson. This biography brings into print another review of the achievements and personal failures of this major pioneer of media evangelism.

Readers of Dave Barry’s latest, 'Class Clown: The Memoirs of a Professional Wiseass: How I Went 77 Years Without Growing Up,' will find enjoyable excerpts from many of his most notable columns, surrounded by additional memories, commentary and, occasionally, the perspective of hindsight.