What is a Database and How do I Use it?

Anniss, Matt. What is a Database and How do I Use it? 2014. 48p. ISBN 978-1-62275-078-8. Available at 005.74 ANN on the library shelves.

What is a database? How do I use it? These are the two essential questions this book examines. From humble beginnings as sheets of paper that could be sorted, the database evolved to become a complex computer application that is used to store and retrieve information. This book guides the reader through the history and evolution of the database, and it explains some of the complex processes that power the user’s ability to search, manipulate, and modify virtually millions of pieces of information at the click of a mouse.

A short book, the overview it provides on an idea so simple yet so complex helps the reader understand an aspect of modern life that is often not well known. Structured Query Language (SQL), data security, and social media databases are also explored.

Their Fractured Light

Kaufman, Amie and Megan Spooner. Their Fractured Light. Book 3 of the Starbound series. 2015. 425p. ISBN 9781423171041. Available at FIC KAU on the library shelves.

Two years ago, in These Broken Stars, Tarver Merendsen, a soldier, and Lilac LaRoux, daughter of the richest man in the galaxy, were shipwrecked on a seemingly deserted planet when the Icarus was wrenched out of hyperspace and exploded before crashing on the surface. There they encountered strange whispers, beings from another dimension whom they successfully released, but not before Lilac died and was brought back.

A year ago, in This Shattered World, Captain Jubilee Chase hunted rebels on Avon when she encountered Flynn, and together they discovered that LaRoux industries had created a Rift on their planet, causing people to become husks, entities controlled by the whispers. They successfully released a broadcast warning the galaxy this was happening.

Today Sophia Quinn has escaped from Avon and successfully made her way to Corinth, home of LaRoux industries. Her father became a suicide bombed during Avon’s conflict, and she wants to avenge his death. For the last year, she has been pursued by the Nave of Hearts, a heartless individual whose intentions are unclear. Gideon Marchant, meanwhile, is a brilliant computer hacker willing to do just about anything to accomplish his mission. When Sophia and Gideon find themselves together attempting to escape LaRoux’s showcase room, where they discovered another Rift machine, they realize that they have common cause against their enemy. But the secrets they harbor could very well end their relationship before they have the chance to truly put an end to LaRoux’s plans for domination of the galaxy.

Bringing the six characters back together, this book skillfully concludes this trilogy with intense action and discovery of self.