Real LI

“The Nest Home Design Handbook: Simple Ways to Decorate, Organize and Personalize Your Place,” by Carley Roney, $22.95): There’s a little something in this book for almost everyone looking to redo their homes. Divided into five chapters -- live, eat, sleep (including bathroom tips) and stash -- the book provides guidance on furniture, color choices, room arrangements, getting rid of clutter and cleanup. The book includes a page of furniture cutouts so that a reader can play around with designing a room on paper; a glossary of bedding terms, explaining, for example, the difference between Egyptian and pima cotton; tips on arranging your kitchen countertop; advice on arranging wall hangings and a lot more. Well illustrated with photos and drawings, this book offers plenty of ideas.

- PAM ROBINSON