Review This Online

Tonight we'll be tuning into what's sure to be a guilty pleasure: USA Network's premiere of the mini-series, The Starter Wife, which stars Deborah Messing, Judy Davis, Miranda Otto, Anika Noni Rose and Joe Montegna. Based on the bestselling book by Gigi Levangie Grazer, will air on Thursdays through June 28th.

The plot is very close to that of the book, with some needed character changes for TV. After her movie mogul husband unceremoniously dumps her, Molly Kagan (Debra Messing) -- with little help from her friends -- looks for a new look, a new life and a new love. The mini-series was filmed on the Gold Coast of Australia, which stands in quite well for Malibu, California. The crew had to stop shooting several scenes when kangaroos would hop by -- that would have been a clue that we weren't really in California, we suppose.

Our sister site, ShoppingBlog.com, is doing a cool giveaway from the show. You can enter to win a Malibu Survival Kit Tote Bag, which is full of great stuff from Sephora, Gaiam and Pond's.

Branded Pink Gaiam Yoga Mat

Branded Pink Tank Top by American Apparel

Paperback copy of The Starter Wife by Gigi Levangie Grazer (Pocket Books)

The Starter Wife Branded Scarf

The Starter Wife nail kit with The Starter Wife branded nail file, Starter Wife Essie nail polish, toe separators trial size Pond's Clean Sweep Towelette, plastic pink cuticle pusher.

Set of Essie's Spring 2007 nail polishes

The Starter Wife Too Faced Mini Quickie Chronicle

Pond's Clean Sweep Toweletter, 30 ct.

Pond's AgeDefeye

Pond's Time Rewind

Pond's Smooth Perfection

Yoga Pose Cards

16 oz reusable water bottle

LA Streetwise map

To enter, please fill out the online form here. There is no entry fee or purchase obligation of any kind to enter. You must be a U.S. resident and be eighteen or over in order to enter. Winners will be selected in a random drawing, which will be announced on ShoppingBlog.com. There's also an optional comment form where you can give your opinion about topics in the news. The comment section is optional, but we'd love to hear your opinion!

As with all Writers Write, Inc. giveaways, email addresses and mailing addresses will remain strictly confidential and will not be revealed to any third parties. You must enter before 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time/12:00 p.m. Central Time, Friday, June 15, 2007.

Good luck!

Posted in Romance Novels

Permalink | Recent Headlines | Our News Feeds

USA Today reports that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is turning to science fiction writers to help avoid future terrorist attacks. Why turn to writers? The government says it need s people with wild imaginations.

"We spend our entire careers living in the future," says author Arlan Andrews, one of a handful of writers the government brought to Washington this month to attend a Homeland Security conference on science and technology.

Those responsible for keeping the nation safe from devastating attacks realize that in addition to border agents, police and airport screeners, they "need people to think of crazy ideas," Andrews says. The writers make up a group called Sigma, which Andrews put together 15 years ago to advise government officials. The last time the group gathered was in the late 1990s, when members met with government scientists to discuss what a post-nuclear age might look like, says group member Greg Bear. He has written 30 sci-fi books, including the best seller Darwin's Radio.

*****

Although some sci-fi writers' futuristic ideas might sound crazy now, scientists know that they often have what seems to be an uncanny ability to see into the future. "Fifty years ago, science-fiction writers told us about flying cars and a wireless handheld communicator," says Christopher Kelly, spokesman for Homeland Security's Science and Technology division. "Although flying cars haven't evolved, cellphones today are a way of life. We need to look everywhere for ideas, and science-fiction writers clearly inform the debate."

Bear says the writers offer powerful imaginations that can conjure up not only possible methods of attack, but also ideas about how governments and individuals will respond and what kinds of high-tech tools could prevent attacks. The group's motto is "Science Fiction in the National Interest." To join the group, Andrews says, you have to have at least one technical doctorate degree. "We're well-qualified nuts," says Jerry Pournelle, co-author of the best sellers Footfall and Lucifer's Hammer and dozens of other books.

Authors who are thinking out of the box in the name of national security also include Greg Bear, Sage Walker and Larry Niven. We've read their work and know the kinds of amazing things they can dream up. And we are very glad that they are all law-abiding citizens.

Permalink | Recent Headlines | Our News Feeds

The Ministry of Special Cases: A Novel by Nathan Englander, a review from The New Republic Online by Ruth Franklin.

Here are some recent songwriting news highlights from around the Web.

GAC says Bill Anderson ("Give it Away") has recovered his songwriting spark.

Jason Timberlake shocks pop fans with desire to write country music: "I want to write country music, because that's where I grew up - Tennessee."

Pete Townsend reveals the computer software he is using for songwriting.

Mandy Moore collaborates with songwriters in her upcoming album Wild Hope.

Spider-Man to be made into a musical.

Grammy-winning producer Glen Sutton dies at age 69. Produced Lynn Anderson's "I Never Promised You a Rose Garden."

Hilary Duff had help from "song doctor to the pop stars" Kara DioGuardi on new album.

Juno's Songwriter of the Year: Gordie Sampson. Nelly Furtado won five awards.

Grammy-nominated songwriter Tupper Saussy, 70, was a fugitive for ten years.

Songwriting helps Marilyn Manson recover from the worst year of his life.

Bat McGrath: "If you can speak, you can write. But sometimes you can write better than you speak."

Ne-Yo might give his unused Britney songs to the Pussycat Dolls.

Permalink | Recent Headlines | Our News Feeds

by Stewart, jon
This book might have been mistaken for a genuine high school textbook had it not become a best-seller almost instantly upon publication. Its layout and design follows that oversized colorful format, with its many illustrations, graphs, assignments, discussion topics, and exercise. But there, of course, the similarity ends – with a resounding hilarious crash. The result is, for those of us old enough to remember, reminiscent of the infamous classic National Lampoon’s High School Yearbook. Stewart and the Daily Show staff have created a masterpiece in American satire and a unique voice of sanity in these ever more maddening times.
- reviewed by Jim, Main Library, PLCMC

by Orhan, Pamuk
Set in 16th century Istanbul, this novel follows the illumination of a manuscript commissioned by the Sultan. While the manuscript takes shape, people involved in the process continue to be murdered by a nameless narrator, who has discovered blasphemy within the illustrations. There are several characters involved in the process of illumination, including the four illustrators, the head illuminator and his household, and figures within the illustrations and all narrate parts of the story. As the disparate pieces of the murder mystery begin to form a coherent portrait, so too do the richly detailed setting and the controversial manuscript. Like the illuminated manuscripts Pamuk describes, this novel is truly a work of art.
- reviewed by Meri, Main Library, PLCMC

by Hunter, Denise
The family mountain lodge Hanna Landin manages is having financial problems. But they are nothing compared to the devastating event that shattered her life years ago. She has tried to recover from it, but is having trouble trusting men. Then she meets and hires mountain guide, Micah Gallagher, and begins to fall in love. But little do they know his dark past intersects alarmingly with hers. Ironically, Hanna’s sister, Natalie, thought her husband was trustworthy, but learns that he is less than faithful, jeopardizing their marriage. This novel, part of a series, should not be missed by readers of contemporary Christian fiction. The twists and turns of the plot and the gripping issues will transfix you to the end.
- reviewed by Jeanenne, Steele Creek Branch, PLCMC

by Aiken, Ginny
Maryann Muldoon seems satisfied with her life as librarian and devoted daughter. Then her life changes when two men start showing up wherever she goes. J. Z. Prophet is and FBI agent and is tracking down members of the mob with his partner. His investigation leads him to Maryann and her work computer. Is she working with the mob to kill people off? His partner is not convinced of her guilt, but J. Z., clouded by events from his past, does not trust her. Previously unassuming, Maryann finds herself on a mission to clear her name, leading them all into danger! This quirky book with its snappy dialogue and off-the-wall romantic plot includes a Christian faith-based message.
- reviewed by Jeanenne, Steele Creek Branch, PLCMC

by Kerner, Noah and Gene Pressman
Chasing Cool: Standing Out in Today’s Cluttered Marketplace describes how companies are on the everlasting hunt to make their products “cool”, because, of course, “cool” sells. This offers some interesting insight into how to appeal to the savvy customer. From successes to failures and interviews with innovators this book has it all. This book would appeal to young people, just leaving college and getting ready to enter the marketing world and also anyone who would enjoy great nonfiction.
- reviewed by Ashley, , PLCMC

by Tyler, Anne
Two families are brought together by the arrival of the Korean infants they have adopted. These families could not be more different; one is a “perfect” middle class, while the other is Iranian American. As the families choose to raise their daughters very differently their friendship will be tested. As we all know “fitting in” is paramount for newcomers. Just when I thought I knew the protagonist, the author changes the emphasis. Tyler has once again used a clever plot and wonderful vocabulary to tell a story.
- reviewed by Mary, , PLCMC

With 20 short poems paired with paintings on double-page spreads, Douglas Florian creates an interstellar journey.

The rise and fall of Captain Morgan, Blackbeard and other swashbuckling rogues.

The authorized biography of Kingsley Amis, a man who enjoyed life.

Light week of news everyone as our book editors are at the annual books extravaganza, BEA. We'll be back next week with coverage of the event, what's new in the publishing world, hot books, author interviews, and more. In the meantime...

Nothing for OJ: A judge ordered OJ to turn over any copies of If I Did It.

Book Burning is Subversive? An owner of a bookstore in Kansas is bummed that people aren't reading as much as they used to so he, um, made less books available by burning them.

Pamuk Not in Exile: Nobel prize-winning Turkish author Orhan Pamuk, who has been threatened for his work, does not consider himself in hiding.
--Pat

"In It's Not News, It's Fark, Drew Curtis takes a critical look at the mass media. He promises to examine why the news is often not news at all, to look at the fear mongering, the cyclical nature of the news and the fluff that is passed off as important. Drew breaks down these not-news stories into 8 separate categories and gives examples, along with user comments from Fark. Unfortunately 230 of the books 278 pages (including the index) are used for these examples. What time is spent talking about the media and the advertisement model it is built on, is insightful a bit cynical and very brief." Read below for the rest of the review.

Read more of this story at Slashdot.

Haruki Murakami’s novel features two sisters, one in an enchanted sleep, the other up all night.

A Thousand Splendid Suns: A Novel by Khaled Hosseini, a review from Esquire by Peter Martin.

Here are some poetry news highlights from around the Web.

Afghan rapper D.J. Besho blends traditional music with poetry.

Students held a poetry slam to raise money for victims of theVirginia Tech University shootings.

Poet Lucille Clifton is the winner of the 2007 Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize. She is the first African-American woman to win the prize.

British poet and journalist James Fenton is the recipient of the 2007 Queen's Gold Medal for Poetry.

Lucky students meet with Pulitzer Prize winner Maxine Kumin and give her feedback on her upcoming book.

Irish poet Sean Lysaght to receive 11th O'Shaughnessy Award for Poetry.

Oozing Medical Poems for Kids poetry book teaches kids about bodily functions.

The author of a mystery poem apparently knows the murderer in a London murder case. A verse of the poem suggests the poem's author may have witnessed the murder.

A poetry and rap comparison: "Though they might not know it, aspiring rappers utilize many of the techniques used to produce lyrical poetry."

Yale professor wins $50,000 poetry prize.

Permalink | Recent Headlines | Our News Feeds

Our new book giveaways include:

• Insufficient Mating Material (LoveSpell), the racy, wildly entertaining futuristic romance by bestselling author Rowena Cherry.
  
  
• Autographed set of Murder on Nob Hill, The Russian Hill Murders and an ARC of The Cliff House Strangler (all from St. Martin's Press), the three books in the delightful and bestselling mystery series by Shirley Tallman. Set in 1880's San Francisco, the series stars a feisty female attorney who solves mysteries: it's Legally Blond for the 19th century!
  
  
• Autographed copy of Jeff Herman's 2007 Guide to Book Publishers, Editors, & Literary Agents (Three Dog Press). It's the must-have guide for all aspiring authors.
  
  
• Floor Sample by Julia Cameron (Tarcher Penguin), the inspring new memoir from the bestselling author of The Artist's Way. Nothing is off limits in her life story: from her career writing for Rolling Stone, her marriage to Martin Scorcese to life in Hollywood, Julia tells it like it is, with her trademark humor and wisdom.
  
  

There's no entry fee of any kind and all email addresses are kept strictly confidential. Winners are selected monthly from a random draw. The entry form for the Book Giveaways can be found here.

Permalink | Recent Headlines | Our News Feeds

Anyway, space opera is actually perfect Memorial Day reading, because it tends to be epic in nature, featuring acts of bravery by individuals whose sacrifices lead to the preservation of worlds, or even galaxies. In that sense, it's conservative and traditional. In another sense--mindblowing use of physics, intelligent weapons, awe-inspiring alien artifacts, for example--space opera is surreal, strange, and way cool. It's the combination I find intriguing.

So, in between dealing with the issues that one deal with when buying a dragon head (what else is a fantasy author going to do on vacation?), I picked up some very good space opera. For summer reading, you can't beat the combination of adventure, mystery, and cosmic illumination these three authors bring to the genre:

• Alastair Reynolds's Revelation Space trilogy (Revelation Space, Redemption Ark, Absolution Gap): Fungus-encrusted ships, anti-inertia drives, Inhibitor killing machines, genetically altered humans, and the fate of the galaxy are just some of the pleasures of this robust and landmark series.
• Stephen R. Donaldson's Gap series (The Real Story, Forbidden Knowledge, A Dark and Hungry God Arises, Chaos and Order, This Day All Gods Die): A heady combination of psychological realism and space adventure, featuring enigmatic aliens and just as enigmatic humans. Dark, beautifully written work.
• Peter Hamilton's Neutronium Alchemist, Reality Dysfunction, and Naked God series: In a universe where the dead come back to life and launch an assault on the living, Hamilton blurs the line between suspense, horror, and SF to create a gritty, insanely imaginative take on space opera.

--Jeff

Forty years after getting pistol-whipped by Thomas Hardy, I am amazed the summer reading list still exists.

• The Best Novels You've Never Read: 61 critics choose their underrated favorite of the past 10 years. This is an immediate bookmark for me, with more good reading ideas than I'll be able to get to over the next 10 years. Of the dismayingly few I've read myself, I'll vouch for Sven Birkerts's choice of Helen DeWitt's The Last Samurai. My own pick would be Mark Anthony Jarman's Salvage King, Ya!, which happens to be celebrating its 10th unsung anniversary next month. (Read my review on our Canadian site.) 
• The Future Canon: a dozen academics place their bets on who's going to last. Andre Aciman is both on the panel (he chooses Sebald, and there's no way he's wrong), and named, by Princeton's Diana Fuss, as "The most exciting new fiction writer of the 21st century" for his new novel, Call Me by Your Name.
• A New York Writer's Catch-22: Aussie transplant Peter Carey's wise but fairly depressing lament that the eager and talented young students he's teaching at Hunter College would be better off with the kind of provincial, unnetworked apprenticeship he had.
• The Stars of Tomorrow: And then, as if Carey's piece didn't make you miserable already about the MFA rat race, New York has the gall to pick six "especially promising" local MFAers and ask readers to vote on them.
• The Early Word on Summer's Debut Novels: Toys superficially and depressingly with those big debut dreams.
• And the Last Word Goes To...: About a regular dinner party among five rising (or risen) young writers (including Gary Shteyngart and Maximum City author Suketu Mehta). Depressing mainly because I wasn't invited.

Gertrude Bell: Queen of the Desert, Shaper of Nations by Georgina Howell, a review from The Atlantic Monthly by Christopher Hitchens.

• Sunday Book Review cover: Falling Man by Don DeLillo: "If 'Underworld' took its cues from the kinetic cinema of Eisenstein, 'Falling Man,' up until its remarkable final sequence, is all oblique silences and enigmatic close-ups reminiscent of the domestic anomie of the New Wave. In DeLillo's hands, this is not at all limiting or prosaic.... The cumulative effect is devastating, as DeLillo in exquisite increments lowers the reader into an inexorable rendezvous with raw terror."
• Kakutani on A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini: "Whereas 'Kite Runner' got off to a gripping start and stumbled into contrivance and sentimentality in its second half, 'Splendid Suns' starts off programmatically and gains speed and emotional power as it slowly unfurls."
• Fallen Founder: The Life of Aaron Burr by Nancy Isenberg: "'I leave to my actions to speak for themselves,' Aaron Burr once wrote, 'and to my character to confound the fictions of slander.' His faith was ill placed, at least according to Nancy Isenberg, who in her fascinating new biography, 'Fallen Founder,' argues that Burr has been misunderstood, and underappreciated, for two centuries."
• Flight by Sherman Alexie: "Despite its conceits, 'Flight' is the most unpretentious novel I've read in a long time. It's a narrative stripped to its core, all rage and heart.... 'Flight' might be categorized as a novel for particularly precocious young adults, but it also works on deeper levels. It's raw and vital, often raucously funny, and there isn't a false word in it."

• The Assault on Reason by Al Gore: "The Assault on Reason is a serious work by an intelligent man with an incurable habit of calling more attention to himself than to the ideas he wishes to communicate. It is worth reading, but it is maddening. In one respect, however, it is entirely satisfying: Unlike virtually all other books bearing the names of prominent politicians, this one raises no serious questions about its authorship. Only Al Gore could possibly have written it."

• Varieties of Disturbance by Lydia Davis: "Much of the discussion of Davis' collections addresses the query, 'Are these really stories?' We could put that puzzle to rest right now: Yes, of course they are, if she says so. One of the great pleasures of Davis' work is discovering the many forms a story can take. And how much of the shtick of fiction it can do without: almost all of it. How nice to feel our heartstrings go unplucked. Which is not to say that they do not sound."

• The Invincible Quest: The Life of Richard Milhous Nixon by Conrad Black (out in the US under a different title in November): "As he did with Franklin Roosevelt, Conrad Black tells it with an old-fashioned sweep, confidence and unabashed simplicity that postmodern biographers rarely attempt or manage. Empathetic while clinical, alert to telling detail and unafraid of generality, he leaves us a Nixon we may still largely judge for ourselves, now on the basis of the richer, fuller perspective this work gives us."

• You Must Set Forth at Dawn by Wole Soyinka: "An amazing brick-size book, You Must Set Forth at Dawn is by no means a straightforward read; but go with the flow and you will be rewarded with marvels. At his best, Soyinka is nuanced and lyrical, a master of gripping drama, compelling imagery and forceful character sketches, leavened with a ready wit. This is the most engrossing and unusual memoir I have read for ages."

• Divisadero by Michael Ondaatje: "Many readers respond to Ondaatje's anti-novelistic aesthetic. But it is frustrating to read continually against the grain of expectations, and it is even a little annoying to be expected to pick out the patterns in the metaphors, to be obliged to trust that there are patterns, while the author looks on silently."