Changes to The Quality Corner

There are many views of change.  Some think change is good.  Others are afraid of change.  I have had very mixed views of change.  The Quality Corner has gone through a lot of changes recently and I'd like to share them with you.

In February, I made the decision to close my eBay store.  It was not an easy decision.  I thought long and hard before I made the final decision.  You can read all about that decision here.  Looking back, I know it was the right thing to do. 

After closing the eBay store, I was faced with a decision about the direction of my business.  In the book industry, a massive shift has been made toward ebooks.  I have grown to love ebooks, so I could understand why they were growing in popularity.  I chose to keep up with the trends.  I was determined to be a forward-thinker.  I did not want to get stuck with one way to do things.  So, I tried to sell ebooks.  I made links available on my blog to purchase ebooks from popular retailers like Barnes & Noble and iTunes.  I was very excited about this opportunity.  However, my excitement quickly waned.  Ebook sales for me paled in comparison to the sales I made on eBay with books in print.  I became discouraged.

Although I have loved the experience of owning an online business and working from home, there have been some downsides.  One of the biggest issues for me was that I missed working around people.  Although I craved human interaction, I was very skeptical about going back to work in an office.  I absolutely loved the freedom that working from home gave me and I just was not willing to give that up.  So, again I was at a crossroad.

At this time, I met a Notary Signing Agent.  I had never heard of that profession before.  She told me that she loved her job.  I began to do research about this field.  It sounded like something that I would enjoy.  I found out that I would first have to become a Notary Public and then become certified to be a Notary Signing Agent.  I decided to give it a try.  I took a couple of classes and passed the required tests and I became a Notary Signing Agent.  I started a new business - Quality Notary Services.  I began working my new job this summer and I love it!  To find out more about my new profession, visit my website at www.qualitynotaryservices.com. 

So, what does that mean for The Quality Corner?  Well, I'm still passionate about books and I always will be.  I will continue to blog about books and direct my readers to the best places to purchase my favorite books.  I still have my connection with the large book distributor that I have worked with for years.  So, I will maintian my relationship with local clients, including Columbus City Schools.  However, I will discontinue my bi-weekly newsletter as of August 15, 2012.

BlackBookReview.com has been operating as a division of The Quality Corner.  BlackBookReview.com will remain in operation.  I have made a few changes to the products that I offer.  You can find out more about those changes by visiting www.BlackBookReview.com. 

I would like to thank all of my clients, business associates, friends and family for all of your support over the years.  Since The Quality Corner opened in 2008, it has been a roller coaster ride.  Thank you for taking the ride with me.  It has been my great pleasure serving you and I look forward to continuing that relationship!

Book Review - "I Can Do Anything, Too" by Carolyn Mattocks

“I believe the children are our future,” sang the late Whitney Houston.  How true those words are!  We look to the next generation to be our future leaders.  Young people need direction today in order to be good leaders tomorrow.  Carolyn Mattocks has done an excellent job providing that direction with her latest book, I Can Do Anything, Too.

This book was written specifically for Latino students in grades 8-12.  It is a guidebook that examines several careers and it helps students determine their interests.  The careers discussed throughout the book demonstrate that Latinos are successful in many fields.  Some of the fields that are discussed include: Math, Science, Medicine, Politics and Writing.  Specific examples are given of famous Latinos in each career field.  Students are helped to see that they are not limited, but they truly can do anything.

The book contains activities that help the student to explore the skills needed for each career.  The student is encouraged to assess their skills to determine if they would excel in a certain field.  Resources are listed so that students can do additional research on careers that interest them.

One section is devoted to recognizing the leadership of Hispanics and contributions they’ve made to American history.  The book states, “The Hispanic immigrants and individuals born in the United States continue to add richness to all aspects of the culture of the United States through their language, customs, ideas and vision for a better world for all.”  After reading this book, Latino students will have more reason to take pride in their heritage.

Carolyn Mattocks has a love and passion for History.  She has worked in diverse settings such as federal agencies and academic institutions.  She has received various honors and attained many achievements.  Her knowledge and experience is evident in her writing.  Mattocks states, “The I Can Do Anything, Too book promotes an understanding of the past by demonstrating that when children better know their history, they gain a positive self-image which leads to self-confidence and self-esteem.”  I couldn’t agree more!  This book is an excellent tool to promote students’ self-confidence and to help them see that they can achieve anything.  I enjoyed this book very much and I know that every reader will appreciate it as much as I do.

Book Review - "Awaken" by Timothy George

Fufua means “awaken” in Swahili. To awaken means “to wake up; to rouse to action; to come or bring to an awareness.” In Timothy George’s novel, Awaken, he vividly paints a picture of a character that is awakened to his role and purpose in life. 

The main character in this novel, Thomas Jet, is a successful businessman in Chicago. His father recently died. Before his father died, Thomas made a promise that he would attend his family reunion. He is apprehensive about traveling to visit family that he’s never met before. He is reunited with much more than just family. The family reunion changes Thomas’ life forever.

Thomas meets an old man named Dr. Oble. The old man greets Thomas by saying, “Welcome home. Fufua!” Even though they’ve never met, Dr. Oble is intimately acquainted with Thomas. The encounter with Dr. Oble raises a lot of questions in the mind of Thomas. He returns home to research his family history. He uncovers shocking secrets.

Thomas can’t stop thinking about Dr. Oble. He is determined to speak with him again to find out how and why this old man knows so much about him. The next time Thomas meets with Dr. Oble, even more secrets are uncovered. Thomas is awakened to his true purpose in life. He finds out about an ancient African secret society that his ancestors were a part of. Thomas discovers that he is destined to be a member of this brotherhood. Soon, he realizes that his connection to this secret society will put his life in jeopardy.

As Thomas digs deeper into his ancestral roots, he finds out about a tremendous lost treasure. He sets out on a quest to find the treasure. Thomas is not the only one looking for this hidden treasure. His foes are willing to kill for the fortune. Many lives are lost. Thomas wonders if he will be next. At every turn, Thomas meets someone new. To stay alive, he must determine who is an ally and who is an enemy. 

This fast-paced story has many twists and turns. It is truly unpredictable. Timothy George takes his readers on a roller coaster. The adventure is very thrilling and entertaining. George’s masterful use of suspense keeps the reader enthralled. This novel is one-of-a-kind and a must-read.

Book Review - "The Borgia White Affair" by Mayo R. Delilly, III

“I can retain neither respect nor affection for a government which has been moving from wrong to wrong in order to defend its immorality,” stated Mohandas K. Gandhi. This quote appropriately introduces a section in the novel, The Borgia White Affair. In his debut novel, author Mayo R. DeLilly skillfully unfolds a government scandal that threatens the peace and security of a nation.

The novel is set in modern times. A war against drugs has been waged. It has been a long, losing battle. The government develops a scheme to finally rid the nation of drugs. While the goal is a noble one, the method is unconventional and it leads to untold death, pain and suffering.

Dr. Lester Phillips is a good man. He works hard and he loves his family. He is a model citizen. He grew up in a rough neighborhood and he has a lot of compassion for people from all walks of life. As a physician, he becomes keenly interested in the rise of cocaine deaths. He begins to search for answers. He teams up with a colleague and they begin their quest. The novel spans several seasons. The death toll continues to rise. As Dr. Phillips gets closer to finding out the source of the sinister plot, his life and that of his colleague becomes endangered. As the plot continues to unfold, it gets thicker and thicker. More and more characters are involved and more is at stake. In their wildest dreams, they could not have imagined where their search would lead them.

This fast-paced story is truly a page-turner. While entertaining, it challenges the reader’s sense of morality. The story touches on political and social issues such as racism and nationalism. One of my favorite quotes in this novel is from the main character, Dr. Phillips. After he loses one of his friends to drugs, he cries, “There’s no difference. No difference between the iron shackles my forefathers wore as slaves and the shackles of drug dependency that subjugates many black people today.” In the end he concluded, “The answer to the drug problem in this country will never come from the end of a needle or the barrel of a gun…the answer lies in the heart!” Powerful statements like these are found all throughout the book.  

Author Mayo DeLilly practices General Pediatrics in Los Angeles, CA. He attended Howard University in Washington, DC. DeLilly uses Washington, DC as a backdrop for the novel. The main character, Lester Phillips, is a Pediatrician in DC. It is very apparent throughout this book that DeLilly is writing about things that are familiar to him. He vividly describes the streets of DC. The medical terminology used in the writing reveals the author’s depth of knowledge. DeLilly’s detailed writing style made this novel very interesting. I am confident that anyone who reads The Borgia White Affair will enjoy this heart-pounding thriller.

Book Review - "The Fruits of Our Sins" by Jean McKie-Sutton

A wise man under divine inspiration once wrote, “You reap what you sow.” This fundamental truth applies, not only to gardening, but to everyday life.  If we want to have a good life for ourselves and our children, we have to do good things.  If not, bad things will happen.  In Jean McKie-Sutton’s, The Fruits of Our Sins, this fact is made very clear through the lives of two women.

The first character we are introduced to is Madeline.  We meet her before she is even born.  The reader is given a clear picture of what shapes Madeline’s life.  She is reared by a doting father and an envious mother.  The combination of this parenting causes Madeline to be very confused.  She grows up feeling like her mother hates her, but she doesn’t understand the animosity.  Madeline loves her mother, Sadie.  All she wants is love in return.  Sadie is incapable of giving her daughter the love she so desperately longs for. 

Second, the life of Sybil unfolds.  Again, this mother-daughter relationship is unimaginably tragic.  Sybil’s mother, Terri is constantly fighting addictions.  Terri is unable to take care of her children.  Sybil is left with the responsibility of caring for herself and her brother at a very young age.  The traditional roles are reversed.  Instead of being nurtured and loved by her mother, Sybil becomes the caregiver for the entire family.  She worries constantly about how her mother’s addictions will affect the family’s future.  Sybil builds up bitter resentment toward her mother. 

As the life story of these women continues to unfold, we see how each one is affected in adulthood by her upbringing.  The mothers, Sadie and Terri, see the fruits of their sins in the lives of their daughters.  When a child is unloved, feelings of worthlessness set in.  Those feelings can last a lifetime and the negativity is passed on to the next generation.  It can be a very vicious cycle.

My favorite quote from the book is, “Every woman has a secret.  Some harbor their secrets in closets, piling boxes and bags atop to obscure them.  Others bury them in the recesses of their minds and go on living as if their secrets have no purpose or merit, no right to thrive.  Their secrets are relegated to the land of dreams – dreams never spoken, silenced unto death.”  It is this secret that causes the lives of Madeline and Sybil to intersect.  In the beginning of the book, the reader is given a glimpse into the future, so we know that these women will meet eventually.  However, it is unclear how they will make the encounter.  The anticipation gives way to suspense.  McKie-Sutton is very skillful in the way she arouses the reader’s curiosity.

If I had to sum this book up with one word, I would say excellent.  I really appreciated the dignified manner in which this book was written.  While addressing very difficult subjects, McKie-Sutton kept a respectful tone throughout the book.  Even though this book causes the reader to think deeply, it is still quite entertaining and enjoyable to read.  People of all backgrounds will appreciate reading this book.  McKie-Sutton showcases her talent, creativity and brilliance in this novel.  I look forward to her next masterpiece.

The Fruits of Our Sins will be available for purchase in paperback and ebook starting June 4, 2012 at these major retailers: BarnesandNoble.com, Amazon.com, Target.com.

"Think Like a Man" Hits Theaters Today

SOURCE - Think Like a Man Official Site

Based on Steve Harvey's best-selling book, Think Like a Man follows four interconnected and diverse men whose love lives are shaken up after the ladies they are pursuing buy Harvey's book and start taking his advice to heart. When the band of brothers realize they have been betrayed by one of their own, they conspire using the book's insider information to turn the tables and teach the women a lesson of their own.

With this all-star cast and great storyline, I'm sure it will be a hit!

The cast -

Michael Ealy
Dominic

Jerry Ferrara
Jeremy

Meagan Good
Mya

Regina Hall
Candace

Kevin Hart
Cedric

Taraji P. Henson
Lauren

Race for the Cure 2012

The 20th annual Race for the Cure will be held this year on Saturday, May 19 at 8 am in downtown Columbus.  Are you ready?  As always, I am looking forward to it.  I have been running the Race for the Cure since 2005 and it has become one of the highlights of the year for me.

I decided not to have a team this year.  However, I encourage everyone to sign up individually.  The fee to register as an individual is $30.  You can register online until May 8.

A few people have expressed concerns about the organizations that Komen Columbus funds.  You can find a very clear explanation on their website - www.komencolumbus.org.  They have responded to questions about their involvement with Planned Parenthood and they also provide a complete list of organizations they fund. 

Even though I'm looking forward to the Race for the Cure, I must admit that it is secondary for me this year.  I am facing a new challenge.  I will be running a quarter marathon as part of The Capital City Half Marathon on May 5.  I am really excited about this new challenge and I have been focusing my training on this race.  You can read more about this race in my blog post.  You can follow my training on my facebook page.

I hope to see you at the Race for the Cure on May 19.

Marathon Training with Jeff Galloway

I begun training for my first quarter marathon just two weeks ago. I'm really pumped! After reflecting on the eight 5K races I've done over the years, I decided that it was time for me to move into the next phase. So, I commited to run in the Capital City Half Marathon.

The Capital City Half Marathon consists of several components - 5K, quarter marathon and a half marathon. With distances ranging from 3.1 miles to 13 miles, I'm sure this event will attract a wide variety of runners. From the novice to the advanced runner, we will all have the same goal of crossing the finish line. I consider myself an advanced 5K runner, but a novice beyond that. This will be my very first race that isn't a 5K.

I must admit, I was a bit intimidated at the thought of doing a quarter marathon. Anything with the word "marathon" in it gives me a reason to pause. I've always said that I don't aspire to ever run a full marathon. Maybe a half one day. Right now I've undertaken the daunting task of training for a quarter marathon. My hesitation is definitely valid, considering my injury last year. I sustained a substantial injury to my shin. It was really a very bad case of shin splints. It was so bad, the doctor referred to it as a "borderline stress fracture," and he treated it as such. I ended up in a boot for three weeks in the middle of the summer! I never want to end up like that again. I was afraid I would never be able to run again. After physical therapy and reaching the point of being 100% pain free, I gained the courage to run again.

The physical therapist suggested that I use Jeff Galloway's method of training. He has developed an injury-free training program with a run/walk method. At first, I was opposed to walk breaks. However, since I've been training, I can see the benefits. The walk breaks allow for a short recovery. It's good for the mind and body. The walk breaks can actually help to increase your speed in the long run. With this race, I'm most concerned with staying injury-free and completing the course. I would like to run the entire race, but I will maintain the run/walk method throughout my training to give my body a break.

Jeff Galloway has written several books about his method. I purchased the app for my iPhone. It has been like a personal trainer. I don't have to think about what to do - he tells me when to run, when to walk and how long to go. Within the app, you can share your progress with friends on Facebook. You can follow my training on my Facebook page.

eBay Store Closed

My eBay store, The Quality Corner 1, is now closed.  After much deliberation, I decided to close it last month.  It was not an easy decision, but it is the best course right now. 

I opened the store back in 2008 and it was my pride and joy.  I worked very hard to grow my eBay business.  In 2009, I expanded to selling books and audiobooks worldwide.  In 2010, I became a Power Seller and an eBay Top Rated Seller.  I felt good about my accomplishments at that time.

In 2011, eBay made several changes to the fee structure and seller requirements.  During the entire time I've sold on eBay, they have continued to make policy changes.  However, the most recent changes caused me to reconsider my eBay business.  I decided to keep the store open through the busiest season of the year.  After a slow holiday season, I became discouraged.  After reviewing my profits, I made the final decision to close the store in February.  As the saying goes, "if it doesn't make dollars, it doesn't make sense."

Even though my eBay store is closed, The Quality Corner is still open.  I maintain my relationship with a very large book distributor, therefore, I still have access to over 2 million titles in print and audio.  I will continue to take special requests and ship books directly to my customers.  I have several local customers, including the Columbus City School district.  I am very thankful for my loyal customers and I look forward to continually providing quality products and quality service in the future.

The online segment of my business is continuing to grow.  I am now selling ebooks, music and entertainment on my blog.  You can view my selection here.  Also, I am an affiliate for Barnes & Noble, so I will be promoting their products and passing on savings to my readers.  You can read more about that here.  I intend to focus more on my book review service as well.  To learn more about book promotion through reviews, trailers and press releases, view my website at www.blackbookreview.com.

Life and business is all about change.  I have made a lot of changes in the past few months and I am excited about my new ventures. 

"What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank" by Nathan Englander

Reviewed by William Giraldi
SOURCE:  B&N Review

There's a moment in Raymond Carver's imperishable story "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love" that might be described as one of unregistered revelation. Two middle-aged couples perch at a kitchen table consuming an anesthetizing amount of gin while trying to converse about the fundamentals of love. Mel McGinnis, a cardiologist and the table's chief discourser, for whom "gin" is literally a middle name, offers a heuristic anecdote: He once administered to an elderly husband and wife, married for eons, who were almost snuffed out in a heinous car wreck. Supine in the same hospital room as his wife, the old man despairs not because of his own injuries but because he can't see his wife through the eye holes in his full-body cast. "Can you imagine?" Mel asks. "I'm telling you, the man's heart was breaking because he couldn't turn his head and see his wife."

Carver's story is less a narrative than Mel's monologue, his inebriated apologia on amore, and one that perhaps would have been better served by the title "How We Talk When We Talk About Love," since the how is Carver's real concern: in circles, platitudes, and tautologies, and always without certainty or complete comprehension, drunk or otherwise. Mel concludes his anecdote by asking, "Do you see what I'm saying?" But of course none of the four does see, least of all Mel himself.

In the title story of Nathan Englander's charismatic new collection, What We Talk About when We Talk About Anne Frank, revelations abound. Two Jewish couples -- one secular and American, the other Hassidic and Israeli -- spend a Sunday afternoon in the former's Florida home downing vodka and sparring over Jewishness. The Israeli husband, Mark, is a convincing example of exactly what we find obnoxious and, worse, outright yawnful about religious zealotry: chauvinism and moral superiority wedded to a fondness for bullshit and the very pressing need to spread it. The narrator oscillates between acceptance of and contempt for this oaken blowhard, though alcohol and marijuana help ease the afternoon. Read more...

And the Oscar Goes To...

The 84th Academy Awards aired on Sunday, February 26.  What a show!  I was eagerly anticipating this famous awards show and I certainly was not disappointed.  It's no secret that I am a huge fan of "The Help."  I greatly enjoyed the book and the movie.  I was pleasantly surprised at how well the movie represented the book.  I was delighted when I found out that the movie received several Oscar nominations including Best Picture.

Octavia Spencer won the Oscar in the category of best Actress in a Supporting Role.  Congratulations, Octavia!  I truly believe she earned that Oscar with her stellar performance.  Viola Davis was nominated for best Actress in a Leading Role.  Sadly, she did not win.  I must admit, I was disappointed that she didn't win.  I think she deserved it.

The fact that "The Help" received such recognition at the Oscars is a testimony to the impact a book can have on modern society.  If the book hadn't been written, the movie would not exist.  The fine actors brought the characters of the book to life.  People from all walks of life were able to relate to this story.  The message was eye-opening and touching.

CouponChief.com

CouponChief.com is one of the fastest growing coupon sites, with over 250,000 visitors per month.   They have one of the largest databases of online coupons on the net.  The site features over 50,000 coupons for over 15,000 stores.  No matter what you are looking to buy online, chances are you will find a coupon for it at CouponChief.com.

The site is very easy to use.  It even has a video that explains how to use the coupons step-by-step.  I found coupons for every store I searched for on this site, including some of the largest online retailers like eBay, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  Of course, I was interested in the coupons that were available for books.  They have coupons for all types of books - textbooks, books in print and ebooks.  You can use the following links to find coupons specifically for books -

http://www.couponchief.com/tags/books

http://www.couponchief.com/textbooks

http://www.couponchief.com/ebooks

Online retailers can increase their exposure with CouponChief.com.  A merchant account is free and it is very easy to sign up for an account.

With today's economy, the coupon industry has exploded.  Digital coupons are becoming increasingly popular.  The ease of use can't be beat.  I hate clipping coupons, so digital coupons work great for me.  Who doesn't like to save money?  Check out CouponChief.com for significant savings. 

Book Review - "Blame Rane" by Rene' O'Shea

“Blame it on the rain.” That is a common phrase people use when they just don’t know who to blame. When things go wrong, the last person you want to blame is yourself. Sadly, that is where the blame usually lies – within. We have to take responsibility for our own actions. Rene’ O’Shea’s debut novel, Blame Rane, highlights this fundamental truth.


Blame Rane is a young woman whose life begins to spiral out of control. Tragically, her parents have been killed in a house fire. She has no family to turn to and is left completely destitute. Homeless and desperate, she decides to move in with a wild, foolhardy co-worker. Blame is a shy, sheltered girl that tries hard to fit in with her roommate. Blame is introduced to the fast lane and she goes nowhere fast. She makes a series of bad choices with very bad consequences. However, she doesn’t see them as choices. She thinks that she is just doing what she has to in order to survive. She subjects herself to domestic violence, drugs and a life of crime. She pays dearly for her bad decisions.


After struggling for years, Blame finally learns her lesson. She realizes that she is in control of her life. For the first time in her adult life, she begins to act wisely. By age forty, she has her life together. I wish I could say that she had a happy ending. Unfortunately, Blame’s past has an adverse effect on her children. It’s the cycle of life. Each generation will impact the next.


Throughout the book, O’Shea gives glimpses into the generations that preceded Blame. She reaches centuries back into history, giving the reader a vivid picture of the horrors of slavery. She shows how brave and resilient Blame’s ancestors were. It is very interesting how O’Shea portrays the impact that the past has on the present and future. She emphasizes the importance of knowing where we came from so that we can know where we are going. We can all learn powerful lessons from previous generations. We can learn from their mistakes and we gain strength from their examples.


Blame Rane is a powerful story. It is filled with thought-provoking life lessons. It is also entertaining with unexpected twists and suspense. You won’t want to put it down. When you’re done reading this book, you won’t be able to stop thinking about it. O’Shea is a talented writer with the ability to captivate her audience.

Whitney Houston, Dead at Age 48

Unbelievable!  When I heard the shocking news on Saturday, I literally did not believe it.  I thought it was just another rumor until I read the official headline in USA Today - Whitney Houston, dead at age 48.

As a musical superstar, Whitney Houston has left a remarkable legacy.  I vividly remember dancing to Houston's hits as a child during the '80s.  I can recall a classmate performing "I Will Always Love You" in a high school talent show.  I fondly look back to when I was jammin' to the "Bodyguard" and "Waiting to Exhale" soundtracks.  Great memories!  I'm sure we all have memories about listening to the unparalleled voice of Whitney Houston.

Thankfully, we will always have her music.  Her greatest hits have sky-rocketed to the top of the iTunes charts.  Click here - Whitney - The Greatest Hits - Whitney Houston

For Houston's biography and all of her music on iTunes, click here - Whitney Houston

My sincere condolences go out to the family of the late Whitney Houston.  We will miss her.  She is gone too soon.

The Vow

The Vow, starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, hits theatres on February 10.  I can't wait!  It sounds like an amazing movie.  The movie is based on a true story.  The Vow:  True Events That Inspired the Movie is a book that will hit shelves the same day the movie is released.  Here is the publisher's synopsis of the book:

Life as Kim and Krickitt Carpenter knew it was shattered beyond recognition on November 24, 1993. Two months after their marriage, a devastating car wreck left Krickitt with a massive head injury and in a coma for weeks.  When she finally awoke, she had no idea who Kim was. With no recollection of their relationship and while Krickitt experienced personality changes common to those who suffer head injuries, Kim realized the woman he had married essentially died in the accident. And yet, against all odds, Kim and Krickitt fell in love all over again. Even though Kim stood by Krickitt through the darkest times a husband can ever imagine, he insists, "I'm no hero. I made a vow."

Doesn't that sound good?!  To put a visual with it, here is the movie trailer -




Click here to order the book from B&N.com

"Ali in Wonderland" by Ali Wentworth

Acclaimed actress and comedian, Ali Wentworth, released her memoir, "Ali in Wonderland" today. Here is the publisher's synopsis -

"Growing up in a family of political journalists--and daughter of President Reagan's White House social secretary--Ali Wentworth rebelled against her blue-blood upbringing, embracing Hollywood, motorcycles, even a few wildly inappropriate marriage proposals. Today she is an acclaimed comedic actress and writer, former "Oprah" regular, wife of political and media star George Stephanopoulos, and a mother who lets her two girls eat cotton candy before bed. Though she's settled down, her rebellious nature thrives in her comedy and her view of her crazy world.

In this addictively funny and warm memoir, she takes us through the looking glass and into the wonderland of her life, from a childhood among Washington's elite to a stint in the psych ward they called a New England prep school; days doing L.A. sketch comedy (with then-aspiring artists Will Ferrell and Lisa Kudrow) to a series of spectacularly failed loves (that eventually led her to Mr. Right). Constant throughout is her mother, Muffie--a flawlessly elegant yet firm, no-nonsense force of nature and pure WASP convictions.

As charming and off-the-wall as Ali herself, "Ali in Wonderland" is an entertaining look at life that is both intimate and hilarious."

Wentworth has received rave reviews -

"Everything that comes out of Ali Wentworth's mouth is funny!"--Jerry Seinfeld

"Ali Wentworth is funny and warm and crazy all at once."--Alec Baldwin

"Ali has written a truly hilarious book"--Chelsea Handler

"Wentworth is amusing and frank, often frenetic, with sharp intelligence underneath the sassy wackiness; passages about her struggle with depression, falling in love with her husband, and her daughter's baptism have funny moments, but they're thoughtful and touching, too.... Highly entertaining memoir."--Publishers Weekly

"Ali Wentworth tumbles comically through Ali in Wonderland."--Vanity Fair

"[H]ilarious..."--Food & Wine

Available at Barnes & Noble in Hardcover or Nook

or Click on the eBookstore tab above to find it on iTunes!

Native Son by Richard Wright

Native Son is truly a classic. It has been widely acclaimed as one of the finest books ever written on race and class divisions in America. This powerful novel reflects the forces of poverty, injustice, and hopelessness that continue to shape society.  A customer recently requested a copy of this book.  I fondly remember watching the movie years ago.  Here is the trailer of the 1986 theatrical rendition of Native Son -  






Click here to purchase the book at Barnes & Noble - Native Son

New James Patterson - "Private: #1 Suspect"

James Patterson's latest book, Private: #1 Suspect is on top of the New York Times Best Sellers list in the Hardcover Fiction and the Combined Print & E-Book Fiction categories.  Here is a synopsis of this hit -

"Since former Marine Jack Morgan started Private, it has become the world's most effective investigation firm ... Private's investigators are the smartest, the fastest, and the most technologically advanced in the world--and they always uncover the truth. When his former lover is found murdered in Jack's bed, he is instantly the number-one suspect. While Jack is under police investigation, the mob strong-arms him into recovering $30 million in stolen pharmaceuticals for them."--Jacket flap.

Acclaim for Private: #1 Suspect -

"PRIVATE mixes action, mystery and personal drama...Patterson and Paetro may well be on their way to rivaling--and possibly surpassing--the popularity of their Women's Murder Club series."--BookReporter.com

"Slick and suspenseful."--BookLoons.com

"Private will grab you from page one and force you to sit there until you turn the very last page. A great start to new a series from the master of fast-paced thrill rides."--lorisreadingcorner.com

Buy it in hardcover or ebook format at Barnes&Noble.com

Buy Textbooks at Barnes&Noble.com

Textbook season is in full swing!  Barnes & Noble has some great promotions -

Get B&N Membership for $1 when you spend $200 on new Textbooks at BN.com!


Enjoy these Great Membership Benefits all year long:

1. Free Express Shipping
2. $25 Off NOOK Color™ or NOOK Tablet™, or $10 off Any Other NOOK™
3. 40% Off Hardcover Bestsellers, 10% Off Almost Everything Else 

Save up to 90% off textbooks at BarnesandNoble.com! Available in ALL formats – Used, Rental, Digital, and New!

Paula Deen Admits to Being Diabetic

It's no secret that I am a fan of Paula Deen.  I have praised her show and books.  However, I heard a somewhat disturbing report about her on ABC's Good Morning America.  The report was disturbing, not surprising.  While I LOVE Paula's recipes, I've always recognized that they are not the most healthy.  Below is an excerpt of the report on abcnews.com -

Anthony Bourdain, a New York-based chef and host of the Travel Channel's "No Reservations," took to Twitter Tuesday night to resume his criticism of chef Paula Deen by tweeting, "Thinking of getting into the leg-breaking business, so I can profitably sell crutches later."

The comment is presumably another slam against the down-home chef's decision to become the face of diabetes drug-maker Novo Nordisk.

Deen, host of the Food Network's "Paula's Best Dishes," put rumors to bed Tuesday by confirming on NBC's "Today Show" that she was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes three years ago, even though she continued to tout her buttery, artery-clogging Southern cuisine. She also announced the launch of her new campaign, "Diabetes in a New Light," which is in partnership with diabetes drug-maker Novo Nordisk.

Deen, 64, reportedly treats her diabetes with the company's Victoza, a daily injectable drug that is meant to maintain blood-sugar levels. She will appear in an advertisement for the drug later this month, USA Today reported.

But this wasn't Bourdain's first time criticizing the jovial cooking host. He told TV Guide last year that Deen was the "worst, most dangerous person in America" because of her high-fat cooking. Upon hearing of Deen's diabetes diagnosis, Bourdain had even more criticism to sling.

"When your signature dish is hamburger in between a doughnut, and you've been cheerfully selling this stuff knowing all along that you've got Type 2 Diabetes. ... It's in bad taste if nothing else," he told Eater Monday.  Read more...at abcnews.com

View the video here -




If you are still a fan of Paula Deen, as I am, click here to buy her latest cookbook, Southern Cooking Bible at Barnes&Noble.com

Barnes&Noble.com Marketplace

Barnes & Noble has added new categories including home products and consumer electronics to its online marketplace, the latest move by the retailer to compete with e-commerce rivals such as Amazon.com and eBay.

Barnes & Noble, the largest U.S. bookstore chain, has largely focused on books for its marketplace. Members will now also be able to buy and sell items such as rugs, cooking utensils, games and items for babies on its website from third-party sellers.

Sales on bn.com - aided by its Nook e-reader and digital books - have soared. Sales rose 36.9 percent to $198 million in its most recent quarter and now makes up 14 percent of overall sales. eBay's online marketplace still leads the pack, but bn.com is working it's way up.

Shop Barnes&Noble.com - Why Not?

Barnes & Noble, Inc. is the largest book retailer in the United States. It operates mainly through its chain of bookstores headquartered in New York City. The company is known for large, upscale retail outlets, many of which contain cafes serving Starbuck's Coffee, and for deeply discounted bestsellers. The company operates over 700 stores (as of October 2010) in all 50 US states in addition to over 600 college bookstores.


Barnes & Noble originated in 1873 when Charles Barnes opened a book-printing business in Illinois. The first true bookstore was set up in 1917 in New York City. Before creating its website, the company sold books directly to customers through mail-order catalogs. It first began selling books online in the late 1980's, but the company's website was not launched until 1997. The site now carries over 2 million titles.


I first fell in love with Barnes & Noble bookstores in the late '90s. I was living in a small town at the time and when the store opened up, it was a BIG deal. The atmosphere was so appealing. I was immediately lured in. Reading has always been a hobby of mine, so I would go there and spend hours looking at the latest releases and sipping on a latte. I still enjoy doing that.


Even though Barnes & Nobles is technically my competitor (since I own an online bookstore, too) I still shop there. I think they have an amazing business model. I have tried to implement some of their strategies. I have learned from them. I know The Quality Corner will never be as big as Barnes & Noble. I don't even hope to. I've only wanted to have a small piece of the business. However, I firmly believe in the saying, "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em." So, I have become an affiliate of Barnes&Noble.com. You will see links to their products on my blog. Since B&N is such a large company, they are able to offer some great prices. Honestly, it's hard for me to have competitive prices. I want my readers to get the best possible deals. As an affiliate, I will pass on the best deals to you. Enjoy!

"The Obamas" by Jodi Kantor

Last week, a new book was released about the President and First Lady. It is simply entitled, The Obamas. This book has been greatly anticipated. Before the release, it was the subject of newspaper articles and various TV news shows. Now it is on bookstore shelves.

The publisher's synopsis states -

"When Barack Obama won the 2008 presidential election, he also won a long-running debate with his wife Michelle. Contrary to her fears, politics now seemed like a worthwhile, even noble pursuit. Together they planned a White House life that would be as normal and sane as possible.

Then they moved in.

In The Obamas, Jodi Kantor takes us deep inside the White House as they try to grapple with their new roles, change the country, raise children, maintain friendships, and figure out what it means to be the first black President and First Lady. Filled with riveting detail and insight into their partnership, emotions and personalities, and written with a keen eye for the ironies of public life, THE OBAMAS is an intimate portrait that will surprise even readers who thought they knew the President and First Lady."

Click here to purchase the ebook, audiobook or hardcover at Barnes&Noble.com.

The Firm by John Grisham - Now on TV

John Grisham's bestselling novel, The Firm, has been turned into a television show. The 2-hour pilot aired on NBC Sunday, January 8. The show is regularly scheduled to air on Thursday evenings. "The Firm" continues the story of attorney Mitchell McDeere and his family 10 years after the events of the novel. As a young associate, McDeere brought down a prestigious Memphis law firm, which operated as a front for the Chicago mob -- and his life was never the same. After a difficult decade, which included a stay in the Federal Witness Protection program, Mitch and his family now attempt to reclaim their lives and their future -- only to find that past dangers are still lurking and new threats are everywhere. 

The executive producers are Grisham, Lukas Reiter ("Law &; Order," "Boston Legal"), John Morayniss ("Haven," "Hung"), Michael Rosenberg ("Hung," "Skins") and Noreen Halpern ("Rookie Blue," "Hung"). The cast includes Josh Lucas as Mitch McDeere, Callum Keith Rennie, Molly Parker, Natasha Calis and Juliette Lewis.

I watched the premiere and I was very impressed. When I first heard about the show, I wondered how the writers would keep it fresh week after week. I guess that still remains to be seen. However, the premiere really whet my appetite. The show seems very interesting and I can't wait for the next episode. Set your DVR - you won't want to miss this show.

For additional information, go to www.nbc.com/the-firm

iPad - Should You Believe the Hype?

Yes.  You should believe it.  The buzz about the iPad is not just hype.  The iPad is awesome.  I just purchased an iPad a couple of months ago.  I have grown to LOVE it.

When Apple first announced the release of the iPad in April 2010, I didn't get it.  I didn't understand why anyone would need such a device.  As the iPad increased in popularity, my curiosity grew.  I went to the local Apple store to investigate.  I left the store somewhat unimpressed.  I thought it was cool, but not useful enough to justify the cost.

In March 2011, Apple released the iPad 2.  This upgraded version contained several new features.  My interest began to grow.  Friends and colleagues began toting the iPad in front of me.  The iPad commercials continued to pique my interest.  I wanted one.  Still, I wasn't sure I could justify the cost.

In November 2011, I finally decided to make the purchase.  I knew I would be able to use it for business.  At the time, that was the main appeal to me.  When I brought it home, I was still skeptical.  The more I used it, I could see how truly useful it was.  I read books, write reviews, maintain my eBay business, blog - all on my iPad!  I even find time for an occasional game of "Words with Friends."  I use it everyday and carry it with me almost everywhere I go.  I definitely use it more than my laptop.  The convenience cannot be beat.  I would never tote my laptop around like this.

I am definitely a fan of Apple products.  I first fell in love with my iPod touch in 2007.  My love grew when I bought my first iPhone in 2010.  Now, I'm really hooked by my iPad.  I must admit - my laptop and desktop computers are still PCs.  I haven't made that leap yet.  That just might be my next step...

Author Spotlight - Robin Roberts

Source:  ABCNews.com

Robin Roberts is anchor of ABC's "Good Morning America." Under her leadership, the broadcast has won three consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Morning program.

When not traveling around the country or the world covering breaking news events, Roberts is at "GMA's" studio in Times Square conducting interviews with a diverse group of newsmakers. Her headline-making interviews include: President Barack Obama; First Lady Michelle Obama; actor Sidney Poitier; basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on his battle with leukemia; and Lisa Niemi on the loss of her beloved husband, Patrick Swayze.

Roberts has also done extensive reporting around the globe. She traveled to the Middle East with former First Lady Laura Bush, who was on a mission to raise awareness about breast cancer in the Muslim world; to Africa with former President Bill Clinton for a first-hand look at the AIDS crisis in that part of the world; and to Mexico, where she scaled the Mayan Pyramids as part of "GMA's" "The New 7 Wonders of the World" series.

Roberts also broadcast live from inside the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta in October 2009. It was the first time television cameras were permitted inside the CDC's special command center tracking the H1N1 "swine flu" virus.

In November 2009, Roberts hosted her first primetime special, "In the Spotlight with Robin Roberts: Bright Lights. Big Stars. All Access Nashville." The special took Roberts to Nashville, where she interviewed some of country music's biggest stars. She followed that with another primetime hour featuring an exclusive interview with Janet Jackson, the performer's first since the death of her brother, Michael.

In February 2009, Roberts made her red carpet debut as co-host of the ABC Television Network's Oscar pre-show, reporting live from the 81st annual Academy Awards with fashion expert Tim Gunn.

Roberts played an active role in ABC News' coverage of the 2008 presidential race. She interviewed the candidates and a wide-range of political newsmakers for "GMA;" traveled to Des Moines, Iowa to moderate a town hall debate with then-candidate Hillary Clinton; and reported live from Washington, D.C. on Inauguration Day. Roberts was the first journalist to interview President Barack Obama after he was sworn in as President. Roberts also traveled the country by train with the "GMA" team as part of the network's ambitious "50 States in 50 Days" initiative in September 2008.

Roberts was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2007. Her courageous and public battle has been recognized with awards and honors from organizations around the country, including: The Susan G. Komen Foundation; The Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program; and Gilda's Club, a non-profit organization founded by the late Joel Siegel.

 

In March 2007, Roberts' first book, "From the Heart: 7 Rules to Live By," was published by Hyperion. An updated version of the book, including an additional chapter on her battle with breast cancer, was released in 2008.

Roberts is a native of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and currently resides in New York City.

 

For additional information, visit ABCNews.com

From the Heart: Seven Rules to Live By by Robin Roberts

I have been a fan of Robin Roberts for a long time.  I have watched her on Good Morning America for years.  I watched as she shared her very personal struggle with breast cancer.  One day I was in a bookstore, and her book caught my eye.  I couldn't wait to read it.  

In the introduction Roberts states, "After I deliver a speech I am often asked for a copy of it. The problem is I never write my speeches. I just talk. That is my hope for this book. It's just me talking to you. Talking about the things I have learned that have helped me find joy in my life and fulfillment in my work....There is no magical reason why I am where I am. And there is absolutely no reason why you can't be where you want to be. If it can happen for me, it can happen for you, too. And it would be a privilege for me to help you get there." 

That is exactly what she did - she just talked.  I really appreciated the humble approach that Robin Roberts took as she wrote this book.  She shared her humble beginnings and the lessons that she has learned throughout her life.  She wasn't promoting herself.  She was simply using the wisdom she has gained to help others.  That is admirable. 

The principles she has gained in her life prepared her for success.  They taught her rules that she lives by.  The seven rules she shared in her book are:

1. Position yourself to take the shot
2. Dream big, but focus small
3. If at first you don't succeed, dive back in
4. Never play the race, gender, or any other card
5. Venture outside your comfort zone
6. Focus on the solution, not the problem
7. Keep faith, family, and friends close to your heart

She relates several heartwarming stories about how she learned to live by these rules and how they have helped her to become successful.  I really enjoyed reading this book.  I tend to shy away from books that center on "life lessons" because I believe that only God can tell us how to make a success of our lives.  However, Roberts does not take the position that she alone is the authority on life.  The book was easy to read, encouraging and even entertaining at times.  I'm glad I read it.

Buy the eBook from iTunes - From the Heart - Robin Roberts

Download the audiobook from iTunes - From the Heart: Seven Rules to Live By - Robin Roberts

Buy the book at Barnes&Noble.com - From the Heart: Seven Rules to Live By

MILK...To Drink Or Not To Drink by Brent Bateman

MILK … to drink, or not to drink?  is an objective, in-depth, and up-to-date review of the full spectrum of pros and cons.

The author leads his discussion through the ‘good’, the ‘bad’, and the ‘ugly’. Although this approach may seem inappropriate, given the seriousness of the subject, it comfortably describes the range of information and the various points of view regarding this highly controversial question.

The question of whether or not we should drink cow’s milk is examined from a fresh perspective … a fresh perspective made possible by, first, newly available nutrient data, and second, by recent research which reveals strong links with disease conditions.

About the Author

The author is unique in his perspective and credentials. Brent has been immersed in ‘nutrition’ in one way or another throughout his life, and has experienced the subject from a spectrum of perspectives.  

His early years ‘growing up in his mother’s health food store’ and his skepticism of much of that indoctrination thrust him on a life-long quest to seek objective and unbiased knowledge about nutrition. 

He went on to earn a BSc in human nutrition at the University of Hawaii and later a MSc in international nutrition from the prestigious Institute of Nutrition at Mahidol University in Thailand.  

The author is therefore a genuine nutritionist, with the rare credential of not only completing a full and rigorous university training at both the bachelors and masters level, but has also been immersed in the ‘other’ world of health foods and alternative medicine, plus has lived and studied extensively in an international setting. Brent now lives in picturesque Sangkhlaburi, Kanchanaburi, Thailand. He is busy with a business and various projects, but finds time to write, and to study indigenous plants and herbs and traditional Thai medicine. He hopes to continue writing about nutrition, and is looking forward to earning a PhD.The author can be contacted by email at brentbateman@hotmail.com Brent also has a website, URL www.milk-to-drink-or-not-to-drink.com.

RETAIL PURCHASES: Amazon.com books:
www.amazon.com/MILK-drink- not/dp/0979698723

E-BOOK VERSION:

www.createspace.com/900001456

Or, as a Kindle Edition from Amazon.com/Kindle for $10.95

WHOLESALE ORDERS:
www.createspace.com/info/createspacedirect