Friday, January 27, 2012

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

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

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

Monday, January 23, 2012

Buy Textbooks at Barnes&Noble.com

Barnes & NobleTextbook 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!

Friday, January 20, 2012

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 -

video platformvideo managementvideo solutionsvideo player


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

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Barnes&Noble.com Marketplace

BarnesandNoble.com Logo - 125x125Barnes & 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.


Tuesday, January 17, 2012

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!
Barnes & Noble

Saturday, January 14, 2012

"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.

Friday, January 13, 2012

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

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

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

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

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

Thursday, January 5, 2012

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