Chuck P (don't ask me to spell it . . .) never met a topic he didn't like-or couldn't write about. The guy is an absolute genius and if he had written FIGHT CLUB alone, his reputation would have been solidified. But throw into this mix LULLABY, SURVIVOR, and INVISIBLE MONSTERS (my favorite, by the way) and you've got one first-rate author with imagination enough for twenty. Now we get HAUNTED. While this wasn't my favorite of Mr. P, it was still better than most books on the market today. If you enjoyed the diverse and quirky CHILDREN'S CORNER by McCrae or the complex and heart-felt RUNAWAY by Munro, then this book is for you. Please be sure to check out all Mr P's other works as well---there's not a bad on in the bunch!!!

THE FIVE PEOPLE is a reminder of the impact our actions have, often unintentionally and unknowingly, on our lives and the lives of people we may never have known. Albom's novel shows that there is meaning and purpose in even the most mundane of lives. Albom has said that the character of Eddie was inspired by his Uncle Eddie, a man who felt he hadn't achieved much in life. Perhaps Uncle Eddie knew how much he influenced and inspired his nephew, but if he didn't know in life, I'm certain a copy of this book has made it to heaven. Enjoyable like McCrae's CHILDREN'S CORNER or even the ever popular LIFE OF PI, THE FIVE PEOPLE is sure to be a book that you'll want to keep. I know I did.

If you're like me, you're pretty careful with your money-what you'll spend your hard-earned dollars on. So I usually go by word-of-mouth and "some" reviews before purchasing a book. So far, the formula hasn't let me down. I was lucky with the last two books I read------------READING LOLITA and the ever-popular CHILDREN'S CORNER by McCrae. So when it came time to buy KITE RUNNER, I didn't hesitate, and I'm glad I didn't. What a great tale, told by a great writer! I enjoyed every minute of this book, from page one to the end, and would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone seeking a book that is not only on the bestseller list, but one that's a great read as well, and you KNOW that those two things don't always go together.

If you enjoyed books such as Sebold's "The Lovely Bones" or McCrae's "The Children's Corner", then you'll love "Atonement." I loved the style of McKewan's writing , and I was mesmerized by Briony's character. Such lessons to be learned. When is the real moment of growing up? Does it happen naturally, or do specific events cause us to grow? A better book than I had hoped it would be. If it seems too wordy in the beginning, stick with it and the story will unfold beautifully and painfully too.

All accounts indicate this release of "The Pretender" on DVD is the best yet. The French fans got Season 1 with no special features...this edition has multiple commentaries and featurettes!! Not that you would need any bonus features to fully appreciate what great value you are getting with this package because all by itself it is good enough! Actors Michael T. Weiss, Andrea Parker, Jon Gries and Patrick Bachau shine in Season 1 of The Pretender. Michael T. Weiss as Jarod is the perfect genius who is on the run, but still manages to find time to help others. Michael's dramatic range is on full display as he slips into a new role for each episode. He's definitely "The Pretender." Andrea Parker (Less than Perfect/ABC) as Miss Parker is perfect as the head of the team who leads the chase for the genius, Jarod. She is explosive, unapologetic, beautiful and dangerous. And yet, you don't know the half of her! You will fall in love with Andrea's smouldering portrayal of Miss Parker. Patrick Bachau as Sydney and Jon Gries as Broots add the perfect elements to balance the tension and drama that surrounds the chase for Jarod, even as the secrets to the Centre's past unfolds in every episode. The Pretender is one of the best series to ever premiere on NBC. If you have never seen it, now is your chance to own it and you will never regret it as you get drawn into the fascinating plot lines and learn more about the characters as the season unfolds.