Trashionista: Television

June 4, 2009 2:33 PM

TV NEWS: The Take

Fans of Martina Cole will be pleased to hear that The Take has been adapted for the screen.

Starting on June 17th, The Take will see a host of British stars including Tom Hardy, Brian Cox and Kierston Wareing in the gripping family drama based on the novel.

The show starts at 9pm on Sky1 - see below for the trailer!

Posted by Elle Symonds on June 4, 2009 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 23, 2009 2:44 PM

MONDAY FLICK: No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Following on from the pilot episode last year, Mma Precious Ramotswe returns with her Ladies’ Detective Agency for six hour long episodes on a Sunday evening (BBC1). From the moment the title credits appear on screen (which are sympathetic to the book covers by Alexander McCall Smith), to the beautifully shot landscape and the dusty but colourful town, The No1 Ladies' Detective Agency does not disappoint.

Last night was the second episode (if you missed it you can catch up with BBC iplayer) and it is fair to say that I am hooked. Now I haven’t read the books (I tried but failed) so I don’t know how they compare or if the storylines are the same (anyone know?) but the first episode concerned a missing dog, an odd dentist who has good days and bad and a missing husband. These plotlines are hardly edge of the seat stuff, but they still hook you in and transport you to small town life in Botswana. There are some darker subjects that are also lightly touched upon. For example last night's episode involved, amongst other things, ivory smuggling.

Jill Scott who plays Mma Ramotswe is great but the supporting cast shine also. I love Mma Makutsi who is Ramotswe's secretary in particular (for a detailed list of characters click here). Each episode has its own mystery but gradually we are getting to know more and more about the lives of the supporting characters.

Already I am hoping there will be a second series.

Posted by Helen Redfern on March 23, 2009 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 5, 2009 7:52 PM

Latest news from The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency

Remember we told you about a new six part series being filmed of the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency? Well, there isn't much longer to wait as the series starts (in the UK) on Sunday March 15th.

In book news, the tenth volume of the series by Alexander McCall Smith is out in hardback this week. See over the cut for the blurb.

It is a troublesome fact on which even Mma Ramotswe and her assistant Mma Makutsi agree: there are things that men know and ladies do not, and vice versa. It is unfortunate, for example, when Mma Ramotswe’s newest client is the big-shot owner of the ailing Kalahari Swoopers, that one thing lady detectives know very little about is football. And when the glamorous Violet Sephotho sets her sights on Mma Makutsi’s unsuspecting fiancé, it becomes exasperatingly clear that some men do not know how to recognise a ruthless Jezebel even when she is bouncing up and down on the best bed in the Double Comfort Furniture Shop.

In her attempt to foster understanding between the sexes and find the traitor on Mr Football’s team, Mma Ramotswe ventures into new territory, drinks tea in unfamiliar kitchens and learns to trust in the observational powers of small boys. And, as wise and warm-hearted as his heroine, Alexander McCall Smith reminds us that we must dig deep to uncover the goodness of the human heart.

Posted by Helen Redfern on March 5, 2009 in Book News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 20, 2009 1:59 PM

Lipstick Jungle Rumours

Whilst the programme didn't grab me from the beginning, it has grown on me, and subsequently is now one of my favourite shows. I hear that in America however it hasn't managed to get a big audience and there were rumours of the show being cancelled. Now these rumours are changing to it possibly returning for a third season. I still have the second season finale to watch so I would love it if these rumours were true.

Posted by Helen Redfern on February 20, 2009 in Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 17, 2009 8:02 PM

TV News: No.1 Ladies Detective Agency

I loved the movie of the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency even though I can't get on with the books (I have tried!). So I was excited to see it will return as a six part series to be shown at the end of this year.

Grammy Award winning singer Jill Scott reprises her role as Mma Ramotswe, Botswana's only female detective.

The first-ever drama series filmed and set in Botswana, the six-part 60-minute series chronicles the poignant and amusing adventures of Precious Ramotswe, the wise proprietor of the only female-owned detective agency in Botswana, who takes on a wide range of cases from the strange and unusual to the dark and mysterious. [via BBC Press Office]

Posted by Helen Redfern on February 17, 2009 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 25, 2008 9:49 AM

TV News: Dustbin Baby

Jaqueline Wilson's children's book, Dustbin Baby, has been made into a BBC1 family drama to be shown at Christmas time. It stars Juliet Stevenson, Dakota Blue Richards and David Haig. [via BBC Press Office]

The heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting story follows a young teenager called April whose troubled life began in a dustbin – a new-born baby, abandoned and alone, not celebrated, not wanted but discarded and left like so much rubbish in an industrial bin behind a pizza parlour.

Posted by Helen Redfern on November 25, 2008 in Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 13, 2008 8:52 AM

Lipstick Jungle Cancelled?

Just when I was getting into the series I find Lipstick Jungle, the programme based on Candace Bushnell's book, is being cancelled by NBC. In the UK we are coming to the end of the first season and the second season is well underway in the US.

Apparently it has struggled to find a widespread audience. NBC has yet to comment.[THR.com]

Related posts: Lipstick Jungle Coming to Living | The New SJP?

Posted by Helen Redfern on November 13, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (5)

November 3, 2008 11:35 AM

RNA on Eggheads

Ooh, this looks exciting. Eggheads, a BBC2 quiz show hosted by Jeremy Vine, will tonight play host to a collection of authors from the Romantic Novelists Association.

Phillipa Ashley, Julie Cohen, Kate Lace, Louise Allen, Judy Astley and Katie Fforde will be on BBC2 at 6pm.

Posted by Helen Redfern on November 3, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

TELEVISION NEWS: Small Island

I thought we'd reviewed Andrea Levy's multi award-winning Small Island, but no. Still, I loved it and now I read that BBC One has commissioned an adaptation.

There will be two 90-minute episodes, it will star Naomie Harris and David Oyelowo (which sounds like perfect casting to me), and will be screened next autumn.

[via The Bookseller]

Posted by Keris on November 3, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 30, 2008 10:57 AM

TELEVISION/MOVIE NEWS: Shoe Addicts Anonymous

Occasional Trashi reviewer (but frequent commenter!), Stella, enjoyed Beth Harbison's Shoe Addicts Anonymous and now I read it's going to be made into a film. Or TV series. The rights have been bought (by Galgos Entertainment), anyway.

Galgos partners Mark Bozek and Russell Nuce will produce. Writer-actress Laurie Taylor-Williams will adapt the book for the screen. We'll let you know if it's the big screen or the small screen as soon as we know.

[via The Hollywood Reporter]

Posted by Keris on October 30, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 29, 2008 10:00 AM

TV News: Little Dorrit

For those of you who enjoy period dramas you will hopefully have caught the first hour episode of Little Dorrit on Sunday night (if not check out BBC iplayer). Tomorrow night (Thursday) on BBC1 at 8:30pm the series goes into half hour soap sized episodes.

There are fifteen parts to the drama. I've already named some of the actors so I won't repeat myself, but over the cut is the synopsis if you have never read this classic by Charles Dickens.

This timeless rags-to-riches story concerns the vacillating fortunes of the Dorrit family.

The kind-hearted Amy - the Little Dorrit of the title - looks after her proud father, William who is a long-term inmate of Marshalsea debtors' prison in London.

But their fate is transformed by the unexpected arrival from overseas of the benevolent Arthur Clennam who is determined to solve the mystery of his father's dying words: "Put it right, Arthur."

He is sure this phrase is in some way connected to the Dorrits' plight and sets about rectifying the situation – discovering they are sitting on a huge fortune, a fact which thrusts the family into the upper echelons of society.

As the Dorrits meet a variety of characters from poor to rich, a deep bond grows between Arthur and Amy, and a dark villain Rigaud threatens to spill a long-held family secret.

[via BBC Press Office]

Related posts: Tess of The D'Urbervilles | Based on the Novel by

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 29, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 22, 2008 10:32 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Ugly Betty

I absolutely love the TV show, Ugly Betty (although somehow I've managed to pretty much miss the entire recent series), so when I heard about this glossy companion book, I had to get it.

Designed to look like an issue of Mode magazine edited by Betty, it's full of all the usual information and pics we've come to expect from these kind of books, i.e. interviews with the cast and crew, articles about the sets and the clothes and the inevitable episode guide.

What makes this book different is just how utterly gorgeous it looks. Like the show itself, it's colourful, fun and over the top.

It would make an excellent Christmas pressie for the discerning Betty fan.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try Sex and the City - the book of the movie

Posted by Keris on October 22, 2008 in Non Fiction, Rating: 5/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 10, 2008 9:39 AM

The Starter Wife - New Series for The US

The Starter Wife aired last year as a mini series in the US. Now, they have penned some brand new episodes based on the mini series. Debra Messing returns in the role as Molly Kagan and the new series is actually co written by Gigi Levangie Grazer, who penned the New York Times bestselling novel on which the miniseries was based.

It starts tonight, Friday, 9/8c on USA Network. Still no news on whether it is coming to the UK.

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 10, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 7, 2008 12:11 PM

TV News: The Washingtonienne - the cast

Sarah Jessica Parker's new project, The Washingtonienne, based on the book by Jessica Cutler, has named the three female stars of the pilot.

Rachael Taylor (pictured), Amanda Walsh and Bitsie Tulloch star as the professional, smart and sophisticated 28-year-old girls working on the Hill in Washington. [via THR.com]

Rachael Taylor plays Jackie who works as an intern but wants to be a speech writer. Jackie's old college friend, April, (Bitsie Tulloch) is her mentor who has worked on the Hill since graduation and has a middle aged lifestyle to go with it. Then there is Laura (Amanda Walsh) a republican, constantly having to defend herself to liberal friends.

A cross between The West Wing and Sex and The City, with maybe added spice (if the pilot is anything like the book).

Related posts: TV News: The Washingtonienne | From Blog to Book

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 7, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 3, 2008 12:41 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: Marian on Strictly (again)

In a fantastic convergence of two (or even three - I love Claudia Winkleman) of my favourite things, Marian Keyes is tonight appearing on Strictly Come Dancing's sister show, It Takes Two.

It's on BBC Two at 6.30pm and if you miss it (and if you're in the UK), you'll be able to catch it on the iPlayer. (If you're elsewhere, I'll look for it on YouTube and post it if I find it.)

Posted by Keris on October 3, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

September 26, 2008 10:42 AM

FRIDAY FLICK: Lost In Austen (again)

I know I did a review of Lost In Austen after the first episode, but we've now how all four episodes and I felt I couldn't let them pass by. Did you enjoy it? I have to say, after the slightly clumsy first episode where she walks through a secret door in her bathroom into the attic of the Bennet's house, I loved it.

There was something for fans of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice and for those who don't know much about it (like my husband - and he loved it too). Obviously if you know the story inside out you would get the subtle jokes, but if you didn't then it was still a beautifully shot, romantic comedy.

What I really enjoyed were the twists on the original story, what might have been happening behind what Jane Austen didn't say. I won't give any specifics away but there were twists with Wickham's story, with Mrs Bennet's character, and who knew that about Caroline Bingley?

I thought Jemima Rooper played the comic and dramatic brilliantly in her portrayal as Amanda Price. Her facial expressions were just right. Who else did I like? Well all of them to be honest. I didn't think there was a duff character or actor in there.

But what about Mr.Darcy (played by Elliot Cowan). I know I agreed that he was no Colin Firth in the first episode but he grew on me (so to speak). There was some great romantic tension between him and Amanda in the third episode leading to the scene in the ornamental pond. Where he loosened his shirt. Then I suddenly saw a whole different side to him. (Yes I know, I'm as shallow as the pond.)

The series has been a critical success, and the ending was left slightly open, but I don't think the ratings were as high as ITV1 hoped. I for one though will be glued to my set if they make a sequel or even do a twist into another classic novel.

For those who missed it, the series is being released on DVD from 29 September.

If you became a fan of Jemima whilst watching Lost In Austen, she will be on our screens on Sunday in an episode of Poirot called The Third Girl (ITV1 at 9pm). A preview can be seen here.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 26, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (10)

September 23, 2008 12:38 PM

TUESDAY FLICK: Lipstick Jungle

It seems that we have been talking about Lipstick Jungle, like, forever, and finally, finally, last night it came to the screens of the UK public (or to those who get Living TV anyway).

So. Was it worth the wait?

Well, it was entertaining. It featured three strong(ish) females with high powered jobs. But. It is probably unfair of me to do this, I can't help but compare it to Candace Bushnell's other creation. Sex and The City.

Lipstick Jungle is about three women. Wendy (Brooke Shields) has it all - on her plate. She is trying to balance family life (two children) with her husband, friends and her high powered job as a movie executive. Nico (Kim Raver) has a boring husband who is into books (what is wrong with that?!), a male rival at work (obviously), a (male) boss who tells her if she has children she'll lose focus and she complicates things by falling for a Hot Guy. Then there is Victory Ford (Lindsay Price) perhaps my favourite out of the women. Her fashion show is a failure and she is trying to stabilise herself whilst being wooed by a Hot Billionaire (another Mr Big?) played by Andrew McCarthy.

I wanted to like it, and I did enjoy it. But it just didn't have the same impact as that first episode of Sex and The City. It didn't make me go "wow". In SaTC you had four women with very different and very obvious, strong personalities. With Lipstick Jungle, at the moment, the women just seem a bit samey. The same glossy hairstyle, the same suits, the same decor in their houses. There is nothing unique about them, unlike say the sexiness of Samantha and the quirkiness of Carrie. Also, I'm afraid to say, the character played by Brooke Shields (who is the linchpin of the show) is just a bit tedious. Trying to juggle so many things at once, being let down by her husband, encountering difficulties at work because of the juggling - it just seems to be a bit cliched. A bit last decade.

There is crying, their lives are starting to fall apart and when Brooke's character comes on screen I tense up as I feel one of her juggling balls is about to drop. I just feel the message is, once again, that women can't have it all.

I will continue to watch it and I reserve the right to change my mind as the season progresses but all I can say for now is...thank goodness my Sex and The City movie DVD arrived today.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 23, 2008 in Friday Flick, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 19, 2008 10:39 AM

Lipstick Jungle

Finally I have dates to give you! Season One of Lipstick Jungle will be premiered in the UK on Living TV at 10pm on Monday 22 September.

It stars Brooke Shields as Wendy Healy, a wife, mother and major player in the movie business. Kim Raver plays Nico Reilly, the editor in chief of Bonfire magazine, the New York style bible. Lindsay Price is Victory Ford, who used to be the hottest designer in town...until this year's fashion week.

Season Two will premiere in the US on Wednesday 24 September 10/9c on NBC.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 19, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 16, 2008 11:45 AM

MOVIE NEWS: Dear John - UPDATED!

Male, romance author Nicholas Sparks is having another of his novels adapted for the big screen. Amanda Seyfried from Mamma Mia! The Movie is to star opposite Channing Tatum in the story about a soldier, re-enlisting after September 11th, who gets a Dear John letter from his girlfriend.

Nicholas's previous novels that were adapted into films include The Notebook, Message in a Bottle and A Walk to Remember.

Update: Rather spookily I've just seen that The Notebook (starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling) will be shown on Channel 4 on Sunday night at 10pm.

Related posts: Guest Blog: William Coles | Free Online Novel

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 16, 2008 in Movie News, Romance, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 12, 2008 10:08 AM

TV News: Men Are Wonderful

The Queen of romantic novels, Dame Barbara Cartland, is the subject of this BBC4 film, Men Are Wonderful. Played by the wonderful Anne Reid (pictured on the right believe it or not), the film is an affectionate and emotionally charged dramatisation of her life and loves. [BBC Press Office]

As with Consuming Passion, the drama celebrating 100 years of Mills & Boon, Men Are Wonderful is part of BBC4's autumn schedule. Incidentally, for all you budding romance writers, there will also be a documentary on How To Write a Mills & Boon with established novelist Stella Duffy's attempt to pen a Mills & Boon classic.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 12, 2008 in Romance, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 10, 2008 10:40 AM

TV NEWS: The Week Ahead

I know I don't normally do this, but there are a few book related TV programmes coming up over the next few days that I'm excited about, so I just had to alert you.

First off tonight we have the second installment of Lost in Austen (ITV1), I'm hoping that now it has set the scene it steps up a gear. Thursday brings us the return of Belle in Secret Diary of a Call Girl (ITV2). On Saturday (also ITV1) they are showing the film Shakespeare in Love (which, shockingly, I've never seen) and on Sunday you are spoilt as there are not one but two book adaptations. A brand new series of Poirot (ITV1) begins with Mrs McGinty's Dead, as well as the start of Tess of the D'Urbervilles (BBC1).

Phew. I think that's it...

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 10, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 8, 2008 2:08 PM

TV News: The Ex List

I was alerted to the forthcoming US TV show, The Ex List, by Go Fug Yourself and their horror at the poster featuring the lead actress in a pond full of frogs (it's not pretty, is it?). Intrigued, I looked it up on IMDb (and YouTube - hop over the cut to watch the preview) and discovered that it's about a woman who "explores all of her past relationships after a psychic tells her she's already dated her future husband".

This sounds really familiar to me. I feel like I've read this or something very much like it (at the very least I've read about a woman going to find all her exes), but I can't for the life of me find the book I'm thinking of. Any ideas?

Posted by Keris on September 8, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (8)

BOOK NEWS: Dear Blue Peter...

This is a collection of letters that children have sent into the programme over fifty years of Blue Peter put together by Biddy Baxter, the editor. I never sent a letter to Blue Peter myself, but I remember sending off for sleigh instructions and when they arrived I was convinced the letter had been addressed by Simon Groom (it wasn't, it was my Dad's self addressed envelope).

At one point Blue Peter were receiving over 7000 letters a week. Obviously not all of them are in the book but they're representative of the original, moving, often very funny, sometimes abusive, letters in which children (and `big kids') offered their ideas, pictures and stories providing a unique snapshot of life in the 20th century.

Marvellous stuff.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 8, 2008 in Book News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 4, 2008 12:02 PM

THURSDAY FLICK: Lost in Austen

Lost in Austen, the new post modern interpretation of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice started on ITV1 last night. Any good? Well, I've mixed feelings. I had already read a review earlier in the week saying the first half is a little, erm, odd and you have to suspend you belief and bear with it. So I was prepared when Amanda Price, a modern woman living in Hammersmith, finds Elizabeth Bennet in her bathroom, apparently after coming through a door at the end of the bath.

Amanda Price, played by Jemima Rooper (the actress who played Bobbie in the recent adaptation of The Railway Children), shares a flat in London, works in a bank and has a throughly (un)charming boyfriend, who drunkenly proposes to her. Her mother, smoking a fag, tells her she should accept the proposal, as, after all, Amanda's standards wouldn't help her with her coat when she's seventy.

So Amanda immerses herself into the romance that is Pride & Prejudice. She reads it constantly, knows the story intimately. Or so she thinks. She doesn't realise how intimate she is going to find it. So, as I've said, she finds Elizabeth in her bathroom, then she disappears, only to reappear again the following night. Amanda, initially thinking she was having a breakdown, then starts to believe, walks through the door into the Bennet's attic, and finds the door slammed behind her.

She goes downstairs, meets the family, gains Bingley's affections, then realises the "book" is now not going to plan. Bingley should be drawn to Jane, not her. She has to do something about it (so why she then goes on to snog Bingley, I've no idea.)

There are some comic moments. Hugh Bonneville plays the role of Mr Bennet very well. Amanda stares at one of the Bennet sisters, convinced for a moment that she can see a contact lense and she refers to the Darcy in this adaptation as "no Colin Firth" (and she's right). Then there is the realisation that she has to clean her teeth with birch twigs and chalk. But in terms of the differences between the cultures there could have been more. I felt something was missing.

I would also liked to have seen how Elizabeth was getting on in modern day London. I couldn't help but think that that might have been a little more exciting.

Missed the first episode? You can catch up here.

Lost in Austen, Wednesdays ITV1 at 9pm.

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 4, 2008 in Classic Novels, Friday Flick, Television | Permalink | Comments (8)

August 29, 2008 9:26 AM

TV NEWS: Secret Diary Series Two Preview

ITV is now showing a (short, admittedly) preview of series two of The Secret Diary of a Call Girl. It starts in September with a thoroughly gorgeous Billie Piper. The series, based on Belle de Jour's Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl, received record audiences with series one and has been sold to the US. This is some of the blurb from the ITV website,

Belle is now a high-class independent escort. Unintentionally befriended by the bubbly but clingy Bambi, Belle finds herself an unwilling mentor to this wannabe call girl. And while her best friend Ben, the only person who knows about her secret life, seems to be settling down into domestic bliss, Belle is throwing herself into her work.

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 29, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 22, 2008 10:07 AM

TV News: Lost in Austen

Some time ago, in fact over a year, we mentioned that ITV were planning a series called Lost in Austen. The series is now due to begin in the UK on ITV1 on 3 September at 9pm.

It stars Jemima Rooper as Amanda Price (Jemima played Bobbie in the remade Railway Children film). She is a frustrated romantic who lives for reading and adores the characters in her Jane Austen books. Then one day she discovers a gateway in her flat and ends up being transported to her favourite world, the world of Pride and Prejudice. But is the “true” story in danger of being thrown off track by her presence? [via ITV.com]

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 22, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 21, 2008 3:39 PM

Movie News: Ballet Shoes

The gorgeous adaptation, shown last Christmas in the UK, of Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild is now coming to the big screen in the US. It stars Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), Emilia Fox, Marc Warren, Victoria Wood, Gemma Jones and Richard Griffiths. I loved the book, thought the film a great adaptation, so for those of you stateside do keep an eye out for it.

[via Empire]

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 21, 2008 in Classic Novels, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 18, 2008 2:43 PM

TV NEWS: Consuming Passion

Did you know it's the centenary of Mills & Boon this year? Well, to celebrate, the BBC have commissioned a TV drama.

It's being written by Emma Frost - whose previous credits include Shameless - and is called Consuming Passion: 100 Years of Mills & Boon.

It will air this autumn on BBC4 and promises to be "very raunchy", according to the producers. Read more about it on our sister site, TV Scoop.

[via The Independent]

(And, yes, the title of that book *is* Bedded by the Greek Billionaire.)

Posted by Keris on August 18, 2008 in Romance, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 8, 2008 10:09 AM

TV News: Lipstick Jungle

It seems we have been talking about Lipstick Jungle the TV adaptation of Candace Bushnell's novel for ages, so finally, I am pleased to say, it is about to be shown in the UK on Living TV in September. Yes, only one whole month to go.

It has already aired in the US and has been commissioned for a second season by NBC, which will also be shown in September.

Related posts: Lipstick Jungle Trailer | British v American Chick Lit

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 8, 2008 in American Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 1, 2008 11:25 AM

TV News: Agatha Christie's Marple

This weekend sees one of the last Agatha Christie's Marple with Geraldine McEwan as the leading lady (Julia McKenzie will be taking over in the future). Towards Zero has a great cast list. Dame Eileen Atkins, Tom Baker, Paul Nicholls, Greg Wise, Alan Davies and Saffron Burrows.

It will be shown on ITV1 on Sunday 3 August at 8pm.

Related posts: Jane Marple | Agatha Christie

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 1, 2008 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 17, 2008 4:41 PM

TV NEWS: The Truth About Diamonds

Apparently Nicole Richie's "thinly-veiled memoir", The Truth About Diamonds, is going to be made into a TV show.

She says she will definitely produce and appear in the show, but not necessarily in the lead. [via E! Online]

Has anyone read it? Is it any good?

Posted by Keris on July 17, 2008 in Celebrity Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

TV News: Wuthering Heights

Excuse me if I appear a little confused but it seems there isn't just a film version of Wuthering Heights (although I cannot find any new information on it - like who is going to play Cathy after Natalie Portman dropped out) but there is also going to be a TV adaptation.

It is a production for ITV and has been described as "edgy, cool and raw". Tom Hardy has been cast as Heathcliff and Charlotte Riley as Cathy. It is reported that Sarah Lancashire will play Nelly Dean and Andrew Lincoln will also star. Currently in production it will be aired as a three-parter.

Posted by Helen Redfern on July 17, 2008 in Classic Novels, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 11, 2008 10:07 AM

TV News: The Washingtonienne

HBO are piloting The Washingtonienne, a Washington-set comedy based on the book of the same name by Jessica Cutler. Sarah Jessica Parker will be the executive producer. [via THR.com]

SJP is going to be extremely busy, especially if the rumours of a sequel to the Sex and the City movie are true (please be true).

Posted by Helen Redfern on July 11, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 26, 2008 4:10 PM

TV NEWS: The Tenth Circle

I haven't read Jodi Picoult's The Tenth Circle yet - I've learned I have to pace my Picoults - but I've heard good things. I've also just heard that it's been turned into a Lifetime movie starring Kelly Preston and Ron Eldard (who'll always be Shep from ER to me).

It premieres in the US on June 28 at 9 pm et/pt. No idea whether it will be shown in the UK.

The Tenth Circle is the story of the Stone family, whose seemingly idyllic lives are shattered when their daughter, Trixie, is the victim of a date rape. But there are holes in Trixie's story, and when another violent crime occurs that may be linked to the rapist, the entire Stone family finds themselves under suspicion.

This reminded me of a really interesting article I read in the Guardian yesterday: Kira Cochrane on rape revenge films.

Posted by Aigua Media on June 26, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 24, 2008 2:08 PM

TV News: I Was Told There'd be Cake

New York Times bestseller I Was Told There'd be Cake by Sloane Crosley has been optioned by HBO in the hope of turning it into a series. Few details are about but Crosley says it is to be less Sex and the City and more like Curb Your Enthusiasm.

[via TV Squad]

Related posts: Bergdorf Blondes | Spotlight: Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 24, 2008 in American Authors, Book News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 10, 2008 1:43 PM

TV News: Little Dorrit

Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens is being adapted by the BBC into a fifteen part television series. It has a stunning cast list including Tom Courtenay (The Golden Compass), James Fleet (Four Weddings), Emma Pierson (Hotel Babylon), Amanda Redman, Ruth Jones (Gavin & Stacey), Mackenzie Crook (The Office), Freema Agyeman (Doctor Who), Maxine Peake (Shameless), Annette Crosbie (One Foot in the Grave), Matthew Macfadyen...oh the list is endless.

I am looking forward to playing spot the actor (and watching a Dickens' adaptation, obviously).

The series is part of the autumn line up for BBC1.

Related posts: Tess of the D'Urbervilles | Miss Marple |

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 10, 2008 in Book related, Classic Novels, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 9, 2008 7:41 AM

TV News: Miss Marple

Miss Marple was one of the first heroines I posted about on Helen's Heroines, so I was delighted to hear about the new series of whodunits that are currently being filmed. In recent years the part of Miss Marple has been played brilliantly by Geraldine McEwan, but after her recent retirement Julia McKenzie (pictured) will now play the meddlesome sleuth. Geraldine, however, still has Miss Marple films to be shown on ITV this year, Nemesis and Towards Zero.

Julia McKenzie's first Marple will be A Pocketful of Rye which will also star Helen Baxendale, Matthew MacFadyen, Wendy Richard, Prunella Scales and Ralf Little.

Related posts: Agatha Christie | More TV News

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 9, 2008 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 6, 2008 10:49 AM

TV News: Secret Diary of a Call Girl

It seems that ITV can't get enough of Secret Diary of a Call Girl, based on The Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl, the blog to book by Belle de Jour. As reported a short while ago a second series is currently being filmed. Now it has been reported that Billie Piper has signed up for a third series already, before the second has even been aired.

The first series has also been sold to America and will be aired from 16 June. The second series will start in the UK in September.

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 6, 2008 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (6)

May 29, 2008 9:50 AM

TV NEWS: Tess Of The D'Urbervilles

The BBC is adapting Thomas Hardy's Tess of The D'Urbervilles to be screened later this year.

It will star Gemma Arterton, the new Bond Girl in Quantum of Solace, as Tess. Also starring are Hans Matheson as Alec, Eddie Redmayne as Angel and Ruth Jones, the talented writer and actress from Gavin & Stacey, as Tess's mother Joan.

Posted by Helen Redfern on May 29, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 14, 2008 10:00 AM

BOOK & TV NEWS: Crime Thriller Awards

Cactus TV, the company behind the Richard and Judy Book Club, have announced the Crime Thriller Awards to be shown on ITV3 this autumn. The awards will not just go to the best of British and International crime thriller novels, but also to the greatest crime and thriller films and TV dramas of the year.

What I am looking forward to though is in the six weeks leading up to the awards there will be documentaries on six of the best crime writers working today. Colin Dexter, Ian Rankin, PD James, Lynda La Plante, Val McDermid and Ruth Rendall will all be describing their writing methods, how they create the mysteries, what makes them tick and the lifestyles their writing has brought them.

[Via booktrade.info]

Related posts: Richard and Judy

Posted by Helen Redfern on May 14, 2008 in Book News, Crime / Mystery, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 9, 2008 11:28 AM

TELEVISION NEWS: May Contain Nuts

John O'Farrell's satirical novel, May Contain Nuts, has been adapted for ITV. It focuses on Alice, an over protective parent of the extreme variety, who wants only the best for her children. She is worried about their diet (are they eating too much gluten?) and the cars on the road but most of all she is worried that her eldest is going to fail the entrance exam to the exclusive school where every parent's hopes are pinned. So, she decides to take the exam in her daughter's place...

This two parter stars the wonderful Shirley Henderson (Moaning Myrtle in Harry Potter and Jude in Bridget Jones) and will be shown in the UK in June.

Related posts: Television News | Marina Lewycka on funny women writers (it's related, honest!)

Posted by Helen Redfern on May 9, 2008 in Book related, British Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 30, 2008 1:19 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: Dollhouse

Okay, so this isn't chick lit, but it is Joss Whedon - one of our favourite screenwriters and creator of the kick ass heroine Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Whedon is currently shooting a new series titled Dollhouse. In it, 'dolls' are people who have had their personalities wiped clean so that they can be imprinted with new ones for special assigments. The dolls are hired out for jobs, crimes, fantasies and occasional good deeds. Creepy, no?

Creepier still, in between tasks they are mind-wiped into a child-like state and kept in a hidden facility known as 'the dollhouse'. The story follows a young female doll called Echo who begins, in her mind-wiped state, to become self-aware.

Echo is played by Eliza Dushku - Faith from Buffy for those who aren't as Whedon-obsessed as I am - and Angel actress Amy Acker (Fred) will also feature.

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 30, 2008 in Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 23, 2008 2:17 PM

Bad Mother's Handbook casting news

ITV adapted Kate Long's Bad Mother's Handbook last year, but it's also being made into a pilot for a TV series by ABC in the US.

Alicia Silverstone has been cast as the mother (who has a sixteen-year-old daughter). She seems kind of young for the role to me; what do you think?

[Via TV Squad]

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 23, 2008 in Book related, British Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 17, 2008 12:22 PM

Jennifer Weiner's TV deal

Author Jennifer Weiner has signed a two year deal with ABC Studios.

Under the deal - which is worth "seven figures" - she will create and executive produce series projects for the studio.

"Jennifer's work is loved by legions of fans," ABC Studios president Mark Pedowitz said. "Millions have read her books, seen the film and will soon have another source to enjoy her humor and heart on television."

[via The Hollywood Reporter]

Posted by Aigua Media on April 17, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 27, 2008 12:57 PM

Chick Lit Heroine Grudge Match: Buffy v Wonder Woman

In the last grudge match, we had a battle of the side-kicks and Lula won out. Well, she's pretty handy with a Taser... This week, we turn to comic books for two female super-heroines; Buffy (the vampire slayer) and Wonder Woman.

Buffy

The comic books: Buffy (created by Joss Whedon) was originally a terrible film and then a wonderful, seminal TV series and, finally, a comic book. The books continue where season seven of the TV series finished, with young women around the world waking up to Slayer strength.

Likes: Shoes, shopping, her friends (the Scoobies) and pointy sticks.

Dislikes: Bumpy foreheads, The Master, math.

Loves: Angel (yum!), Spike (bad boy yum!) and Giles (in a totally platonic Watcher-Slayer kind of a way).

Preferred Method of Kicking-Ass: Kick-boxing, karate, slayer-strength, amazing jumps and, of course, the sharp pointy stick.

Wonder Woman

The Comic Books: Created by William Moulton Marston and first published in All Star Comics in 1941, Wonder Woman is looking pretty damn good for her age. In 1975, Wonder Woman got a TV series starring Lynda Carter and in 2006 the comic book incarnation got a relaunch with some of the stories written by Jodi Picoult.

Likes: Animals, Greek mythology (Wonder Woman was often described as "beautiful as Aphrodite, wise as Athena, swifter than Hermes, and stronger than Hercules" and her friend Etta Candy.

Dislikes: Bad guys. Wonder Woman has had a fair few enemies over the years, including Doctor Poison, Doctor Psycho, and the Duke of Deception.

Loves: Steve Trevor, her crime-fighting partner.

Preferred Method of Kicking-Ass: Well, she has super-human strength and throws some painful-looking 'kapow' punches and flying kicks, but Wonder Woman has another trick up her sleeve... The Lasso of Truth. Oh yes.

Conclusion: It's a very tough call. Both Buffy and Wonder Women are strong women with more ass-kicking power in their little pinkies than the rest of us put together.

Wonder Woman has been around a long time and been credited with too many powers and weapons to list. However, Buffy is a resourceful fighter and tough-as-nails; as well as saving the world several times, she has died twice. Will Wonder Woman's show-stopping costume tip the scales in her favour? You decide...

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 27, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 22, 2008 12:29 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: The New Famous Five

I admit I was kind of horrified when I saw this picture of Disney's new, updated Famous, um, 5 series, but I know that I have to accept that things move on and classics have to keep up with the times in order to find a new audience.

Don't worry, though, pictured aren't the characters you grew up loving, no - Jo, Max, Allie and Dylan are the children of Enid Blyton’s original characters and together with their pet dog Timmy embark on a new series of adventures. The new series starts in May.

What do you think? A relevant update or Blyton blasphemy?

Posted by Keris on March 22, 2008 in Classic Novels, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (6)

March 11, 2008 5:48 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency

Ladiesdetective Do you remember we told you about Alexander McCall Smith's No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series being turned into a film?

Well, we were right about it being directed by Anthony Mingella and about jazz singer Jill Scott playing Mma Ramotswe, but the film failed to materialise at Christmas (sorry, but Trashi does not rule the world... I admit, it would be so much better if it did.)

Instead, the adaptation is now going to be followed by a thirteen-part-TV-series, with the film-length pilot to be broadcast this Easter. According to the BBC, anyway...

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 11, 2008 in Book related, British Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

TELEVISION NEWS: Tess Gerritsen

A couple of weeks ago, Helen raved about Tess Gerritsen's character Jane Rizzoli and now she's tipped me off that TNT Entertainment have just announced that they are planning to make a TV series out of the Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles series of books. [via Tess Gerritsen's blog]

Any casting suggestions? Helen? Anyone?

Television news archives

Posted by Keris on March 11, 2008 in Crime / Mystery, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 26, 2008 3:55 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: The Tenth Circle

Tenthcircle Wow, Jodi Picoult's work is certainly adaptation-friendly. In addition to a TV movie of Plain Truth and the Hollywood version of My Sister's Keeper, Lifetime has made a movie of The Tenth Circle.

It stars Kelly Preston, Ron Eldard and Brittany Robertson and it airs on television in June this year. Jodi has put a couple of photos from the set here.

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 26, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 17, 2008 9:24 AM

TELEVISION NEWS: Octavia

We picked Jilly Cooper as one of our Top 10 chick lit precursors on the basis of her "name" books and now I hear that one of those very books - Octavia - is being brought to life on ITV.

Tamsin Egerton is Octavia. Richard Coyle (who* I love) is Gareth. And Patrick Baladi (who* everyone loves, don't they?) is in it too. [via Phillipa Ashley]

*I think these "whos" should probably be "whoms", but I write the way I talk (mostly) and I would never say "whom"...

Posted by Keris on February 17, 2008 in Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 13, 2008 2:31 PM

Writers go back to work

Yay! An agreement has been reached and the 100-day Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike is officially over. A back-to-work order was approved by 92.5% of the WGA members.

The Oscars ceremony can now go ahead as planned, TV shows such as House and CSI will be back in production, and, most importantly, writers get a fairer payment deal for their work.

[Via Variety]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 13, 2008 in Movie Magic, Movie News, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 10, 2008 9:28 AM

TV & MOVIE NEWS: I Was a Teenage Popsicle

Bev Katz Rosenbaum has announced that her young adult book, I Was a Teenage Popsicle, has been optioned for film and TV. (The plan is to produce it as a film then spin it into a series.)

For any writers reading (and I know there are lots of you), this came about as the result of Bev sending a copy of her book to the production company after watching one of their shows and realizing the tone was similar to her book!

Bev's advice is to take note of which shows and indie movies are similar to your books and send the producers (you can almost always find the production companies' websites on the net) a copy of your book along with any endorsements/reviews (good ones would probably be best...).

Great advice and good luck, Bev!

Posted by Keris on February 10, 2008 in American Authors, Movie News, Series, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (5)

February 6, 2008 6:23 PM

Latest WGA strike news

Vanity Fair has cancelled its famous after-show Oscars party in support of the Writers Guild of America strike.

This latest blow comes just as hopes are raised for an agreement between the WGA and the Hollywood film studios. The word on the net is that a deal is taking shape to end the three-month-long strike and that meetings are being set up for this Saturday.

[Via Reuters]

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

Heather Wells series optioned for TV

It's official, Meg Cabot really is taking over the world... And hurrah for that! Her Heather Wells series (Size 12 Is Not Fat, Size 14 Is Not Fat Either and Size Doesn't Matter*) has been optioned by ABC Family for a TV series.

Heather Wells is an ex-teen-pop-star and amateur sleuth and, like most of Meg's fabby ideas, I think it will translate well to the screen...

* Titled Big Boned in the US

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

February 4, 2008 5:14 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Psychology of Joss Whedon: An Unauthorized Exploration of "Buffy', "Angel" and "Firefly"

Psychjosswhedon Joss Whedon is the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it's spin-off series Angel, Firefly (another series, which sadly only ran for one season) and Serenity (a film inspired by Firefly).

There has been lots of study - both light-hearted and academic - of Whedon's worlds and the amazing characters that inhabit them.

This latest collection of critical essays delves into the psychology of Joss himself, as well taking an analytical look at his creations.

Written by a variety of authors - all of whom have strings of letters after their names - and with frequent reference to psychological theories and methods, this book had the potential to be very hard-going indeed.

Luckily, it's very readable, and the essays are well-researched and cogent. They cover topics such as neuroscience in Firefly and Angel's relationship with his mother. My personal favourites are the essays that refer to feminism in both Buffy and Whedon's own personality (Joss often refers to himself as a 'radical feminist', just another reason he is one of my personal heroes).

A couple of words of warning, however; this book is definitely not at the 'light' end of the fan-essay-market. Although by no means impenetrable, you really do need to have an interest in psychology as well as in Whedon and his works.

Also, the essays refer widely to the episodes of Buffy, Angel and Firefly, so there are plenty of spoilers.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Serenity Found

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 4, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 25, 2008 3:57 PM

Adopt A Writer

No. Not literally. Supporters of the Writers Guild of America strike have come up with a genius idea. They have pulled together writers who blog to create the Adopt A Writer website. Featuring working writers, it aims to give an insight into writer's lives, finances and experiences of the strike.

Writing is such a misunderstood profession. People either picture the super-rich and successful or someone living penniless in a garret. Hopefully, Adopt A Writer will give a more balanced, infomed view, as well as rallying support for the strike.

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 25, 2008 in Book Websites, Book related, Movie News, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 22, 2008 2:13 PM

TELEVISION NEWS: Murder Most Famous UPDATED!

A new BBC Two reality show will see six celebrities learning about murder (from police and pathologists) before writing a crime novel with the help of author, Minette Walters. The winner's novel will then be published.

I must admit I read this yesterday and today thought I'd dreamed it since it seems so random, but it's apparently true and will be broadcast in March.

Only one celeb has been named so far and that's my guilty crush, Strictly Come Dancing's Brendan Cole, so I'll be watching...

UPDATE! Lovely Jill Mansell has advised that the other contestants have been named as Sherrie Hewson, Angela Griffin, Kelvin MacKenzie, Matt Allwright and Diarmuid Gavin. So that's nice, isn't it?

Related posts: Crime archives | Television archives

Posted by Keris on January 22, 2008 in Crime / Mystery, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 31, 2007 10:15 AM

Richard & Judy's 2008 Book Club

Being featured on Richard & Judy's book club is a guaranteed sales-boost for the author, and the ten lucky writers for 2008 have been announced.

The list includes the already-bestselling writer Khaled Hosseini with his (admittedly wonderful) A Thousand Splendid Suns and Master Pip by Lloyd Jones, which won the Commonwealth Writers' book of the year award.

Continue over the cut for the full list.

Blood River by Tim Butcher
A Quiet Belief In Angels by RJ Ellory
Then We Came To The End by Joshua Ferris
Notes From An Exhibition by Patrick Gale
The Welsh Girl by Peter Ho Davies
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones
The Rose of Sebastopol by Katharine McMahon
Random Acts of Heroic Love by Danny Scheinmann
Visible World by Mark Slouka

The first instalment of 2008's Book Club will be shown on January 9.

[Via Guardian]

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 31, 2007 in Book related, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 19, 2007 10:04 AM

TELEVISION NEWS: Gods Behaving Badly

Godsbehaving Gods Behaving Badly by Marie Phillips has been optioned by Ben Stiller. Apparently, he's keen to develop it as a television comedy.

I am not at all surprised: The book features Greek Gods living in modern-day London, which gives plenty of scope for a series (as well as being an utterly fabulous idea). We will keep you posted...

[Via Yahoo]

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 19, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 18, 2007 10:40 AM

TELEVISION NEWS: Books on TV over Christmas

The (British) TV schedules are crammed with book adaptations this Christmas. Here are those I think will be of most interest to Trashionista readers...

Vanity Fair - Sunday, 23rd December, ITV1, 9pm

The film version starring Reese Witherspoon. I couldn't make it through the book and I love Reese, so I might well give this a go.

Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfield - Boxing Day (26th), BBC One, 8.30pm

I haven't read the book (I know, can you believe it?!) (and it's Helen's favourite), but I'll definitely be watching this version, which stars Harry Potter's Emma Watson, along with Emilia Fox and Victoria Wood.

Shadow In the North by Phillip Pullman - Sunday 30th December, BBC One, 8.55pm

Billie Piper reprises her role from Ruby In the Smoke.

Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen - New Year's Day, BBC One, 9.10pm

Yes, another Austen adaptation, but this one is by Andrew Davies who created probably the most popular Austen adaptation of all time, the Colin Firth Pride & Prejudice, so it'll be well worth a look.

And if that's not enough for you, there's also a documentary on a year in the life of JK Rowling on ITV1 at 7pm on Sunday 30th December.

For more TV news and reviews, check out our fabulous sister site, TV Scoop.

Posted by Keris on December 18, 2007 in Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 10, 2007 11:27 AM

Authors on Coronation Street

No, not actually appearing, writing about it.

Our sister site, Corrieblog, is now edited by Sue Haasler, author of Time After Time, True Colours and more and the latest Coronation Street fan of the week is author Christina Jones (pictured), revealing why she'd like to see Norris in a pole-dancing club... (the mind boggles).

Related posts: Tickled Pink by Christina Jones | By Jack Rosenthal by Jack Rosenthal (former Coronation Street scriptwriter - I'm on linking fire today!) | Chick lit authors' favourite TV shows

Posted by Keris on December 10, 2007 in British Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 5, 2007 11:58 AM

INTERVIEW: Jane Espenson (interviewed by Shanna Swendson)

A doubly exciting author interview this week since we've not only writer and producer of shows such as Buffy and Gilmore Girls, Jane Espenson (right) answering questions, the questions were set by one of our favourite authors, Shanna Swendson (left).

Jane recently edited the essay collection, Serenity Found - about Joss Whedon's TV series Firefly - so some of Shanna's questions relate to the show, but even if, like me, you've never seen the show, there's plenty here to enjoy.

A lot of your TV writing career has involved science fiction and fantasy (Buffy, Angel, Firefly, Battlestar Galactica), but you're also a big fan of Jane Austen (and contributor to Flirting with Pride and Prejudice) -- that seems like a complete opposite, but do you see any similarities or parallels between those vastly different genres?

Parallels! First off, is life in Jane Austen's England any less exotic and strange than life on Galactica or Serenity? But the real parallel is a set of characters who seem completely fresh and real and identifiable no matter how alien the world they're inhabiting.

You know what current show I also see as having this quality? Friday Night Lights. It's a gorgeous show that consistently reminds me of Battlestar Galactica and Firefly -- it creates/reflects a real world filled with lots of real and complex characters with consistent but constantly-changing relationships, shot as if the camera just happened to be catching slices of real lives... the fact that FNL is set in small-town Texas instead of on a spaceship doesn't matter one bit to me. Both worlds are a little bit strange to me -- what does it matter that one requires artificial gravity and other artificial turf?

What do you think Firefly fans will get out of reading this essay collection?

They will not just be educated and entertained, but also delighted and outraged! Actually, I think they'll get a couple different things. Several of the essays, including the fine ones by Nathan Fillion and Loni Peristere, give an insider's look at the show, that I think fans will find fascinating. Others, like Orson Scott Card's outstanding contribution, discuss the show's place in the history of this kind of production/literature. I found that particularly interesting. Still others analyze the show from a wide variety of social and political points of view that highlight how much viewers can draw from this show to support or challenge their own opinions.

I think everyone is going to come away from the collection with a different favorite essay, and probably a different disfavorite too. (I know, but it COULD be a word.) It's not just a paean to the show -- it actually adds to the experience of watching. At least I hope so. Read it, watch, and then let me know.

Do any of these essays change your perception of the series in any way?

I was fascinated to read about the history of the SciFi-Western as discussed in the essay by Bruce Bethke. I had no idea this had been a pre-existing model and CERTAINLY no idea that it had been a disrespected one and why. I was riveted by this. I also adore the essays by Natalie Hayes and Maggie Burns, both of which shed intelligent light on Joss's treatment of female characters. But the two that most literally changed how I watch the show are probably those by Loni and Nathan -- it's the inside knowledge that these two bring that actually pulls me INSIDE the scenes.

Why do you think this series has had such enduring popularity, in spite of being cancelled midway through its first season?

I'm starting to think that it's as much "because of" as it is "in spite of." There's something about a life tragically cut short that stokes fascination because of the sense of what might have been. "Firefly" is James Dean, you know? But that's only a small factor. I think the show, with its crystal-clear vision, simply gave people something they were hungry for: a show with a point of view, with something to say, and very human characters to say it. Audiences now are enjoying shows with moral complexity, and "Firefly" had that. The wonderful thing about flawed and complex characters is that you never feel like you've fully gotten to know them, so you keep wanting more. And there you are, around at that James Dean thing again.

What more "girly" stuff (books, TV, movies) would you recommend for the Austen side of the brain?

I think it's all the same side of the brain, but I have to recommend Margaret Atwood's classic "The Handmaid's Tale" and Kazuo Ishiguro's "Never Let You Go," both books that take a scifi-ish premise and then install strong female (Austeny, if you will) characters that project utter reality.

What are you reading now (or most recently)?

Roots -- "reading" it in the unabridged audio book form, with Avery Brooks from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine doing the reading. It's wonderful and long... fills weeks of commuting time and makes me sorry to leave the car! I'm also reading (actually reading this time), Stephen Colbert's book, "I Am America (And So Can You)". Hilarious -- the marginalia stuff is just the kind of thing that most amuses me.

Your Flirting with Pride and Prejudice essay was a follow-up to Pride and Prejudice. Have you found yourself coming up with additional story ideas for the TV series you've worked on after you've left the staff or the series has been cancelled? Do those characters keep living in your head, or do you have to move on for the sake of your own sanity?

I generally move onto a new show right away, and I always think the characters have gone away, but I have to say that at least once a week I'll think of some little joke or funny observation that references pop culture and I'll think to myself, "Ooh, maybe I could work that into my next script -- Anya or Willow could--" And then I'll remember that there's no way to joke a pop culture joke into Battlestar.

If you were going to suggest a topic for another pop culture book, what topic would you choose?

Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert and their fake news empire. I'd love to read more about the backstage workings of putting together those shows, and more about their impact, too. I'm baffled by the way they put those shows together four nights a week. Genius!

Is there an essay you're dying to write about some aspect of pop culture?

I want to write a book about how to write for television, but that's not really the same thing. An essay about pop culture? Well, I'm very interested in the evolution of joke styles in broadcast comedy -- from radio to classic television to today. Not just the topics of the jokes, but the way the information is presented in the joke. I think there's an interesting analysis to be done there.

Thanks, Jane and Shanna for a fascinating interview!

Posted by Keris on December 5, 2007 in Interviews, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 28, 2007 12:31 PM

Pushing Daisies

Pushing_daisies01 Pushing Daisies is a romantic black comedy with a fantastic premise. It features Ned, a man with a gift; his touch brings the dead back to life. Problem is, his next touch kills them again... Permanently.

PI Emerson Cod convinces Ned to help him by bringing murder victims back to life - briefly - so that they can name their killers.

It's airing on ABC in the US at the moment and since I don't live there - and it isn't on DVD, yet - I haven't seen it. I am, however, going to go right out on a limb and recommend you look out for it.

Why? Because Jennifer Crusie loves it and that, for me, is enough.

(FYI: Things I have watched and loved on Crusie's say-so: Buffy, Angel, Firefly, 10 Things I Hate About You.)

So. There you have it.

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 28, 2007 in Television, Trashionista Recommends | Permalink | Comments (6)

BOOK REVIEW: Coffee At Luke's: An Unauthorized Gilmore Girls Gabfest, edited by Jennifer Crusie

I have mixed feelings about this book since I wanted to have an essay in it and they turned me down - Me! Don't they know who I am? Ahem - but, at the same time, American TV show Gilmore Girls is one of my total obsessions. In fact, I'm watching it in the corner of my screen as I'm writing this ("The Festival of Living Art" from season 4, in case you're interested).

Plus the book is edited by Jennifer Crusie and we do love Ms Crusie here at Trashionista. Like other SmartPop books including This Is Chick Lit, Flirting With Pride & Prejudice and Perfectly Plum (which I do feature in - yay me!), Coffee At Luke's is a collection of essays about Gilmore Girls by a wide range of writers and pop culture experts.

Subjects range from personal relationships (including looks at fabulous secondary characters Kirk and Paris), to parenting (with a spirited defence of Emily Gilmore), to the wonder of Stars Hollow and Gilmore fixations food, books and sex. The last section is on Gilmore Girls and the real world and that, for me, was the least successful. I don't know if I'd just had enough GG at that point (doubtful) or whether I'm just not interested in how the show relates to the real world since I'd rather pretend it's all true.

My favourite essays were Television Without Pity writer Sara Morrison's analysis of how Stars Hollow businesses would fare in the real world. It doesn't sound particularly thrilling, but it's both interesting and really good fun. I was also totally blown away by Gregory Stevenson's Dining With the Gilmores, a jaw-dropping exploration of food as metaphor in the show. I never noticed it before reading this essay, but it makes perfect sense and served to underscore the complete brilliance of Amy Sherman-Palladino's writing.

Clearly only for fans of the show - despite the glossary (Coffee At Luke-isms) at the back, if you hadn't seen Gilmore Girls you would be flummoxed by most of these essays - Coffee At Luke's is interesting, entertaining and made me both want to watch certain episodes again and made me lament the show's cancellation.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Serenity Found edited by Jane Espenson

Posted by Keris on November 28, 2007 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

November 27, 2007 7:13 PM

Writers and producers resume talks

Although the WGA (Writers Guild of America) strike continues, there is hope this week that an agreement will be reached.

Yesterday, for the first time since the strike began over three weeks ago, writers and producers resumed talks. They met again today, but thanks to a media blackout, neither side gave any comment.

[Via Variety]

Related post: Screenwriters on strike

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 27, 2007 in American Authors, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 22, 2007 3:29 PM

TV NEWS: How to Kill Your Husband

Kathy Lette's novel (no, it's not an instruction manual) How to Kill Your Husband (and Other Handy Household Hints), has been optioned by Andy Harries, producer of The Queen. Apparently it's going to be a series for ITV.

"I am driving around town with a casting couch strapped to my roof rack," Kathy Lette told The Guardian's Browser column, "Would you like a lie-down part?"

I've only read one of Kathy Lette's books (and I didn't love it), but she's certainly an entertaining character.

Posted by Keris on November 22, 2007 in Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 21, 2007 10:59 AM

Marian Keyes on It Takes Two (2007)

Remember how I moaned about missing Marian Keyes on Strictly Come Dancing's sister show, It Takes Two? Well I forgot about YouTube! Hurrah! Those of you who get Marian's wonderful newsletter and have been wondering about her haircut (which she said was a "disaster"), you won't be surprised to find ... it's lovely.

Related: Marian on Strictly It Takes Two (2006)!

Posted by Keris on November 21, 2007 in Marian Keyes, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 12, 2007 4:36 PM

Book News: Richard & Judy Book Club to continue

Richard_and_judy_4_1 Recently, Richard and Judy announced that their Channel Four teatime chat show would end next year.

If you just felt a slight breeze upon your cheek, that was the collective sigh of relief from the book trade on the news that R&J intend to carry on with their hugely successful book club.

Also, Cactus TV, the producers of Richard & Judy, have stepped forward to say that not only will the book club continue "in some form", but that they are keen to work with the publishing industry on new book-related TV programmes. That's good, then.

[Via PublishingNews]

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 12, 2007 in Book News, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 9, 2007 11:59 AM

TV News: Sarah Waters

I loved the BBC adaptation of Sarah Waters' Tipping the Velvet, completely missed Fingersmith (my favourite of her books - how did I miss that?!) and now I hear that Affinity and The Night Watch will both be on TV next year.

Scheduled to be shown on ITV in April 2008, Affinity's screenplay is by Andrew Davies (Pride & Prejudice ... and loads more) and the cast includes Anna Massey and Julia McKenzie.

BBC2 are adapting Sarah's latest book, The Night Watch, for screening in March.

Posted by Keris on November 9, 2007 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 6, 2007 5:34 PM

Screenwriters on strike!

Meg Cabot and Neil Gaiman are among those who have laid down their pens this week for the Writers Guild of America strike.

The action only affects screenwriting and concerns the residual payment made to writers for internet distribution and the sale of DVDs. Knowing how much money the television and film industry makes and how little most writers get paid, I can't see a problem. Can you?

FYI, the last time Hollywood writers went on strike was in 1988. It lasted for 22 weeks and cost the industry $500 million.

[Via AOL]

Related post: A little bit of politics

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 6, 2007 in American Authors, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 5, 2007 11:27 AM

Marian Keyes on It Takes Two

It's a source of great happiness to me that each year I get to enjoy two of my favourite things - Marian Keyes and Strictly Come Dancing at the same time. This year, Marian is appearing on Strictly's sister show, It Takes Two (presented by the marvellous Claudia Winkleman), on Thursday 8th November (i.e. this Thursday).

Of course, I won't get to see it because I'll be on a plane, but I hope you all enjoy it (no, I'm not bitter).

Posted by Keris on November 5, 2007 in Marian Keyes, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 2, 2007 4:18 PM

TV News: A Room With A View

Aroomwithaview Yep, it's another classic novel plundered for our televisional delight. Just how many period dramas does it take to fill a television schedule, anyway? It's a good thing there are a lot of classics... Which begs another question; why choose a book that has already been made into a successful Merchant Ivory film?

Anyhoo. This two-hour ITV adaptation of E.M. Forster's comedy-of-manners stars Elaine Cassidy, Sophie Thomson and Timothy Spall and is on Sunday night at 9pm.

So, what do you think? Another adaptation can only be a good thing? Or not so much...

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 2, 2007 in Classic Novels, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 25, 2007 10:50 AM

Is anyone watching Samantha Who?

I've seen the first two episodes and I really like it, mainly because Christina Applegate is so engaging.

I'm not a huge fan of Cecelia Ahern's novels, but I'm on board with the screenwriting (which I'm sure she'll be thrilled to hear!). She's good!

Posted by Keris on October 25, 2007 in Cecelia Ahern, Television | Permalink | Comments (11)

October 9, 2007 12:01 PM

TV NEWS: Cecelia Ahern's Samantha Who? trailer

Thanks to fab new Australian chick lit website, Chicklit Club, I've learned that Cecelia Ahern's TV show, Samantha Who?, is to debut on US TV this month. Yes, they've changed the name *again* - it's previously been known as Samantha Be Good and Sam I Am.

It stars Christina Applegate as a psychiatrist who suffers from amnesia and is forced to find out who she really is, but I'm most excited about the fact that it also stars Melissa McCarthy, Sookie from Gilmore Girls!

Posted by Keris on October 9, 2007 in Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

September 28, 2007 10:30 AM

Lipstick Jungle coming to Living

Lipstick Jungle, the TV series based on Candace Bushnell's book of the same name, is coming to Living in the UK. Here's the trailer. What do you think?

[via TV Scoop]

Posted by Keris on September 28, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

September 14, 2007 11:03 AM

TV NEWS: Secret Diary of a Call Girl

You've probably already seen this is the papers (which are obsessed with Billie Piper), but just in case you haven't ...

Belle de Jour: The Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl is an eight-part series (based on the book) will be shown (in the UK) on ITV2 from 27 September.

Learn more at our square-eyed sister site, TV Scoop.

Related posts: ITV's Jane Austen season | Celebrity memoir mania

Posted by Keris on September 14, 2007 in Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 7, 2007 12:09 PM

TV NEWS: Charlaine Harris's Sookie Stackhouse series

Alan Ball, creator of Six Feet Under, will produce the vampire series True Blood, based on Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire novel series.

The pilot was shot earlier this summer with Anna Paquin as Sookie Stackhouse, along with Ryan Kwanten, Sam Trammell, Stephen Moyer and Brook Kerr (whoever they are).

"Charlaine has created such a rich environment that's very funny and at the same time very scary," Ball told Daily Variety after first selling the project in 2005. "I bought the book on impulse, and I just couldn't put it down." [via Romantic Times and Variety]

Related posts: Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris | Television archives

Posted by Keris on September 7, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Series, Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 5, 2007 11:49 AM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Laid Bare by Gail Porter

Gailp Out tomorrow, this book just manages to squeeze in as a Preview Review... (and yes, I am leaving, I just have a few loose ends to tie up first!)

Most people (in the UK at least) know Gail Porter. Or know of her, anyway. Short, bouncy, blonde Scottish TV presenter who married a rock star, had his baby, went through a bitter divorce and lost all her hair from the stress. After all that (not to mention an overdose that nearly killed her, years of self-harm, anorexia and undiagnosed bipolar disease and a difficult relationship with her dad) it was probably inevitable that Gail write a book about her experiences. Laid Bare is that book, and there's the inevitable reference to hair loss in the title, although it could have been a lot worse...

I was fairly interested to read this but really hoping that it wouldn't be a self-indulgent wallow. Because, to be honest, if I'd been through a lot of this stuff, it probably would have been!

Luckily, Gail is a charming and charismatic narrator as she tells the story of her first fascination with the entertainment business (an obsession with the first Star Wars film) right up to... well, I won't give it away, but the book ends on a poignant note.

She writes about her days at school (she was a super-swot, who became a black belt at Karate - and so was never really picked on!) and college (in Watford, which she didn't find very exciting...) and her early jobs in TV, including a lot of time as a runner/general dogsbody. What comes across is a strong work ethic, a lot of determination and the ability to bounce back from any rejection. I was impressed. After getting to know TV production inside and out, Gail realised that her dream job was to be in front of the camera, so she made a show reel dressed as Wonder Woman (of course) and started auditioning. Soon (after a few ups and downs along the way) she was presenting Scottish kids' TV, then national kids' TV in London, then iconic programmes like Top of the Pops, where she met her husband, Dan Hipgrave of (former) band Toploader.

When she writes about her relationship with Dan, it's clear that their marriage was a whirlwind mistake, and that there's no love lost between them! She is however, grateful to him for their daughter Honey (although her post-birth pain, which lasted for months, made me seriously wince). It seems that Gail has never done things the easy way, even when she sometimes could have done. She seems to have barreled her way through life without thinking too much about her actions. When she's diagnosed with bipolar and a thyroid problem, and admits to her anorexia and self-harm, it comes as almost as much of a relief to the reader as it must have to Gail herself. However, contrary to my fears, she doesn't wallow. In fact, she sometimes could do with wallowing a bit more, and with asking for help - as it doesn't come across that she's fully dealt with her problems and I was a bit disappointed with that although maybe that's more about my own control freakery than the book itself! It's also a shame that the book ends on the aforementioned poignant note, but it is also a sweet ending, and a realistic one.

I can't see any mention of a ghostwriter anywhere, so am choosing to believe Gail wrote this herself. In which case, she has talent as a writer, as the reader definitely becomes involved in her experiences. I found this a quick read, but not a dumb one, and I learned a thing or two about someone who's been in the news a lot.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 5, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 31, 2007 10:31 AM

TV News: Famous Five

I was never a big Famous Five fan - I was always more of a Secret Seven girl - but I was still intrigued to hear that plans are afoot for a new television series, described as a "reimagining" of the original books.

Julian, Dick, Anne, George - with a descendant of the original Timmy the dog - will be drawn together 30 years after their original exploits to solve "contemporary mysteries". [via BBC]

It's one of those ideas that could be brilliant or could be awful (or possibly even brilliantly awful). No dates yet so we'll just have to wait and see.

Related posts: Thursday Trailblazer Enid Blyton | Inspired by Nancy Drew | Five books

Posted by Keris on August 31, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 27, 2007 12:28 PM

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Some lad-lit blogs

How could I not know that Nick Hornby had a blog? Perhaps because it's fairly new - that's my excuse anyway... If you're as in the dark as I was, read it for yourself here. He hasn't updated in a little while, but the rest of his website is a worthwhile browse, and hopefully he'll blog more soon...

Non-fic lad lit fave Dave Gorman, on the other hand, has been updating like billy-o (as my mum would say). Read his blog here, and find out all about what he's been up to, the music on Homes Under The Hammer and the deterioration in quality of a well-known chocolate egg. It's good stuff.

Finally, sometime Gorman collaborator Danny Wallace has a website, where he doesn't blog, but does post occasional news and... 'titbits' might be the right word. There's also the chance to download some video podcasts of the author/TV presenter/head of the Karma Army...

Related posts: Top 10 lad lit | From book to blog.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 27, 2007 in Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 23, 2007 11:04 AM

TV NEWS: Gossip Girl

Last August we brought you news that Cecily Von Ziegesar's controversial teen series Gossip Girl was to be made into a TV series by OC creator Josh Schwartz.

Now we have some more information for you and (over the cut) a video clip!

The series centres around a group of spoilt rich girls at an exclusive Manhattan boarding school, whose antics are immortalised by an anonymous blogger, Gossip Girl. As Catwalk Queen editor Kim says, "The words 'guilty pleasure' spring to mind..."

Look out for the show in the US from 17 September on the CW. And in the UK... hopefully soon!

Carry on over the cut for a sneak preview... (and if you recognise that narrator's voice, that's cos it's Kristen Bell, aka: Veronica Mars!)

[Via Catwalk Queen].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 23, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

MOVIE NEWS: The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency

I know I keep saying this, but I love the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency series, and I'm really looking forward to the movie.

It's being directed by Anthony Minghella (who directed The English Patient and The Talented Mr Ripley) and stars jazz singer Jill Scott as Mma Ramotswe.

Scott is pictured with the author Alexander McCall Smith who has written an excellent piece about the experience of seeing his book brought to life in the Daily Mail.

The film will be shown on BBC1 this Christmas.

Posted by Keris on August 23, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Movie News, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 16, 2007 1:51 PM

BOOK NEWS: Julian Clary's Murder Most Fab

Julianclary_2 Following the success of his double entendre-stuffed memoir, A Young Man's Passage, Julian Clary is the latest celeb to bring out a novel - Murder Most Fab has a Janet Evanovich-esque cover and according to Janet Street Porter in Marie Claire is, "A very funny novel that charts the progress of a gorgeous boy from drama school, through to working as a rent boy and telly stardom. En route there are several murders, loads of drugs and masses of sex..."

It's out today.

[Via Woman magazine and Amazon.co.uk]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 16, 2007 in Bonkbusters, Book News, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 15, 2007 4:46 PM

More Shiny employees catch the book bug

We Trashionistas are not the only book-obsessed Shiny Media employees, you know - oh no.

John of Shiny TV site TV Scoop was even on BBC Four book programme The Book Quiz last night, talking intelligently about literary thriller Perfume as part of one of the programme's featured book groups. Unfortunately, watching it back didn't make for a fun experience, as he reports...

In happier news, Alex of Shiny Shiny is writing a new column for our sister site Dollymix about Women in Fiction, and it's fascinating reading.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 15, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 25, 2007 12:05 PM

TV NEWS: Jpod

Douglas Coupland's novel about the digital generation, jPod is to be made into a TV mini-series by Canadian network CBC, reports Bookninja. Coupland (who is Canadian) also wrote the series, which will air in Canada in January 2008.

No news yet on whether it will cross over to Britain but sounds like it could be good!

More TV news: Women's Murder Club | Gentle men & Players set for TV | Chick lit on TV

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 25, 2007 in Book News, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 20, 2007 10:04 AM

FRIDAY FLICK: State and Main

Stateandmain Like About Last Night (which Keris has lent me and I must watch soon!), State and Main is based on a play by David Mamet. There's both a Sex and the City and a Desperate Housewives connection, as it stars Sarah Jessica Parker and husband of Felicity Huffman William H. Macy. It's an ensemble piece and the massive cast also includes Julia Stiles, Alec Baldwin and Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

The film's about a Hollywood film crew who descend on a small American town and turn the whole place upside down. It's a satire on the silliness involved in filming on location, and therein lies a bit of a problem, as the film's basically an in-joke for anyone who's ever been in that experience (i.e. not most of us!) It's really not as funny as I wanted it to be but has moments of great wit and charm. One to smirk along with rather than laugh out loud at, perhaps.

Friday Flick archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 20, 2007 in American Authors, Friday Flick, Television | Permalink | Comments (8)

July 11, 2007 4:21 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Satc_group_ Last week, the film and literary worlds were all-a-flutter with the news that Sex and the City is to be made into a movie - after years and years of rumours and speculation it is (apparently) really going to happen. I guess Kim Cattrall decided to just grit her teeth and make nice with SJP... or something. (I'm just speculating, that's not libel!) Anyhoo, what I want to know this week is whether you think it's a good idea.

Should a good thing be left well enough alone? Or are you chomping at the bit to find out what happened next for Carrie and co.? Do TV series ever make good films - if not, will this be the exception? And if you are keen on the idea, what should happen next? (Hey, you never know who might be reading!)

In other words: SATC - the movie: is it a Yay or a Nay, and why?

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Dollymix, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Movie News, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (8)

July 10, 2007 4:50 PM

'How to Shop' - EXCLUSIVE Mary Portas giveaway!

Maryqueen The brilliantly savvy fashion/shopping expert Mary Portas, also known as Mary, Queen of Shops after her fabby BBC programme, has released a new book: How to Shop with Mary, Queen of Shops . It's a beautiful hardback, jam-packed with useful information from a mistress of retail.

And we have a copy to give away to one lucky Trashionista reader!

If you'd like to win, carry on over the cut to find out how...

To be in with a chance of winning:

Simply email us at editor@trashionista.com with your name and address and MARY in the title. Please also put 'no' in the body of the email if you wouldn't like to receive further information from Ebury/BBC books. I'm sorry, this giveaway is UK only.

And that's not your only chance to win: until the end of July there's the chance for 5 people to win £100 Oasis vouchers over on Mary Portas's website, which is well worth a look in any case.

Good luck!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 10, 2007 in Book News, Book Websites, British Authors, Competition, Fashion-Lit, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 9, 2007 10:47 AM

TV News: The Book Quiz

Our sister site, TV Scoop, has alerted us to the news that a new reading-related quiz is starting soon on BBC4.

Chaired by David Baddiel and with Germaine Greer as one of the panellists, it's a show that brings together a love of books, a slew of quick wit and good humour, and a chance to test your book knowledge (which you know we love to do!).

It starts on Tuesday 17 July at 11pm (oh dear, that's my bedtime; I'll have to tape it).

Posted by Keris on July 9, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 6, 2007 11:11 AM

MOVIE NEWS: Sex and the City

Woo! And indeed hoo!

According to IMDb, the long-awaited Sex and the City TV movie will start shooting this autumn.

All four of the original women have signed up: Kim Cattrall, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis and the film will be directed by the show's longtime director Michael Patrick King, based on a new script he's written.

Posted by Keris on July 6, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (7)

July 4, 2007 5:16 PM

TV News: Lost in Austen

According to Gareth McLean of The Guardian, ITV are planning a series called Lost in Austen, about Amanda, who lives in a rented flat in Hammersmith with her boyfriend Michael and escapes from her troubles with a glass of wine and Pride and Prejudice.

After an argument with Michael, Amanda discovers a bonnet-wearing woman in her bathroom who introduces herself as Elizabeth Bennet. Soon the two women swap places and Amanda finds herself living Pride and Prejudice for real - including meeting Mr Darcy. [via Feeling Listless]

Sounds marvellous, don't you think?

Posted by Keris on July 4, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 28, 2007 10:10 AM

BJD TV: What would Bridget watch?

Cultclassicweek_2 All is revealed (thanks to the power of conjecture) over on TV Scoop!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 28, 2007 in Cult classic week, Modern Fiction, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 12, 2007 7:48 PM

JK Rowling honoured with Blue Peter special!

Surely all wannabe women writers relate/aspire to JK Rowling's rags to riches story, especially as she seems like such a jolly nice lady (sorry, went a bit Enid Blyton there).

Blue Peter obviously thinks highly of her too as they're honouring the famously reclusive author with a special edition of the kids's programme (but you can watch it too, we won't tell..) Children can even enter a BBC competition to attend the filming - find out how here if you know someone who might be interested.

The programme will air on 20 July, the day before the next Harry Potter is released.

[Via TV Scoop].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 12, 2007 in Book News, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Series, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 8, 2007 6:04 PM

Oprah's book news - a new book club pick and a traitorous relative

After much speculation, Oprah has picked the not-exactly-new (but critically acclaimed) Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides as her next book club pick. Anyone read it? I hear great things...

Also, you may have heard this already but it bears repeating: Oprah's Dad is writing a book. About Oprah. That he "forgot" to tell her about. Nice man. [Via Galleycat].

Related: Oprah chooses The Road.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 8, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (7)

June 6, 2007 12:03 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Last week, I asked if you were excited about the swathe of upcoming Hillary Clinton biographies. Most of you said NAY, but my co-ed Keris admitted she'd be intrigued if they raked up new dirt. (Me too!) Deantori

This week: from one betrayed woman to several more - The Other Woman is a new collection of real-life stories from women about love and betrayal. Authors include Mary Jo Eustace, whose husband Dean McDermott left her (and their children) for 90210 star Tori Spelling. She spills all the details of her husband's betrayal - but should she? Is it a great form of revenge, or a little undignified perhaps? [Via Mamapop]

And would you want to read this book?

Tell it to us straight: Yay or Nay - and why?

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Dollymix, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 6, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (5)

June 4, 2007 12:24 PM

MOVIE NEWS: The Old Curiosity Shop

A good old-fashioned British film, this adaptation: Charles Dickens' The Old Curiosity Shop will star Derek Jacobi, Zoe Wanamaker, Martin Freeman and Gina McKee.

And, as our sister site Corrieblog reports, Bradley Walsh, aka: Danny Baldwin will also star.

Movie news archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 4, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 24, 2007 11:33 AM

TV News: David Duchovny's 'novel' (ha ha) new series, Californication

Those crazy US TV stars just keep on recycling themselves! First Dharma and Greg's Jenna Elfman is lined up to play a literary agent, then Will and Grace's Debra Messing is a Starter Wife, now The X-Files's David Duchovny is starring in Californication (steal a title from The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, much?) a series about a troubled novelist. Not that troubled though - it's a comedy. Five has snapped it up, so we'll keep you posted about when they'll be showing it... [Via TV Scoop].

More TV news.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 24, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 21, 2007 3:09 PM

TV NEWS: Women's Murder Club

Yes, yet another book to television adaptation. This time it's not a chick lit book ... but it is a show featuring a bunch of "chicks", so I figured it counted.

Based on the novels of James Patterson, Women's Murder Club features four San Francisco friends combining their talents to solve murder cases. Sounds like the Famous Five (well there's five in the photo anyway) or Scooby Doo.

[via TV Scoop]

Related posts: US date for The Starter Wife | Lipstick Jungle news

Posted by Keris on May 21, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: Courtney Thorne-Smith's 'Outside In'

Yesterday, I caught a few minutes of an old Ally McBeal and was feeling all nostalgic for the time when I watched the show (the early seasons, when it was actually good...)

Anyway!, it reminded me of something I'd read back in November and failed to blog about then (not the first time we've been tardy I'm afraid!): Courtney Thorne-Smith, who played Ally's love-rival Georgia on the show, is the latest actress to turn author, having written a 'comedic' (chick-lit?) novel, Outside In, which will be released (in the US at least) this September.

[Via Galleycat].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 21, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 17, 2007 2:01 PM

Reading Cagney & Lacey

It's been a while since we've looked at television books so, inspired by my column about them on our sister site, DollyMix, I thought I'd see what's out there on the subject of '80s American cop show Cagney & Lacey.

The book on the left - Cagney & Lacey and Me - is written by Hollywood producer and husband of Sharon Gless (Cagney) and is getting rave reviews. Subtitled "An inside Hollywood story OR How I learned to stop worrying and love the blonde" it's his chronicle of the rise and fall of the show.

Defining Women: Television and the Case of Cagney & Lacey "explores the social and cultural construction of gender and the meanings of woman, women, and femininity as they were negotiated in the pioneering television series."

And that appears to be it. Huh.

Posted by Keris on May 17, 2007 in Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

Lipstick Jungle news

We told you about the TV adaptation of Candace Bushnell's Lipstick Jungle, ooh, ages ago and now our sister site TV Scoop tells us it starts on US TV this coming autumn.

Back in August last year we were all about Melissa George, but it doesn't look like she's in it. The three women are 24's Kim Raver, Brooke Shields and Lindsay Price and Andrew McCarthy's in it. Andrew McCarthy!

Posted by Keris on May 17, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 15, 2007 6:47 PM

Chick lit on TV Scoop

We love rambling on about chick lit, as you know, and today I'm ~~rambling~~ providing a useful and insightful summary of the latest chick lit TV projects over on TV Scoop.

So if you've missed any TV news over the last couple of months, this will catch you up!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 11, 2007 2:05 PM

Rick Stein in Du Maurier Country

The lovely editor of our sister site, TV Scoop, just alerted me to this gem, starting tomorrow night at 8.10pm on BBC2.

To celebrate the centenary of Daphne du Maurier's birth, famous Cornwall chef Rick Stein sets out on a journey to rediscover the locations of her novels including Frenchman’s Creek, Jamaica Inn and Rebecca.

Rick says, “Daphne du Maurier was a great popular novelist who also produced great literature. Like her, I’ve spent most of my life in Cornwall and can identify with her love of the place, its people, history and landscape."

Should be entertaining and an excellent way to avoid Eurovision!

Television archives

Posted by Keris on May 11, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 26, 2007 4:46 PM

US date for The Starter Wife

We mentioned the TV version of Gigi Levangie's The Starter Wife (starring Will & Grace's Debra Messing) back in January and we've just learned it will begin airing on the USA Network on 31 May. More info here. [via Romantic Times]

Still no news on a UK screening, but we'll let you know as soon as we know and in the meantime, here's a special sneak peek:

Posted by Keris on April 26, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 24, 2007 8:27 AM

Interview with Aury Wellington...

No, not on here (unfortunately): editor of controversial anthology This Is Not Chick Lit, Elizabeth Merrick launched a new series of author interviews on Bookslut this week. Her inaugural interviewee is Aury Wellington, author of controversial YA book Pop!

Find out how she writes, what her big break was (clue here) and why her mum always wanted her to join the army... all by reading the interview.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 24, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Debut Novels, Interviews, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

April 23, 2007 1:07 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Television Without Pity by Tara Ariano and Sarah D Bunting

Tvwithoutpity

Anyone who reads (and like me, LOVES) the website Television Without Pity will understand what to expect from this book: the same snarky, madly observant tone of that brilliant site, delivered in encyclopaedia format. Subtitled ‘752 things we love to hate (and hate to love) about TV’, Television Without Pity is an A-Z about everything televisual: from Acting, Wooden to Zeiring, Iain... (I swear that juxtaposition was unintentional!)

I got this for my birthday (thanks, Mum!) and spent a whole weekend totally absorbed, often screeching with laughter and recognition at Ariano and Bunting’s brilliant insights.

Often the section headers were enough to set me off: Weakest Link, British-Lady Edition or Fashion, Hilarious Attempts of TV Guys in the 90s at. Their take on watching a whole show on DVD over a weekend is exaggerated, yet familiar: "We try to ration the 24 episodes, one at a time, but we can't... the next thing we know it's Sunday night and we're sitting in adult diapers on the couch, surrounded by forty-eight hours' worth of snack bags and Diet Coke cans, heads pounding, cracked out on Keifer..." Fellow TV addicts will relate. Except maybe about the 'diapers'...

As you might have guessed, this book is American, and the one drawback for UK readers is that a lot of the cultural references will be unfamiliar (I’m an American-TV junkie from way back and there was a lot I didn’t understand). But that didn’t stop me laughing at and loving this book. It’s not all fun and games though: there’s also a lot of intelligent, thought-provoking analysis about the way pop culture functions.

In fact, it’s pretty much the perfect book.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Like this? Try Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster.

Television archives | TV Scoop: Blogging the Gogglebox

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 23, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Non Fiction, Rating: 5/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 18, 2007 6:35 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Sense Last week, we talked about the huge advances given to celebrity authors - and had a pretty lively debate (-- click that link to check it out!)

This week: some more Austen, in Yay or Nay form this time! Please tell me I'm not the only one old enough to remember Emma Thompson's excellent, Oscar-winning film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility? (Okay, it's not that old, just eleven years... same as Emma, clearly Austen has a revival every decade or so.)

I do love that big-screen version, though. So I have mixed feelings about the fact that Andrew Davies, the man who thought to put Colin Firth in a wet shirt, is making a new version for the small screen. Will it be as good as the film? Better? Or have we had Austen adaptation overload?

Tell us what you think: The new S & S: is it a Yay, or a Nay - and why?

Yay or Nay archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 18, 2007 in Austen Week, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Romance, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (4)

April 12, 2007 11:36 AM

Reading The Apprentice

We're pretty obsessed with The Apprentice here at Trashionista. Diane's reviewing it for our sister site, TV Scoop, and I'm dreaming about the contestants *shudder*. Of course, the applicants on The Apprentice are (apparently) hip young go-getters, so the first thing they are likely to do, whether or not they win the coveted position in Sir Alan's firm, is to write a book, isn't it.

Just out is Series Two winner, Michelle Dewberry's Anything Is Possible. Feebly subtitled "From the checkout to The Apprentice and beyond" (because Michelle has already left Sir Alan's employ), it's described as an "inspirational autobiography ... revealing how Michelle triumphed over a violent and abusive childhood to excel in the cut-throat world of business - and defeat 15,000 hopefuls to win BBC TV's The Apprentice".

Arguably the star (though not the winner) of the first series was Saira Khan, whose book P.U.S.H. for Success is a motivational guide featuring "brilliant ballsy strategies" to help you achieve anything you want using Saira's unique (I bet) P.U.S.H. approach: P = Be Proactive; U = Understanding; S = Sell Yourself; H = High Standards.

Of course, there's also the obligatory official guide and you'll no doubt be happy to know that the inimitable Ruth Badger has her own book coming out later this year. What, no Syed?

The American contestants are at it too, of course. Season One winner, Bill Rancic has written two - his latest being Beyond the Lemonade Stand.

Rather fabulously, Season Three's Tana Goertz has written her own life story as a children's picture book. Called I'm Bigger Than This, it's "an inspirational tale that teaches kids how to think BIG! and let nothing get in the way of their dreams".

Season Two's Wes Moss features 21 entrepreneurs in Starting From Scratch and Season Three winner Kendra Todd encourages you to Risk & Grow Rich. And of course The Donald has got plenty to say...

Television archives | Self development archives

Posted by Keris on April 12, 2007 in British Authors, Non Fiction, Self development, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 3, 2007 4:18 PM

£1.5 million for Dawn French's memoirs

Yes, apparently that's what the life story of the famous funny lady is worth. Despite celeb memoirs in general not selling as well as expected, Peter Kay's book, The Sound of Laughter sold brilliantly over Christmas and has clearly inspired publishers to fight over Ms French: she's apparently being paid £1.25m just to discuss her book proposal. [Via The Times]

Interesting side note: did you know that Kirstie Alley is lined up to play Dawn's role in the US version of The Vicar of Dibley? (Although it won't actually be set in Dibley, of course...) [More TV news over at TV Scoop].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 3, 2007 in Book News, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

March 27, 2007 4:24 PM

Karyn Bosnak, 'internet superstar' number 30

Readers in the States may have already seen this on TV last Friday, but Karyn Bosnak, author of the infamous Save Karyn and the fabulous Twenty Times a Lady reached the dizzy heights of number 30 in a recent VH1 poll. She was chosen as one of the "Greatest Internet Superstars" for her Save Karyn blog, which she set up to - successfully - pay off her 20K credit card debt (starting an internet begging trend in the process!)

You can watch her segment here.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 27, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 23, 2007 10:07 AM

Gentlemen & Players set for TV

Joanne Harris's novel Gentlemen & Players has been optioned for a television series.

It will be adapted by Peter Ransley, who wrote the screenplay of Sarah Waters' Fingersmith. [via booktrade.info]

Posted by Keris on March 23, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 21, 2007 5:57 PM

Win a book on Corrieblog!

Yep, news of another competition! Celeb autobiography and Corrie fans should be interested in this one: a chance to win a copy of Julie Goodyear's (apparently rather sensational) life story, newly released in paperback.

Simply click on this link to find out how to enter.

Good luck!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 21, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Competition, Memoirs, New Releases, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Notes from the Underbelly on TV

Coming soon to ABC in the US, Notes from the Underbelly is based on Risa Green's novel of the same name. The TV show was been created by Barry Sonnenfeld (Two and a Half Men) and is a "whimsical look at the sweeping changes that come with new parenthood".

If you're in the US, let us know if it's any good. Thanks!

Posted by Keris on March 21, 2007 in American Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 20, 2007 12:15 PM

TV NEWS: Literary Superstar

Aelfman_jenna_2 I loved Jenna Elfman in her sitcom Dharma and Greg, so I'm crossing my fingers that her upcoming TV role does well enough to cross the Atlantic, too.

She'll play the lead in Literary Superstar, a new project by Darren "Sex and the City" Star about an ultra-loyal book publicist (is that an unusual thing...?) It's written by Aussie novelist Matthew Reilly. (It's all about the Aussies this week!)

[Via Galleycat]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 20, 2007 in Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

Adaptation: tricky, but worth it?

Did you see Mansfield Park at the weekend? (I recorded it but have heard mixed reviews!)

What did you think?

An interesting article in The Guardian looks at ethics of adaptation for the small and silver screens and the difficulty of doing justice to the original text - but points out that when it works, it works.

Which is why we devote a regular feature to it every Friday, of course!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 20, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Friday Flick, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 19, 2007 10:16 AM

Buffy is back!

Yes, ten years after she first appeared on the scene (in her TV incarnation), the Buffster's back. Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 8: #1 is out as a comic.

Written by Buffy creator Joss Whedon, the first episode kicks off with the Slayers "kicking some serious undead butt." No change there then.

Posted by Keris on March 19, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, New Releases, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 16, 2007 3:23 PM

Billie Piper's book adaptations

If you're in the UK, don't forget ITV's Jane Austen season starts this Sunday with Mansfield Park starring Billie Piper.

Thanks to our sister site, TV Scoop, we also learned that Billie is to star in an adaptation of Belle De Jour's Intimate Adventures of a London Call Girl.

Posted by Keris on March 16, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Memoirs, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 27, 2007 12:13 PM

ITV's Jane Austen season

Goodness, the world's gone Jane Austen mad. Our sister site, TV Scoop, alerted us to ITV1's forthcoming Jane Austen season.

Wisely choosing not to attempt yet another version of Pride and Prejudice, the channel has commissioned new versions of Persuasion, Northanger Abbey, and Mansfield Park, featuring such fine actors as Billie Piper and Rupert Penry-Jones. The Kate Beckinsale version of Emma will also be shown.

If the trailer is anything to go by, it should be great.

Related posts: Anne Hathaway as Jane Austen

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2007 in Book News, British Authors, Classic Novels, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

Jennifer Weiner and Jane Green on Martha Stewart

You can watch Jennifer Weiner and Jane Green's Martha Stewart interview here. But because we're a full service blog, I transcribed the bit about the chick lit label.

Jane: It was more problematic for me in the beginning. What is a bigger problem for me is the misconception about chick lit. I think when people hear chick lit they think it's a fluffy novel about a single girl in her 20s looking for Mr Right with designer handbags ...

Jennifer: Not that there's anything wrong with that! I do think it's sad to say that there are still some very silly people who like to judge books by their covers and they see a little pink and they see a sassy handbag and they think stupid, brainless, candyfloss, who cares? There's more going on that that--

Martha: Who cares? Only millions and millions and millions of readers ...

You're not wrong, Martha!

Related post: Marian Keyes on The Weekender

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Jane Green, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 2, 2007 5:28 PM

The Bad Mother's Handbook on ITV

A dramatisation of Kate Long's The Bad Mother's Handbook will be shown on ITV later this month. As you can see the book's been give a new - and very pink - tie-in cover.

With a fantastic cast including Catherine Tate and Anne Reid, it sounds like must-see TV. Read more about filming (and have a look at the pics) at Kate Long's website.

And we'll let you have more details as soon as we know them ourselves.

Posted by Keris on February 2, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

More Marian Keyes TV news

You all know how much we love Marian Keyes here at Trashionista. I’m hoping every last one of you has already signed up for her monthly newsletter (why wouldn’t you? It’s one of the highlights of my month!), but just in case you haven’t it’s chock-full of info for Feb.

As we’ve already mentioned, the paperback of Anybody Out There will be out in the UK and Ireland in the next few days.

Marian will be appearing on Loose Women on ITV on February 8th and Five News and BBC Radio 2’s The Weekender on February 9th.

If you’re in Brazil (and if you are in Brazil, please leave a comment and let us know), Marian will be interviewed on Almanaque, from Globonews (the news channel of Globo Network) on February 16th.

Posted by Keris on February 2, 2007 in Book related, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 30, 2007 2:38 PM

Nora Roberts' Lifetime movies

American romance author Nora Roberts is nowhere near as popular here as she is in the US (though her inclusion in the RNA Romantic Novel of the Year longlist shows she's gaining strides). Assisting Roberts' domination in the States is the women's television network Lifetime, which has turned four of her novels - Angels Fall, Blue Smoke, Montana Sky and Carolina Moon - into Lifetime Original Movies.

You can find tons of information on the movies, the books, the cast and Nora Roberts herself (along with a 'spot Nora' competition and blog) on the Lifetime website. [via Publishers Weekly]

Posted by Aigua Media on January 30, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Movie News, Romance, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 26, 2007 5:09 PM

Oprah’s latest bookclub choice

Is The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier.

While this is I’m sure an interesting and well-written memoir, I’m kind of put off by the fact that Sidney Poitier is one of Oprah’s closest friends, but should I be? What do you think?

Posted by Keris on January 26, 2007 in Book News, Book related, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Opinion, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

Cecelia Ahern's television show

Cecelia Ahern’s star just keeps on rising. She has apparently successfully pitched a TV series to the Hollywood producers of Desperate Housewives and Lost.

ABC Television will be making a pilot show of the series, which will be called Carpoolers and revolves around a group of suburban guys who carpool to work together every day.

Cecelia developed the idea with Hollywood screenwriter Don Todd, who has written the script and will be executive producer for the pilot. Ahern will also work as producer of the show, adding Hollywood big wig to her already impressive list of achievements. [via Unison.ie]

But that's not all ...

Cecelia’s pilot Sam I Am (previously The Memory Trace) has been picked up by ABC. Sam I Am is a comedy about a woman who wakes up from a coma with amnesia and has to rediscover her life, her relationships and herself. [via Cecelia's web site]

Posted by Keris on January 26, 2007 in Cecelia Ahern, Irish Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 17, 2007 8:49 AM

Marian Keyes TV weekend

Marian Keyes’ publisher, Penguin, has agreed a deal to sponsor a weekend of programming on the Paramount and E! television channels (neither of which I have - curses!) to coincide with the paperback launch of Anybody Out There (on 8 February).

The weekend of special programming will be called "The Funny Side of Love" and will take place on 17-18 February. Shows to be shown include Ally McBeal and Sex and the City and there will also be a 30-second promotional spot featuring Marian, along with details of the book and a competition to win a trip to New York (woo-hoo!). [via Revolution]

Posted by Keris on January 17, 2007 in Book News, Book related, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, New Releases, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 15, 2007 11:20 AM

Graphic novel film adaptations - the big earners and what we want to see next

We've talked before about the resurgence in popularity of comic books/graphic novels, with Jodi Picoult revamping Wonder Woman, Manga Romance and even a new graphic novel version of Wuthering Heights.

Plus there's Jennifer Crusie erm, writing about Wonder Woman underwear...

Here's a list of the most successful comic book film adaptations from 1978-present day. As you might suspect, women don't feature hugely, but maybe a new rumoured Wonder Woman movie starring Lorelei Gilmore (okay, Lauren Graham) could help change that...?

I'm also desperate for the film of Cancer Vixen to become a reality...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Movie News, New Releases, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

Debra Messing in The Starter Wife

The poor critical reaction to her turn in The Wedding Date - the film version of Liz Young's Asking for Trouble - obviously hasn't put Will and Grace's Debra Messing off chick lit; she's recently finished filming a mini series based on Gigi Levangie's novel The Starter Wife about the ex-wife of a Hollywood studio boss trying to get her life back on track.

Described as "a six hour television event," The Starter Wife will be shown on the USA Network in the, er, USA, but no news yet as to whether it will be shown in the UK. [via TMZ.com]

Posted by Keris on January 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

MORE ON MONDAY: Screen Burn by Charlie Brooker

A collection of Charlie Brooker's Guardian TV columns, Screen Burn is acerbic and hilarious.

Brooker mainly reviews things he hates which makes for fantastically vicious and entertaining reading. His description of Jonathan Wilkes replacing Lisa Riley as presenter of You've Been Framed is a perfect example:

'... like substituting a lump of sick for a lump of snot: equally bad yet somehow worse.'

I can't recommend this book highly enough. Yes he's violent (frequently suggesting, fantasising about and delighting in stabbings, massacres and even the beating of children) but he's always hilarious and there are so few books which provide a laugh-out-loud on every page. And how can you not love someone who calls mediums 'corpse whisperers'.

Put it in the loo and you'll look forward to going.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Like this? Try Things My Girlfriend and I Have Argued About by Mil Millington

Posted by Keris on January 15, 2007 in British Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 5/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 10, 2007 8:37 AM

Reading "24"

With Day 6 of 24 coming soon to Sky One (in the UK), I thought I'd see if there are any books on offer (I watched the first series, but haven't watched any more since I got so fed up of the female characters - particularly Jack's wife and daughter - being so pathetic. Do like Kiefer though.)

"24": Behind the Scenes by Jon Cassar, the show's Director/Co Executive Producer and features a behind-the-scenes DVD as well as everything you would usually expect from an official guide.

There's a biography of Kiefer Sutherland and an official companion to seasons one and two, plus - yes! - some novelisations, like Operation Hell Gate and Veto Power. There's even something called 24: The House Special Subcommittee's Findings at CTU.

Blimey. Smell that testosterone.

Posted by Keris on January 10, 2007 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Non Fiction, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

January 5, 2007 6:21 PM

Richard & Judy bookclub 2007

Yes, they've been announced! The titles of the books that are going to be flying off the shelves for the rest of this year:

The Interpretation of Murder by Jed Rubenfeld
The Testament of Gideon Mack by James Robertson
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This Book Will Save Your Life by A M Homes
Restless by William Boyd
Love in the Present Tense by Catherine Ryan Hyde
The Girls by Lori Lansens
Semi-Detached by Griff Rhys Jones

They'll be officially announced on Richard & Judy's UK TV show on 31 January and you'll be able to buy them from the website. [via Galleycat]

I've only heard of two of the books and three of the authors, so I have to disagree with Mark Lawson's assertion that the couple choose books that would have done well without their help.

So what do you think? Is it a good list? Have you read any of them? Do you want to read any of them?

[Richard and Judy archives]

Posted by Keris on January 5, 2007 in American Authors, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 2, 2007 5:07 PM

BOOK NEWS: How Not to be a Desperate Housewife... and the long-awaited Gilmore Girls collection!

They're baaaaack! Yes, those crazy ladies of Wisteria Lane are back tomorrow with a double bill (9.30 PM, Channel 4, lock the doors and unplug the phone) and if you don't want to end up like them, this book might help: How Not to Be a Desperate Housewife by Charlotte Williamson.

[Via Cupcate].

In other book/TV tie-in news, the WAY too overdue essay collection, Coffee at Luke's: An Unauthorized Gilmore Girls Gabfest is finally listed on Amazon, although won't be out until May. Jennifer Crusie will be editing once more, and I can't WAIT!

Related posts: Reading Desperate Housewives / Reading Gilmore Girls. And don't forget our sister site, TV Scoop!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, British Authors, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 18, 2006 5:35 PM

Losing Gemma on TV tonight

UK-based Trashionistas may well be interested in a two-part drama starting on ITV1 tonight (9pm). Losing Gemma is based on the best-selling novel by Katy Gardner - about two friends who go backpacking in India and what happens when one goes missing. It concludes tomorrow night, also at 9.

Posted by Aigua Media on December 18, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 15, 2006 3:11 PM

Reading "Will and Grace"

One of my favourite shows of all time finished earlier this year: Will and Grace. Yes, it should really have been called Jack and Karen, but this show about a gay man, his best friend and their best friends was consistently funny over eight seasons.

I'm guessing that since it's only just finished, more books may be on the way, but currently there's just a guide called "Will and Grace": Fabulously Uncensored with all the usual guide stuff - interviews, deleted scenes, photos, plus the scoop on the special guests (Matt Damon was my favourite).

And I know it's not book-related, but I was excited to find out that Megan Mullally who played Karen has a CD out called Big As a Berry. Intriguing.

Posted by Keris on December 15, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 7, 2006 7:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: What Would Murphy Brown Do? by Allison Klein

Murphy Brown was a 1990s TV show, hugely successful in the US, but less well-known in the UK. The titular character was a tough female journalist and in What Would Murphy Brown Do? Allison Klein examines not only Murphy, but a number of other strong and influential women TV characters, from Roseanne to Ellen to Rachel in Friends.

Starting with "the first overtly feminist sitcom", The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Klein looks at every aspect of women on TV, from the life of the unmarried sitcom woman to body image and ageing to women behind the scenes, supported by quotes from the shows themselves.

I found the essays "Doing 'It' for Fun: The New TV Sexuality" and "The Wonder of Womanhood: TV Friendship" to be the most interesting, but it's all thought-provoking stuff and it also means I've added Roseanne, The Golden Girls and Kate and Allie to my DVD wishlist.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Welcome to Wisteria Lane ed. by Leah Wilson

Television archives

Posted by Keris on December 7, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 6, 2006 4:52 PM

Reading "The Sopranos"

Just because we’re women doesn’t mean we can’t like the mob-fest that is The Sopranos! Granted, I have to cover my eyes on occasion (and I don’t mean when Tony’s in his vest), but I love the show and there are some interesting female characters. If you’ve never seen it - and you’re not squeamish - it’s definitely worth a look.

Book-wise there’s The Sopranos Family Cookbook (Cooking, you see? It is for girls after all!) features Italian recipes created with the characters in mind.

If you’re more business-minded, then how about Tony Soprano on Management: Leadership Lessons Inspired by America's Favorite Mobster. Yes, it sounds gimmicky, but it’s actually supposed to be quite good.

Too macho? Maybe Entertaining with "The Sopranos": A Guide to Special Occasions is more your thing. Similar to the cookbook, but with a wider brief: “from dinner parties to barbecues, from student parties to birthdays and anniversaries.” I'm thinking of hosting a Sopranos-themed Christmas dinner ...

There is, of course, a cultural analysis - Reading “The Sopranos”, which includes essays on such topics as racism and the Italian-American community and Carmela and post-feminism. The Sopranos and Philosophy: I Kill Therefore I Am is along the same lines. There’s also The "Sopranos" on the Couch: Analyzing Television's Greatest Series which is an episode review, but focusing on the “broader cultural context.”

Inspired by the wisdom of Paulie Walnuts? Then how about The Tao of Bada Bing!: Words of Wisdom from "The Sopranos" - an official guide to “the language, philosophy and street wisdom of the world's most famous mobster family.”

Posted by Keris on December 6, 2006 in American Authors, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 1, 2006 12:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Welcome to Wisteria Lane ed. by Leah Wilson

Wisteria_1 As you might guess from the title, Welcome to Wisteria Lane is a Desperate Housewives-themed collection of essays, by the people who brought you Flirting with Pride and Prejudice and This is Chick Lit.

Of the three books, I think this one is actually my favourite! A whole book about the inhabitants of Wisteria Lane, especially in the show's off-season (as it is now in the UK) is a wonderful treat, like curling up in front of a winter's fire with a cup of hot chocolate... which, now that I think about it, is a good way to read this book... Essays by authors including Shanna Swendson, Lani Diane Rich and Deanna Carlyle explore everything from the hazards of suburban living, to the best housewife role model, to a deconstruction of how cultural differences affect the way the show plays in different countries.

I found all of this very entertaining, and a lot of the essays made me think deeper than I expected- I came away from the book thinking that yes, Lynette is more selfish than I thought! And yes! I have been too hard on Edie, and yes! the men of Wisteria Lane are some weak caricatures... My Favourite essays were Lani Diane Rich's, "Why the best nighttime soap ever is not a nighttime soap, dammit" (about the programme's great writing), Beth Kendrick's "Growing up Wisteria" (the kids of Wisteria Lane) and Sarah Zettel's "Something familiar, something peculiar" (about why men love watching the show).

There were a couple of essays I liked a little less- including one that got too silly for my liking, and one which got too serious- but which other people might enjoy, so it seems unfair to single them out. As a whole, it's a very strong book, providing a great, intelligent and often very fun insight into 'the Lane' that DH fans will love.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Burnt Toast by Teri Hatcher.

*DID YOU KNOW?* You can catch up with any episodes you've missed on the Channel 4 site.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 1, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 30, 2006 12:46 PM

Reading Smallville

Back to another show I've never watched, I'm afraid. Smallville is a series about Clark Kent/Superman's early life and I've heard it's rather fab (and not just because Tom Welling is undeniably cute).

First up is Smallville: The Visual Guide. Featuring the first five seasons, it includes all the usual profiles and pics along with "specially commissioned, never-seen-before maps of Smallville and Metropolis."

There are official companions to Season 1, Season 2 and Season 3 along with a series of novelisations including Arrival, See No Evil, Sparks and the rather exciting-sounding, Animal Rage.

No cultural study as yet, but the show does feature prominently in The Man from Krypton, which is "a closer look" at Superman in general.

Posted by Keris on November 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Non Fiction, Series, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

Watch Madonna talk books

Well, it makes a nice change from hearing her talk about adoption, Africa, etc etc etc! She talks about her hugely popular The English Roses book, and its new sequel The English Roses: Too Good To Be True. And she makes some great feminist points about books for young girls!

The interview is in four parts, all on YouTube.

[Via Book Trailer Park].

Related: Kylie joins celebrity authors.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Series, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 28, 2006 11:32 AM

Marian Keyes news- she's on Strictly and on film!

Mariankeyes Anyone who watched Strictly Come Dancing's sister show It Takes Two yesterday will have seen footage of the lovely Marian Keyes behind the scenes on Saturday's SCD, giving her unique take on the series- inspecting the underwear arrangements inside the girls' dresses (not whilst anyone was wearing them, I hasten to add!) and screaming with such excitement at meeting Lilia - she almost provoked the poor girl to need a restraining order. Then she treated us to a little of her dancing... hmm. All in all, very entertaining. If barmy.

AND! Did you know that there's a film of her novel Last Chance Saloon? If you did, you're more informed than I am! Called ‘Au secours j’ai trente ans’ (which Babelfish translates - I suspect a little too literally - as "With the help I am thirty years old") it's a French film that sadly doesn't have a subtitled version available on English or American Amazon, but you can buy a copy via the French version of the site. A reviewer there only gave it 2/5, but Marian says in Further Under the Duvet that she thinks it's a very good adaptation - and you can't say fairer than that!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 28, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Movie News, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 27, 2006 9:56 AM

TV News: Going Overboard

Yep, normally it's movie news, or play news (news about plays, rather than pretend news, that is!) around here so I thought it was about time for some TV-themed book goss.

Kelsey Grammar, TV producer (of lots of stuff, including a big fave of mine, Medium) and ex-Frasier, is helping turn American author Sarah Smiley's memoir, Going Overboa rd (subtitle: The Misadventures of a Military Wife) into a sitcom for American network CBS.

[Via SarahSmiley.com]

DID YOU KNOW? Jennifer Weiner's Good in Bed was optioned to be made into a TV series by HBO (makers of SATC, of course) but sadly nothing came of it... boo. Get Kelsey on the case!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 27, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 22, 2006 1:40 PM

Reading The West Wing

The West Wing is my favourite TV show of all time and I know that Diane is equally obsessed, so it's amazing I haven't featured it sooner. In case you've never seen the show - and if you haven't, you really should (put this on your Christmas list) - it follows the Presidency of Jed Bartlet (Martin Sheen) and his brilliant staff. It's sharp, funny, thought-provoking and inspiring. And, no, you don't have to be interested in or understand politics to enjoy it.

The official guide, The West Wing Companion, features the usual episode guide (for the first two seasons) and character profiles.

Inside Bartlet's White House is an unauthorised guide but an informed and informative one. It features background, quotes, inaccuracies, and explanations (very handy to decipher all that political jargon). Inside the West Wing is along the same lines and includes critical responses to the show.

There are two script books - Seasons 1 & 2 and Seasons 3 & 4 which are not only brilliant in their own right, they also help you catch all the bits you missed (The West Wing is a very fast show!).

If you do happen to be interested in the political aspect of the show, then try Mr. Sorkin Goes to Washington: Shaping the President on Television's the "West Wing" or "The West Wing": The American Presidency as Television Drama

There's also a book about the creator of The West Wing, Aaron Sorkin. In Considering Aaron Sorkin: Essays on the Politics, Poetics and Sleight of Hand in the Films and Television Series, eleven writers "explore the subtle, pervasive and often contradictory messages woven throughout Sorkin's work, from politics to portrayals of women, and consider his impact on film, television and culture." The book also features an interview with Aaron Sorkin himself.

Posted by Keris on November 22, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 16, 2006 2:11 PM

Reading Grey's Anatomy

Yes! I series I actually watch! Or did, until I missed most of the second series ..

Anyway Grey's Anatomy in a hospital drama in the ER vein, it features Patrick Dempsey as the delicious Dr McDreamy (not his real name) and it's one of Alison Pace's favourite TV shows. That's all you need to know really.

There's only one Grey's Anatomy book so far, but it sounds so good I thought I'd go ahead and tell you about it.

Written by Stacy McKee and Chris Van Dusen - both writers for the show - Grey's Anatomy: Notes from the Nurses Station and Overheard at the Emerald City Bar is two books in one. Read it from one side (Notes from the Nurses Station) and get Debbie's hospital gossip; read it from the other (Overheard at the Emerald City Bar) and get Joe the bartender’s take. Cool.

Posted by Keris on November 16, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 7, 2006 2:50 PM

Marian Keyes's favourite dancer/ girl crush talks to TV Scoop

Lilia01 Over on TV Scoop right now you can read an interview with Marian Keyes's favourite Strictly Come Dancing dancer and the subject of her "girl crush", Lilia Kopylova. Just click here!

On her monthly blog the author said: "This year: The return of SCD means that I've moved from my Summer crush on Davina McCall to my Autumn crushes on Claudia Winkleman and Lilia Kopylova." On Strictly's sister show It Takes Two last Friday she added that she loves Lilia because she likes to think that if life had turned out differently, she could have been her. Turns out Lilia is hugely flattered as she's a huge Keyes fan and wants to meet her. (Don't we all!) Surely the BBC can make it happen?!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 7, 2006 in Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 2, 2006 8:00 AM

Reading Veronica Mars

Veronica Mars is another show I've never seen, but fully plan to catch up with on DVD (one day, when I've finished Buffy, Alias, Charmed and all the others I've been instructed to watch!). Diane mentioned a novel by a Veronica Mars writer, but what else is there for the discerning VM fan?

Well the first one I found isn't just about Veronica Mars, but it sounds great. Teen Dreams: Reading Teen Film and Television from Heathers to Veronica Mars is by Roz Kaveney. Along with VM ("Watching the Teen Detective"), she also looks at how Jane Austen's Emma became Clueless and, of course, Buffy.

And that's pretty much it, I'm afraid. There are two novelisations due out in June next year - The Case Files of Veronica Mars Book One and Book Two, but apart from that you'll just have to comfort yourself with a calendar (except it appears to cost almost £50 on Amazon UK; that can't be right ..).

Posted by Keris on November 2, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Series, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 1, 2006 6:01 PM

Win books on Corrieblog!

We're a little late mentioning it but yesterday our wonderful sister site Corrieblog turned one- Happy Birthday Corrieblog! I can't imagine the blogging world without you- what a sad place it must have been...

Anyway, to celebrate, they have three signed copies of Julie Goodyear's autobiography to give away on the site- click here to find out more about the book and how to enter!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 1, 2006 in Announcements, Book News, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Competition, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK NEWS: Felicity Huffman

Not long ago, we wrote about Sex and the City's Kim Cattrall's books, including her latest - for teens this time - Being A Girl.

Now it seems - not to be outdone - Desperate Housewives' Felicity Huffman has her own book coming out. Published next January, it's snappily titled A Practical Handbook for the Boyfriend: For Every Guy Who Wants to Be One/For Every Girl Who Wants to Build One and is described as a blithe, bold, and bawdy guide to building a better boyfriend (filled with humor, ribaldry, common sense, and assorted outdoor skills). Sounds, er, interesting. (But she is married to the wonderful William H Macy, so I'm happy to take her advice!)

Posted by Keris on November 1, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Television, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 30, 2006 11:03 AM

More Richard and Judy book news

What's the best gift book to get your mum, dad, boyfriend or best friend? Well, as you should already know, Richard and Judy will be helping you make that choice on December 9th, and we now know (thanks to Bookseller.com) that Rupert Everett, Billie Piper, Gordon Ramsay and the Little Britain boys Matt Lucas and Matt Walliams will also be there to help decide on the best books for Xmas 06. Discover the top picks on Saturday 9th December.

And! Over on the 4 Radio website you can download discussions of this year's R & J book club picks (or the first four of them, anyway: Arthur & George, Empress Orchid, The Farm and Moondust). The new Richard and Judy book club will be coming up early next year (I'm excited!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 30, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 26, 2006 3:46 PM

Reading Beverly Hills 90210

Lord, did I ever love Beverly Hills 90210. I loved Brandon. I loved Dylan. I hated Brenda (didn't everyone hate Brenda?). I wanted to go to school there and work on the newspaper with Aaaaandrea and punch Ian Ziering in the face during the opening credits (playfully and in time with the music, of course). Ah, those were the days.

If you miss it as much as I do (although I seriously doubt you do), you'll be delighted to know there are LOADS of 90210 related books! Unfortunately, because the show's been over for so long, many of them are out of print, but I'll do what I can ...

After that introduction, I'd better start with a serious one. How about Beverly Hills, 90210: Television, Gender, and Identity (Feminist Cultural Studies, the Media, and Political Culture) by E Graham McKinley? Based on, according to Entertainment Weekly, "intense sessions of anthropological research", the book focuses on how watching the show informs the construction of identity for young female viewers. Blimey.

Carry on over the cut for more frivolous picks.

I can't see an authorised guide, but there's an unauthorised guide with a startlingly boring cover.

There are loads of novelisations, like Two Hearts, Senior Year and More Than Words.

And - oh look! - The "I Hate Brenda" Book!

There's also a book called All I Need to Know I Learned on Beverly Hills 90210 which I really want to read, but can't find anywhere. Damn.

Posted by Keris on October 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

Alison Pace's next book (and what she's watching now she's finished it!)

If you've never read the blog of Pug Hill author Alison Pace, then you've been missing out on a great read- and her latest book-related gossip. This week she revealed that she has turned in the first draft of her third novel, Through Thick And Thin, which is to be released late summer next year. She also discussed her new favourite TV show (which I can't wait to see, after watching the first ten minutes on Youtube): Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Another one to add to our list of chick-lit authors' fave TV shows!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 25, 2006 7:08 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Last week, you were all in favour (although Gemma was a little reluctant!) of the new Jane Austen covers. I have to say I agree with you, I think they're fab!

This week, I want to ask you about something completely different... Novelisations. There's something strange about adding '-isations' on the end of the word novel, isn't there? And yet they're huge sellers. As Keris has pointed out, there's a lot of them relating to teen shows like Dawson's Creek and The O.C.

In case you're unfamiliar with the term, a novelisation is a book created after the fact: a novel re-creating or expanding the storyline of a popular film or TV series. Keris has confessed to reading a Gremlins novelisation (hey, there's no shame in it!) and I had one or two Beverly Hills 90210- themed novelisations back in the '90s... But what do you think about them: are they a great way of prolonging the pleasure, or a sad attempt to extract money from the susceptible tweenage market? In other words...

Is it a Yay or a Nay, and Why?

Yay or Nay Archives.

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by Aigua Media on October 25, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, Series, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (5)

October 18, 2006 6:18 PM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Pandp Mansfield_1 I finally saw Reader I Married Him when it was repeated on Sunday, and it was great! But in an interview about the importance of book covers, author Deborah Moggach was rather critical of the new Jane Austen cover designs, which have a more modern chick-lit feel. She even said they 'demean' Austen! Sophie Kinsella however, thought they were a great idea, but will they bring in new readers? More importantly, do you like them, or is it sacrilege? Tell us Yay or Nay- and why!

(Give the ladies at Catwalk Queen a vote, too!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 18, 2006 in Book News, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Classic Novels, Romance, Sophie Kinsella, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (8)

Reading Gilmore Girls

You know we love Gilmore Girls here at Trashionista. Diane is currently working her way through the series on DVD for the first time, while I am watching it for the umpteenth. So wouldn't it be great if there were a bunch of Gilmore Girls books we could buy each other for Christmas?

Well ... there's no official guide. No unofficial guide. No calendar. No book of quotes (shockingly). No Gilmore guide to life.

There are, however, a few novelisations like I Do, Don't I?, I Love You, You Idiot and Like Mother, Like Daughter.

Looks like soap-on-a-rope again this year, Diane ...

Posted by Keris on October 18, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (5)

October 16, 2006 5:30 PM

Reading Strictly Come Dancing?

Bruce_tess02_1 [Note to readers: please pardon the following self-indulgence!]

I was trying to work out a way to subtly mention that I'm now writing weekly Strictly Come Dancing updates for TV Scoop but I've realised that in life, as in the show, it doesn't do to be subtle! Both Keris and I are massive fans of SCD and if you are too, here's where to read my updates on Week 1 and Week 2. (Look out for them every Monday from now on if they tickle your fancy).

I thought that perhaps I could relate this topic to books by linking to a plethora of Strictly-related books, but no such plethora exists. There's just a kind of SCD annual (which nevertheless looks fabulous!) Here's this year's, and last year's.

If you search for "come dancing" in Amazon books, you're also offered this and this... Hmm.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 16, 2006 in Book News, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 13, 2006 12:02 PM

Book Trailerpark- for book trailers news!

I've talked about blogging this week and last, and we've told you about the popularity of book trailers before. I guess the logical amalgamation of both these things is Book Trailerpark, a new blog about book trailers. It's only been running since October 9th, but it's fascinating already- although they could include a bit more about women's fiction... I'm sure they will soon! Anyway, here's a trailer they recommend, for Julie Powell's fabulous Julie and Julia (vegetarians beware...)

[Via Galleycat].

(Clearly we're in a techie mood here today!)

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Recent Release, Technology, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 12, 2006 11:09 AM

Reading The O.C.

Who doesn't love The O.C.? Much like Beverly Hills 90210, The O.C. features a bunch of spoiled-ish rich kids hanging out, talking a lot and generally being glamorous, but this time in Orange County, California, rather than Hollywood, California - so it's completely different, see? While 90210 lasted out a good few seasons before becoming unacceptably ridiculous, The O.C. only managed one perfect season before jumping the shark.

In its favour The O.C.'s got Seth Cohen (Adam Brody) - darling of geek-loving women everywhere - not to mention Jim Robinson from Neighbours. (Apparently some people find Ryan attractive. I can't see it myself, but those people will probably like the Lads of The O.C. calendar.) While I'm on that subject, there is an unofficial biography of both Adam Brody and Benjamin McKenzie entitled Meet the Boys of Summer.

The official book is called Meet The O.C. Superstars and is apparently "a must" for fans of the show. Amazingly, I can't find an unofficial book.

There are novelisations like Spring Break and the fabulously titled The Summer of Summer (who thinks these things up?) plus, brilliantly, 'Twas the Night Before Chrismukkah but that seems to be about all. Shame.

Posted by Keris on October 12, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

October 10, 2006 2:15 PM

Waters for the Booker?

Last month, I told you about the Booker Prize shortlist and today we'll finally find out who's won!

Sarah Waters' novel The Night Watch (which I believe my co-ed Keris found a tad disappointing...?) is the current bookies' favourite to win, with odds of 6-4. But this is one prize where the favourite is often pipped to the post by something completely unexpected, so we'll have to wait and see. (I'm just glad to see women outnumber men on the shortlist for a change! Especially as they include Kate Grenville, a huge fave of mine...)

Anyway, the winner -whoever he or she may be- will be announced during the 10 O'Clock News on BBC1 tonight, and you can catch further coverage later on Newsnight, News 24 and Radio 4, if you're so inclined.

[Via Publishing News and The Man Booker Prize website]

UPDATE!: What did I tell you?! The Booker was once again predictable in its unpredictability- congratulations to Kiran Desai!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 10, 2006 in Book News, Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

October 9, 2006 4:35 PM

TV NEWS: Wide Sargasso Sea

Admittedly, we were a bit late in telling you about the BBC's production of Jane Eyre, but we're just in time to tell you about Wide Sargasso Sea. Based on the Jean Rhys novel (which, as the story of Rochester's wife Bertha, was inspired by Jane Eyre) it starts tonight on BBC Four tonight at 9pm and concludes on Sunday 15th at 10pm.

You can read more about it and watch clips here.

Posted by Keris on October 9, 2006 in Book related, Classic Novels, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 2, 2006 11:36 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin

With the film version of Armistead Maupin's most recent book, The Night Listener, about to hit cinemas, I thought it was time to mention another of my all-time favourites, the Tales of the City series.

Tales of the City is the first in a series of six books set in San Franciso in the late seventies and early eighties. Mary Ann Singleton is a sheltered secretary from Cleveland when she visits San Francisco for the first time and decides to stay. Moving into 28 Barbary Lane she meets and befriends a cast of outrageous but totally believable and charming characters, pretty much all of whom I fell in love with.

Probably the most popular and best-known character of the series is Michael "Mouse" Tolliver, apparently based on the author himself. Mouse is just gorgeous, vulnerable and real, and even though he's a gay man I identified with him more than Mary Ann so I was very excited to hear that Maupin his finally signed a deal for a new book. It's called Michael Tolliver Lives and, though some other Tales characters may appear, it's primarily about Mouse aged 55 and living with HIV.

But I digress. The Tales of the City series is a modern soap opera. It's far-fetched, melodramatic, unbelievable, stuffed with ridiculous plot twists and coincidences, but I defy you not to fall in love with it. I read the first and then could not rest until I'd read the other five. I've recommended them to everyone. I exclaimed out loud - with shock or delight - when reading them (sometimes in public). Yep, as so many reviews say, I laughed, I cried, I couldn't put it down. Really. I can't recommend this series highly enough.

Of course, if you're obsessed as me, you'll know that Tales of the City, More Tales of the City and Further Tales of the City were all made into TV mini-series (starring Laura Linney and Olympia Dukakis) and are available on DVD.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Did you know? If you're heading to San Francisco you can take the Tales of the City tour (yes, I've done it).

Posted by Keris on October 2, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Classic Novels, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Prize Winners, Rating: 5/5, Romance, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (5)

September 29, 2006 12:02 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

Shoes4_1 Back in 2001, Jennifer Weiner was a single Philadelphia newspaper journalist who wrote novels in her spare time. In 2006, she's a famous and highly successful chick-lit (although she apparently hates the term!) novelist with a husband, daughter, and cash from Hollywood in her back pocket. We've reviewed all of her other books (including her latest, The Guy Not Taken), recommended her blog more times than I can count- and she's been the subject of a Trashionista Spotlight profile. So it's a little scandalous that we've never reviewed her debut novel Good in Bed.

The story of Cannie, who finds out her boyfriend Bruce has left her for another woman by reading about it in his new magazine column, it addresses issues of family, self-image and love in a way we hadn't seen in chick-lit before. Cannie isn't a Bridget Jones style diet-obsessive- she has phases where she's unhappy with her body, but generally she likes being a larger lady. And she is, we're assured, very good in bed...

If Bruce thought that their break-up was going to destroy Cannie, he was wrong. At first, she's betrayed and devastated, but gradually she starts to re-assess the relationship and realise that she's better off without him. And then he comes back into her life, bringing an added complication... But that's not all she has to think about! Bruce getting a column spurs Cannie to concentrate on her own writing, and good things start happening there, too. And then in a moment of low self-esteem she signs up for a weight-loss workshop and realises one of the doctors there seems to have taken a special liking to her...

This book is unpredictable, yet has a happy ending- but one where not everything is solved. It's more realistic than that. (In fact, I was a bit disappointed that there wasn't one more final conversation settling things between Cannie and Bruce, but that perhaps wouldn't have been very realistic). On the other hand, Cannie's writing success story seems miraculous in terms of the time span of the book but gives the novel a fairy-tale aspect which I think many readers will enjoy and feel she deserves. My only real criticism of the book is that Cannie is supposedly happy with her body, with not being thin. She exercises, is confident and has a good life (when she's not being dumped in the national press, that is) but there's too much mention of how she looks and what she wears for her to come across as truly happy. She should be able to be happy with being a larger size, of course- I'd love there to be more different-sized women in chick lit who aren't desperate to be thin. But with Cannie we're not there yet... Again, maybe because Weiner wants to be realistic? Despite these slight qualms, the writing is so good that I still loved every second of this book. I laughed, I cried... and I only read it by accident!

You see, I was in one of those book clubs where you have to send in a form each month or you're sent the book-of-the-month and the month that Good In Bed was the BOTM, I'd forgotten. I almost sent it back unread but something compelled me to keep it and I'm so glad I did. It's one of my favourite chick-lit books of all time: sharply written with an aspirational yet poignant story and a lot of heart, you'd have to be a hard-nosed Trashionista not to love it.

Rating: 5 out of 5

*Did you know?* A few years ago, Good In Bed was bought by HBO (makers of Sex And The City, of course) to be turned into a TV series, then... nothing.

Like this? Try Conversations With The Fat Girl by Liza Palmer; In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 5/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

Adora Svitak- the eight year old bookaholic who puts us all to shame!

Two days ago, Keris brought us news of an eleven year-old with a book deal- now here's an eight year old!

American Adora Svitak practically defines the term "genius overachiever" and makes the rest of us look, quite frankly, a bit dim. A fan of books on French philosophy and debates about politics, her book Flying Fingers (from www.aultbeapublishing.com) contains writing advice for those of us less prodigious, along with samples of some of her four hundred short stories and poems. She's even been on Oprah. Oh yeah- and she routinely reads three novels a day, but hey, who doesn't?! (Oh yeah- me...)

[Via The Mirror].

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 28, 2006 10:38 AM

Reading Dawson's Creek

By special request from Diane, yet another TV show I've never seen. I know! (But if you think I was too busy having a life to watch all this stuff you'd be sadly mistaken.) Dawson's Creek was supposedly about a bloke called Dawson, but all I ever heard about was Pacey and Joey (Katie Holmes before she was the future Mrs Cruise). They lived near a creek, talked a lot and all snogged each other. Does that summarise it? Diane?

And are there books? You betcha! There's an official companion to Seasons 1 and 2 and an Official Scrapbook with a foreword by the show's creator Kevin Williamson. There's even an official Postcard Book!

Read on over the cut for more, much more ...

Troubled Waters is the unofficial guide containing the usual episode and character guide. There's also a "fanatic's guide" called Way Too Much Information.

Fiction-wise there's there are some novelisations like Calm Before the Storm and Major Meltdown but there's also the Dawson's Creek Suspense Trilogy, starting with Lighthouse Legend, which sees the Joey, Pacey and Dawson solving mysteries. Kind of like Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. Probably. It was close, but even better than that is My Fantasy Dream Date With ... James Van Der Beek (amongst others).

Talking of James Van Der Beek, if you're so inclined there's The Boy Next Door: The James Van Der Beek story, a biography of Joshua Jackson, Girl Next Door: All About Katie Holmes (from 2000) and a more recent biography (which might be a little more interesting).

Also available - and I love this - are school curriculum materials (presumably out of date, but still) like
The Beginning of Everything Else. They come with an audio CD and you can download the worksheets from Macmillan's site. (Examples: "Here is a picture of Joey and Dawson at the end of the story. What is each of them thinking?" "Read Dawson’s movie script on pages 10 and 11 again. Dawson is going to make a movie of Pacey’s rescue of Joey. Write Dawson’s movie script ..." "A year after the end of this story, Joey and Dawson are talking together. Write their conversation.")

There's even a book of sheet music of the Songs from Dawson's Creek for "piano/vocal/guitar".

Posted by Keris on September 28, 2006 in Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 26, 2006 11:52 AM

TV News: Jane Eyre (Yes, we're latecomers!)

Jane Feel free to give us a metaphorical rap on the knuckles for this one, loyal readers! Call ourselves a site bringing you book news?? We're going to be spending the rest of the day in the corner of the classroom with our Dunce caps on. (Sorry Keris, I realise you might have had other plans!)

And why, you might ask? Well: we've told you about an illustrated version of Jane Eyre, gave you a heads-up about romantic fiction programme Reader, I Married Him (whose title is taken from Jane Eyre)- heck, we even mentioned the book in passing in last week's Thursday Three!

And yet somehow the news that one of the most popular classic romantic novels by a woman EVER had been adapted into a major new BBC TV series wasn't ever on our radar! ('Duh' doesn't quite cover it, does it?) It's on Sundays at 9pm and repeated the following Sunday afternoon- but you probably know that already...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 26, 2006 in Book News, Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Television | Permalink | Comments (3)

TRASHIONISTA RECOMMENDS: Expanded Books

If you've been paying attention to Trashionista in recent weeks, you'll know that Meet the Author is a fab site featuring authors talking about their work and Vidlit is an innovative book trailers website.

Well, Expanded books is a fabulous mix of the two! Featuring pictures or anecdotes from books, along with interviews with their authors, these three-minute video clips are entertaining, informative- and can help you decide if a book is right for you. Featured authors include Tabloid Love author Bridget Harrison and bestselling medical thriller writer Tess Gerristen. Plus, How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (that would be nice!)

I can't help wondering how authors feel about all this technology though- Jane Austen never had to make a video or go on a talk show, do modern writers despair of having to be "on show"? Or do they like having a reason to get dressed and leave the house?!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 26, 2006 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, British Authors, New Releases, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 25, 2006 11:46 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Out of Sight by Elmore Leonard

Elmoreleonard_1 If you've never heard of Elmore Leonard, you'll doubtless have heard of Out of Sight, made into a 1998 film starring J-Lo (before she was J-Lo) and the Cloonster. Or you might have heard of some of his other books: Get Shorty, Jackie Brown, Be Cool...? Leonard is a living legend. His books have inspired Tarantino and many other movie makers, and with their fast pace, snappy dialogue, pop cultural references and just general hipness, it's easy to see why.

Out of Sight is the story of Jack Foley, a career criminal who's become a celebrity in the bank-robbing business and who's hatched an elaborate plan to break out of jail and evade the law. He makes it out of jail, but deputy US Marshall Karen Sisco is smarter than the cops he usually has to give the slip to, and she's not about to let Jack go without a fight...

Like all Elmore's books, this one is so cool! It's very cinematic, with little description and lots of talk (he's one of the masters of dialogue) and lots of action (never a dull moment). There's violence and bad people in Out of Sight, but it's not dumb violence- it's always integral to the story and adds an air of authenticity. And Elmore always stops before it gets too much- which is perhaps why his books appeal to as many women as men. This is the kind of book where you're actually cheering on the 'bad guys', but you feel for the good guys too. I love this mix of moral complexity and escapism. The characters are morally complex, too- Karen Sisco's job is to bring in Jack Foley, but after being taken hostage by him for a few days, she feels herself falling for him, and is conflicted about putting him back behind bars...

I read this book after seeing the film years earlier, and I'm glad I did it that way round- I imagined Sisco and Foley as Lopez and Clooney (they allegedly hated each other, but it made for great sexual tension, which is a large part of the book too).

A quote from The Guardian on the back of the book says, "Out of sight contains all the best qualities of Leonard's writing: humour, black and good; timing; just the right amount of action, and major cool." Too right. Leonard is one of the coolest writers of all time- effortlessly conveying the struggles of the criminal underworld. It almost spoils the illusion to discover he's an eighty-something white guy from a posh area of Georgia...

Rating: 5 out of 5

*Did you know?* Out of Sight was the inspiration for Karen Sisco, a short-lived TV series that was actually not half bad (ITV1 used to show it at around midnight) and which starred Robert Forster (Max Cherry in Jackie Brown).

Like this? Try One Shot by Lee Child.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 25, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Rating: 5/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 21, 2006 11:58 AM

Reading Angel

As you know, I'm only just starting to catch up with Buffy and now there's Angel too. I've reached the point in my Buffy-watching (season 4) when I apparently need to start alternating episodes with the first season of Angel and who's got the time? Honestly, all this great TV to catch up on. I need to cut down on sleeping or something (cos I can't cut down on reading, of course!).

Anyway, there are, of course, reams of Angel books. Five Seasons of Angel features essays by Jennifer Crusie and Sherrilyn Kenyon. The unofficial guides include Once Bitten and Reading Angel and the official guide is The Angel Casefiles.

Carry on over the cut for more Angel.

There's Angel fiction too, written by Jeff Mariotte, who has also written a Charmed book, Mirror Image. There's even an Angel graphic novel: Angel Spotlight.

Posted by Keris on September 21, 2006 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (10)

September 20, 2006 10:51 AM

YAY OR NAY WEDNESDAY

Remember when I told you about Reader, I Married Him? Well, host Daisy Goodwin got herself into a little hot water last week when she suggested that few men enjoy, or enjoy writing, romantic fiction. We occasionally take a look at chick-lit by men, and Galleycat tried to prove her wrong, but what do you think?

Today's Yay or Nay: Can men write romantic fiction as well as their female counterparts? (And if you're a male writer travelling through these here parts, don't be shy!)

Tell us Yay or Nay- and why!

[Don't forget it's Yay or Nay day at Hippyshopper, Bridalwave, Corrie Blog, Catwalk Queen, Kiss and Makeup, The Bag Lady, Shoewawa and Shiny Shiny, too!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 20, 2006 in Book related, Girly Stuff, Television, Yay or Nay? | Permalink | Comments (12)

September 14, 2006 11:37 AM

THURSDAY THREE: Bridget, meet Carrie...

"Bridget Jones meets Sex and the City." Yep, that old chestnut. Sounds like it would be the perfect way to describe a chick-lit novel, doesn't it? It's pretty much an author's dream to hear their work is an amalgam of two of the most influential books in the whole genre (unless you were aiming for something a little more Martin Amis-esque, of course!) But it's been overdone. Some reviewers still seem to think it's an original remark, and trot it out at every opportunity. It's been devalued by being used about every author who so much as mentions Manhattan. Let's stop the madness! And discuss whether these three contenders are worthy of the cliche...

First up, Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison, and this one actually IS well described as a cross between Bridget Jones's Diary and SATC- it's a memoir about a single British girl called Bridget looking for love in NYC, who has a Carrie-style relationships column in a popular newspaper. No wonder the quote on the cover is actually from Candace Bushnell herself...

Second, we have Girls' Poker Night by Jill A. Davis, this time a novel but again about a young woman in NYC who's looking for love (kind of). And playing some poker (which is more of a Desperate Housewives kinda thing, no?) This time the label "Bridget Jones Meets Sex and the City" is from Library Journal- and I'm not convinced.

What will the third book be? Read on to find out (I'll make it worth your while!)

Amy Cameron's Playing with Matches is a collection of true-life tales from herself and other women, focusing on disastrous dating. As you can see from the above link, the first line of its blurb is "Part Sex & the City, part Bridget Jones’s Diary." Quelle original! Read a wry/mocking article on this overexposed/lazy book description here.

In other Canadian book news, Leah Mcclaren's debut novel has also been described in the press as... well, take a guess! Watch this trailer for her book The Continuity girl [warning: lots of flashing lights] however, and marvel at the surprising use of the phrase "sperm bandit." Now that's not a phrase book reviewers see every day!

(These last two books appear to only be available via Amazon.ca at present).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 14, 2006 in American Authors, British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Non Fiction, Opinion, Television, Tuesday Three | Permalink | Comments (0)

TV News: Reader, I Married Him

Make a note in your diaries for 9pm this coming Monday (18th September) because no self-respecting Trashionista will want to miss a new three-part series, Reader, I Married Him, on BBC4. Presented by Daisy Goodwin, it focuses on the continuing popularity of romantic fiction and traces its origins. Goodwin will be speaking to Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella and Jilly Cooper about why their books are so popular, as well as looking at heroes and heroines in classic romantic fiction (that'll be Mr Darcy and Jane Eyre then...) You can watch a trailer via the website and you'll also find a quiz to test your knowledge of romantic fiction (I got a respectable 8/10 but my ignorance of Barbara Cartland's oeuvre let me down!) and a competition to win a full set of Jane Austen's novels.

And here's a piece from the Woman's Hour archives about whether men will read romantic fiction.

Enjoy! (And let us know what you think).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 14, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Classic Novels, Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Marian Keyes, Modern Fiction, Romance, Sophie Kinsella, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 13, 2006 11:49 AM

Chick Lit authors' favourite TV shows

On her website Jennifer Crusie has a fabulous article entitled The Five Things I've Learned About Writing Romance from TV. I'm fairly sure I once read she said she'd learned more about writing from watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer than from any writing guide.

So what other TV shows do our favourite chick lit authors recommend? Well, Stephanie Lehmann, author of You Could Do Better (review coming soon) has dedicated her blog to asking that very question.

Continue over the cut to find out what you should be watching.

Joshilyn Jackson and Diana Peterfreund are also Buffy bonkers (sorry), while Shanna Swendson is a fan (I think that may be putting it mildly) of (Buffy creator) Joss Whedon's Firefly and Alison Pace is glued to Grey's Anatomy (and Beverly Hills 90210).

So it seems if you have a hankering to write chick lit you could do worse than to start saving up for Joss Whedon's back catalogue (but watch Grey's Anatomy for Dr McDreamy).

Posted by Keris on September 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

September 12, 2006 4:41 PM

Amazon Unboxed- TV and movies direct to your screen

Remember when I told you that Amazon.com was selling groceries online? Well, with Amazon Unbox they're now expanding their core market and offering TV and films for download, straight to your computer screen. As with Amazon DVDs, you can choose to buy or rent- so there'll be no need to clog up your bookshelves with DVD cases if this takes off!

There's a fairly limited range at present but you can watch episodes of Buffy or 24, or see more of the divine Mr Mcconaghey in film Failure To Launch, amongst others.

Excitingly, there's an introductory offer that allows you to watch your first TV show free. You need to download special (free) software but it all seems fairly straightforward. (I couldn't find anything on the site that said whether UK customers could use it or not, so if anyone has experience of this, please let us know!)

And don't forget Amazon Fishbowl- Amazon's free insider look at books, film and music, presented by Bill Maher.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 12, 2006 in Book Websites, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 8, 2006 11:37 AM

Richard and Judy Christmas Book Party

Randj_1 If you're missing Richard and Judy now they've gone into hiding/on holiday until January, don't despair! The Richard & Judy Christmas Book Party Show is coming on December 9th... an hour-long, one-off special of Christmas book recommendations- focusing mainly on non-fiction for a change- to help you with your Xmas shopping. (Oops! said I wasn't going to mention it again, didn't I? Sorry!)

According to Publishing News: "There are five categories – illustrated coffee-table titles, food/drink books, humorous stocking fillers, celebrity-led books or notable autobiographies/biographies, and children’s books, covering every age group and including fiction.
Five books will be featured in each category with members of the public, along with celebrity reviewers, discussing the titles. Two further celebrities will join Richard and Judy in the studio to discuss the finalists, with a studio-based vote for ‘the ideal Christmas title'"

Competing books will be announced shortly after October 16th.

[Via The Bookseller and Publishing News.]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 8, 2006 in Book News, Book related, Richard and Judy, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 7, 2006 5:18 PM

Reading Friends

They were there for us and then they weren't anymore and I for one still miss them, but Friends provides a pretty poor haul, book-wise.

There's the official book of the entire series, Friends... 'til the End: The One with All Ten Years, an Official Trivia Book (do you remember what Chandler did for a living?), an unofficial guide, Friends Like Us and finally The Very Best of Friends which is, I think, an official guide to the first three seasons.

And that's it! No novels, no prequels, no cultural/feminist studies. Very disappointing.

Posted by Keris on September 7, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

Thursday Three: Reality TV

Since the advent of 24-hour reality TV in the early 'noughties, the general public, filmmakers and especially authors have been fascinated with reality TV. Here are three different literary takes on the genre...

Old School Ties by Kate Harrison satirises both the Friends Reunited trend and the cult of reality TV, as Tracy Mortimer optimistically signs up for a school reunion TV show (much like this one) only to find her fellow classmates don't remember her teenage self with as much fondness as she might have hoped...

In Sarah Mlynowski's As Seen On TV, Sunny Langstein moves to New York to star in a reality TV show called Party Girls, which follows single women-about-town. Things are complicated by the fact that Sunny actually has a boyfriend, who isn't so keen on the fact that she's found fame posing as a single girl...

Finally Lauren Barnholdt's Reality Chick is a YA (young adult- ie. teen chick lit) take on the subject in which Ally decides to sign up for a Real World-style reality show, In The House, during her first year at university. And-would you credit it? Things don't turn out as she planned!

Are there any I've missed? What are your favourites?

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 7, 2006 in American Authors, British Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Television, Tuesday Three | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 3, 2006 7:32 PM

The Only Boy For Me on ITV

Gil McNeil's popular novel The Only Boy For Me has been given the prime time drama treatment by ITV.

Showing this Wednesday (6th September) at 9pm, it stars Patrick Baladi (Neil from the original version of The Office) and Helen Baxendale (who British readers will remember fondly as Rachel in Cold Feet and American readers will probably remember less fondly as Ross's annoying girlfriend Emily in Friends).

Posted by Keris on September 3, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Romance, Television | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 31, 2006 12:48 PM

Reading Alias

Alias is yet another popular series I've never managed to catch. It's about Sydney Bristow (played by Jennifer Garner) an international spy recruited out of college and trained for espionage and self-defense. [via link] There's more, but I didn't understand any of it!

The essays in Alias Assumed: Sex, Lies and SD-6 include one by Parenting guru Britta Coleman on why shooting your first born just may be the best parenting decision you’ll ever make, which definitely has me intrigued!

The official companion is Alias Declassified and includes the usual stuff: episode guide, storyboards, cast quotes, etc.

Of course, there're also a couple of unofficial guides: Uncovering Alias includes 'a map of Rambaldi artefacts uncovered by the operatives' and Authorized Personnel Only features 'a mission-by-mission analysis of the series and a catalogue of the agents' personal histories and psychological profiles'.

Like, Charmed, there's a series of Alias novelisations including Namesake which has just come out and Recruited, a prequel to the TV show.

Posted by Keris on August 31, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Non Fiction, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (4)

August 28, 2006 4:43 PM

Gossip Girl: the series

I've only read the first in the controversial Gossip Girl series by Cecily Von Ziegesar, but it was one of those books that you go on reading even though you think you shouldn't. That's because Gossip Girl is a series for teens, but with sex and drugs and, you know, shopping.

Feminist critic Naomi Wolf took exception with the series here (I hope you can see it, it's not loading on my computer), but now Josh Schwartz, creator and producer of The O.C. is bringing the spoilt brats to the small screen. [via]

Posted by Keris on August 28, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Series, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)