You can read all the online book reviews in the world, but nothing beats real-world conversations between readers and authors.
In an ongoing effort to build community among readers, writers, and publishing types in real life, we are hosting our next Mediabistro Book Club on Wednesday, August 17, 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Union Square Lounge on 30 East 16th Street.
Follow this link to RSVP for the free party–we will have huge stack of giveaway books and lots of great literary conversation. Our featured books include a novel about an out of control reality show, a naked cookbook, conversations with a showbiz guru and bedbugs from hell. If you live too far away, check out our Authors Who Visit Book Clubs directory and set up your own literary party.
Andrew Altschul: Deus Ex Machina “On a distant island, reality show contestants battle for a slot on next week’s episode. They’ve perfected their roles and are ready to do whatever it takes to win. The network is desperate for ratings, but the producer is losing control of the show and its crew.”
Nelson Aspen: Dinner at Nelson’s: Cuisine & Conversation with the Showbiz Guru “A talented cook and entertaining expert, Nelson Aspen shares some of his favourite showbiz dinner parties. Each fabulous menu is created from his celebrity pal’s personal recipes, dishes from famous restaurants and Nelson’s own archives.”
Margaret Floyd: EAT NAKED: Unprocessed, Unpolluted, and Undressed Eating for a Healthier, Sexier You “Leading nutritional therapist Margaret Floyd’s Eat Naked will help you strip away the overprocessed, overpackaged, and overdressed junk food from your diet. It’s time to enjoy “naked” foods-whole foods that are fresh, organically grown, and prepared in ways that allow each food’s naturally delicious flavors to shine through. In this book, Margaret shows you how to choose the nutrient-dense foods that will make you look and feel so gorgeous, you’ll want to take it all off. You’ll discover new ways to prepare foods without sacrificing flavor and learn practical tips for eating within your budget.”
Ben H. Winters: Bedbugs “FOR RENT: Top two floors of beautifully renovated brownstone, 1300 sq. ft., 2BR 2BA, eat-in kitchen, one block to parks and playgrounds. No broker’s fee. Susan and Alex Wendt have found their dream apartment … Susan soon discovers that her new home is crawling with bedbugs . . . or is it? She awakens every morning with fresh bites, but neither Alex nor their daughter Emma has a single welt. An exterminator searches the property and turns up nothing. The landlady insists her building is clean. Susan fears she’s going mad—until a more sinister explanation presents itself: she may literally be confronting the bedbug problem from Hell.”