Davida Chazan
Born in Evanston, IL, I now live in Jerusalem, Israel where I work as a Resource Development Coordinator in the non-profit sector. I studied Creative Writing and Journalism, and am a published poet. I write for several on-line sites (as The Chocolate Lady ), and have also sold articles on various topics.
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- 1/7/2009
Education/Experience
AA in Arts with Honors from Oakton Community College. Been writing for on-line sites and have published poetry and various articles both on-line and in print. In addition, I have been a grant writer for a non-profit organization since 1996.Motto
"What you see before you, my friend, is the result of a lifetime of chocolate." Katharine Hepburn (May 12, 1907-June 29, 2003)
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A Story of Burning and Building Bridges Both Virtually and PersonallyThrough the Internet two people from opposite sides of the globe with opposing opinions, come together in both fiction and reality in the book "Letters from the Fire" by Alma Hromic and R.A. Deckert. -
My Predictions for the American Idol 11 FinaleWe're left with only Phillip Phillips, Jessica Sanchez and Joshua Ledet. Now the question is who would we want to win and who really has a chance? -
Remembering Maurice Sendak with "Where the Wild Things Are"The Maurice Sendak passed away last week. He wrote many children's books, and his "Where the Wild Things Are" was probably his most famous and best loved by young and old alike.
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Discover These Adopted Siblings in Joanna Trollope's Novel "Brother and Sister"The dilemma of adopted children and the struggle between the deep love of their parents and the unrelenting curiosity to meet their birth parents is investigated in Joanna Trollope's novel "Brother and Sister".
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John Irving: The Rise and Fall of an AuthorJohn Irving used to write marvelous books but lately, his novels have become tedious. How sad is it to have an author you love to read put out books that you can no longer finish? This is what happened to author John Irving.
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"Footnote": An Israeli Film that Gives Clause for Thought!Father and Son Talmudic Scholars, their relationship and their careers is the basis for the Oscar nominated Israeli movie "Footnote". This exceptionally good film, from Joseph Cedar is probably one of the best out of Israel to date.
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Teaching Men Manners is No Laughing Matter – or is It?Cassandra French is on a one-woman mission to teach men how to properly treat women. This is the basis for Eric Garcia's satiric novel "Cassandra French's Finishing School for Boys".
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American Idol 11, Top 10: "Vote for the Worst" Does it Again!The sour-grapes site, "Vote for the Worst" has been American Idol bashing and garnering followers for several years. Sometimes, they win. Let's see how they're faring for Season 11.
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The Story of a 100 Year Old Woman's SecretsSebastian Barry's story about the 100 year old Roseanne McNulty is both fascinating and engrossing. Although this is one in a series of books about these characters, it stands alone very well and is an excellent introduction to Barry's writing.
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A Novel of Estranged Sisters Reunited, Both Hiding from Their PastTwo sisters, drawn to each other like moths to a flame; "The Behaviour of Moths" (aka "The Sister") by Poppy Adams gives us a story that shows just how dangerous such a reunion can be. -
An Artistic Novel, and That's No Secret!On the surface, Eva Rice's debut novel "The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets" seems almost like "chick lit". On closer inspection it really is much more.
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Get Jazzed with This Bolden Book by Michael OndaatjeBuddy Bolden was "one of jazz's legendary pioneers and martyrs". Michael Ondaatje investigates the mystery behind the man and invents a novel that tells his story as it might have been.
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A Book This Interesting Should Be Outlawed!"The Collected Works of Billy the Kid" by Michael Ondaatje is part poetry, part prose, part imagination, part fact, which as a whole,becomes a story that is as evocative and as mysterious as the true-life person portrayed.
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A Haunting ReadMichael Ondaatje first became famous for his book "The English Patient". "Anil's Ghost" was his first work published after that novel, and is set in the author's country of birth, Sri Lanka.
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A Story of Vistas and PassionWe had 'vegetable' with "La Cucina" and a type of 'mineral' with "Nectar", with "Ardor" Lily Prior finally gives us 'animal', in yet another fascinating story set in luscious Italy.
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A Scent-sual ReadLily Prior's second novel, "Nectar" brings reality and fantasy together in a unique blend, that borders on being a fairytale - complete with a moral to the story.
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A Book that Will Give You an Appetite for RomanceLily Prior's debut novel is one that brings food together with romance, to where you'll lust for the delicious.
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Five Reasons Why "Parenthood" is a Superb TV SeriesIgnored by the Golden Globes and the Emmy's, "Parenthood" is probably the most critically underrated TV Show on television today. Now in its third season, here's what I think makes "Parenthood" work.
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Book Review: The Fourth Hand by John IrvingIrving brings us another unusual story with strange characters, one of which is an amputated hand that's being transplanted onto someone else's arm. Unfortunately, the hand is the best character of the bunch!
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Book Review: Blackberry Wine by Joanne HarrisThis novel, is the second in a trilogy of novels set in Lansquenet, with "Chocolat" as the first and "Five Quarters of the Orange".
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Book Review: Me: Stories of My Life by Katharine HepburnKatharine Hepburn was arguably Hollywood's greatest actress of the 20th Century. In this memoir we get to know more about her, in her own words (and she was nothing like what you saw in "The Aviator").
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Book Review: The Kalahari Typing School for Men by Alexander McCall SmithAlexander McCall Smith's series of novels involving Mme Ramotswe are fun quick reads, but hardly live up to the hype, especially for those with more discerning tastes in both literature and mystery novels.
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Book Review: Chanukah Guilt by Ilene SchneiderNot only is she a rabbi, she's also solving crimes!
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Movie Review: Infiltration (Israel - 2010)The 2010 Israeli film Infiltration looks at a group of misfit soldiers as who must weather the social, physical and mental strains of going through basic training in Israel's early 1950s army.
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Book Review: "Emma Brown" by Clare BoylanMany modern writers have tried their hands at writing books in the style of classic authors. With the novel Emma Brown, Clare Boylan succeeds in reviving Charlotte Brontë's style and gives us a modern classic.
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Product Review: Lindt Excellence 70% Cocoa Dark ChocolateWhen it comes to dark chocolate, finding one that has a high cocoa solid content that delivers on all fronts - not just taste - isn't that easy. Lindt comes close with their 70% Excellence
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The Sydney Opera HouseThe Opera House in Sydney Australia is not only beautiful, it is also built with the performances in mind. With three halls - a theater, a concert hall and an opera - it is a cultural mecca, not just for opera lovers.
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Movie Review: UshpizinThe Balangas are a newly religious couple who find that sometimes when their prayers are answered, things don’t always go just the way they thought they would. This Israeli film from 2004 tells their story.
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Israeli Jewelry Gets the Hollywood Star TreatmentBe it called Israeli jewelry, Jewish jewelry or Kabbalah jewelry, there's something mystical and fascinating about these ornaments that has caught the imagination many people, including the rich and famous of Hollywood.
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The Paul Simon and Israel ReunionPaul Simon brought his music back to Israel on July 21, 2011 after all these years! The last time Paul Simon was in Israel he was here with Art Garfunkel in 1983. Before that, he did a solo live concert in Caesarea in 1978.
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Lament for Writing Metrical Verse - a VillanelleHow often have we tried to write poems using metrical, formalist styles and found it just doesn't work?
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Music Review: So Beautiful or so What by Paul SimonYet another masterpiece collection of music from the almost 70 year old Paul Simon.
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What Can We Learn from American Idol Season 10?Certainly there is still much to learn from how the show has changed over this past year and while it is better, it still isn't perfect. Here are some lessons to be learned for next year.
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Why the Finale of "American Idol" Season 10 was No SurpriseAmerica's new Country music sensation is going to have a long and successful career, and there are many reasons why he deserved to win, and Lauren didn't.
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Stormy Critiques an Original Shakespearian SonnetWhen learning how to write metrical verse, one can come up against many obstacles and setbacks. But formalist poetry is almost a science and you have to learn from your mistakes and mentors.
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Classic Movie Review: Some like it HotCross-dressing and comedy don't always work but here's one that does because of director/writer Billy Wilder and the stars Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis.
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A Letter to the American Idol 10 JudgesWith such a huge amount of talent in this year's competition, I have a feeling that the judges are not catching what the American public obviously saw during Rock & Roll Hall of Fame week.
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Movie Review: "Gosford Park"Forget what you've thought about British period films, this one is exceptional and worth watching over and over again.
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Bond 23: Who Could Sing the Next Bond Theme Song?Once MGM announced that the next James Bond film is finally back on track, the rumors began to fly about almost every aspect of the movie. One thing to think about is who they could get to sing the theme song.
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Book Review: All He Ever Wanted by Anita ShreveAnita Shreve brings us an interesting story about devotion and frustration in her novel All He Ever Wanted. This romantic drama is a cut above "chick lit" but falls short of literary fiction.
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The Best of Colin FirthFirth is probably best known for playing Mark Darcy from Bridget Jones' Diary movies, but since he's gotten a second Oscar nomination, it's time to look at the other things he's done so far.
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Bond 23: Who Could Be One of the Next Bond Girls?Rumors continue to fly about who would be getting which roles in Bond 23. The only parts for sure right now are Judi Dench as "M" and Daniel Craig as 007. Who would you want to see as a Bond Girl?
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Soap Operas: A Thing of the Past, or Do They Still Have a Future?Financial problems and a new generation of television viewers not brought up on soap operas could be signaling the end to this old daytime standby - or not.
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Cookbook Review: How to Be a Domestic Goddess by Nigella LawsonBritain's most sexy television cook has one of the most luscious cookbooks for cakes and baked goods that you'll ever experience, and the recipes are extremely easy to use.
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The Best of Natalie PortmanJerusalem-born Natalie Portman began her acting at age 12. Now 18 years on she's pregnant, engaged and possibly at the height of her career. While we hope the best is yet to come, her work until now has been very interesting.
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Bond 23: Who Could Play Bond's Next Adversary?Once MGM announced that Bond 23 was finally back on track, the rumors began to fly about who would be getting which roles. Who would you want to see the next villain to play opposite Daniel Craig and Judi Dench?
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Modern Movie Versions of Shakespeare's PlaysShakespeare isn't for everyone but there's no doubt about his genius. Because of this, many attempts have been made to update his works, often with surprisingly good results. Here's an overview of some of these films.
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Book Review: Will by Christopher RushIn the book Will Christopher Rush brings us a fictionalized autobiography of one of the most famous writers of all time '" William Shakespeare.
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On Screen with Jane Austen's NovelsIn her short 42 years of life Jane Austen could never have imagined that she would become popular enough for Hollywood to be making screen versions of her stories over 190 years after her death.
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Holiday Inn: A Classic Holiday MovieIf you like Fred Astaire's dancing style, or Bing Crosby's singing, or if you just like the songs of Irving Berlin, then the movie Holiday Inn is a must own for you. I find this to be THE film to watch, especially during the winter holiday season.
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Books I Loved that Made Equally Good MoviesIn Hollywood's search for new material, they often take popular books and try to adapt them for the screen. More often than not this fails, but in these few cases the films are as good as their beloved original tales.
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Fire in Israel's Carmel Forest Takes Four Days to ExtinguishWhen Israel should be lighting the holiday candles of Hanukkah, the country is trying to douse the flames of the worst fire in its history, which has claimed over 40 lives; 7,000 acres of forest; and thousands evacuated from their homes.
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James Bond Actors: Who was the Best?From Sean Connery to Daniel Craig, each actor had their own way of portraying the master spy, James Bond, but which one did it the best?
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Five More Extraordinary Female Singer SongwritersThere are many female singer songwriters out there, but some are truly a cut above the others. Here's another list of five women who have contributed to the music world with their amazing voices and songs.
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Reality TV Shows I'm Not Ashamed to Say I WatchLately, reality TV shows have been pushing the disgusting envelope. And yet, there are still a few out there that can be considered better than the rest. Here are a few that are pleasures that I'm not guilty about.
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Album Review: Genes & Jeans by Noa (aka Achinoam Nini)This 2008 release coincided with a world tour and truly reflects how far Noa (Achinoam Nini) has come both as an artist and a person.
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TV Crime Dramas With a TwistIn the world of TV series, networks are always looking something special to get the viewing audiences. When it comes to crime dramas, they sometimes need to take creative crime solving methods to a new level.
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Movie Review: Matchstick MenTuna Fish & Cigarettes: Ridley Scott brings Eric Garcia's novel to life on the big screen in a film starring Nicolas Cage, Sam Rockwell and Alison Lohman. Based on the novel by Eric Garcia.
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Reality Television: Has it "Jumped the Shark" Yet?There seems to be a thirst that cannot be quenched for TV shows that embarrass and humiliate the participants. The question is when will they have gone too far? More importantly, how will we know when it happens?
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Tony Curtis - The Man and His MoviesTony Curtis made well over 100 films and was a bit of a rebel where Hollywood was concerned, but with all his ups and downs, he will be remembered for many things.
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Movie Sneak Preview: Barney's VersionThe Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz Author Mordecai Richler has his novel Barney's Version come to life brilliantly with Paul Giamatti, Dustin Hoffman and Minnie Driver in this beautifully done movie.
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Independent Theater Profile: Lev Smadar, Jerusalem, IsraelAfter more than 80 years, this small Jerusalem movie theater is still going strong, despite several attempts to close it down. Specializing in artsy and indie movies, you can also get food with your films.
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Hollywood's Golden Age Directors: George Cukor FilmsThe man who helped launch the careers of such greats as Katharine Hepburn and Meg Ryan has credits that run the gamut of genres dramas, comedies, musicals, epics, biographical dramatizations and adaptations of literary works, among others.
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Book Review: We Are All Made of Glue by Marina LewycaMarina Lewyca's third novel may not actually be her best, but it is certainly almost equal to her first (A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian), and better than her second (Two Caravans aka The Strawberry Pickers).
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The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and Zubin Mehta: A Classical Music Love StoryThe Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is planning a 75th season of festivities. Led by Musical Director Zubin Mehta, who has been conducting with them for 50 years, the program will include internationally renowned artists alongside new talent.
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Classic Hollywood Cinema: Three Comedies Remade into MusicalsWhen Hollywood remakes movies, the results are often less than successful. But back in the 40s and 50s many great comedies appeared that later were turned into Musicals. Apparently, changing the genre helps when trying to reuse a script.
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Book Review: The Hand that First Held Mine by Maggie O'FarrellMaggie O'Farrell's fifth novel is a stunning multiple character study with a fascinating story that makes it her best yet.
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American Idol: Could Season 10 Be the Last?First the Paula Abdul left, then Simon Cowell. After that Ellen DeGeneres slipped away fast on his heels and then they almost kicked Kara DioGuardi out. Could this be a signal of the end for this reality show?
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What Do Lindsay Lohan, Angelina Jolie, Holly Hunter, Sarah Jessica Parker and Meryl Streep Have in Common?Ever say to yourself, "this sounds like a good film" and then balk when you hear the names of one of the stars? Here's my list of female stars that get that reaction out of me.
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What Do Leonardo Di Caprio, Tom Cruise, Will Farrell, Clint Eastwood and Elijah Wood Have in Common?They very well may be talented (well, some of them), or interesting, or even clever and hard working, but there's something about these guys that just gets my goat!
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Sneak Preview Book Review: Four Word Film ReviewsFour Word Film Reviews is a different kind of movie review book which will bring a smile on your face, and with both its brevity and its humor - available now for pre-order on-line, and due out in North American bookstores from August 18.
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Online Writing Tutorial: Using Homophones ProperlyJust because a word is spelled correctly, doesn't mean it's the right one for what you're trying to say. Here's a little guide to help you avoid these mistakes.
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Interview: How the Website Four Word Film Review Became a Book!When Benj Clews developed fwfr.com, he never dreamed his little brainstorm would become so popular. Now ten years on, one of the site contributors Michael Onesi (aka Yukon) convinced him to turn it into a book. Here's their story.
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Great Musicians: Carole King - Where is She Now?For Carole King, fame came early, but her talent lives on. Now she's touring with James Taylor - proving that when "You've Got a Friend" who makes music, you've got one forever.
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Movie Review: Letters to JulietIn the world of "boy meets girl" there's not much new, but the movie Letters to Juliet has enough honesty and interesting twists which take it out of the realm of 'chick-flick' and make it a totally charming film.
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Website Review: Four Word Film Reviews (www.Fwfr.Com)Four Word Film Reviews is the brainchild of one Benj Clews from somewhere in the UK. It went online in October of 1999 and hasn't stopped evolving or expanding since. Here's what it's all about (and what's more, it's soon to become a book)!
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My Top Ten Favorite OperasOpera may not appeal to everyone, but lately opera stars can sing, look AND act the parts they're playing so it isn't just a matter of waiting for the fat lady to sing anymore.
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Purple, Please: Haiku HereWhen I think of the color purple, here's what comes to mind.
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Five Extraordinary Female Singer SongwritersWho are some of the most innovative and avant-garde female singer-songwriters both past and present? Here are five that make my list.
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More On Chicklitreviews.Com - The Blog that Became a Popular WebsiteNow that you know about this site, let's hear more about the genre of Chick-Lit - the good, the bad and the ugly!
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Eric Clapton Proved He's Still "God" with Steve Winwood on May 29thThere's no question that Clapton hasn't lost it, and now mid-way through his latest tour, it looks like he could go on forever - and don't we wish he would!!
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Chicklitreviews.Com - The Blog that Became a Popular WebsiteEver think your blog is going nowhere? Here's an example of one that filled a very specific niche - reviews of Chick Lit books - and is now attracting international viewers and publishers!
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Sara Bareilles Releases New Single "The King of Anything"For those of us who have been anxiously awaiting new work from this amazing singer, this single release is a promise of things to come - her next album due out in September.
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Can "Vote for the Worst" Really Change American Idol's Results?What power does the website "Vote for the Worst" really have, and what can the honest fans of American Idol do to reverse this.
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Sam Mendes to Direct Bond 23, but the Franchise is on Hold! What Now?James Bond films have always had a special place in the hearts of movie goers - even when the results were less than stellar. Here's what I think can be done to fix it for the next movie in this beloved franchise.
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Steve Martin: Mass Murderer of RemakesSince 1988 Steve Martin has been ruining great comedies by putting his own stupid spin on them. Here's the full list of his victims.
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How Will American Idol Season 9 End? (Updated)There's more than just talent that will help decide who will be this year's American Idol. Here's my take on how the eliminations will go from here on in.
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3D Movies: Here to Stay or yet Another Passing Phase?After Avatar was nominated for "Best Picture" it seemed like everyone wanted to jump on this old bandwagon and resurrect it. A look at what could make or break 3D for future film goers and makers.
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Beth Porter: An American Actress in BAFTA Land - Part 2In this installment we will find out Beth's take on what being a member of BAFTA has given her professionally and personally and what it is like to be an American member of such a prestigious a British organization.
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Who was the Best Actor of the "Noughts"?With such a large number of actors having proven themselves this past decade, the choice of who should be crowned the Best Actor of the Noughts wasn't an easy one.
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Review: The Sea by Corinne Bailey RaeAfter the success of Corinne Bailey Rae's eponymous debut album, this long awaited follow up collection called "The Sea" isn't the least be disappointing. This review of the album may get you in line for tickets to her upcoming North American tour.
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Beth Porter: An American Actress in BAFTA LandActress, writer, animal rescue volunteer, Beth Porter is a fascinating person. In the first part of this interview we learn more about the BAFTAs and how she got involved.
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"For Your Entertainment" - a Review of Adam Lambert's Debut AlbumAmerican Idol 8's runner up, Adam Lambert, has released his debut album, and the surprises we saw during last year's season might be working to his detriment with this collection.
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Who was the Best Actress of the "Noughts"?The first decade of the 21st century has had an impressive list of female actors who won Oscars for their leading roles, but to my mind, one actress stands out as my choice as the best.
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American Idol 9 - Analysis of the First Two Weeks of Live ShowsIs the "Adam Lambert Factor" backfiring, or are the judges simply having a hard time with such varied talent? What do the Judges want from them, and why is it so hard for them to get that across?
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Woman's History Month - Katharine Hepburn: "The First Lady of Cinema"March is National Woman's History Month, and there is no actress who deserves the title of greatest actress of the 20th Century more than Katharine Hepburn.
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Movie Review: Fish TankWhen Mia's mother brings home a new boyfriend, all Mia wants to do is retreat into her dancing. Fish Tank is a journey that will touch your heart.
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American Idol Season Nine's Top 24 Has One Screw LooseAfter the final reveal of American Idol's Season 9 top 24, we've got 23 amazing singers and one woman who should have stayed at home!
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Movie Review: BrothersJim Sheridan's adaptation of the Danish film about brothers, war and relationships may not be a masterpiece, but it is one very good piece of art.
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Culinary Fiction WritersCulinary fiction is a genre that mixes elaborate descriptions of food - their preparation, taste, smell and consumption - with regular stories and characters. Here are three gourmet authors you might want to taste.
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Three TV Crime Dramas that Break the MoldSince the days of "Dragnet", "The Naked City" and "The Untouchables" TV crime dramas have always followed a basic formula, until these three came along and tried something different - and successfully so!
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Book Review - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie SocietyA story of hardship, literature and love during and after the Nazi occupation of Guernsey.
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Bright Star Movie ReviewBased on the fateful love story between John Keats and Fanny Brawne, this movie is pure poetry!
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Review of Audrey Niffenegger's Second Novel "Her Fearful Symmetry"When twin sisters inherit their mother's twin sister's apartment near Highgate Cemetery in London, they find more than they bargained for - both literally and "spiritually".
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My Top Five Movie RemakesUsually, movie remakes are train wrecks, but sometimes they succeed even if the previous version was okay to begin with. Here are my top five.
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Haiku for the TurkeyFor Thanksgiving, remember one of the truly "American" foods, is also delicious!
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A Guide to Board GamesShould you buy a games of chance or one that requires special skills? That depends on who you're buying for and who will play. Here's a simple guide to help you pick the right one.
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Low Fat & Healthy Potato Veggie "Pancakes"Foods for Hanukkah are usually fried in oil and a nightmare for dieters. Try this recipe and you'll have sweet dreams.
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Five Cold Weather Hot Teas for YouHere are five different teas that are my personal favorites during cold months.
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A Guide to Buying TenPin Bowling ShoesSerious bowlers will soon get sick of renting those smelly, worn-out bowling shoes. Here's a guide to help you find the right ones for you.
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Ten-Pin Bowling Safety - an OverviewThere is always some risk of injury in any sport you play, and ten-pin bowling is no exception to that rule. These simple tips will help you enjoy this fun family sport without side-effects.
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Health Benefits of Ten-Pin BowlingIf you can forego the beer and junk food, you might find that Bowling is one way to have fun and actually get some exercise in, while you're at it.
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In Memoriam of Capt. Assaf RamonCapt. Assaf Ramon was killed yesterday during an IDF air force training exercise. Assaf's father, Col. Ilan Ramon died just over six years ago on the Columbia Space Shuttle.
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Broken Embraces (Los Abrazos Rotos)This film staring Penelope Cruz will get its US debut screening at New York Film Festival on October 11.
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La Boheme with Rolando Villazon and Anna NetrebkoWhile Villazon is perfect for the part, I have my reservations regarding Netrebko's vocal quality for this particular part - despite her excellent performance.
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Davida's Famous Sabra CakeIsrael's Sabra liqueur inspired me to invent the following chocolate and orange flavored cake.
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What is "Jewish Food"?There's a difference between something being Kosher and something being typically Jewish. Here's an overview of the latter.
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Keeping KosherYou'd be surprised how simple keeping Kosher actually is, and despite the restrictions, there's a large choice of foods to eat - maybe even too many!
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Get Out of the KitchenHere's a "cool" summer menu my family loves.
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ChallahChalla is a special type of bread that Jews eat on the Sabbath and holidays. My recipe has some extra healthy things added to make it not just delicious, but good for you!
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Taster's Choice (aka Nescafé's Gold Blend) Coffee ReviewOne of the few freeze dried instant coffees on the market that actually tastes good is Taster's Choice.
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"Away We Go" Movie ReviewOscar winning director Sam Mendes brings us a heartfelt comedy/drama about a couple's journey to rebooting their life just before their baby is born.
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Green & Black's Organic 70% Dark Chocolate ReviewThe classic 70% Dark chocolate bar from Green & Black's may make you feel moral by buying something both organic and free trade, but it might not satisfy the more discerning chocolate palate.
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Cranberry - a Healthy FruitThis unusual fruit isn't just for decorating your Xmas tree or making into a sauce for your Turkey - its actually very good for you!
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QuinoaWhile many people are just now discovering that this little seed is a healthy alternative to rice, you'd be surprised how ancient this food actually is!
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Sabra LiqueurSabra Liqueur is a lovely combination of orange and chocolate flavors that is great for drinking straight, to make a unique change in a cocktail that calls for a chocolate liqueur, splash on ice cream, or into your favorite chocolate desert recipe.
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Reese's Peanut Butter Cups ReviewEven though Reese's was purchased by Hershey many years ago, their famous Peanut butter cups are still the same, very American flavor combination that they always were.
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Celestial Seasonings Herbal TeasCelestial Seasonings has such a wide range of herbal teas, there sure to be one you'll fall in love with!
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Yes, Sarah, There is a Kosher McDonald'sIn the Judean Hills, just outside of Jerusalem there is a small shopping mall that houses the world's first Kosher McDonald's. But its not only just a Kosher McDonald's - its probably the McDonald's with the world's best view as well!
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Godiva ChocolatesOnce considred the Rolls-Royce of chocolates, Godiva has been dismounted by over-expansion and smaller boutique chocolate makers across the globe.
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Nutella by FerreroFerrero's Nutella is a chocolate hazelnut spread that's very popular in Europe, and gaining in popularity in the USA.
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Haagen-Dazs Butter PecanHaagen-Dazs classic Butter Pecan has a rich, smooth ice cream with carmelized pecans that is the envy of all its imitators.
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Two Lovers - Movie ReviewJoaquin Phoenix plays the sensitive, disturbed Leonard to perfection, proving again that his performance in "Walk the Line" wasn't a fluke.
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Ireland's Wicklow CountyIn 2009 we took a short visit to Ireland where we traveled around the Wicklow County area of Ireland visiting mountains and gardens in the area.
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Hissing of Summer Lawns - a Joni Mitchell ClassicJoni Mitchell's first studio album after the commercially successful "Court & Spark" is more experimental than her previous work, and highlights both her poetry and artistry.
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Little Voice by Sara Bareilles - Music ReviewIf Sara Bareilles is the new face of pop music, then bring it on. This singer/songwriter has made a marvelous start, and I look forward to more!
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Graceland by Paul Simon - Music ReviewThis turning point album by Paul Simon marks the beginning of his most creative part of his musical career.
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Daughtry's Debut Album DaughtryWhen Chris Daughtry was voted off in 4th place of American Idol Season 5, people were shocked. His debut album shows that there was something good there, but perhaps not good enough to be a winner.
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Corinne Bailey Rae's Debut Album ReviewCorinne Baily Rae is a British singer-songwriter whose mixture of Soul, Blues and R&B music is a true pleasure to listen to.
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Genes & Jeans by Noa (Achinoam Nini) - Music ReviewNoa's latest album is a triumph of cultural diversity, mixed with lyrical beauty and vocal prowess, that proves she's not only very special, but getting better with time.
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Little Queen by Heart - Music ReviewHeart's second album amazingly topped their debut and gave us some truly classic rock songs.
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KT Tunstall's "Drastic Fantastic" ReviewTunstall's second album feels a bit overly familiar, as if she was trying to copy her success from her debut album, but lacks its sparkle.
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Dreamboat Annie by Heart is Still Magic, Man!Heart was the first female rock band and their music still sounds great over 33 years later.
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"Let it Die" by Feist - Music ReviewFeist's 2004 album "Let it Die" is one of the best I've ever heard and enough to get a first time listener hooked.
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Far by Regina Spektor Debuts at #3 on the Billboard Top 200!Regina's third major album is making a splash and attracting both positive and negative reviews. This reviewer is among the former.
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Music Review of Soviet Kitsch by Regina SpektorRegina Spektor's first major release album is a showcase to her talent.
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Begin to Hope with Regina SpektorRegina Spektor's second commercially distributed album is probably a better introduction to her work than Soviet Kitsch, and a fine lead-up to her latest album, Far.
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Spa Vacation Spot in Israel - Mizpe Hayamim, Rosh PinaThis hilltop spa in Israel is the perfect place to chill out in the summer.
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Tel Dan Nature Reserve, Galilee, IsraelA beautiful nature reserve in the Upper Galilee on the Dan River (one of the three sources of the Jordan River) that's great for everyone!
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Disney's California AdventureThe second "park" near Disney's original Disneyland in Anaheim is smaller, but almost equally as fun as the big one.
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Avshalom (Sorek) Caves Near JerusalemThe stalactite caves near Jerusalem in Israel are a fascinating place to visit.
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"The Historian" - Review of the Novel by Elizabeth KostovaA novel that weaves the true story of Vlad Tepes (known as Count Drakul or "The Impaler") and mixes it with legend and other works of fiction to come up with a fascinating mystery/action/horror story.
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Adam Lambert and How He Changed the Face of American Idol ForeverWith a rare show of flair and ingenuity, Adam Lambert finally got across to the world and future AI hopefuls that a good singing voice isn't enough.
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Spies, Inc.: Business Innovation from Israel's Masters of Espionage by Stacy Perman - Non-Fiction ReviewOne section of the Intelligence division of the Israel Defense Forces has produced an inordinately large number of innovators that have had huge influences in international Hi-Tech.
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The Emperors of Chocolate by Joel Glenn Brenner - Non-Fiction ReviewThis is the true story - to the best of Ms. Brenner's ability - of the wars between America's two chocolate barons: Hershey's and Mars.
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Classic Movie Review: The Philadelphia StoryKatharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and James Stewart star in this marvelous social comedy by George Cuckor, that puts today's rom-coms to shame, even though it's 70 years old!
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TV Show Review: "Leverage"The new TNT drama series "Leverage" stars Timothy Hutton as an ex-insurance invesigator who bands a group of criminals together in a modern-day "Robin Hood" series.
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Book Review: "A Prayer for Owen Meany" by John IrvingJohn Irving's novel about damaged people is uplifting and inspiring, and probably the best novel he's ever written.
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Book Review: "Middlesex" by Jeffrey EugenidesThe story about an hermaphrodite and how it effects her, and then his, life.
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Book Review: "Gentlemen and Players" by Joanne HarrisJoanne Harris' book about deception and revenge is probably her best book ever.
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Book Review: "The History of Love" by Nicole KraussOne of the more interesting novels I've read in a long time about two people who become interconnected through fate and chance.
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Book Review: "A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian" by Marina LewyckaMarina Lewyca's debut novel is a fascinating character study with both humor and heart.
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Book Review: "Chocolat" by Joanne HarrisThe book that made Joanne Harris famous isn't quite as wonderful as it could have been.
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CritiquesI wrote this after having been involved in a writer's group that focused on writing formal poetry.
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Book Review: "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey NiffeneggerThis creative novel is carefully written and fascinating to read, despite the unbelievable aspect that anyone could have a genetic problem that causes them to travel in time.
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Book Review: "How to Talk to a Widower" by Jonathan TropperJonathan Tropper's novel "How to Talk to a Widower" is a tragic/comedy which investigates Doug Parker and how he mourns his wife.
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Book Review: "Lovely Bones" by Alice SeboldAlice Sebold's novel is told from the perspective of a dead girl, and yet it is still a lively story.
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The Red JacketA set of quatrains about a gift of an expensive red jacket.
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Book Review: "Restless" by William BoydWilliam Boyd's novel of deception and intrigue is not your usual thriller novel at all!
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Book Review: The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim EdwardsKim Edward's novel is an interesting book but not as good as it could have been.
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Book Review: "Jack Maggs" by Peter CareyBooker prize winner Peter Carey takes an old familiar minor Dickens character and tries to write a story from that point of view. Unfortunately, he doesn't totally succeed.
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Book Review: The Cutting Room, by Louise WelshScottish writer Louise Welsh's debut novel is a fascinating adventure into the seedier side of Glasgow.
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Music Review: David Cook by David CookAmerican Idol Season 7 winner David Cook has put out his first album, and it is "solid".
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Book Review: "The Princess Bride" by William GoldmanA review of the famous Florinese fairy tale as translated by Goldman into English including only the good bits.
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Book Review: "Tamburlaine Must Die" by Louise WelshThis unique novella is a fictional investigation of the last days of Christopher Marlowe.
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Book Review: Five Quarters of the Orange by Joanne HarrisHarris's third book in her "food trilogy" that started with Chocolat and continued with Blackberry Wine is the best of the three.
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Book Review: Fried Green Tomatos at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie FlaggFannie Flagg's book was made into a movie, and this is one of the few instances where both were great.
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Book Review: Notes from an Exhibition by Patrick GalePatrick Gale's tale of a bipolar artist, told from many points of view.
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Book Review: Two Caravans by Marina LewyckaMarina Lewycka's second novel is good, but not as good as her first.
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Loving Frank by Nancy HoranNancy Horan has taken the real-life lover of Frank Lloyd Wright and made a fictionalized account of her life, with great success.
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Internet Explorer 8 - First ImpressionsA quick overview of the few problems I've already found with the brand new Internet Explorer 8.
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Raising a Child with Learning DisabilitiesThe educational systems are more sensitive to children with learning disabilities, but parents need to know how to help their kids as well.
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Raising Gifted ChildrenWe all know that children with Learning Disabilities can be a challenge, but raising a gifted child can be no less difficult.
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Book Review: One Red Paperclip by Kyle MacDonaldThis book chronicles the true story of how Kyle MacDonald traded his one red paperclip through a series of "bigger and better" trades to get a house!
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Culture Shift by Uriel - Music Review"A sensational mix of world, jazz fusion, electronica, new age and trance like instrumental music, "Culture Shift" by Uriel is a wonderfully crafted debut that transcends culture and style."
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Dexter - "Takes Life... Seriously!"After three seasons of the TV show "Dexter", I can honestly say that this is truly a killer of a series!
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Matzoh Balls and Passover RollsNo Passover would be complete without some great tasting Matzoh Balls, and if you can't have bread to eat at the meal, try these Passover rolls.
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Passover Cake RecipesIt isn't easy to make a good passover cake using matzoh meal, but here are a few that my family love.
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Google Maps or Map Quest - Which is Better?After using both Map Quest and Google Maps, I've come to the conclusion that Map Quest is the better site.
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Are There Any Satisfactory Sugar Substitutes?If you're worried about too much sugar in your diet, you've probably tried artificial sweeteners and other substitutes, but are they actually healthy?
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The Chicago Cubs: Why Am I Still a Loyal Fan?Despite their 100 year World Series losing streak, there really are some good reasons why Chicagoans are still in love with their National League team, the Cubs.
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The Baker: Movie ReviewOne of the most fun movies I've seen in a long time, staring British actor Damian Lewis (star of the hit TV series "Life").
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In Love with Lively Dead Sea Shower Products by AhavaAhava products are made from minerals found in the Dead Sea, and the company makes many beauty products including now three different ones for showers.
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Carolina Herrera's 212: My Re-Introduction to PerfumeA review of Carolina Herrera: 212 Eau de Toilette - which is a lovely, light perfume that's becoming a classic!
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"Wicked" the Musical: Just Short of MagicalThe new musical Wicked, based on the characters from the Wizard of Oz has a great concept, acting and script, but the music itself... uninspiring!
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Book Review of "Divisadero" by Michael OndaatjeA review of Michael Ondaatje's novel, Divisadero.
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Crystal Deodorants - an Alternative Worth Looking IntoCrystal deodorants are a healthier alternative to conventional ones, they keep you smelling good naturally, don't cause problems with your skin, are harmless, and won't stain your clothes.
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A Movie Review of "Waltz with Bashir"A review Israel's latest Oscar Nominated film "Waltz with Bashir" which one best foreign language film at the Golden Globes.
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Haikus EntertwinedTwo haiku poems combined into a love poem.
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A Non-Love SonnetI never was one to write sentimental poetry, but a sonnet should be about love, and yet...
