Books and Media

Out of the 'Chicken Soup,' into wine for author-couple

By Chris Macias - Updated: Wednesday, November 4 2009 - 9:16 am

Soup can soothe the soul, they say, but wine is fine as well.

Q&A: Irving puts his own fears in print with 'Last Night'

By Carlos Alcalá - Published: Monday, November 2 2009 - 12:00 am

In John Irving's latest novel, the main character shares the author's profession, but that's not the most important similarity.

The Good Life: Old-school TV reporter Swatt pens a mystery

By Rick Kushman - Updated: Monday, November 2 2009 - 8:34 am

Steve Swatt has his roots in the good ol' days of Sacramento TV news and Capitol politics. His new political murder mystery is fast-moving and satisfying, particularly if you know a little about the state Capitol.

Between the Lines: Picture these on your coffee table

By Allen Pierleoni - Published: Monday, November 2 2009 - 12:00 am

As the gift-giving season approaches, your thoughts may tend toward impressive coffee-table books.

Local Music

Fresh and frank, 'Awakening' is as original as it is timeless

You often see the tag line "A new musical." It usually means newly made but not necessarily originally conceived.

Seven things to do this weekend - 1:36pm
25 years of excellence and influence - 9:32pm
On Sale - 9:40pm
Rock 'n' roll excesses aside, slappin' the skins is great exercise - 1:25pm

Movie Reviews

Movie Review: Special effects are the star in Disney 'Christmas Carol'

You cannot ruin the essence of "A Christmas Carol." The example of a man who learns that wealth is not happiness, but happiness is wealth, is surely eternal.