Blog Feed: The Girl from the Ghetto

I know how important it is to take good care of your skin, especially since it has to last a lifetime. I’m in my forties, and for more than twenty years, I’ve been using quality cleansers, masques and wrinkle creams to … Continue readi

Ongoing Giveaway Linky: Link Up Your Book and Product Giveaways Now!

Published on 2012-12-23 18:15:07

Welcome to my weekly giveaway linky post! Make sure to check back each week to find new giveaways to enter, or to just list your own giveaways, so my readers can enter them, too. Since my giveaway linky is ongoing, I try to update … Continu

GoPicnic Food Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-23 13:36:03

GoPicnic was kind enough to send me two of their ready-to-eat meals to feature in my 2012 Holiday Gift Guide this year. I’ve tried their boxed meals in the past, and I’ve always enjoyed each meal I’ve personally tasted. Plus, I …

Skinnydipping by Bethenny Frankel Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-19 19:55:14

“Who do I have to sleep with to get a drink on this plane?” Oh, how I can relate to that sentence … but more like, “Who do I have to sleep with to get this book (in order to be … Continue reading →

The Tragedy Paper Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-19 12:25:47

# 1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner is already a fan, hailing it as “A beguiling and beautifully written tale of first love and heartbreak.” The Tragedy Paper launches us into the competitive world of a New York … Continue

Pure Pearls Pearl Necklace Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-16 18:22:40

This holiday season seems to have started early for me, as I’m thrilled to announce that I have finally secured a full-time job! So, I’d love it if you celebrated with me by trying to win a piece of gorgeous … Continue reading →

Primal by Raven Bower Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-16 07:51:35

Horror and fantasy fans, let me introduce you to Michigan author Raven Bower. ABOUT THE BOOK: Pursued by a ruthless crime lord after witnessing the murder of a FBI agent, Wrey must rebuild the life they stole from her. When she meets … Contin

Do-It-Yourself Hair Clipper Pro – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-10 07:40:53

Have you ever gotten sick of going to a salon or barber to cut or shave off your own hair? If so, you might be interested in hearing about the Do-It-Yourself Hair Clipper Pro, which gives users a 180 degree rotating head that … Continue read

Travel Neck Pillow Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-09 19:22:18

Keep on reading to find out how you can win a lavender-scented ergonomic aromatherapy travel neck pillow that retails at $39.95. I have a bad neck, due to a fun combination of Myasthenia Gravis and Arthritis. I haven’t been able … Continu

Goodbye Junie Moon by June Collins – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-08 05:30:08

ABOUT THE BOOK: It’s a true story that’s more thrilling than fiction. Junie Moon, a curvaceous Australian dancer who entertained troops in Vietnam during the war, uncovered a get rich quick scheme involving some of the sergeants running the Ameri

The Housewife Assassin’s Handbook Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-05 20:27:00

Author Josie Brown dishes up murder, suspense, sex…and some handy household tips. ABOUT THE BOOK: EVERY DESPERATE HOUSEWIFE WANTS AN ALIAS: Donna Stone has one…and it happens to be government-sanctioned. BUT DONNA EARNED IT THE HARD WAY:

Perfect Wedding Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-05 18:53:46

“Perfect Wedding” is an inspiring story of endurance and search of the unknown. With love on the side line, any thing is possible. ABOUT THE BOOK: Leah is a successful weight-loss expert. She seems to have everything an independent girl

$30 T-Shirts.com Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-01 20:18:42

I had never heard of T-Shirts.com, so when it came time for me to shop for my review t-shirt, I literally spent an hour laughing and/or muttering “ooh, I want that shirt” for about an hour. No matter what you … Continue reading →

Santa’s Favorite Christmas Wreath Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-01 13:52:05

Ok, I am a sucker for a wreath, especially a holiday wreath, which is why I asked the folks over at ChristmasForest.com if I could feature one of their lovely wreaths on my 2012 Holiday Gift Guide. They were kind … Continue reading →

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days Blu-ray Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-12-01 09:36:16

Keep reading to find out how to enter to win my giveaway and/or pre-order a copy of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days on Blu-ray. When I met Jeff Kinney at BookExpo America back in 2010, I was thrilled! Not … Continue reading →

I Have a Taste for Luxury … but only at a Discount! – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-11-26 09:50:51

The first time I ever heard Sonja Morgan from The Real Housewives of New York says her first and famous tag line, “I have a taste for luxury, and luxury has a taste for me,” I had to laugh, because I could totally … Continue read

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-11-24 22:25:03

Welcome to my weekly giveaway linky post! You probably know how much I love hosting giveaways, which is why I decided to start my own Giveaway Linky. Make sure to check back each week to find amazing giveaways to enter, … Continue reading ͛

Avoid the Lines & Shop Online This Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Published on 2012-11-23 18:33:23

I don’t know about you, but I think it is ridiculous to wake up in the middle of the night, or to camp out in front of a store, just to save a few bucks on something. Call me old-fashioned, … Continue reading →

Thanksgiving Day Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-11-22 10:30:52

Just because its Thanksgiving, and I’m in the spirit to be thankful, I want to give one of my readers something special. I’m hosting my own giveaway for a free 20-page 8

The Littlest Angel Book Review and Giveaway – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-11-18 20:57:11

ABOUT THE LITTLEST ANGEL: In 2008, two weeks before her due date, Heidi Chandler’s unborn daughter unexpectedly died. After the shock wore off, she found myself in the depths of depression, questioning her worth as a mother, wife, and R

Box4Blox Lego Storage Organizer – 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Published on 2012-11-18 10:19:15

Moms and Dads, do I have the ultimate gift suggestion for you this holiday season! Have you heard of Box4Blox, which was voted “Home Organizing Product Of The Year” by the National Association of Professional Organizers (N.A.P.O.)? I hadn’t hea

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-11-18 09:46:03

Black Friday 2012 Ads

Published on 2012-11-15 23:32:11

Have you been furiously worrying about how to plan your Black Friday shopping this year? If you’ve been wondering what’s on sale for Black Friday this year, no worries, as I’m more than happy to help you out by telling … Continue reading

Disney Store Discount Code/Coupon – Save 25%!

Published on 2012-11-12 04:45:05

Want to start your holiday shopping early? Of course you do–that why I’m already half done with my Christmas shopping! From now until November 12, you can save 25% off at the Disney Store. This coupon can be printed and used at …

2012 Holiday Gift Guide – Now Accepting Submissions

Published on 2012-11-11 12:03:33

Are you looking for a way to get your book, product, or unique gift into the hands of others in need this holiday season, while also getting some free advertising on a book and product review blog? If yes, then The … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-11-10 20:00:46

VOTE FOR OBAMA

Published on 2012-11-06 10:10:34

So, I am coming out of hiding to tell you all to vote today! While I’d prefer it if you voted for President Obama, I’d still be glad if you voted at all, even if it is for the other … Continue reading →

Trident® Gum Giveaway: See What Unfolds and Win a Year’s Supply of Gum

Published on 2012-08-09 12:23:51

Keep on reading to see see what unfolds, and you just might win a year’s supply of Trident Gum! Approximately 3,000 lucky fans were treated to an evening of unexpected surprises thanks to world renowned DJ Steve Aoki, who hosted an … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-08-05 20:53:52

The Age of Desire by Jennie Fields – Book Giveaway, Review & Author Q&A

Published on 2012-08-02 11:00:27

Book Review: The Age of Desire by Jennie Fields is one heck of a shocking tale for this Edith Wharton fan! I’ve always loved reading about the literary life during the Gilded Age in Paris, and I was pleased with Jennie Fields portrayal of Edith … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-07-22 05:00:17

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-07-15 12:33:15

The Princess Bride: A Perfect Movie Adaptation?

Published on 2012-07-08 13:44:47

A few days ago I found out that one of my favorite movies of all time, The Princess Bride, comes out on Blu-ray October 2, 2012! I want that 25th Anniversary Blu-ray Edition so badly it hurts my heart. Not only … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-07-07 10:00:52

The Next Best Thing: A Novel by Jennifer Weiner

Published on 2012-07-03 22:59:34

Before I begin my review, please forgive me if you think this review kind of sucks. I have been in pain and pancreatic hell for the past week, and, because I basically suck and never finished writing the review for a book … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-07-01 15:15:11

Book Blogger Confession: Hot and Bothered

Published on 2012-06-28 08:06:06

Today’s heat has me more hot and bothered than a lonely housewife reading Fifty Shades of Grey at a Magic Mike screening. I’d much rather do both of those activities than put on a darn suit today! Where are the … Continue reading →

Book Giveaway & Review: Movers, Dreamers and Risk-Takers: Unlocking the Power of ADHD by Kevin Roberts

Published on 2012-06-26 21:00:21

BOOK REVIEW: Confession time–I have ADHD. I was diagnosed (twice) as an adult, and only started medication two years ago. Looking back at my childhood, I obviously had ADHD, but no one realized it. My half-brother was terrible; plus, I was the quiet, … Continue reading →

My Extraordinary Ordinary Life by Sissy Spacek

Published on 2012-06-25 07:18:47

As much as I love reading about dysfunctional childhoods in celebrity memoirs, I also love reading about normal childhoods (is there such a thing, lol?) that were provided by positive and caring role models, like Sissy Spacek’s Czech immigrants parents, Edwin and … Continue reading →

30 Second Book Review: Guts: The Endless Follies and Tiny Triumphs of a Giant Disaster by Kristen Johnston

Published on 2012-06-24 09:37:34

Sometimes, when I read a book for fun, I just want to read it, rather than read it in order to review it for my blog. I don’t want to think about what I need to write later, while I’m … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-06-24 05:11:12

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-06-17 08:44:26

Between You and Me: A Novel by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus

Published on 2012-06-12 10:02:33

To me, the best part book blogging is when you get a copy of a book (Advanced Reader Copy) before they go on sale. Not only do you get to read something you are looking forward to much earlier than other people; more importantly, … Continue reading →

Book Giveaway: Win Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks

Published on 2012-06-10 11:58:44

Review: Until last year, I had never read a book by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks. When I found out she wrote a historical fiction novel about the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College, I was more than … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-06-10 11:03:16

Today at Armchair BEA : Beyond Your Blog

Published on 2012-06-07 14:59:04

As a participant of ArmchairBEA, today I am supposed to talk about where my blog has taken me, what opportunities it has given me besides getting advanced reader copies of books. When I think back to the 4.5 years I have … Continue reading →

ArmchairBEA Giveaway: Win Rules of Civility by Amor Towles

Published on 2012-06-05 18:23:31

For my Armchair BEA giveaway post, I am giving away a copy of Rules of Civility by Amor Towles! REVIEW: Rules of Civility: A Novel by Amor Towles was a FANTASTIC book–one I highly recommend to all historical fiction fans, if … Continue reading →

Armchair BEA: The Best Books of 2012/The Best Books of BookExpo America 2012

Published on 2012-06-05 12:25:27

As an Armchair BEA participant, I am supposed to share some of my favorite books so far this year, and/or the books being promoted at BEA that you hope will end up among your favorites for the year! THE BEST BOOKS … Continue reading →

Armchair BEA Book Blogger Interview: The Girl from the Ghetto

Published on 2012-06-04 01:45:17

Armchair BEA has begun! As a participant, my first task is to interview myself. I had to pick five of the ten questions the organizers provided, and, since I signed up at the last moment, this is what I came up with, between precious … Continue reading →

Can’t go to BookExpo this year? Go to Armchair BEA Instead

Published on 2012-06-03 18:29:11

If you are anything like me (a sad, unemployed and health-challenged book blogger who desperately wants to be in New York this week, rather than stuck at home, sitting on the couch in the midwest), there is still a way … Continue reading →

Angela Campbell: Romance Author. Admirer of Men in Tights. All-Around Weirdo.

Published on 2012-06-03 15:40:09

A few weeks ago, author Angela Campbell reached out to me and asked if she could interview me for a book blogger Q&A for her own blog. Actually, she also offered to sponsor me for BookExpo and BEA Bloggers, but since … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-06-03 10:16:38

Independent Book Blogger Awards Winners Revealed!

Published on 2012-05-29 10:23:56

I know my Independent Book Blogger Awards announcement is a little late, since winners were picked on May 16, but, I just found out who won last night, as I have been offline (but at least reading books, among other things) … Continue reading →

The Great Gatsby Trailer

Published on 2012-05-28 22:57:23

Can you be any more excited for this adaptation of The Great Gatsby than I am? I think not. My god, Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby and Toby Maguire as Nick Carraway, staring together in a Baz Luhrmann movie? I’m … Continue reading →

Celebrate Memorial Day with a Pure Pearls Freshwater Pearl Bracelet Giveaway!

Published on 2012-05-28 14:05:17

Are you like me, constantly looking online for the best shopping deals possible? Great, because I can’t wait to tell you about a great gift suggestion I have for Pearl Jewelry, which I think is perfect for those of you who are … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-05-27 05:50:31

Exuviance Daily Antioxidant Peel CA10 Review

Published on 2012-05-15 12:57:43

In case you didn’t know this, I love beauty products, as in LOVE THEM! As a kid, I was always playing around with my mother’s beauty products, and when I came home from summer camp with a bag full of new … Continue reading →

30 Second Book Review: Then Again by Diane Keaton

Published on 2012-05-15 10:02:48

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-05-13 09:59:23

Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner: Book Review & Author Q&A

Published on 2012-05-08 14:39:03

I’ve loved Jennifer Weiner since 2001, when I discovered her hilarious debut novel, Good In Bed. In case you’ve forgotten, that book was every fat girl’s (and, even most of the skinny girls!) favorite chick lit book. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed reading … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-05-06 09:16:31

30 Second Book Review: The Best Years of Flying: A Memoir of Howard Hughes & TWA by Dee Merian

Published on 2012-05-03 22:16:43

Helen Keller in Love by Rosie Sultan – Book Review, Giveaway & Q&A

Published on 2012-05-02 14:33:40

When I first read about the historical fiction novel, Helen Keller in Love by Rose Sultan, a story about the wildly popular American icon and her semi-secret lover, I was geeked beyond belief. I had never heard about Keller’s romance, and as … Continue reading →

Jennifer Weiner Fans: Book Tour, New Releases and BEA Bloggers Convention News!

Published on 2012-04-30 08:30:45

Like me, you must be a huge fan of Jennifer Weiner, the best-selling author and social media superstar. Why else would you take the time to read this blog post? Hang on to your hats, because I have some exciting news regarding Jennifer Weiner and what … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-04-29 00:00:45

Will You Sponsor Me for the 2012 BookExpo America and BEA Bloggers Convention this June?

Published on 2012-04-27 12:01:41

I may go by the nom de plume The Girl from the Ghetto, but please don’t let my blog name fool you–there isn’t anything ghetto about my devotion to reading, authors, and all things bookish. Books are my salvation, my … Continue reading →

In My Mailbox: Sissy Spacek and Stieg Larsson

Published on 2012-04-25 08:37:31

I love it when publishers send me advanced readers copies of books I request! I just asked for the Sissy Spacek memoir last week, and today, it magically showed up in my mailbox. When you no longer have money to buy … Continue reading →

30 Second Book Review: Have You No Shame?: And Other Regrettable Stories by Rachel Shukert

Published on 2012-04-24 15:25:04

Life Itself: A Memoir by Roger Ebert

Published on 2012-04-23 18:11:23

After reading this book, my first thought was, “What an excellent book!” A week later, and I still feel the same way. I desperately needed time to come up with the rights words to do this book justice, and to (hopefully) … Continue reading →

The Things That Need Doing: A Memoir by Sean Manning

Published on 2012-04-22 12:51:03

I love a good memoir, which means that I can never get enough drama anywhere in life. When I met the author of this book at BookExpo a few years ago, and he told me about his book, I was … Continue reading →

How to Autograph a Book: Book Signing 101

Published on 2012-04-18 22:18:11

As a book blogger, I’ve met at a few authors who had no idea how to properly sign a copy of their book. When authors do things like not sign on the correct page of their book, it makes them look … … Continue reading →

Gourmet Gift Baskets Brownie Giveaway

Published on 2012-04-17 11:47:31

I don’t know about you, but I love chocolate. As in LOVE it! When Gourmet Gift Baskets asked me if I wanted to review and host a giveaway for a custom sampling of brownies based on their Brownie Sampler Bakery Gift that … Continue reading →

Book & Product Giveaway Linky

Published on 2012-04-15 00:00:53

This Is How: Proven Aid in Overcoming Shyness, Molestation, Fatness, Spinsterhood, Grief, Disease, Lushery, Decrepitude & More. For Young and Old Alike by Augusten Burroughs

Published on 2012-04-13 11:21:34

What more do I need to say other than AUGUSTEN BURROUGHS has a new book coming out? Ok, ok, I’ll just say this and be done with it. I’m so excited … and I just can’t hide it. I’m about … Continue reading →

5 Nonfiction Books You Need To Read

Published on 2012-04-12 10:42:20

I realize that not everyone enjoys nonfiction books. As someone who adores memoirs and other nonfiction books, I find people who hate these type of books so confusing–to me, real life is so interesting to read about. Since I am … Continue reading →

Independant Book Blogger Awards: Vote for Me & Send Me to BookExpo America!

Published on 2012-04-11 08:20:15

Voting is open for the Independent Book Blogger Awards. These awards highlight the amazing talent in book blogging today. You may vote once in each of four categories: Adult Fiction, Adult Nonfiction, Young Adult and Children’s, and Publishing Industry. As … Continue reading →

Currently Reading

Published on 2012-04-10 11:55:53

I’m currently reading Life Itself by Roger Ebert and Helen Keller in Love by Rosie Sultan. I’ll be giving away one of these books later this month, so make sure to check back soon. What are you reading these days? … Continue reading →

Wrist Candy Review & Giveaway: Win a Guy & Eva Crystal Bracelet, Just in Time for Spring

Published on 2012-04-04 21:59:43

If you are like me, you love jewelry. You worship it. You may even spend more money on your entire jewelry collection than you do on clothes. Spring is always my favorite time of year to buy jewelry, because black goes … Continue reading →

Body Butter from The Body Shop: Best Lotion Ever?

Published on 2012-03-29 18:07:57

I’ve always been a lotion freak, mainly because when I was in grade school, my great-grandmother taught me the importance of taking care of my skin. After all, your skin does has to last a lifetime. As a fifth grader, I … Continue reading →

You Know You Are Cheap When …

Published on 2012-03-28 13:07:29

I’ve always known the importance and value of a dollar. Growing up ghetto, and then “financially challenged” for most of my adult life, has given me a certain superhero ability of stretching my money as far as it can go. Thanks … Continue reading →

Sh!t The Dowager Countess Says: 10 Reasons Why You Should Be Watching Downton Abbey

Published on 2012-03-16 11:59:20

I’ve been a lifelong fan of British culture, traditions, literature, and music–and I’m always pleased when I find new British things to fall in love with. My hubby is finally catching up with ‘Downton Abbey’ and we are having a blast watching … Continue reading →

Tiger Eyes Movie: Finally, One of Judy Blume’s Books Has Been Made into a Film!

Published on 2012-02-28 16:21:13

I’ve got the biggest breaking book and movie news of my life–Judy Blume’s beloved ‘Tiger Eyes’ is coming to a theatre near you sometime in 2012! Find out more about the upcoming film by watching my YouTube video now. After three … Continue reading →

2012 Oscars: 84th Academy Awards & Red Carpet Recap

Published on 2012-02-27 17:19:50

I take recapping award shows very seriously, which is why I re-watched most of the 2012 Oscars earlier this morning. Some people (oh, the horror!) don’t watch the Academy Awards, and they need to get the dirt from somewhere. I’m nobody’s … Continue reading →

Octavia Spencer Shines at the Oscars During Her Best Supporting Actress Acceptance Speech

Published on 2012-02-27 12:10:46

I’m a huge movie fanatic, and I love nothing more than watching the Oscars every year. Even if the show stinks, as it did last year (I was just as bored as James Franco was while hosting!), the show is terribly exciting at … Continue reading →

Book Review: Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

Published on 2012-02-23 11:00:55

To me, a perfect memoir needs to have a balance of both comedy and tragedy. A memoir can also be fantastic if it is full of tragic tales, or hilarious comedic adventures. Sadly, even though I adore Mindy Kaling, and … Continue reading →

Glee: The Concert DVD Review

Published on 2012-02-19 16:19:52

I loved Glee the moment I first read about it in EW Magazine–which was about a month before the show had even came out. I loved the idea of a television show about a bunch of choir geeks, mainly because I … Continue reading →

Back in Black: I’m Blogging Again

Published on 2012-02-14 11:09:02

Hey everyone! First, I want to take a moment to apologize if you receive a ton of emails from me (as a blog subscriber) in the next few weeks. Apparently, every time I update an old blog post, it goes out … Continue reading →

Book Review: The Obamas by Jodi Kantor

Published on 2012-01-31 09:35:08

Since I’m still having trouble reading, despite getting new bifocals, my hubby has generously stepped in and offered to read and review a book on my behalf. He rocks, right? I certainly think so! “The Obamas” is a new book … Continue reading →

The World Premiere Video for “Tattoo” by Van Halen

Published on 2012-01-10 10:46:22

Because I’m the coolest 40-something woman in the midwest, I happened to stop by @eddievanhalen’s Twitter page this morning and discovered that Van Halen just premiered their new video for “Tattoo” on YouTube this morning! Even better–I was the 301st … Continue reading →

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Blog Feed: The Girl from the Ghetto

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