To me, the only thing as sexy as a great writer is a great reader. Finding a great writer who also is a great reader is, well, heavenly.

My love of books knows no bounds. When I’m feeling blue, I head for the bookstore and, if I’m lucky enough to have a few extra bucks, I leave with a brand new book in hand, ready to transport me from my gloom to a world designed by a writer’s imagination.

Last year, we introduced you to First Book, an incredible organization with the mission to give low-income kids their very first new books. First Book’s annual awareness campaign, “What Book Got You Hooked?” is underway and you can participate by sharing the memory of the book that introduced you to the joy of reading. You can also discover which titles are beloved by some of your favorite authors and celebrities.

Diva Patti LaBelle’s favorite book since childhood is Heidi: “It’s so thoughtful, yet simple enough for a child to understand.”

For Scarlett Johansson, the love for books began when her sister read to her from Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl: “Every night she would read me a new chapter. I loved it so much that I made her start over again right after we completed it!” … continue reading

Yesterday I saw a lot of headlines about the BET Awards. I skimmed a few stories, noted the winners and glanced at a few blog posts, but I refused to really absorb any of it. I wanted to wait and see it for myself. I finally watched the show last night, and I'm glad I saw it without any preconceived notions. I was able to let the Jennifer Holliday-Jennifer Hudson duet of "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" wash over me and give me goosebumps. And did it ever! I think I had an aural orgasm. (An aurgasm?)

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