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Claire Halliday is a freelance writer and author whose feature articles have appeared in a variety of national and international newspapers and magazines, including The Age, Sunday Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Australian Women’s Weekly, Independent on Sunday (UK), Notebook, Marie Claire and GQ,  for over a decade. In that time, she has written features on a range of topics, including Geraldine Cox and her Cambodian orphanage, life inside a children’s mental health ward at Melbourne ’s Austin Hospital , the life of an HIV-positive woman, the swingers’ party scene in Melbourne and many other observations on aspects of Australian sexuality.

Claire has previously published two books, Unsung Heroes and The World At Their Feet – both collections of interviews with important Australians. Her most recent book, Do you want sex with that? is a very personal account of her own attitudes to sex and also explores the place of sex throughout Australian life: from the pervasive sexualisation of advertising and its approach to children, to the more minority pursuits of swinging and porn-films, as well as the rise of the abstinence movement.

She lives in Melbourne with her husband and four children and is currently working on her new book.

Upcoming Dates:

Emerging Writers’ Festival
In the pub: freelance writing talk (with Chris Flynn and Ben Pobjie)
Wednesday 26 May, from 7.30pm
The Workers Club, 51 Brunswick St, Fitzroy

*Details of how to purchase tickets are on Claire’s Website http://www.clairehalliday.com/

WE HAVE ONE SIGNED COPY OF CLAIRE’S BOOK ‘DO YOU WANT SEX WITH THAT?’ TO GIVE AWAY!

To be in the running read my review below and find the question you need to answer….

MY REVIEW

Intrigued by the title I couldn’t wait to read more.  So the old adage, sex sells, really is true? Of course it is… otherwise it wouldn’t be the big business that it is… from Adult shops and naughty parties, to girly mags and teen mags, television and billboard slogans and ads - girls in bikinis selling cars, steamy scenes in movies, R-rated and X-rated versions, to the vamp and hype of ‘sexy’ apparel aimed at our tweens…  Go on, tell me you haven’t noticed and I’ll ask you where’s your rock?

Claire explores the flaws and foundations in the ‘sex sells’ motto as she goes ‘undercover’ as a sex addict seeking absolution.  She shares her story with refreshing honesty, weaving her life’s tapestry throughout the book.  Tales of her days as a young woman pre-children exploring her sexuality coming through the narrative, as she extracts the undercurrent – the underbelly (if you will) – of our sex lives in Australia, and what it means to us.

As a writer, investigator, woman and inquirer, Claire puts herself in all sorts of dramatic situations to unearth a quarry of information about why we do what we do… she pours through a bevy of detail, going into the realm of swingers and sex addicts to ‘find out more!’ Why? Because sex sells and makes people tick! Sex, and its icons, the movers and the shakes of the big screen, the clothing department, your children’s toys from Barbie to Bratz and more, are all playing a role in our lives.  Is it constructive or destructive? Claire dissects the topic, with a pictorial imagery she creates just by using the written word.

Claire makes absolute sense with her assumptions and assertions of the sex-trade…  a commodity that is being bought and sold, waged as a war against women, and aggressively marketed. It is a practice that waxes and wanes depending on your age group, relationship status, attitudes, living arrangements, health etc.  It is both beautiful and barbaric, both humbling and emotional, an entity that suppresses and denies, shrinks and exerts authority, as well as being a gentle and passionate experience that unites lovers the world over. 

I found myself reading this book and nodding – thinking “Yes I’ve noticed that or felt that!’   It is evocative and prevocative reading, it makes you think, it twists your mind into places it might never have gone before.  You will question your beliefs, your practices, your attitudes, the illusions sex casts… or rather the media casts.  You will in part, identify with Claire’s ride to self-discovery – but this is not a book about her…

READ THE BOOK TEASER HERE http://www.clairehalliday.com/flip/templates/liquid-green/index.html

To win a signed copy of Claire Halliday’s Book ‘Do you want sex with that?’ just tell me who interviewed Claire Halliday about her book in Novemeber 2009 on channel 10 - details are available on her website!

Curious?  Want to know more about the book ?…

Find out here http://www.readings.com.au/product/9780670073450/do-you-want-sex-with-that

Review of ‘Do you want sex with that?’ conducted by Michelle Hayward

Author of ’FALLING’ - http://michellehayward.blogspot.com

Michelle Hayward is a mother of 9, with over 21 years experience as a parent and a Freelance Writer and Photographer who is about to release her debut novel ‘Falling.’ Michelle has certificates in Natural Therapies, Aromatherapy, Interior Decorating, and Diplomas in Make-Up Artistry; she is a Nursing & Childbirth Education student.

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The You Sexy Mother books redefine what it means to be a mum today…one who is sexy, vibrant, healthy, happy and engaged in a life that has meaning and value.

When she became a mother herself, Jodie Hedley-Ward failed to find any book that supported her own beliefs about what motherhood could,  and should, be, so she set about writing one herself. You Sexy Mother was the triumphant result. Since then, thousands of women have read and absorbed the You Sexy Mother philosophy, then sought further information and contact withother women through the author’s busy website yousexymother.com.au

Jodie has also received hundreds of emails from women whose lives have been positively changed through reading the book and by adapting many of the practical suggestions to their own lives. Inspired by these women, Jodie created You Sexy Mother: The Journal ($24.99, March 2010), a beautiful but practical follow-up to her first book, offering sensible advice on self-perception, self-respect, the importance of relationships, simplifying your life, creativity through motherhood and making use of community resources.

The Journal is also a workbook, containing numerous reflection questions, quotes and thoughts designed to stimulate inner growth and change. Jodie has also updated the transformational ten-day turnaround plan that appeared in her first book, making this book even more useful.

Jodie’s publicity tour in April/May will coincide with the release of results of the Australia Motherhood Study, which Jodie and clinical psychologist, Dr Angela Huntsman launched on Mothers’ Day 2009. Mothers were asked via an anonymous on-line questionnaire to talk about how they think and feel about their role as mothers. Both researchers will be giving a keynote address in New York City this May, at the Association for Research on Mothering (ARM)/Mamapalooza “Representing Motherhood: Mothers in the Arts, Literature, Media and Popular Culture” conference, May 20-22, 2010, New York City.

About the Author:

Jodie Hedley-Ward has several degrees including a Master of Business, and worked as a marketing executive around the world, before marriage to David and two children. She now lives in Queensland.

Visit http://www.yousexymother.com.au and http://www.motherhoodstudy.net for more on Jodie’s work.

I’ll be reviewing these books shortly!

COMMENT ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE to be in the running to win your very own copy!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-House-of-Vintner/110223609004292?ref=nf

Your chance to meet the author and get your copy of Gamers’ Quest signed!

BOOK SIGNING — GAMERS’ QUEST
Come and meet George Ivanoff — author of the Chronos Award-winning science fiction novel for kids and teens, Gamers’ Quest.

Combining science fiction and fantasy, Gamers’ Quest is a fast-paced, thrilling adventure which throws the reader into the multiple worlds within a computer game.

Location: Angus & Robertson Ringwood bookstore (Shop L026a) in Eastland Shopping Centre, Victoria
Date: Saturday 8 May 2010
Time: 11.30am-12.30pm

Official Gamers’ Quest website: http://www.gamersquestbook.com

Gamers’ Quest book trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vCC-l34Fgo

Melinda Hutchings

Melinda Hutchings is an author, mentor and inspirational speaker who inspires readers and audiences with her courageous story of turning her life around.

She is the author of three books about eating issues which have helped thousands of people understand the dynamics of eating disorders from the early warning signs and onset through to the recovery process and beyond. Having lost her teenage years to anorexia, Melinda is passionate about promoting positive body image and the dangers of dieting, as well as empowering her readers to trust the voice that speaks from their heart to create a happy and fulfilling life.

Melinda’s third book Why Can’t I Look the Way I Want; Overcoming Eating Issues was published by Allen & Unwin last year, and took recovery one step further by showing examples of people who had successfully rebuilt their lives post- recovery. Melinda interviewed 17 teenagers and young adults who had all battled an eating disorder, from male anorexia to bulimia and binge eating disorder. Her book gives a comprehensive account of the struggle, turning points, the recovery process, including lapses and relapses, and the eventual triumph over the eating disorder to show how recovery is possible. The book also details how the interviewees healed and moved forward to become happy, confident and successful. One of the girls Melinda interviewed was hospitalised more than 50 times over ten years, but with persistence and determination, made a full recovery and is now studying medicine.

Melinda says “By showing real life examples of people who have moved forward and are doing what they’ve always wanted in life, I hope to alleviate some of the fear of the unknown and inspire courage, confidence and faith in a positive outcome. I know firsthand that it can feel safer to hang on to the eating disorder because it is familiar and predictable, but I also want people to know how empowering it is to let the eating disorder go and give yourself permission to find the person you knows is inside. It takes time to heal and move forward, but the life you get to create on the other side of recovery is truly amazing because it is the life that is true to your heart. There is nothing more fulfilling than living with personal freedom and the sense that anything is possible. This book is very close to my heart because it took me back to the pain and hopelessness one endures whilst struggling with an eating disorder – and then to the sheer exhilaration of recovery and discovering how amazing life can be on the other side.”

Melinda was a Finalist in Cosmopolitan’s ‘Fun Fearless Female’ 2009 awards in the category ‘Inspirational Role Model’. An experienced speaker, she has presented at several conferences and forums, as well as being profiled extensively in the media, most recently 9AM with David & Kim, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Madison, Sunday Telegraph (Body & Soul), Sun-Herald, Tim Webster 2UE and ABC Radio National.

 Melinda is a member of Thought Leaders Central, a community of inspirational experts, and is currently studying at the Life Coach Academy to attain international accreditation as a Professional Coach.

Her fourth book It Will Get Better; Finding Your Way Through Teen Issues  will be published by Allen & Unwin in July 2010.

www.melindahutchings.com

 WE HAVE A SIGNED COPY OF THIS FANTASTIC BOOK TO GIVE AWAY!!!

Thank you so much Melinda!

How can you be in the draw to win this fantastic book? 

Just visit Melinda’s site and tell us who (what famous person) she quotes on her front page.

YOU CAN SEE MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE AUTHORS WE PROMOTE HERE, including my debut novel ‘Falling’.

http://michellehayward.blogspot.com/p/authors-and-book-give-aways.html –

In May – Our featured Author will be Claire Halliday!  Plus there’ll be a signed copy of her book to give away.

 “As ‘soon to be mums’, we read so many books about conception, pregnancy, fertility and the like, before and during pregnancy, but we don’t seem to read up on what happens after the baby arrives. This book covers the fundamental s of breastfeeding and what you need to know to give yourself the best chance. As your baby’s mother, you have the right to choose how to feed your child. No judgement attached.” 

Melissa Macdonald, author & mother.  www.breastfeedingbook.com.au  

 Available from www.breastfeedingbook.com.au  

OUR REVIEW:

At Absolutely Whyaard we were delighted to have the opportunity to review this book!  As a mother of 9 myself and a nursing and childbirth ed student, I found this book to be an amazing resource!  Melissa has really researched her stuff!  Well-written, clear and succinct, with a beautiful pictoria layout, ‘Breastfeeding – Real Mums Tell you How’ really nails it.  Finally!  A book that tells the truth with grace and knowledge.  It is detailed, and gives in depth information about every facet of breastfeeding from mastitis, to cracked nipples, to colic, siblings and feeding a sick baby… and so much more…  It is refreshing to read stories from real-life mums in real-life situations!  This is not a textbook, it is for real people! 

This comprehensive and well-researched guide to breastfeeding survival is a MUST HAVE for any mother!  Not just for first time mums, we can all gain and glean much from Melissa’s book!  I was impressed to find that it also contains information for bottle-feeding mums!  While I am a big breastfeeding advocate, we certainly need to not pressure women and make them feel guilt or distress for either not being able to breastfeed or choosing not to for personal reasons! It’s a very personal decision and every mum should be given the chance to make their own decisions for their baby!

Melissa applies no guilt or pressure – just realistic advice! 

www.breastfeedingbook.com.au  

We have rated this book 10 out 10! 

Thank you for the opportunity to review this beautiful book! 

- Michelle Hayward 

Donny Singe is the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Manly Sea Eagles Rugby League team. He has just completed an ebook to answer what is almost a daily call to his office. “So You Want To Be a Sports Trainer” addresses answers to the questions he is asked about how to get the job he has. It is a series of ebooks he is working on.

I have recently had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Donny Singe’s ebook which is a fabulous resource for anyone questioning how they enter this arena or kickstart a career as a fitness coach.  Of course, Donny has put the hard yards in to get where he is, and you can read about his journey via the ebook, along with tips and hints about how to ‘make it’ on the footy circuit!  An ideal book for anyone starting out, it is not too long or tedious to read, and easily explains where to begin.  No matter what age you are, the content Donny has included is not only interesting, it is also achievable! 

 Check it out along with Leanne Cooper’s “What do I feed my Baby” at http://www.cadencehealth.com.au/ or http://www.mwse.com.au/default.aspx?s=strength-and-conditioning-training

Don’t forget we’re giving away a signed copy of Leanne’s book on April 21!  So be quick to be in the running!

Leanne Cooper of ‘Cadence Health’ www.cadencehealth.com.au shares her wonderful new book ‘What Do I Feed My Baby’ with Absolutely Whyaard!

Leanne is a leading childhood nutrition expert and consult to Huggies, My Child, OHbaby NZ, Parents Centre NZ and much more. She has self-published my first book called ‘What Do I Feed My Baby’ late last year, which has been a really popular book… read on to see why!

What Do I Feed My Baby; a step-by-step guide to introducing solids
So you know what to start with, but, how much, when and what’s next?  The essential step-by-step guide on how to start solids and progress to meals. Created by mum and nutrition advisor to Huggies Baby Club and numerous parenting magazines, Leanne Cooper.  All your questions answered in one book.  See www.sneakys.com.au for stockists including Huggies Book Club, Bubs Stores and Metro Mum.

What do mums and dad’s think of Leanne’s book?
Dear Leanne
About a month ago I purchased your book “What will I feed the Baby?”. Your book has been one of the most valuable resources I have purchased. As a new mum I was searching for a comprehensive guide for introducing solids to my beautiful six month old son, Samuel. Lata Vadlamudi

Hi Leanne,
I bought your book “What Do I Feed My Baby” a couple of months back and just wanted to write to you and say how fabulous it is.  It’s exactly all the information I need in one place, and I don’t have to turn the computer on to check something out!!  I also found all the other information like the tips (microwaving your dish cloth), facts and food safety and handling very useful. I’m so glad I happened across your website – thanks very much.
Kind regards, Carmen van den Berg.

We are all part of a mothers group in Canterbury/ Surrey Hills area in Melbourne… My Maternal Health nurse has not been very specific about the information she has been passing on – in my opinion.  It’s all very well to be telling us “WHAT” to feed our babies, but they neglect to specify HOW MUCH AND HOW OFTEN.  I think your book is FANTASTIC in this regard. Thank you so much for the great book!   Cherine Gibson.

WE HAVE ONE SIGNED COPY OF LEANNE’S BEAUTIFUL BOOK TO GIVE AWAY!

TO BE IN THE RUNNING TO WIN THIS AMAZING BOOK VISIT LEANNE’S WEBSITE CADENCE HEALTH www.cadencehealth.com.au AND JUST TELL US THE TITLE AND AUTHOR OF THE OTHER BOOK  (available in ebook format)  MENTIONED ON LEANNE’S SITE… WE’LL GIVE YOU A HINT (IT’S A MALE AUTHOR). 

Competition closes April 21st, 2010`

This is a beautifully written and presented book – the winner won’t be disappointed.

Visit the site to see how you can purchase your own copy.

What people have said about Gamers’ Quest: