Jared Leto



Photo by me.

Not many can balance a succesful acting and music career, but Jared Leto does just that. Leto acts, directs, produces and leads the rock band 30 Seconds to Mars. His role as Jordan Catalano on My So Called Life thrust him into the spotlight. Leto has been featured in many movies including Prefontaine, Girl, Interrupted, Fight Club, Urban Legend, and Requiem for a Dream. Leto recently lost a lot of weight to play transvestite Rayon in the movie The Dallas Buyer's Club which is currently filming.

Jared is the lead singer, rhythm guitarist, and songwriter of 30 Seconds to Mars. 30 Seconds to Mars have released three studio albums which have produced many hits including "The Kill," "From Yesterday," "This is War," and "Kings and Queens." 30 Seconds to Mars also launched www.abeautifullie.org  which shares information and tips concerning the environment.

On Jared's website, you can purchase an exclusive book of photos taken by Leto during his trip to Haiti a year after the 2010 earthquake. All net profits go to charities to help those affected by the quake.

What is Jared Leto reading?

Jared tweeted a few days ago, "On the plane re-reading one of the best American novels ever written called FINN by @jonclinch."

From barnesandnoble.com:
"Jon Clinch takes us on a journey into the history and heart of one of American literature’s most brutal and mysterious figures: Huckleberry Finn’s father. The result is a deeply original tour de force that springs from Twain’s classic novel but takes on a fully realized life of its own."

You can find out more about Jared at www.jaredleto.com and follow him on Twitter.


Yep, that's me with Jared and Tomo.

Check out one of my favorite 30 Seconds to Mars songs, "Closer to the Edge." You can see for yourself what an amazing frontman Jared is.

Jackson Rathbone

Of course you are aware that handsome Jackson Rathbone played Jasper Hale in the five Twilight blockbuster films. Among his movie projects, Rathbone was also featured in The Last Airbender as Sokka. You may remember him interviewing Disney celebrities on Disney 411, too.

Multitalented Jackson is a musician and used to perform with indie rock band 100 Monkeys. Rathbone recently released songs from his new solo endeavor. You can purchase Rathbone's  new solo single "Indian Drum" along with another single, "Billy Badass," on Itunes. Jackson's official website also offers a free download of "Indian Drum" here.

I recently asked Jackson what his favorite book was and what he was reading.

What is Jackson Rathbone reading?

Jackson tweeted, ""The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho might just be my favorite book... Right now reading Russell Brand's "My Booky Wook"- great read."


Thank you, Jackson, for the great book recommendations!
You can find out more about Jackson at  www.jacksonrathbone.com and follow him on Twitter.       
Photo from @jacksonrathbone.      

Anderson Cooper

Anderson Cooper reports news stories as anchor of the CNN program Anderson Cooper 360 and hosts syndicated daytime talk show Anderson Live. Cooper is also a correspondent for the 60 Minutes on CBS.

Anderson writes articles for various magazines including Details magazine. His memoir, Dispatches from the Edge: A Memoir of War, Disasters, and Survival, was published in 2007 by Harper Collins.


What is Anderson Cooper reading?

Anderson recently tweeted, "Just finished really moving, inspiring book The End Of Your Life Book Club by Will Scwalbe. About a man and his ill mom. I recommend it!" He then corrected the spelling of the author (it's Schwalbe) and added, "Poignant, moving, inspiring book."

Anderson next tweeted, "I'm trying to read Wolf Hall but am having a hard time getting into it. But I'm told it's really good."

You can follow Anderson on Twitter.
Photo from @andersoncooper.

Lovehammers

The Lovehammers are a Chicago based rock band who have released 6 studio albums, 2 EPS, and 2 DVD's in the last 15 years. You may remember lead singer, Marty Casey, as first runner up on the hit NBC show, Rockstar INXS. Lovehammers' song, "Trees," became a nationwide hit after Marty performed it on the show. Their most recent album, Set Fire, dropped last week (and I own it and recommend it!). The band was kind enough to talk books with me.

MARTY CASEY

What is your favorite book?

Even more than a favorite book, I have a favorite genre of books that I read.  My need to read the biography of every great rock n rolla is more than a desire... It's an addiction!  It all started when I saw a book called Hammer of the Gods sitting on my brothers nightstand.  I was probably 12 years old and the title sounded so cool.  I had no idea what it was about and I sat down and started reading.  The colorful tales of a monumental Rock band of the 70's - Led Zeppelin - painted the picture of a life I got mesmerized by.  After reading that book I started listening to all things Zeppelin and wanted to be in a huge band and tour the globe a get into trouble every where I went.  I got sucked into the gypsy world of rock n roll.

What is your last book read (or current read?)

I am currently reading a book called "God's MiddleFinger: Into the Lawless Heart of the Sierra Madre" by Richard Grant.  I drove via Jeep thru 1,000's of miles of rural Mexico in 2007 and had some amazing and frightening experiences.   When I heard about this book it seemed like the author walked the line of fate and stepped into the world of bandits, drug smugglers, Mormons, cave-dwelling Tarahumara Indians, opium farmers, cowboys, and other assorted outcasts that roam the Sierra Madres.  Knowing how dangerous this area is, I had to read the tale of an American pushing the limits of reason and going to the ground zero of drug lord insanity.  I am halfway thru and LOVING this book.

Do you prefer to read traditional books or on an e-reader?

I prefer the traditional paperback style book.  When I finish a book I usually pass it along to a friend and most have never been returned to me.  I hope that good books get passed down hand to hand and the stories continue take the readers into an alternate time and place... The great escape!

 

BILLY SAWILCHIK

Fav book:  Twilight

Last read:  Water forElephants

Preferred format:  Books

Obviously, I prefer to be entertained, not intellectually stumulated when I read!!!

 

BOBBY KOURELIS

What is your favorite book?

One of My favorites - The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

What is your last book read (or current read?)

Just finished - Hit Hard: A Story of Hitting Rock Bottomat the Top by Joey Kramer of Aerosmith

Do you prefer to read traditional books or on an e-reader?

Traditional. Never attempted e-reading.

As far as typical reading, usually books on American History/Presidents and plenty of Rock type bios/autobios.

 

DINO KOURELIS

What is your favorite book?

I don’t think I can say I just have 1 favorite, but I do love ToKill a Mockingbird, as it was one of the first books I read.  The Devil in the White City was another I enjoyed – being from Chicago, I felt a connection.  I enjoy most books by Scott Turow as well…..again Chicago connection.

What is your last book read (or current read?)

Currently reading Slash – I was actually with him in one of the stories he talks about, so it is interesting to have it included in his book…..

Do you prefer to read traditional books or on an e-reader?

I will only read traditional books – no e-readers for me!

I typically prefer to read Autobiographies and Biographies.  Other than that, I will usually check out what Scott Turow has out…….

 

Thanks, guys! You can find out more about the Lovehammers at www.lovehammers.com

You can like the Lovehammers on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Check out their newest single, "Into the Insane!"

P!nk

Did you catch Pink's amazing performance at the American Music Awards on Sunday? Pink continues to put out hit record after hit record. Pink's hits include "Get the Party Started," "Stupid Girls," "Raise Your Glass," and more. Her newest album (her sixth studio album), The Truth About Love, released in September this year. Pink has won three Grammy Awards and five Mtv Video Music Awards. She was named the number one pop musician of the decade by Billboard magazine in 2009. VH1 recently named Pink number 10 on their 100 Greatest Women in Music list.

What is Pink reading?

According to a recent issue of People magazine, Pink recommends The Paris Wife by Paula McLain and A Natural Woman by Carole King.  Pink said about The Paris Wife, "It's about Ernest Hemingway's first wife and it's f------ good. I love Paris in the 1920s. I love that whole idea."

You can find out more about Pink at her website and follow her on Twitter.

Check out one of Pink's many hits, "So What."

Valerie Bertinelli

Valerie Bertinelli received her Hollywood Walk of Fame star in August of this year. And it's about time. We loved her in One Day at a Time, as Gloria on Touched by an Angel, in several TV movies, and now as Melanie on Hot in Cleveland. Valerie is also the proud mom of Van Halen (and touring Tremonti) bassist, Wolfgang Van Halen.

Valerie recently published a book titled One Dish At a Time with over 100 recipes from her Italian heritage. She is also the author of Losing It: And Gaining My Life Back One Pound at a Time and Finding It: And Finally Satisfying My Hunger for Life.

What is Valerie Bertinelli reading?

On Sunday, Valerie tweeted, "Been reading Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn all day. Wow. Freaking wow."

Book description from amazon.com:
On a warm summer morning in North Carthage, Missouri, it is Nick and Amy Dunne’s fifth wedding anniversary. Presents are being wrapped and reservations are being made when Nick’s clever and beautiful wife disappears from their rented McMansion on the Mississippi River. Husband-of-the-Year Nick isn’t doing himself any favors with cringe-worthy daydreams about the slope and shape of his wife’s head, but passages from Amy's diary reveal the alpha-girl perfectionist could have put anyone dangerously on edge. Under mounting pressure from the police and the media—as well as Amy’s fiercely doting parents—the town golden boy parades an endless series of lies, deceits, and inappropriate behavior. Nick is oddly evasive, and he’s definitely bitter—but is he really a killer?
As the cops close in, every couple in town is soon wondering how well they know the one that they love. With his twin sister, Margo, at his side, Nick stands by his innocence. Trouble is, if Nick didn’t do it, where is that beautiful wife? And what was in that silvery gift box hidden in the back of her bedroom closet?
With her razor-sharp writing and trademark psychological insight, Gillian Flynn delivers a fast-paced, devilishly dark, and ingeniously plotted thriller.


You can find out more about Bertinelli at www.valeriebertinelli.com and follow her on Twitter.

Billy Idol

Photo by me.

Billy Idol is a Grammy nominated rock musician from England. He's known for his many platinum albums and hits in the 80's like "White Wedding," "Dancing With Myself," and "Rebel Yell." The 90's brought hit songs like "Cradle of Love." Idol has appeared in VH1's Behind the Music and VH1 Storytellers. In 2009, Idol’s first in-concert DVD “In Super Overdrive Live” was released. Billy has tour dates in the northwestern US this month.


What is Billy Idol reading?

Billy tweeted on Sunday, "Just finished reading Pete Townshend 'Who I Am': Memoir...very good!"

You can find out more about Billy at www.billyidol.net and follow him on Twitter.


Idol won an Mtv Video Music Award with this song, "Cradle of Love." Check it out!

Jordin Sparks

American Idol winner Jordin Sparks continues to succeed in her singing and acting career. After winning Idol, her debut album went platinum, and her single “No Air”  became the highest selling single by any American Idol contestant. Sparks has already won many awards for her music including two BET Awards, one American Music Award, one People’s Choice Award and has been nominated for a Grammy. A few months ago, Jordin made her movie debut in Sparkle. Lovely and talented!

What is Jordin Sparks reading?

In the August 17/24 issue of Entertainment Weekly, Jordin listed some of her latest favorite reads. Her favorites included Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith and the Fifty Shades trilogy which she said, "I read them in five days."

I recently asked Jordin what she is currently reading, she tweeted, "The Dark Monk by Pliver Pötzsch. Second book in The Hangman's Daughter Tales :) ."

Thank you, Jordin!

You can find out more about Sparks at www.jordinsparks.com, and you can follow her on Twitter.

Mark Tremonti

Mark Tremonti is one of the greatest guitarists ever. Mark is lead guitar in platinum selling rock band Creed as well as popular rock band Alter Bridge. Mark released his debut solo album titled All I Was with the band Tremonti in July.  Total Guitar magazine named Mark as the fourth greatest heavy metal guitarist of all time in 2011. Mark and his brother formed a website and record and production company called FRET 12 in 2008.


Tremonti is an avid reader so I recently asked him a few questions about books.

 I asked Mark if he preferred ereaders or traditional books. His answer, "I read the real thing, actual books."

What is Mark's last book read? I also asked him how many books he reads a year.

Tremonti tweeted, "I just finished "My Cross To Bear" by Greg Allman. I probably read about 15 to 20 a yr." 


Thank you, Mark! And also big thanks to him as I won a signed PRS Tremonti guitar at his concert recently. Does he rock or what?          

Check out a list of Mark's favorite books at the Artist Direct site here.

You can find out more about Mark at www.marktremonti.com . You can also follow him on Twitter.




Listen to his single "You Waste Your Time." It's awesome!

Emma Roberts

Emma Roberts was first known as Addie on Nickelodeon's Unfabulous. She's starred in many films including Hotel for Dogs, Nancy Drew and Scream 4. Roberts is currently filming We're the Millers with Jennifer Aniston and Jason Sudeikis. Emma also sings and has been featured in the soundtracks for Unfabulous, Aquamarine, and Ice Princess.

What is Emma Roberts reading?

She tweeted Friday night, "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas was a really fun read. Downloading the movie now."

And on Saturday, "Fahrenheit 451 is absolutely amazing. Can’t put it down! Highly recommend."

You can follow Roberts on Twitter. She frequently tweets the book she is reading, which is awesome!

Photo from @robertsemma.

Pete Loeffler

Pete Loeffler is the lead singer and guitarist of rock band Chevelle. Chevelle is comprised of two brothers and one brother-in-law. They hail from northeast Illinois (like me!). Chevelle has released six studio albums and have produced many rock hits including "Send the Pain Below" and most recently "Face to the Floor" and "Hats Off to the Bull." I've seen them live three times, and they put on a great show!

I recently asked Pete if he had any book recommendations.

Pete tweeted, "Yes, "Packing for Mars" by Mary Roach."

Packing For Mars Overview from barnesandnoble.com:
Space is a world devoid of the things we need to live and thrive: air, gravity, hot showers, fresh produce, privacy, beer. Space exploration is in some ways an exploration of what it means to be human. How much can a person give up? How much weirdness can they take? What happens to you when you can’t walk for a year? have sex? smell flowers? What happens if you vomit in your helmet during a space walk? Is it possible for the human body to survive a bailout at 17,000 miles per hour? To answer these questions, space agencies set up all manner of quizzical and startlingly bizarre space simulations. As Mary Roach discovers, it’s possible to preview space without ever leaving Earth. From the space shuttle training toilet to a crash test of NASA’s new space capsule (cadaver filling in for astronaut), Roach takes us on a surreally entertaining trip into the science of life in space and space on Earth.


Thanks, Pete! Sounds like a cool book!

You can follow Pete on Twitter and find out more about the band at www.chevelleinc.com.

Here's "Face to the Floor."

Michael McMillian

Yes, I have back to back True Blood posts. What can I say? I love that show. Michael McMillian is one reason why I am obsessed with this show. He plays the preacher turned vamp Steve Newlin, and I love every scene that he is in. The season finale on Sunday was wicked crazy  as usual.  McMillian also has a recurring guest role on TV Land's Hot In Cleveland. Michael played Henry Gibson on What I Like About You from 2003-2005..

Michael not only acts, but he writes, too. He is the creator/writer of the LUCID comic book. The  movie rights to Lucid were picked up by Warner Brothers this year. He also writes the True Blood comic book series.

What is Michael McMillian reading?

I asked Michael recently, and he tweeted, "Favorite book: A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving. Current read: The Bible: A Biography by Karen Armstrong."

Book desciption of A Prayer for Owen Meany from Amazon.com:
"In the summer of 1953, two eleven-year-old boys—best friends—are playing in a Little League baseball game in Gravesend, New Hampshire. One of the boys hits a foul ball that kills the other boy's mother. The boy who hits the ball doesn't believe in accidents; Owen Meany believes he is God's instrument. What happens to Owen after that 1953 foul ball is extraordinary."

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Thank you, Michael!

You can like McMillian's Facebook page here, and follow him on Twitter.

Joe Manganiello

We have seen a lot of Joe Manganiello on the big and small screen this year. A lot. Joe is usually shirtless as Alcide on HBO's True Blood. He played a stripper on Magic Mike (see photo below) and was featured in What to Expect When You Are Expecting this year. He also has a recurring role on How I Met Your Mother.

The season finale of True Blood airs this Sunday so this is the perfect time to share some of Joe's reads. Joe participated in a live HBOConnect Q&A session recently and shared some of his faves. Read the full Q&A here.

When asked what book he likes to read and reread, Joe answered, "The Hobbit was my favorite growing up."

True Blood is based on the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. When asked if he reads the books, Joe answered,  "I read book three before my audition and I usually read the corresponding book before we start shooting the relevant season each year."

Brains and brawn!

You can follow Joe on Twitter.

Kate Walsh

You may have first noticed Kate Walsh on The Drew Carey Show or The Norm Show, but everyone couldn't help but notice her as Dr. Addison Montgomery on Grey's Anatomy. She then graduated to her own ABC show, Private Practice. Walsh recently announced that this would be her last season on Private Practice. Kate has appeared in several movies including Kicking and Screaming with Will Ferrell, Under the Tuscan Sun, Legion, and she will appear in the upcoming movie The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

Last year Kate released a new perfume line called Billionaire Boyfriend which you can purchase on HSN.

What is Kate Walsh reading?

When asked what her favorite book was, Kate tweeted, "Impossible to say, but i did just finish reading The Patrick Melrose novels, amazing."

From amazon.com:
"By turns harrowing and hilarious, these beautifully written novels dissect the English upper class as we follow Patrick Melrose’s story from child abuse to heroin addiction and recovery."
Find out more about Kate at her website, www.katewalsh.com and follow her on Twitter.

Miranda Cosgrove

Miranda Cosgrove stars in the hit Nickelodeon show, iCarly. She also played the mischievous Megan in Nickelodeon's Drake and Josh. Cosgrove appeared in the 2003 movie, School of Rock, and voices the role of Margo in Despicable Me and the upcoming Despicable Me 2.

Multitalented Miranda is a professional singer with studio and soundtrack albums including the 2010 release, Sparks Fly.

What book does Miranda recommend?

According to the June 11, 2012 issue of Us Weekly, one of Miranda's favorite books is The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

If by chance you are not familiar with this classic, the book description from amazon.com is as follows:

"The hero-narrator of The Catcher in the Rye is an ancient child of sixteen, a native New Yorker named Holden Caulfield.

Through circumstances that tend to preclude adult, secondhand description, he leaves his prep school in Pennsylvania and goes underground in New York City for three days. The boy himself is at once too simple and too complex for us to make any final comment about him or his story. Perhaps the safest thing we can say about Holden is that he was born in the world not just strongly attracted to beauty but, almost, hopelessly impaled on it."

You can find out more about Cosgrove at www.mirandacosgrove.com. You can follow her on Twitter and like her on Facebook.
Photo from http://www.flickr.com/photos/dephisticate/5456292214

Check out Miranda Cosgrove's "About You Now."

Raine Maida

Raine Maida is the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of the Canadian rock band Our Lady Peace. Maida is also a music producer who has worked with many bands including Avril Lavigne and Kelly Clarkson. Raine and his wife, Chantal Kreviazuk, co-wrote songs with Kelly Clarkson (including her hit "Walk Away"), David Cook, and The Veronicas, among others.

Our Lady Peace is one of the most successful Canadian bands of the 90's. The band has released eight studio albums, the most recent, Curve , released in April of this year. Their biggest hits include "Superman's Dead," "Clumsy," and "Somewhere Out There." Take a listen to their cool, new single, "As Fast As You Can" here. OLP have also won four Juno Awards and ten MuchMusic video awards. They are currently on tour (and I've seen them live, they are awesome!). Check out tour dates HERE.

Maida released a solo EP this year at his website. Sign up for the Raine Maida newsletter, and get Maida's solo Pachamama EP for free at www.rainemaida.net ! Pachamama II drops Tuesday!

I recently asked Raine what he was reading.

Raine answered, "Books I'm reading at present. Albert Camus: A Life by Olivier Todd.... & "The Plague" by Albert Camus. He's such a cool,inspired French Philosopher. Much more concise and simple in thought. A modern day philosopher even though he died in 1960."

Thank you, Raine! You can find out more about Raine at www.rainemaida.net and www.ourladypeace.com. You can also find him on Facebook and follow him on Twitter.
Photo from @mrrainemaida.

Here's one of OLP's hits, "Superman's Dead," which has been playing on repeat in our home lately by all five members of the family. It rocks!

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams is one of the most gorgeous women on this planet. She is a mother of four, singer, actress, and author. And of course she is a former Miss America as well. Williams has been nominated for Grammy, Emmy, and Tony awards. Williams has released eight studio albums. She has appeared on many feature films as well as TV shows like Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives.

This year Vanessa released her first book co-authored with her mom, Helen Williams, titled You Have No Idea.


What is Vanessa Williams reading?

I recently asked her for some book recommendations.

She answered, "Rereading "Keys to the Kingdom."
After I  complimented her she replied, "Beauty may open the door, but knowledge is power. I never want to stop learning. Another great book "What Could He Be Thinking."         

Love her!!!

You can find out more about Vanessa at www.vanessawilliams.com , and you can follow her on Twitter.
Photo from askmen.com.

Enjoy Vanessa singing "The Real Thing" on GMA.

Nikki Sixx

Nikki Sixx is a man of many trades. He's the bassist and songwriter of two successful bands (Motley Crue and Sixx: A.M.). Nikki recently won Best Bassist at Revolver Golden Gods awards. He has his own radio show (Sixx Sense) and a clothing line (Royal Underground). He's authored three books - The Dirt, The Heroin Diaries, and This Is Gonna Hurt. Sixx threw out the first pitch at the Dodger's game last month. He's even been featured here before (and will be again if I have anything to do about it!).

What is Nikki Sixx reading?

A few days ago Nikki tweeted, "Finishing Gregg Allman book tonight. Great book for fans of the 70's." This autobiography is titled My Cross To Bear.

You can follow Nikki on Facebook and Twitter.
Photo from Nikki's Twitter account.

Here's Nikki and a pregnant me after a Brides of Destruction concert.
I was a little starstruck...You can see a better pic of he and I here.


And check out Sixx: A.M.'s single, "Are You With Me Now?"

Dave Mustaine

Dave Mustaine is is the lead guitarist and vocalist for heavy metal band Megadeth. He was also the first lead guitar of Metallica.  Megadeth has released 13 studio albums from 1985 to 2011. Megadeth's 1992 album Countdown to Extinction  hit number two on the charts. This album spawned their biggest hit "Symphony of Destruction." Other popular songs by Megadeth include "Sweating Bullets" and "Trust."

Megadeth is currently touring the globe; the next three stops are Switzerland, Belgium, and Russia.

In 2010, Mustaine released his autobiography titled Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir.

What is Dave Mustaine reading?

Dave tweeted earlier this month, "I read Edward Klein's "The Amateur" from LAX to Frankfurt, I see why it's a Bestseller! Curious what everyone else's gonna think? Peace :)."

You can find out more about Megadeth at www.megadeth.com, and you can follow Dave on Twitter.
Photo by Ingo Hoffman.

Nathan Fillion

Once you see Nathan Fillion in a TV show or movie, you can't help but like him. He currently stars in the ABC series Castle as Richard Castle. Nathan starred as Captain Malcolm Rivers in cult hits Firefly and Serenity. You also may have seen him on Two Guys and a Girl, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Desperate Housewives, among other shows.

Fillion cofounded the organization Kids Need to Read. This organization provides books and literacy programs to schools, public libraries, juvenile offender facilities, dropout recovery programs, urban afterschool organizations, and special education classes.

Nathan was recently featured in the June 10, 2012 issue of Parade. I'm sure I wasn't the only one happy to see him on the cover. Fillion shared some of his favorite books in the article.

What are some of Nathan Fillion's favorite reads?

From Parade,

"Close to Shore: A True Story of Terror in an Age of Innocence by Michael Capuzzo - “I love reading about shark attacks,” Fillion says about this real-life chronicle of a Jaws-like rampage on the New Jersey coast in 1916. “That stuff fascinates me. A book that can make you afraid? I love it.”

A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin - “I just read these recently. Molly Quinn, who plays my daughter on Castle, got me into HBO’s Game of Thrones, which is thrilling. [A Game of Thrones is the first volume in Martin’s fantasy series.] I was transported.”

World War Z  by Max Brooks - “I like post-apocalyptic anything,” says Fillion of this novel about a war between humans and zombies. “I like the idea of, how do you make your way when the whole society collapses? World War Z makes it very, very real. It’s a really well-thought-out book.”

Read his other picks and the full article here at Parade.com.
You can follow Nathan on Twitter.

Photo from eonline.com.

Rob Thomas

Rob Thomas is a solo artist and the lead singer and songwriter of Matchbox Twenty. Thomas also earned three Grammy awards for his song with Carlos Santana, "Smooth." I'm certain you've enjoyed Matchbox Twenty hits like "Push," "3 AM" and "How Far We've Come." His solo hits include "Lonely No More" and "Someday."

Rob and his wife, Marisol, created the Sidewalk Angels Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps needy people in and around big cities of America.

What is Rob Thomas reading?

I asked Rob on Twitter what his favorite books and/or current reads were.

Rob tweeted, "first 3 in my mind, THE BOOK THIEF - MARKUS ZUSAK or WHY WE ARE HUNGRY - DAVE EGGERS and CAT'S CRADLE - KURT VONNEGUT JR."

Love his picks! (Why We Are Hungry is titled How We Are Hungry; I have linked all three books.)

You can find more about Rob at www.robthomasmusic.com and follow him on Twitter.
Photo from themusic-world.com.

This is one of my favorite songs of summertime, "Smooth."

Julie Bowen

Last night was the season finale of one of my favorite TV shows, Modern Family. Julie Bowen is one of the reasons that show is so exceptional. You gotta love Claire Dunphy. You may also recognize Julie from her roles on Ed and Boston Legal, among other TV shows. Bowen has been featured in many film as well including Happy Gilmore and most recently Jumping the Broom and Horrible Bosses. Julie is a married mother of three sons.

What does Julie Bowen read to her 3 year old twins?

According to the May 7, 2012 issue of Us Weekly, Bowen loves to read the Knuffle Bunny series by Mo Willems to her children. She stated, " We have read them a million times. They love reading and snuggle time. It's pretty much their favorite time of day."

It's great to see a busy mom of three reading to her kids!
Photo by Richard Burdett.

Josh Todd

Josh Todd is the lead singer of hard rock band Buckcherry. Buckcherry has been rocking on and off since 1999. Their first gold hit,"Lit Up," was nominated for a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2000. Their current lineup has been solid since 2005 starting with their album, 15, which produced their first Hot Billboard 100 top ten song "Sorry" and rock mainstream song, "Crazy B!@ch." Buckcherry's song "Wherever I Go" is included in the recently released Avengers Assemble soundtrack.They are currently working on their sixth album and touring. I will see them live for the seventh time in June!

What is Josh Todd reading?

I recently asked Josh on Twitter what his current read was.

He answered, "1st to Die by James Patterson."

Gotta love a tattooed rocker that reads mysteries!

You can follow Josh on Twitter, and find out more about Buckcherry at www.buckcherry.com.

Check Josh and Buckcherry out in their video, "All Night Long."
Photo by me.

Felicity Huffman

I have watched Desperate Housewives for the past eight years, and the final episode airs on Sunday. What an entertaining series it has been, and one large reason is Felicity Huffman. Before playing Lynette on DH, Felicity Huffman starred in Sports Night. Huffman has also starred in films such as Transamerica (which earned her a Golden Globe award and Academy Award nomination), Magnolia, and Georgia Rule. Felicity and her husband William H. Macy both received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in March of this year.

Felicity is also the co-author of the self-help book, A Practical Handbook for the Boyfriend .

What books does Felicity like to read with her two daughters?

On her "What the Flicka?" website, Felicity lists five family favorites which includes The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry and Savvy by Ingrid Law. Find out the others here at Flicka Faves.

You can follow Felicity on Twitter.
Photo from redbook.com.

Ashley Judd

The lovely Ashley Judd is part of the famous musical Judd family. She's starred in many movies playing a kick butt heroine like Kiss the Girls, Double Jeopardy, and High Crimes. She has recently been in kid favorite movies such as Tooth Fairy and Dolphin Tale. Ashley is currently on the new ABC television drama Missing.

Judd donates her time to many charities including YouthAids and Women for Women International.

In April of last year, Judd released her memoir All That is Bitter and Sweet.

What is Ashley Judd reading?

Ashley recently tweeted, "I am (still) reading "Kim" and I am reading "Practical Christianity" by Very Rev Jane Shaw, Dean of Grace Cathedral."
Ashley also tweeted, "received this amazing book for my birthday."

You can find out more about Ashley at www.ashleyjudd.com and follow her on Twitter.
Photo from http://usembassy.state.gov/posts/sf1/wwwhcapetown050129.html

Tyson Ritter

Tyson Ritter is the handsome lead singer and bass guitarist of popular rock band The All American Rejects. Their first hit was "Swing, Swing" from their self-titled 2003 album. Their second album, Move Along, brought more success with hits like "Dirty Little Secret," "It Ends Tonight," and "Move Along." Their fourth album, Kids in the Street, was just released last month.

Tyson is also an occasional model and actor and appeared in the movie, The House Bunny. Tyson's charity "Don't Hate on Haiti" raises money for water for Haiti residents.

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What is Tyson Ritter reading??

According to Us Weekly, Tyson has these books on his e-reader:

Tales of Ordinary Madness by Charles Bukowski "I call it train-wreck reading for a most willing passenger."

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut "The author is my hero. His whimsical way of taking you from a church to a spaceship is seamless. This is an adventure about the demise of mankind that's not sad, but fun!"

Find out more e-reader picks of Ritter's in the April 9, 2012 issue of Us Weekly.

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You can find out more about Tyson at www.allamericanrejects.com. You can also follow him on Twitter.

Photo from Wikipedia Commons.

Aisha Tyler

I used to love watching Aisha Tyler on E!'s Talk Soup. She's intelligent, funny, and gorgeous. Aisha had made many appearances on different TV shows including favorites of mine like Friends and Nip/Tuck. Tyler also costarred on The Ghost Whisperer. You may also have seen Aisha in movies including Bedtime Stories, Death Sentence, and The Santa Clause 2 and 3. You can currently watch her daily on CBS's The Talk. She is also the voice of Lana Kane on F/X's hit animated series Archer. She's an avid gamer, too and was named to the exclusive Halo council.

And as busy as Aisha is, she takes time to read. What is Aisha Tyler reading? I asked Aisha on Twitter.

Aisha tweeted, "Reading #gameofthrones now! Just did #hungergames. Loved The Passage, The Road. I like dreary sci-fi! #yikes! #talklivechat."

Aisha has also penned a book in 2005 titled, Swerve: Reckless Observations of a Postmodern Girl.

You can find out more about Aisha at www.aishatyler.com and follow her on Twitter.

Photo from gurl.com.

Katharine McPhee

American Idol alum, Katharine McPhee, is enjoying success with her new NBC series, Smash.

The official Smash soundtrack will be released on May 1 featuring Katharine and her talented costars. McPhee recently traveled to Africa to visit health clinics and distribute mosquito nets.

What is Katharine reading?

Katharine was spotted reading The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins according to the April 9, 2012 issue of Us Weekly.

Katharine tweeted about the book, "I am obsessed! Can't wait to see the movie!"

I need to see the movie, too! And if you haven't read the Hunger Games trilogy yet, what are you waiting for?

You can follow Katharine on Twitter and find out more about her at www.katharinemcphee.com.

Photo from @katherinemcphee.

Daniel Goddard

Who is this hot Aussie you ask? Daniel Goddard plays Cane Ashby on my longtime favorite soap opera, The Young and the Restless. This former model also played Dar on the Canadian Beastmaster series which airs in syndication on SyFy channel.

Daniel and his wife Rachael have two sons, Sebastian and Ford. I asked Daniel what he likes to read to his boys.

Daniel tweeted, "Reading Ford "Encyclopedia Brown" Series."

That's a great series! I love hearing what dads are reading to their kiddos.

You can follow Daniel on Twitter. He's so warm and friendly to his fans. You can also Like him on Facebook.

Now you want Daniel to read you a bedtime story, don't you?
Photo from @danielgoddard.

Jason Derulo

Jason Derulo has accomplished a lot so far in his 22 years. Derulo won a Teen Choice award for "Choice R&B Album" in 2010. Jason Derulo's self-titled debut sold over 850,000 copies with three Top Ten hits ("Whatcha Say," "In My Head" and "Ridin' Solo.") His follow up album Future History was released in September featuring popular songs, "It Girl" and "Don't Wanna Go Home."

Derulo's website stated that the musician injured himself while training for his worldwide tour. He suffered an acute fracture to his vertebra and must wear a neck brace for the next few months. The remaining tour dates are canceled for now.

What is Jason reading?

In the February 27 issue of People magazine, Jason shares, "The Jay-Z book Decoded. He's had a huge impact on music - He's much bigger than hip-hop. I wanted to get into the mind of Jay-Z."

You can find out more about Derulo at www.jasonderulo.com and follow him on Twitter.

Photo byAdam Bielawski.

John Cusack

Of course you've seen a John Cusack film. His diverse film career includes 80's staples like Say Anything and The Sure Thing, award winning movies like High Fidelity and Being John Malkovich, and mainstream movies like Con Air, Igor, and Hot Tub Time Machine. The list goes on and on.

Last week I asked John what he is currently reading.

Cusack tweeted, "reading a bio on george sand who's quotes I know but not much else-- saw it in a bookshop."

I knew John would have an interesting read. Here's a link to some of George Sand's quotes.

Look for Cusack in The Raven out in spring 2012.

You can follow John on Twitter.

Photo from @johncusack.

Matt Brady

Matt Brady is the bassist of rock band New Medicine. If you listen to rock, you've probably heard their songs "Laid" or "Race You to the Bottom" on the radio. New Medicine has toured with Avenged Sevenfold, Disturbed, Hollywood Undead and more. I've seen them live a few times, and they are crazy awesome. New Medicine begins their new tour in March with Shinedown. Click here for tour dates. Check them out!

Brady is also a philanthropist and spends time in Ghana to support the non-profit organization, Joy 2 the World, which generates micro-credit loans for the women of Ghana to encourage independence and empowerment.

Yes, this beauty of a man plays a mean bass guitar, helps others, and he's an avid reader.
Matt was kind enough to tell me about his reading habits. I asked him if he reads on tour, if he reads on an e-reader, and about his favorite books. This is what the man said.

"Avg tour -- My favorite time to read a novel is when we're traveling on the road. I probably go through one every week or two, so for longer tours my suitcase begins to look like a bookshelf.

I read paper books. I'm anti-e-reader. I love buying used books because they all have a life of their own. I love the process of scouring a bookstore for rare finds. I love using bookmarks and I love the smell of the pages.

Favorite books... wow. Atlas Shrugged, The Unbearable Lightness of Being, The World According to Garp, The Autobio of Malcolm X, East of Eden, The Story of B, The Brothers Karamazov...

Recently I discovered an author named Larry Brown, from Oxford Mississippi i think. He writes in the grand tradition of Faulkner-- multiple narrators, sparse language, only giving away little pieces at a time. I recommend Father & Son and Dirty Work."

Thanks, Brady! Wow is right. You can find out more about New Medicine at www.newmedicinerock.com and follow Brady on Twitter (@MatthewHBrady)!

Check out New Medicine's "Laid" video!