756 pages

Everyone is talking about the "Twilight" saga. The young adult novels that combine fantasy with romance have become massively popular in the few years following the release of the saga's first book. The books tell the tale of a mortal and a vampire that fall completely and hopelessly in love with each other. The most mystifying thing about the books, however, is not that the vampire manages not to drink the blood of the mortal he so loves. No, perhaps the most amazing thing about these books is their almost instant success.

Somewhere amongst the scores of Chinese proverbs it has been insightfully suggested that the appearance of virtue counts for more than the raw commodity itself. Were it not for the ubiquity of toupees, tanning cremes, and fat-squishing underwear, this ancient supposition might be less self evident. The financial services industry has apparently taken heed.

Imagine Africa without elephants. That could happen soon if poaching goes unchecked. More than 25,000 elephants were illegally killed in 2007 alone, mostly to feed the insatiable appetite of ivory markets in the Far East.

Auction house Phillips de Pury & Company is putting hip-hop's finest blings under the hammer. Historic hip-hop jewelries from some of the industry's stars will be auctioned on October 1.

Rocker Steven Tyler is going to tell all about his life of drugs, sex and rock 'n' roll.

Financial expert Suze Orman will be honored with the 2008 National Equality Award by the country's largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights group on October 4.

James Bond will be getting some royal help with his film premiere. Princes William and Harry will join the famous spy for his latest film's world premiere on October 29.

Coney Island, NY (AHN) -- A controversial new "thrill ride," has been added to New York's Coney Island, only it's not actually a ride, and most would agree, there is no "thrill" in waterboarding.

Daniel Radcliffe will reprise his role in the play "Equus" when it hits Broadway this September.

Donald Trump has his own vodka brand, Willie Nelson has his own whiskey and now hip-hop mogul Dr. Dre is about to have his own liquor. Dr. Dre's cognac and vodka brands will hit liquor stores in the next 60 days, according to celebrity booze marketer Drinks America Holdings Ltd.

Amy Winehouse's dad has been tapped as one of the guest hosts on BBC's Radio London on September 1.