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In her new book, The Real Jane Austen: A Life in Small Things, author Paula Byrne shows how everyday objects helped shape Austen's life and literature. One example, a topaz cross, a cherished gift to Austen from her brother, plays an important role in Mansfield Park.

Four novels for the year's end: a new Raylan Givens adventure from Elmore Leonard, a story of psychology and obsession from Ellen Ullman, Thomas Caplan's latest spy thriller and Alex Gilvarry's debut set in the fashion world and Guantanamo Bay.

1970 was a bummer of a year: violence, political unrest and the end of The Beatles. Fire and Rain, a new book by David Browne, chronicles that turbulent year in politics and music.

Veteran best-seller Ken Follett returns with the first in a trilogy spanning the 20th century, while Jan Karon delivers with her second Father Tim novel. In nonfiction, Jimmy Carter reveals his White House Diary, while Ariana Huffington finds America resembling the Third World.

As a Tea Party freshman, Rep. Billy Long is one of the most conservative House members. But he represents Joplin, Mo., a city devastated by a powerful tornado — and helped by millions of dollars of federal relief spending.

Crime might not pay, but it does deliver in the world of fiction. Author Tony D'Souza recommends three of his favorite books about illicit activities. They'll have you contemplating a life of misdeeds and malfeasance.

Real-life friends Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon annoy each other on a foodies' pilgrimage across the English countryside in The Trip, a laugh-riot lark from director Michael Winterbottom. (Recommended)

Gerontologist and commentator Dr. Mark Lachs tells some of his older patients there are plenty of reasons to remain active. Surprisingly, at a certain age, the likelihood of falling ill and dying starts to decline.

When author Bruce Feiler was diagnosed with bone cancer, many people said things that — despite the best of intentions — simply didn't help. The next time you talk to a sick person, Feiler says, forget the cliches and baseless reassurance.

Indigenous Peruvian actress Magaly Solier's rise to international stardom represents a larger cultural shift in Peru, a country that has long been run by a small elite despite indigenous people making up more than half of the population.