News:Not one, but two books have been published by favorite local writer, Al.D. Squitieri.His first book, an anthology of his popular newspaper column, FUNNY SIDE UP, was first self-published by the author and quickly sold-out its first small printing of 200 copies. It was popular with readers of a dozen weekly newspapers on the East Coast – virtually from Maine to Florida, and reprints were sold to half dozen digest sized magazines. Seeking a greater audience, Al contacted an online publisher, IUniverse.com., Barnes & Noble’s digital books outlet, and they published the small, but hilarious book. Within twelve months, 150 copies had been sold across the U.S. and England. Al hasn’t had time to track Funny Side Up's progress, since he was working on his second book, which took three months to write, and fourteen months to put into print. His second book, Broken Glass And All, is about Al’s battle with a incurable autoimmune disease Polymyositis. The confused immune system attacks voluntary muscles, causing atrophy and weakness. It is a rapidly progressing disease, and in many cases, leads to wheelchair confinement. Untreated, there is a 10% chance of death, with a greater risk of death using standard drug treatment. Al refused those drugs and conventional treatment, which led to a charge of “non-compliance". He would not accept the threat, or the hopeless prognosis. After wasting $52,000 and 60% of his muscle, Al went to Montreal and found a Naturopathic doctor, who cured his incurable disease, using Homeopathy. The book takes the reader from Al’s childhood on the streets of New York City’s East Harlem, through his raising of ten children, his battle with the disease and the U.S. health care system. His victory over tremendous odds is an inspiring story that brings encouragement, enlightenment and hope. As you read this moving story, you’ll find yourself weeping and laughing, as Al skillfully moves the reader forward, using baseball metaphors and analogies. God has gifted Al with the use of words, readable writing, wit and humor, evoking every human emotion: joy, sorrow, frustration, anger and surprise. It is a Norman Cousins story, with an O Henry ending. Since it reads like a novel, you may find yourself reading the entire book late into the night. At its end, you will believe as Al did, that with a little faith, a good measure of perseverance, and a whole lot of hope, all things are possible.It has sold over 375 copies in 30 states, and eight countries. Al has received over 50 phone calls and e-mails from around the world from those suffering with his disease. Main sources of exposure were Al's article in Natural Health Magazine (March '02) a write-up in Homeopathy Today Magazine (June '02)  together with a live radio interview on Vibrant Living with Glenn Brooks (Atlanta) a live radio interview with Austism One Radio, and Amy Lansky (Ca) and a Canadian TV documentary. Since then, his articles have appeared in Homeopath Magazine (2005) and two on-line magazines: enabled.com and Dana's Literary Magazine, plus an on-line newspaper Fulton Daily News.  Half dozen readers are being threated by Al's Homeopathic doctor in direct result of his book and articles. Books are available online with iUniverse.com, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Borders, Bamm, and right here . AD. or through the author’s Web Site: http://www.adswordwright.com/index.htmland occassionally at ebay.($19.95 P/P) to P.O.Box 605, Fulton, N.Y. 13069