Every author in the world dreams of the chance to have Oprah declare on national television that their book is a “must read” because we all know that after she says those two little words, we will gain instant fame and financial prosperity.  Oprah has that kind of power.  Unfortunately though, for the vast majority of us unknown wannabes, we will remain just that---unknown---and then spend a lot of time, energy and sometimes a lot of money trying to get our little book noticed out of the thousands of books that get published each year. 

But wait a minute---I really don’t feel so bad about Oprah not paying attention to my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey into Middle Age.  After all, she’s also ignoring the great talent of the rapper 50 Cent. (great and talent are debatable depending on who you ask).    I guess you’re wondering what one has to do with the other.  Well, let me explain. 

Last month, “50” got all hot and bothered over the fact that Oprah has yet to invite him on her show.  In an interview on BET’s 106 & Park, he was quoted as saying, “Oprah will have a rapist on her show and have a discussion about why they do it, but won’t have a rags to riches story on her show.”  He was referring to himself.  Now, my question is, why does Mr. Cent feel the need to be on Oprah?  He’s already achieved mind-boggling success.  He even made a movie about his life:  Get Rich or Die Tryin.’  Does he think an appearance on Oprah will give him cross over appeal to the baby boomer babes of America?

Well, Mr. 50, if you really want become a guest on Oprah and reach us baby boomer babes, I have a suggestion.  Why don’t you, personally, purchase 50,000 copies of my book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey into Middle Age, and give them out as Christmas presents to every woman you know who’s 40 and older.  Now my guess is, you don’t know many in that age group so here’s another idea.  Why not give them away at your concerts to the teenagers who pay the high ticket prices to see you perform?  They can take the books home to their mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and yes, even dads, as a “thank you” gift for letting their precious children come see you perform.  Or you could purchase the 50,000 copies and donate them to women’s groups around the country. 

Now Mr. 50 Cent, if you were to do something like that, you’d be helping both of us make guest appearances on Oprah!