‘Tuscan Sun’ author on Italy’s pleasures

Many authors can move readers with their words, but Frances Mayes has the power to actually make readers move.

Amid tsunami’s chaos, two friends helped others hold on to life

Cristina Perez furrows her brow, concentrating and trying not to let her gaze wander too wildly.

Brazil announces near-record harvest

Brazil will have its second-best harvest in the nation’s history this year, the government said.

Hubby: Bullock ‘takes my breath away’

Jesse James may be a tough guy who builds motorcycles and performs death-defying stunts, but he’s not above the pomp of the Oscars — or being a plus-1 to the night’s most celebrated actress, his wife Sandra Bullock.

Jessica Simpson says she still trusts people

Despite John Mayer’s recent kiss-and-tell revelations about their sex life, Jessica Simpson says she remains, deep down, a trusting person.

Tiger Woods’s ex: He deserves another chance

Tiger Woods has apologized for repeatedly cheating on his wife — and he’s getting some support from an old flame who believes the golfer can be redeemed.

Cowell (sort of) confirms he’s engaged

Simon Cowell scowling — typical. Simon Cowell blushing? Indeed.

Simon Cowell talks wedding, kids

Simon Cowell scowling — typical. Simon Cowell blushing? Indeed.

Why did George Clooney look so upset at the Oscars?

Was is just me, or did George Clooney seem upset at the Oscars last night?

Remembering Sparklehorse frontman Mark Linkous: 1962-2010

Mark Linkous, the Virginia-born indie-rock fixture best known for his work in the lo-fi pysch-folk project Sparklehorse, as well as for collaborations with artists ranging from Danger Mouse to Tom Waits, Iggy Pop and PJ Harvey, died March 6 of a self-inflicted gun shot wound.