THE LEFT LANE
Advice for the grad

Advertiser Staff and News Services

That experience — and how to avoid it — was one of the inspirations for Vickey's new self-published book: "Life After School Explained" (Cap and Compass, paper, $12.95). It delves into subjects from how to deal with the personnel department at your new job to business etiquette, money matters and renting your first apartment.

It's in bookstores now, or you can buy it at www.CapandCompass.com or by phone for a dollar more at (866) 543-3397.

The real Ozzy skinny

A new biography, "Ozzy Unauthorized" (Michael O'Mara Books Ltd., paper, $22.95), was obviously put together swiftly to take advantage of the craze for MTV's reality show, "The Osbournes."

Writer Sue Crawford, whose writing is marred by hackneyed phrases and a slightly breathless air, does an adequate job of culling news sources to get at the known facts of Ozzy Osbourne's life, but clearly didn't have access to the star himself or any of his intimates, judging from the lack of direct quotes or insider revelations.

Fans new to the Ozzy phenomenon may learn something from the 32 pages of pictures, the astrological chart, the discography and chronology of the rock star's life.

An eye on Reeve

ABC TV is tracking actor Christopher Reeve's efforts to achieve his life goal: to walk again by age 50.

Reeve was paralyzed from the neck down in a horseback-riding accident in 1995 and has required the use of a ventilator and a wheelchair since, spending his time campaigning for money to aid research in spinal injuries.

Three ABC specials over the next two years, the first to air this fall, will feature exclusive footage and direct access to the actor.