The War for Late Night: When Leno Went Early and Television Went Crazy
There are TV insiders, and there’s Bill Carter. Carter has been covering the ever-changing media landscape since 1989 for the NY Times media reporter, and as a result of the remarkable success of “The Late Shift,” his best-selling account of the Letterman/Leno debacle from the early 90’s was given unprecedented access when it came time to pen his followup, “The War for Late Night: When Leno Went Early and Television Went Crazy.” Comprised of interviews with virtually every major player involved in the recent train-wreck, TV Addicts will be thrilled to discover that virtually no stone goes unturned when it comes to Carter’s behind-the-scenes account of the unforgettable events from the 2009/10 late night season. Less thrilling, the realization of just how easy it is for a seemingly intelligent group of NBC executives to virtually destroy one of America’s most celebrated institutions. [$17.79 on Amazon, or $12.99 on the Kindle]
Slingbox
There is a very good reason why the Slingbox is making its second consecutive appearance on our annual Holiday Gift Guide. Simply put, short of our iPhone, it’s hands down the coolest gadget we’ve ever owned Seriously. Years later we still marvel at the fact that a little black box plugged directly into our cable box gives us the ability to watch TV anywhere there is an internet connection. Laptop, iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android, Blackberry or Windows 7 Device, your entire PVR/DVR is only click away. [On sale for $179.99 $158.95 on Amazon]