Okay, I'm giving in, and pimping my book here on DKos.
Does anyone here know Cesar Millan, the "Dog Whisperer" on the Nat Geo Channel? Well, he'll be on with Janeane and Sam tonight on Majority Report...and I'm proud to say that I'm the co-author of his new book, "Cesar's Way, The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems."
By way of introduction, I've been posting (mostly comments) on DKos since the 2004 election. I'm a Film/TV Producer/Writer/Director who got to know Cesar through co-exec producing and co-writing his show. His wife Ilusion is an amazing "how does she do it all?" businesswoman/mom/wife, who has also become a very close friend. They are both wonderful "what you see is what you get" people who have (and still do) worked their tails off to be able enjoy the success they are just now beginning to experience.
To pimp the book, let me just say that Cesar's philosophy about dogs is simple and absolutely logical; totally in tune with nature. In my not so humble opinion, it's also a really great read. Fortunately, Cesar's fans seem to feel the same way - we're up to number one on Amazon; have held there for the last 24 hours or more. The book was officially released on April 4, Tuesday.
It will be interesting to hear Cesar tonight on Air America. Cesar stressed to me while writing the book that he does NOT want to be political. In fact, he made me take out some little touches that gave away the tenor of my own politics. The only thing he let me keep was my characterization of Bill O'Reilly as having an energy that's "angry-aggressive." I told him, fine, I'd be happy to take it out -just give me another example from pop culture who so clearly illustrates that energy and I'll replace it. Cesar thought about it, then said, "Okay, you're right, he's the best example...but make sure it doesn't come off political."
Cesar came here illegally from Mexico, and in the book he poignantly yet matter-of-factly describes how, being from a lower to lower-middle class family in a third world country, coming here illegally was the only option for him. It's fascinating to me that, while the Republicans are busy trying to drum up a frenzy of hatred for all brown people, a book written by a Mexican immigrant who came here illegally can be number one on Amazon, and his TV show can be the number one hit on the National Geographic Channel.
Perhaps the American People are not buying the "hatred-as-political-tool" trick this time around?
Cesar is a great role model for what I believe many Mexicans who come here illegally are all about - they come here to work hard to make a better life. Period. I haven't discussed immigration policies with Cesar - as I said, he wants to keep politics out of his public image. That's his choice. But I'm curious to see what goes down with Janeane.
As a final word and unabashed plug, do check out the book. It's full of commonsense wisdom and the truly fascinating and inspiring story of Cesar's life. Since I'm only the co-writer (read: credited ghost writer), I won't be doing any book signings (except 'll be on hand at the Barnes & Noble in Encino next Saturday, just to bask in the glow)..but I feel truly honored to have this be my first published effort after years of only writing for the small screen.
Any feedback from this thoughtful, intelligent, educated audience of Kossacks is most welcome!