The adage “truth is stranger than fiction” is proven in “The Lost Wife,” by Alyson Richman. She has succeeded in blending both for an unforgettable reading experience.

Just about all the actors in “The Big Wedding” are severely typecast. Diane Keaton is a high-strung, divorced mother like in “Something’s Gotta Give,” Robert De Niro is the father of somebody getting married like in “Meet the Fockers,” Amanda Seyfried is a blushing bride like in “Mamma Mia,” Robin Williams is an eccentric minister like in “License to Wed,” Topher Grace is a deadpan, quick-witted nice guy like in “That ‘70s Show,” and Katherine Heigl is a needy single woman like in every movie she does. Even though the actors are in their comfort zones, not a single person feels natural in “The Big Wedding.” That’s probably because the film doesn’t understand its own characters or their motivations. Nobody behind the camera has any idea what they’re doing, resulting in one of the most awkward romantic comedies of recent memory.

We were married on St. Patrick’s Day at the Foothills Golf Club. The wedding was beautiful, everyone had a wonderful time, the pictures came out great — best wedding a couple could ask for. If it wasn’t for the Ahwatukee community; however, our day would have been a disaster.

Just about all the actors in “The Big Wedding” are severely typecast. Diane Keaton is a high-strung, divorced mother like in “Something’s Gotta Give,” Robert De Niro is the father of somebody getting married like in “Meet the Fockers,” Amanda Seyfried is a blushing bride like in “Mamma Mia,” Robin Williams is an eccentric minister like in “License to Wed,” Topher Grace is a deadpan, quick-witted nice guy like in “That ‘70s Show,” and Katherine Heigl is a needy single woman like in every movie she does. Even though the actors are in their comfort zones, not a single person feels natural in “The Big Wedding.” That’s probably because the film doesn’t understand its own characters or their motivations. Nobody behind the camera has any idea what they’re doing, resulting in one of the most awkward romantic comedies of recent memory.

Three years ago, a bunt, overthrow, or bobbled grounder led to a 1-0 win or loss.

This week's "Jack the Giant Slayer," a 3-D retelling of the Jack and the Beanstalk legend, contains all the elements of the classic tale: farm boy, beans, giants, etc. But along for the ride is a new character, Princess Isabelle, played by Eleanor Tomlinson.

From “Snow White and the Huntsmen,” to “Mirror Mirror,” to “Hansel and Gretle: Witch Hunters,” to “Red Riding Hood,” the film industry has really been banking on adult-oriented fairytales as of late. Television has additionally gotten in on this fairytale fad with ABC’s “Once Upon a Time,” NBC’s “Grimm,” and, to a lesser extent, the CW’s “Beauty and Beast.” So what’s been causing this recent outbreak of fairytale reinterpretations aimed at grown-up audiences? Perhaps it can be attributed to the concept of nostalgia. Since fairytales are typically the first stories ever introduced to us, everybody identifies with them. By giving these timeless tales a PG-13 spin, they can appeal to our inner child while also satisfying our desire for something more mature. “Jack the Giant Slayer” comes close to working as a fun fantasy adventure for childish adults and sophisticated kids. If only the familiar story had more of a twist to it.

Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Dress Casual - The long-time Broadway, film and television performer, made famous by his role as Inigo Montoya in “The Princess Bride,” sings the music of Stephen Sondheim, Randy Newman, Harry Chapin and Rodgers and Hammerstein. Paul Ford accompanies him on piano.

Good times are slowing coming to reality for a Desert Vista girls basketball team that has been missing out.

Dear Mikey,

With all due respect to the Mayans, I have plans for Dec. 22. It also may be news to you, but you guys are not the first to predict the end of the world, and even though you still have a shot at being the first to correctly predict the end of the world, I have plans for Dec. 22. My daughter is getting married. Perhaps to be on the safe side, I won’t pay any bills until the 23rd.

Glynis Abapo knew just what she wanted her dream wedding cake to be: simple. Three or four tiers. A rich, white confection with white peonies and peony petals cascading down the middle.

‘Frankenweenie’

Treat yourself to $250 savings off Kate & Company’s planning services on holiday or company parties, special events or winter weddings. We promise you’ll enjoy the season with less stress and more bliss. Book by Nov. 15.

Jim and Bobbi Hunt of Phoenix announce the engagement of their son, Brandon, to Danielle Hurtado, daughter of David and Dianne Hurtado of Colorado Springs, Co.

The tradition of a physical sport that has become somewhat of a religion in the Valley for a group of tattooed and sassy women and their faithful followers is set to begin its eighth year with many familiar faces as well as fresh meat.

Never have I read a column about marriage written by a single man.

The impulse to pay off your mortgage more quickly than you need to is understandable, especially these days.

You may now chug with the bride.

To be honest with you, I don’t really care where you get your chicken sandwich. The thing that interests me the most about the whole Chick-fil-A, marriage equality discussion is wrapped up in the phrase, “the biblical model of marriage.” It interests me because there are assumptions being made about a “biblical model” that simply does not hold water. The Bible does not have that much to say about marriage, and a great deal of what is said does not fit the assumptions.

A 2010 Desert Vista High School graduate and Northern Arizona University junior, Katharine Boelter, sings, dances and acts in a Broadway-style production at the new Grand Canyon Dinner Theater (GCDT).

Claiming a pattern of discrimination, the U.S. Department of Justice sued the polygamous communities of Colorado City, Ariz., and Hildale, Utah.

The “holiday season” may fall in December, but between graduations, weddings, Father’s Day and the like, you’re hardly off the hook for gift giving this time of year. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered, with a variety of ideas that all involve clever covers for recycled cans, bottles or jars.