I'm reading at least three books at once for the moment; one as research for an upcoming movie, two for upcoming book reviews. And, as tends to happen, they're all smooshing together a bit, in an interesting way. Let's just say that I'm currently formulating a joke that starts off, "So, Henry VIII, Count Dracula and Amelia Earhart walk into a bar . . . "

Actually, that sounds like it would make a pretty good movie, doesn't it? Those three perhaps might hit it off. Or not. In any case, I'd watch.

Susan Butler's "East to the Dawn: The Life of Amelia Earhart," which I'm reading right here at my desk (the other two books are freelance assignments so am reading at home), is fascinating; who knew that Earhart designed a clothing line, and completed her famous transatlantic flight in 1932 with gas trickling down her neck due to a defective fuel gauge. And, looking at the pictures, it does appear that Hilary Swank is just the right person to play her -- there's a definite resemblance. (Mira Nair's movie "Amelia" opens Oct. 23; haven't seen it yet but am looking forward to it.)

Here's the real Earhart:

(Undated file photo from Associated Press)

and here's Swank as Earhart:

(Photo by Ken Woroner; courtesy Fox Searchlight)

Not bad, no?