An article in the NY Times today explores Glenn Beck, "the outspoken media darling of populist conservatism," as the new Oprah Winfrey.  You may ask, how is Beck anything like Oprah?  Just as every author in America wants to appear on Oprah's talk show, they are also discovering Beck as an enthusiastic endorser of their books. 

On his radio show and cable television programs, first on CNN Headline News and now on the Fox News Channel, Mr. Beck has enthusiastically endorsed dozens of novelists, a majority of them writing in the thriller genre. Mr. Beck, who now attracts 9 million weekly listeners on radio and 2.7 million daily viewers on television, often selects authors whose plots or characters reflect political stances that mirror his own. But he also promotes the work of authors who may disagree with many of his views.

Brad Thor, who writes political thrillers and has appeared on Beck's radio and television programs several times, says "He's our Oprah.  God love him, we're very fortunate."

Author Daniel Silva says this aspect of Beck's show has probably flown "under the radar" because of other higher profile things that take place on the air.  In fact, although Beck does usually give brief endorsements of the books, he often picks out other issues relating to current events for novelists to discuss.

Of course, there are liberals out there who wouldn't dare read a Beck-endorsed book just because he is conservative.  Also, many conservatives who wind up reading a book recommended by Beck and find it a little more liberal than they anticipated may also be a bit upset.  Novelist Andrew Gross says he has been attacked by conservatives and liberals for appearing on Beck's show.

“I’ll get people who are obviously fans of his who write me e-mails, saying, ‘I paid $27 for this, and I didn’t want to buy a bunch of lefty” garbage, Mr. Gross said, using a term not appropriate for a family newspaper. “And then I get calls from people on the left who say, ‘I’ve always liked your books but now that I see you have an association with Glenn Beck, I’m reconsidering.’ ”

Mr. Gross said he defended himself to both sides. “Invariably, I’ve had people who said, ‘I wasn’t going to read it because I saw it was endorsed by Glenn Beck,’ ” he said. “And I’ve pushed them to hold their judgment. And several of them have written back and said, ‘I take it back.’ ”