Lady Gaga @ Toronto Public Library |

Yes, believe it or not, Lady Gaga is at Toronto Public Library. Well, to be completely accurate, the latest book on Lady Gaga, by photographer Terry Richardson, is available.

The Toronto Star gave it a weak review today, likening it to an inferior version of Madonna's book Sex by photographer Steven Meisel. Familiar with both books, I have to agree with the review – while Lady Gaga is currently an influential singer and performer, with some inspiring messages around self acceptance, this is not a great book of photographs. Which is too bad, as Terry Richardson's earlier book, Terryworld, is a very edgy and thought provoking collection of photographs.

Speaking of positive influence though ….did you know that Lady Gaga recently sent a video message in support of anti bullying and tolerance to the Etobicoke School of the Arts? I think it's her messages around bullying and LGBT issues that will have a longer and more lasting impact than her recent book.

There's been quite a bit written about Lady Gaga and her style, although I think the real testament to her popularity are the number one hits, platinum CDs and downloads and the influential and much watched videos – Bad Romance has 430 million Youtube views (and is # 89 on the Youtube top 100), Alejandro has 158 million Youtube views and Born this Way over 83 million Youtube views.

If you were interested in reading about her you may enjoy: