Online Shopping Demystified in Local Author’s Newest Book

Shopping online is easier with these 86 ideas that include comparison shopping, finding bargains, coupon codes and online shopping safety

COLUMBIA, MO November 1, 2006 — Busy holiday shoppers can find dozens of ideas on finding gifts online in Columbia resident Diana Ratliff’s newly released book, “The Insider’s Guide to Shopping Online.”

Ratliff’s new book offers more than 86 specific strategies to show online bargain hunters how to save time, save money, and save hassle, while ensuring credit card security and maintaining their email privacy.

Online shopping has never been more popular, though many potential shoppers are concerned about security, uncertain about the online buying process and bewildered by the global array of shopping choices. Ratliff, who has been buying and selling online since 1999, said that the goal of her book is to “de-mystify online shopping and give real life, step-by-step advice on how to find exceptional bargains on the Internet.”

“The Insider’s Guide to Shopping Online” retails for $27.00 and is available for immediate download at Ratliff’s website, http://www.InsidersGuideToShoppingOnline.com.

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Notes to Editor:

Ratliff, who writes on a variety of topics and maintains multiple websites, timed the release of her book to coincide with the holiday shopping rush. Nearly half of US consumers (47%) plan to shop online this year, up from 36.0 percent three years ago, according to the National Retail Federation.

Ms. Ratliff is available for interviews and can provide tips, articles, background and commentary on shopping online. Call 573-234-6666 or email DRatliff@InsidersGuideToShoppingOnline.com