I feel rather certain that I reported way back that Starbucks was thinking of making a move into the book industry. Well, on Monday, CEO Howard Schultz said the coffee retailer aims to begin offering books for sale in its US stores as early as the Christmas selling season, according to MarketWatch.com.

Speaking with media following a speech to the Detroit Economic Club, Schultz said the company is looking to branch out to book sales in its stores, much like its move to sell music and promote films. He did not give details on how the company will specifically partner with authors or publishing firms, but said the work of popular authors could be featured. It's all part of "ambitious growth plans" that would see the coffee chaie eventually operate 15,000 stores at home and another 15,000 abroad.

I can see it now: cinnamon thriller latte. Grande Da Vinci Code mocha no whip extra foam. And on and on...