Home sharing just doesn't work

I use Verizon Fios with Apple routers, Macbook Pro, Apple TV, and an iPad 3. My movie collection is connected to my Macbook Pro via a usb drive. I can stream fine to my Apple TV, however, it takes for ever "if ever" to stream to my iPad 3 - no connection through home sharing. You would think if your network consisted of all Apple products that home sharing should work without issue. This is not the case. There is something obviously wrong with home sharing and based on all the comments it appears a lot of other folks are running into similar issues. I just wish Apple would take the time to figure out why you can't consistently connect other Apple devices via home sharing using Apple wireless routers.