Wabi Sabi | Beth Kempton

A beautiful exploration of the meanings and feelings behind the Japanese concept of wabi-wabi and how we have misunderstood it for years.

A Court of Wings and Ruin | Sarah J. Maas

A continuation of Feyre’s journey. It's not my favourite in the series, but it did its job to move the plot along and bring us to the fourth installment.

TV SERIES / FILMS OF NOTE

Moonshine S01 - because it’s homegrown (filmed in Nova Scotia) & the storytelling stands tall.
Emily in Paris S02 - because it’s perfectly cute, witty, charming and paced perfectly.

Inward | Yung Pueblo

A beautiful collection of poetry from Yung Pueblo.

before i could release
the weight of my sadness
and pain, i first had
to honor it’s existence

- Yung Pueblo

The Dictionary of Lost Words | Pip Williams

A fascinating tale of the creation and process of developing the Oxford dictionary within a whimsical and almost magical telling. Within the pages of this book are threads of humanity and feminism that hit deep and communicate a more prominent theme of why words and their meanings matter.

Throne of Glass | Sarah J. Maas

Another fantasy read from Sarah J. Maas features a heroine who is known as an assassin in her fight for freedom. It's not my favourite of Sarah’s books, but it's a great winter fantasy read.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

Murder on the Orient Express - because Agatha Christie adaptations are always entertaining… and the snow atmosphere in this one.
Back in Time for Winter - because three days with a high fever needed something cozy and vaguely entertaining. This family was perfectly cast for this series.
The Bear S02 - because it’s one of today's best series and deserves all the accolades regarding story and character development.

Closer By Sea | Perry Chafe

It is an East Coast tale of a missing girl, a boy who knew her, and all the shrouded foggy mystery surrounding life's heartbreaking happenings. A bit of fog, thoughtfulness, coastal tall tales and the creatures that make us. It is a good read for anyone who wants to smell The Atlantic Ocean in their mind’s eye.

The Crane Wife | CJ Hauser

Initially taken in by CJ’s essay “The Crane Wife,” which came out in The Paris Review, this memoir of essays adds depth and perspective to the whole of CJ. Her writing style has a curt beauty to it and her delivery often leaves you flipping to the next essay with curiosity.

Tiny Beautiful Things | Cheryl Strayed

The book behind the beautiful heart-aching television series where all the ‘Dear Sugars’ are documented. I truly enjoyed each letter and response.

Not a Happy Family | Shari Lapena

Another ‘who dun it’ mystery shrouded in the resentments of a family, the trauma of individuals and the endless possibilities of just one night. It's a great rapid read for those who like good suspense.

TV SERIES / FILMS OF NOTE

Babes in Toyland - Because a nostalgic christmas movie within Disneys first ever live action musical is worth a re-watch.
Darling Lily - because a Julie Andrews film has more vintage sass, humour and quirk than anything that could come out today.
Alaska Daily S01 - because stories featuring the plight of MMIWG have value.

No Great Mischief | Alistair MacLeod

For anyone who enjoys personal reflections and recollections of memories alongside the atmosphere of the east coast Alistair MacLeod gives us his own and those within this greater family of Scotland, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia and beyond. As a Nova Scotian, I enjoyed the journey. As a reader, I relished the art of language made as rugged as the terrain.

A Thousand Mornings | Mary Oliver

Beautiful.
“Sometimes there are no rules.”

Mary Jane | Jessica Anya Blau

I deeply enjoyed the protagonist within this story. She’s as protected, innocent and curious with awe and wonder at what she doesn’t yet know as I remember my own youth. This novel is a capture of what it means to grow up restricted and struggling with the limitations of your upbringing while also being protective and desiring connection with those who have raised you.

Big Little Lies | Liane Moriarty

Having watched and loved the series but not the novel, I felt it was time to read the source material. Liane writes a riveting tale.

FILM/TV SERIES OF NOTE:

Red Sparrow - Because espionage and survival are themes I enjoy when done well.
Selling the O.C. S02 - Because a reality show with pretty houses and silly drama’s takes the edge off of real life.

Sweetbitter | Stephanie Danler

Being that I enjoyed season one of the television series I assumed I would enjoy the novel. Apparently not as much. Sweetbitter, although a great setting and a relatable lost protagonist was a hard read for me to follow. Great characters and atmosphere… somewhat confusing regarding full plot and pacing.

Happy Place | Emily Henry

A pleasant summer rapid read following a group of adult friends reconnect at their favourite summer cottage. As per any friend group stories, things are not all that they seem. And for the protagonist, we find her dodging as many moments as she can with her still secret ex-fiancé.

Pineapple Street | Jenny Jackson

I have a deep love for books on family dynamics, class and MORE dynamics over a summer. Pineapple Street delivered beautifully in every way. Will be hoping Jenny has more books up her sleeves.

The Moment of Tenderness | Madeleine L’engle

A collection of unpublished short stories from Madeleine. I was not moved by every single one, but enough spoke to me for me to continue flipping pages.

TV SERIES / FILMS OF NOTE
The Incredibles II - Because a rainy day at the cottage requires a good summer animation viewing.

The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit | Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson is not just an actor, she is also a beautiful story teller. I love her wit, her groundless and especially this special addition to a beloved character. If you come across this sweet children’s book, please give it a read.

The Penderwicks on Graham Street | Jeanne Birdsall

Another children’s book in the form of a group of sisters who are despairing their fathers potential courtships years after their mothers death. Each character gives a sweet image of girlhood, sisterhood and all that makes childhood entertaining, despairing and utterly dramatic.

A Court of Mist and Fury | Sarah J. Maas

The second in A Court of Thorns and Roses series. Being an avid studier in storytelling and all that makes a series work, this second novel didn’t disappoint. I could see the reveals that were coming and yet even still they were expertly places and beautifully executed. It’s no wonder it will be turned into a television series adaptation. And if anyone is wondering, the heroine remains as riveting as ever.

Films / TV Series of Note

CODA - Because he needed to see it, and the second re watch was just as moving. Makes me miss the friendships and connections made through my first career as an American Sign Language Interpreter…. I don’t think I’ve ever seen my partner cry as hard during a film as he did in this one.
Game Night - Anytime I thought the twists were done, there was another. Impressive.
Succession S04 - For the incredible Shakespearian style storytelling paired next to modern day ridiculous behaviour that… unfortunately is more relatable than we’d like to admit.
The Marvellous Mrs.Maisel S05 - Drawing out each and EVERY episode.

Flatlay of three books: The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Penderwicks on Graham Street, A Court of Mist and Fury

Virgin River | Robyn Carr

I picked this up on a whim, hoping it was as comforting a read as it appeared. It is precisely that. City Nurse Practitioner / Midwife looking for a new life in a small country town. It’s a story of the ages and delivers with every page.

Fall On Your Knees | Ann Marie MacDonald

I remember feeling jealous of the other High School English classes having this as required reading. My specific class did not. I am finally getting to it, and it did not disappoint. It’s heavy. It’s tragic. It’s complex. It’s deep. It’s real. I sincerely appreciate the work and craft behind this book.
I grew up in a white-washed culture and perspective. No one is to blame for that. It just was. Fall On Your Knees was a deep dive into multiple cultures, women coping with their circumstances and the nuance of immigrant families that have existed for decades in Canada.

Good Girls Lie | J.T.Ellison

A fun, mysterious rapid read ‘who done it’ with enough twists and turns to keep one intrigued and flipping the pages. Great for those who love a good ‘elite private school’ mystery.

TV / FILMS OF NOTE:

Why Women Kill S01 - For the mystery, the surprise and the fun.
Coco - A great cultural look at Mexican culture, family and identity.
Downton Abbey A New Era - The best Downton Film thus far. Fun and profoundly moving in its own right.

In My Dreams I Hold a Knife | Ashley Winstead

A who-done it tale of students who survived a tragedy and relive the events a decade later. I appreciated the way this novel kept me guessing.

It Ends With Us | Colleen Hoover

Hitting on trauma and how we continue our pain, Colleen gives her characters and readers a chance to reflect and learn while also being entertained.

A Light in the Window | Jan Karon

Jan Karon is like coming home to something warm and comforting. The Mitford series is everything one would hope from a snow globe-like town. Nosey characters, interpersonal relationships and a tiny bit of romance.

Where the Crawdads Sing | Delia Owens

Exquisitely written and sweetly delivered. This mysterious, romantic drama gives sweeping descriptions of nature, the inner heart of a girl and woman and all those who affect her.

The House of Fortune | Jessie Burton

A sequel to The Miniaturist. I enjoyed the first three-quarters of this read and found the last quarter lacking substance. All that being said, it’s enjoyable in its entirety, as the whole concept of a mysterious person who makes miniatures for people to be utterly fascinating.

The Maid | Nita Prose

A tremendous rapid-read mystery if you want one. The main character, whose eyes and voice narrate the book, gives light to the personality of some neuro-divergence and is entertaining to hear from.

A Court of Thorns and Roses | Sarah J. Maas

I have not been taken in by fantasy in so long. Sarah’s A Court of Thorns and Roses gave me a ‘can’t put it down’ experience I haven’t had in a while. I loved how I could buy into these fantasy characters and am invested enough to want to read the second book in the series.

TV Shows / FILMS OF NOTE

The Sound of Music | For it’s unending charm and timeless presentation.
The Vow S02 | To take in the personal reflections and interviews of the last few years of NXIVM members during the various trials of those who led the cult.
WandaVision | After much delay I finally took in this short series. I loved the way each episode spans a decade and gives that in every aspect of production. Although it’s ending is bitter sweet, it gives hope in whatever could come next.
The Giver | Rewatched to take in this unique take on what it would be like to ‘white wash’ our differences.

Maybe In Another Life | Taylor Jenkins Reid

I have a special place in my heart for any story/novel that shows or details more than one possible timeline based on a person’s choices. If we believe we missed out, we are discounting the life we are living, and to say that a choice we didn’t make would have been the wrong or better choice, is also saying we assume what things would have been. Taylor allows us, readers, to see two timelines and decide for ourselves if one is better than the other.

Echo in the Bone | Diana Gabaldon

I began reading this book slowly, only to turn a corner and rapidly finish it during the multiple evenings of no electricity post-hurricane here in Nova Scotia. This book picks up the pace late midpoint to drive you toward the eighth book in the series. Not much one can say about it without spoiling the whole series, but know that Diana continues to weave the stories of Jamie and Claire in the best of ways, fictionally and realistically.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo | Taylor Jenkins Reid

I had this book on hold from the library for months. Having it finally arrive as a ‘rapid read’ meant I needed to push it to the top of my list. Taylor doesn’t disappoint. Through a fictional character such as Evelyn, she gives us a tale of a woman’s life who is not cut and dry. And isn’t that all of us? Minimizing someone’s life based on their accomplishments, their partners, or how they looked is to take away the bigger story. A story that is worth knowing.

TV/FILMS of NOTE

The Handmaid’s Tale S05 - The saga continues. This a reminder that a mother will always have the most substantial reason to remain courageous and fight for her children.
Despicable Me! - Sharing this viewing with our daughter made me for a fun family film night. Steve Carell is a brilliant voice-over in this animated movie.
Inventing Anna - Anna Sorokin / Delvey filled the headlines during her trial. Although I didn’t pay much attention, this series shows what it means to be a performing artist and a person who buys into their own ‘facade.’

Small Victories | Anne Lamott

Anne is a voice I return to when I need to be reminded of the wholeness of life. Life being raw, real and something beautiful and awful all mixed together. In this book she gives us a window into what it means to walk in the acts of Grace and find humor in our very human selves.

A Bright Ray of Darkness | Ethan Hawke

I deeply appreciate Ethan’s take on creativity and life. I do admit to wondering how much of this novel was written from his own personal experiences and what was fabrication. It felt like a hybrid memoir and novel. I haven’t done research on it either way, but I do believe that it might be more enjoyable if one didn’t know so much about his life. (I admit to deeply watching / listening to his interviews over the years, and thus may know too much.)

Taste - My Life Through Food | Stanley Tucci

Although I borrowed this book from the library, I made the last minute decision to purchase the audio book through apple to listen to. I deeply love Stanley Tucci’s acting and his foodie nature and realized hearing him read this book aloud would be a much more enjoyable way to ‘read’ it.

Straight On Till Morning | Liz Braswell

Another twisted adaption from Disney through Liz Braswell on the famous characters. This time Wendy and Hook take the stage. Using Wendy’s desire to explore Neverland, Peter Pans forgetful nature and Hooks alluring taste for adventure the way he see’s fit, we are given a fun upside down tale of these characters.
Read if you like twisted tales.

TV SERIES \ FILMS OF NOTE

Mother! - I was completely confused and put off. Until the end when I looked up the allegory representation of the characters of this film and now I can’t stop thinking about it. A marker of a good work of art.
Stranger Things S04 - Because it’s the best season of all previous 3. Gives answers, makes one want to go back and watch it from the beginning again. Good vs. Evil in one of the most creative ways I have seen yet.
Pink Panther 1963 - Because the physical comedy is hilarious.
Pink Panther - A Shot in the Dark - Because Clouseau continues to make us laugh.

A stack of three books on a wooden surface. A plant behind them. Over lay on the image ‘Reads August 2022 - byamygrace’.

Water for Elephants | Susan Gruen

Years ago, I saw the film adaption of this novel. Enough time passed, and I thought I would read the book and re-watch the film. Thus far, reading this novel proves Sara to be an author with an incredible talent for crafting the main character and giving you varying degrees of perspective and depth on him and the world around him. I have not yet re-watched the film, but I am delighted with the writing and how she paints the characters and the world they inhabit.

The School for Good and Evil | Soman Chainani

A magical tale woven for upper middle-grade readers of two girls, a tall tale and the truth revealed in fairytales. I love to find new twists on fairytales, good vs. evil and complicated friendships. The School for Good and Evil provides an entertaining read and dynamic read. Young Amy would have sped through this series.

My Darling Husband | Kimberly Belle

This read quickly became fast-paced suspense. I loved how Kimberly was able to give us present-day reflections through the eyes of a reporter/interviewee, along with brief descriptions of a past happening. Kimberly kept the pace high without compromising details, character development and atmosphere. She set the stage and let the drama run its course brilliantly.

Lucky | Marissa Stapley

Picked up for its Reese Witherspoon recommendation and was not disappointed. Read this over a weekend, and it was a treat. Marissa gave us a story about a woman on the run with a past. Fun, sassy, reflective and redemptive. All packed in under 250 pages. Quite the feat.

TV SERIES / FILMS OF NOTE

That Darn Cat - Summer nostalgia with a Haley Mills classic.
Gangster Squad - For the brilliant gangster storytelling. Loosely based on Mickey Cohen’s takedown.
Turning Red - Domee Shi brings everyone a true depiction of what it means to be a Canadian girl, especially those who are Asian.
The Shrink Next Door - Showing manipulation at its finest. Originally a podcast series.
Only Murders in the Building S02 - Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selna Gomez deliver another riveting and comedic mystery.
Physical S02 - Another great example of a woman working to make her way. No complaints about the 80’s hair and music.

Three books in a line. My Darling Husband, The School for Good and Evil, Water for Elephants.

Lucky by Marissa Stapley atop a glass coffee table. A mug of almost gone coffee sits beside it along with a plant.

Three books stacked on each other. Bottom - Top: Good Rich People, Cultish, The Marriage Game. A plant is partially seen beside the stack. Text overlay on image: Reads July 2022 byamygrace.

The Marriage Game | Sara Desai

A fun summer read about a young woman who finds herself back home renting and sharing retail space from her dad with another man. This story has loads of references to Indian culture and is written so well I can hear the various characters clearly as they' talk.' It's fun, light-hearted, with loads of snark towards society's lack of open-mindedness towards women.

Cultish | Amanda Montell

I've been enjoying Amandas' podcast "Sounds Like a Cult" with her friend Isa Medina and figured it was time to read Amanda's book, which came before the podcast. Cultish is much the same, but with a more in-depth look at Cult groups. Where 'Sounds Like a Cult' gives room for accidental similarities, Cultish clearly and pointedly calls out the traits we permit in society that are problematic.

Good Rich People | Eliza Jane Brazier

A chilling tale of a wealthy matriarch, her son and his wife who live in a villa of sorts and rent out the apartment beneath them. Without giving too much, these characters play the game of manipulation, observation and quite literally, decimation.

You really wouldn't want to rent from these people, no matter what part of town they live in.

TV/Films of Note
Fantastic Mr. Fox - It’s brilliant artistry, wit and voice talent pull this narrative together in one fantastic film.
Inside Out - A fond rewatch. This film brings an awareness of how much our minds, body and souls are connected.

Tell Me Three Things | Julie Buxbaum

I have loved this book. Julie brings a delightful main character in Jessie, a high school student trying to adjust to her new life at her new stepmom's house and new school. Jessie is guided through her first year at this new school and experiences by an unknown person's wise and humorous texts.

You'll be on your seat wanting to know who Somebody/Nobody, a.k.a. SN.

Tess of the D'URbervilles | Thomas Hardy

Knowing this is a classic, I am getting through this hefty read. Some people hang their coats on this novel, but I am finding it a job. I can see that it is an excellent example of a female character written to showcase the realities of the time they lived (1891), yet it leaves me cringing and wishing for less overt flowering language about it all.

The Viscount Who Loved Me | Julia Quinn

Studying adaptations from book to screen is a passion of mine. Reading the second book in the Bridgerton Series is another way I can see how Shonda Rhimes and her team take novels and adapt them into a series format. It doesn't hurt that Julie Andrews's voice is the narration of the series. One can never have too much Julie Andrews.

Julia Quinn writes her characters with wit and ease, and the world she creates for them is exciting. It's easy to see why this series made its mark in the romance/fiction section.

Films / TV Shows

Pride & Prejudice (2005) - It’s been almost 10 years since I last watched this film. I was captivated by it in a whole new way. It’s cinamatography, artistry…impeccable.
The Marvelous Mrs.Maisel S04 - I watched this season as slow as I could. It was delicious. Every beat.
Clifford - A fun family movie night watch.

Bitter & Sweet | Tsh Oxenreider

After enjoying Tsh's book on Advent, I thought it apt to buy her latest release for the duration of Lent. Bitter & Sweet gives a beautiful guide through the liturgical journey of Lent and into Easter.

Finding Meaning | David Kessler

I began to study the process of grief for a personal passion project of mine, and this book was the last read to complete the journey. This book helps tie it all together, and in life, I believe this is a read that we all can benefit from. Holding space for ourselves and those around us in grief is a gift, and I hope that I can always be that person to those around me.

Breaking Bread with the Dead | Alan Jacobs

This came up on my reading TBR list, and at first, I was going to let it go as I couldn't find it at my city's library, but after returning to read the synopsis multiple times, I bought it. It's a very in-depth yet concise read about the idea that reading intentionally and slowly the words of authors of the past helps us have a deeper and better understanding of ourselves and the world we live in today.

I especially appreciated the beginning, in which Alan discussed the nuances of social media and internet culture that have influenced us in ways that make it hard to sit and just be with the words of others.

A Breath of Snow and Ashes | Diana Gabaldon

She did it again. If you know me, you know that the Outlander Series is something that I deeply love. The multiple genres in one Sega and the actual craft of writing that Diana has created book after book. This is the sixth book in the series. It ended with so many plot twists and turns that my head spun.

The Joy Luck Club | Amy Tan

I have been told that I would love this film and I have resisted watching until I have read the book. Finally getting to this novel, and of course, it doesn't disappoint. Amy Tan brings us culture, nuance, and character. And as a white woman married into a part Chinese family, it is even more meaningful and a window into a nuance of thought I did not grow up with.

FILMS & TELEVISION SERIES OF NOTE

Take This Waltz - because this film heals me every time I watch it. & of course the genius writing and directing of Sarah Polley is behind it.
Only Murders in the Building - Martin Short, Steve Martin & Selena Gomez. A trio that doesn't disappoint.

Women and their words became the threads that made up the blanket of February.

The Measure of My Powers | Jackie Kai Ellis

I read this book a handful of years ago and finally have my own copy to reread. It's not often that a person's life story can be the serving of healing you need, but in this beautiful memoir, I was served again and again a warm, comforting hug in the form of words. Jackie provides her reflections through memories, recipes and vulnerable meditative prose.

Verity | Colleen Hoover

My first time reading a Colleen Hoover novel, I was hooked within the first handful of pages. You believe it will go one way and are given multiple twists to find it going in various other directions. If you want a rapid read with a psychological / mystery bent, this is it!

I added every title from this author to Goodreads, if that's a hint at how much I loved it.

The First Shot | Liv Constantine

The prequel to The Last Mrs.Parish, this small but mighty novella by the sisters that make the name Liv Constantine is everything I hoped for. They made it on my list of favourite authors out of the gate; here is another example of why.

Home Body | Rupi Kaur

Rupi and her thoughtful poems are more than excellent for the mind, body and soul. Take them in. Let them sit beside you and swirl into the air as you breathe.

Films/TV Series of Note

Being the Ricardos | Interesting. I did not love its entirety, but I found its mid-point and onwards very interesting.
The Marvellous Mrs.Maisel S04 | Because Midge has words for what needs to be said and finds the guts to say it.
The Gilded Age S01 | Albeit a tad repetitive in characters mirroring Downton Abby, still very much enjoyable.

This year I am going to be picking reads that best suit where I am personally, and the month I am in.

I will also be picking books to read over each season for professional development, parenting insight, and book clubs.
Less of a haphazard stack and more of an intentional haul and study.
*Do not be surprised to see an Outlander read or re-read in the pile at any given moment.

For January this meant:

The Wisdom of Your Body | Hillary L. McBride PhD

This book was given to me for Christmas by a bestie who knows I love to deep dive into what happens with both the mind and body. How they work and how they affect each other. This is a fantastic read for that and so much more.

Grit | Angela Duckworth

I have heard Angela interviewed on podcasts various different times and each time I have thought I should pick up her book.
I confess, there were some sections I found myself skimming, but on the whole, I found it insightful and another reminder, that so much of ‘doing’ is about what is the true and raw why of what drives you ‘to do’.

Bright Young Dead (A Mitford Murder Mystery Series: Book 2) | Jessica Fellowes

Bright Young Dead did not disappoint. The era of the young in the 1920s is a fantastic landscape to produce a fun, thrilling and captivating murder mystery. Highly recommend. (I read book 1 last year).

TV Series / Films of Note

Good Girls S04 - For the fun, surprises, and comedic timing all in one series.
On the Basis of Sex - For the back story on our dear late RBG.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind - A winter love story that hits in the raw places with a bit of fantastical whimsy.

I made up for my lack of reading time this month.
Clearly.
I did not catch that I had documented ‘The Art of Gathering’ until I realized I captured it twice.
It’s a lovely cover nonetheless.

Shadow & Light | Tsh Oxenreider

Preparing for Christmas in a mindful way has always been important to me. This book celebrating Advent provides a reading for every day leading up to Christmas along with music and art suggestions for a true and meditative Christmas journey. Tsh also provides a few alternative ways to use this book. Be you traditional or in need of something to prompt you into the tradition of Christmas, this book has made our December evenings all the more meaningful.

The Nutcracker | E.T.A. Hoffman

I had forgotten that I had read The Nutcracker a handful of years back, but this book gives us as a family the ability to read aloud this beautiful story with all its magical and traditional Russian / German story.

All About Feelings | Felicity Brooks & Frankie Allen

This book has been in our home for a few years, but recently I re-read it and am so moved with how it was put together to give children the tools through language the nuances of feelings and how to identify with them.

At Home in Mitford | Jan Karon

Revisiting this book as a comfort read during Autumn and the heaviness that the pandemic has brought. I am enjoying living inside the town of Mitford and all its characters.

The Arrival | Shaun Tan

A surprising find of a graphic novel. No words, yet many illustrations fill the page to create a unique and moving story. I have a feeling that the interpretation and meaning behind the book is dependant on what the ‘reader’ brings to it.

Stories that Stick | Kindra Hall

Although this was an interesting and on-brand topic for me, I was left feeling like I could have had more. Understandably this was from the business perspective of how a story can elevate one’s business message and what one is selling.
This all seemed very primal and obvious to me. I am sure there are entrepreneurs and others in business who would find this enlightening.

The Art of Gathering | Priya Parker

Another slightly disappointing read. It could be due to hearing Priya Parker interviewed on various podcasts before I read her book. I resonated with what she had said in these interviews in regards to creating an atmosphere for gathering either virtual or in person.
It could also be due to the concept that this book was written pre-COVID-19, and thus, its message gets lost at times.

Clanlands | Sam Heughan & Graham McTavish

I wasn’t amazed by Sam and Grahams account on their journey through Scotland for their TV docu-series ‘Men in Kiltz’. I adored the series and did find a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes amusing, but I would say, the series is just as good, if not better. Looking forward to season 2. Always a fan of Scotland and those that are involved in creating Outlander.

FILMS/TV SERIES TO WATCH

Selling Sunset S02,03,04 - because other people’s drama is my kind of drama. & the houses !!!
Modern Love S02 - There should be more anthology series in the world. This has me crying with the sentiment.
Annie - Because this is the version of Annie I fell in love with and ADORE.
Succession S03 - Because media mogul families exist and there is something alluring about seeing how all this shakes out in the next generation.
Nine Perfect Strangers - A mysterious take on what healing can look like…in all its forms.

Catherine House | Elisabeth Thomas

This book fed my need for a ‘ boarding school’ themed read. A fascination I have had since childhood. Catherine House poses mysteries, darkness, and implies a lot with not all of it being made clear. For me, the enjoyment in this read was in the atmosphere, theme and descriptions.

The Paris Library | Janet Skeslien Charles

I was not as impressed with this book, but I do not think that is a true reflection on how good it may or may not be. I think I have had my fill of World War I & II themes. Following a woman who is passionate about books, the library she works at, and protecting the patrons that borrows them we get a unique birds eye view of what staying in France during the war may have been like.

Winnie the Pooh | A.A. Milne

Read aloud to our daughter over the past few months we laughed and laughed over each chapter. As a writer I have a deeper appreciation for the beautiful character and world building in this sweet little novel. If you have not read A.A Milne, I urge you, the experience will not disappoint.
I may have cried while reading the last few pages.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

The Good Place S01 - Rewatched because the plot twists and true depths are solid gold.
A Simple Favour - because the film stayed with me longer than the book & it’s the perfect mystery watch featuring fabulous women.
Physical - Apple TV has some home runs. Highlighting a woman struggling with eating disorders and finding something that is more healing than her disorder.
The Great Canadian Baking Show S03 - because watching this as a family brings us so much joy…& hungry bellies.

The Soulmate Equation | Christina Lauren

A fun lighthearted vacation rom-com speed read of an owner of a dating app and a woman in her thirties trying hard not to look for love. It’s exactly what you think with a hint of something ‘sci fi’.

Dear Ijeawele, Or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions | Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

It’s a small but impactful read that blew me away. Originally I picked it up from the library, but I will be buying this to re-read over the years while raising my daughter.

Seven Stones to Stand or Fall | Diana Gabaldon

A collection of Diana’s filler ‘buldges’ as she refers to them of various characters from the outlander series.

All Along You Were Blooming | Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper is one of my most favorite writers today. She has found a creative way to use words and imagery to heal herself, others, and anyone that comes across her work.

Burnout. The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle | Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski

This book blew my mind in so many ways. I first heard these sisters in an interview and was rocked by their work behind laying out the hormonal release that occurs in the body during stress. Their explanation of stress and how it manifests was in direct correlation with my personal experiences. I knew I had to read this book. After returning it to the library I still felt that I hadn’t had enough time with it. I will definitely be picking up a copy for my own future reference.

TV Series / Films of Note

Gilmore Girls S01 - Because when the air turns crisp, it’s time for coffee and the Gilmores.
Good on Paper - Because Iliza tells this story off and on, and it’s even wilder to take in as a film.
Ted Lasso S02 - Because Ted is everything good, healing, and warm that this world lacks, with a healthy dose of real trauma shown amidst the smiles.

Malibu Rising | Taylor Jenkins Reid

A captivating and descriptive tale of a family that grew up in Malibu. Spanning the timeline of two generations we get to see the beginnings and the fall out of a family. This novel delivers the beautiful landscape of Malibu, while also revealing the destructive nature of what it means to put all your hopes and dreams into one solitary ‘element’. Be that a person, a place or a thing.
The perfect summer read.

Bridgerton | The Duke & I | Julia Quinn

I picked this up out of interest of wanting to read the novel before watching the Shonda Rhimes series. With adaptations I am always interested in what was chosen to be included or not. This novel although slightly different than its television series which is more ‘based on the characters of’ gives its own beautiful and romantic punch. I adore the society columnist giving her take at the beginning of each chapter (which Julie Andrews does such a great job at in the series with her voice over), and I love the strong female characters who are very much within the restraints of their era but yet remain three dimensional within their roles.
Beautifully done.
It’s safe to say I will be continuing on with this series both on Netflix and in books.

Peter Pan and Wendy | J.M. Berry

J.M Berry’s writing has always been an inspiration to me. I believe I first read Peter Pan as a late teen and re-fell in love with the tale. Of course, some of the depictions are outdated, but when you move past that dated stereotypes and focus on everything else, you can see how perfectly wonderful a storyteller the man was. He breathed creative genius in so many ways. Words weaving in and out of the narrative, giving the reader something to hold on to. It’s no surprise that Peter Pan was first a play before a book. It’s words depict a fully visual and beautiful world.

The Next Right Thing | Emily P. Freeman

Emily has been a writer I have followed for years. Her podcast ‘The Next Right Thing’ a comfort during many a time, especially during the pandemic. That being said, it seemed sad that I had not yet read The Next Right Thing Book yet, so I have finally rectified that. If you are looking for a read that will give you permission to mindfully and intentionally process through your life and decisions, this is a perfect read.

In Film / Television

Dirty Dancing | because while in our cottage during vacation at night with our daughter asleep, this seemed like the perfect summer watch. It was. For me, summer air & dancing is the most delicious thing.
Bridgerton | because adaptations are my jam and this is no exception.