Practical Magic | Alice Hoffman

Less about magic and witches and more about generations of women finding each other amidst their emotional journeys. In the end, we are all just spirits on this earth looking for a sister to hold us.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone | J.K. Rowling***

I have adored MinaLimas’ special editions of famous stories. The first installment of Harry Potter’s journey into finding out he is more than just a boy who sleeps in a cupboard.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets | J.K. Rowling***

I have adored MinaLimas’ special editions of famous stories, and the second is no different—another year of mystery and intrigue at Hogwarts for Harry Potter.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban | J.K. Rowling***

I have adored MinaLimas’ special editions of famous stories, and the third is no different—another year of mystery and intrigue at Hogwarts for Harry Potter.

Madam | Phoebe Wynne

A dark and delicious academia-themed novel set in Scotland featuring an elite boarding school that prepares girls for the future…

The Lions of Fifth Avenue | Fiona Davis

Two different eras, one story. Fiona Davis weaves 1913 and 1993 seamlessly, uncovering individuality, inherited family trauma, and the evolution of society.

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls | Grady Hendrix

Set in the summer of 1970, a home for wayward girls becomes a place of connection and wild understanding. This read was captivating and enriching.

The Naturals | Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Jennifer has a way of creating a masterful ‘who dunnit’ plot without apparent effort. The Naturals did not disappoint and gave me a rapid read for the perfect ‘who dunnit’ months.

The Best Place on Earth | Ayelet Tsabari

Like her non-fiction writing, Ayelet writes these short stories in such a way that you believe you are right there with these characters, even if you have not lived the life that they have. The relatable emotions and visceral descriptions she provides allow the reader to understand, on a deep level, the inner workings of each story. I loved this read sincerely.

Everything I Know About Love | Dolly Alderton

A beautiful collection of reflections of what it means to be a twenty-something grappling with life, love, friendships and everything in between.

Wayward | Blake Crouch

The second in the Wayward Pines series and a perfect thriller read for the autumn season. Read and recommended to me first by my partner, I can see why it was a page-turner for his slow-reader self. I ripped through it within a few days. Gripping in every way.

The Art of Leaving | Ayelet Tsabari

Written by one of my mentors in the MFA program, this coming-of-age story struck me. Raised in different countries and exposed to differing life circumstances and cultural norms, I still found myself in young Ayelet as she grappled with the push and pull of confusion and her desire to reinvent herself. Ayelet’s direct honesty in her narrative, as well as her openness to questioning and to putting her emotions on display, left me wanting to revisit the pages for a deeper second read.

Wicked | Gregory Maguire

An adaptation and creative take on what was behind The Wonderful Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its various characters, including The Wicked Witch of the West. It seemed timely that, as the second and final installment of the musical film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked, Wicked: For Good, debuted this fall, I would read the book that inspired it all. Wicked is not just a book about fantasy, but about true humanity and how we easily breach the humanity of ourselves and others by how we interact and classify those who are different, both on the surface and beneath. If there was a fictional story worth taking in at this time, Wicked is an impactful one that still holds weight.

It Must Be Beautiful to Be Finished | Kate Gies

Kate’s memoir knocked me off my feet. Written in fragments, she expertly guides us through what it has been like to process her journey from childhood to adulthood, born without an ear. She gives us not only the complex moments of what this has meant for her emotionally and spiritually, but also how she has chosen to take back her autonomy through the telling of her stories. Moving, impactful and beautifully written.

******I live by the value of always reading banned books. Growing up, the Harry Potter series received a lot of hate and witch-hunting-like discourse in the church I attended. Today, for different reasons, the series and its author have represented another version of hate and witch-hunting-like discourse. The irony is not lost on me that the first thick chapter book series my daughter enjoyed and wanted to continue reading was this one. I will meet her where she is at, follow along on her journey, and read with her each year as she tackles another edition. Ultimately, one can only have a complete embodied discussion of works and art if they are in the game, taking in and continuing the art of discussing these works and arts.

I made a pact with myself that at some point over the summer, I would slip in lighter reads. You’ll see that I was able to utilize my vacation days for just that.

On Our Best Behaviour | Elise Loenen

This book entered my life after I made a list of books for research. After finding this title, it was inevitable that I read it. Elise does a fantastic job of showing how the seven (or eight, depending on your system) have interwoven themselves into our lives and society for no benefit other than to maintain control over women. This read was another permission slip my spirit had been aching for.

How We Learn to Be Brave | Mariann Edgar Budde

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde was unknown to me until the moment she addressed the latest American President in a plea for mercy and compassion for minority groups and peoples as he took office. A plea that those in positions of faith and service to their communities can so easily understand. It did not surprise me that the majority of ‘conservative’ voices diminished her words and her bravery through ‘word salad’ commentaries. Some even decided to cloak their dismissiveness of her message with a patriarchal message that overrode her intelligence, compassion and life's work.
We will not remember them.
However, the history books will remember Mariann and her straightforward message, which so many before her have carried. Her book is just as humble, peace-driven, and compassionate as her speech on January 24, 2025. Worth the read - wherever you land on the political and faith spectrum.

The Housemaid | Freida McFadden

I inhaled this over vacation only to be left with an errie feeling I had read this book before. One of my favourite breakout novels, ‘The Last Mrs.Parish’ from years ago, left a mark on my memory I will never forget. It was hard to shake after closing Freida’s book, whether or not this was intentional - there were too many similarities. Will I read more of her work? More than likely. Will I be attentive to her storytelling techniques? Even more so.

I Am, I Am, I Am | Maggie O’Farrell

I was told many times that I should read this memoir. It delivered. I Am, I Am, I Am shows what it looks like to take a theme that a writer cannot shake and provide the reader with an engaging yet nuanced look at all the varied sides of said theme. This memoir will have a permanent spot on my bookshelf.

The Last Garden in England | Julia Kelly

I fell in love with this book. Julia crafts sections and character arcs that span time, allowing one to feel truly immersed. Worth the read if you enjoy stories told in different eras, all having a common thread.

The Bookclub for Troublesome Women | Marie Bostwick

My aunt and I often enjoy reading at least one book a year together. This one was a pick she found, and I happily joined. This novel portrays a diverse range of 1960s women at various stages of life as they navigate the rise of feminism, as well as books such as ‘The Feminine Mystique’. Naturally, reading this book also led me to order Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique for historical context and personal research.

Body Work | Melissa Febos

A recommended read from my master’s program. I left this book feeling clearer on my own memoir trajectory and directive while also being moved and inspired at the same time.

Clemintine | Sarah Pennypacker

Having previously enjoyed Sarah’s longer works, I wondered how Clementine stood up. As the cover suggests, she stands wonderfully upside down. My resident ten-year-old enjoyed her too.

Every Summer After | Carley Fortune

There is a reason Carley became known for her great Canadian beach reads. If you need one, pick one of hers. They are precisely what one needs to enjoy a light but engaging read for a summer weekend.
*may have a renewed love for the Greek name: Persephone.

Little White Lies | Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Reads like Tiny Pretty Things, this book is an excellent choice if you are looking for a fast-paced, engaging read.

This Won’t End Well | Camille Pagan

I found Camille’s protagonist entertaining and enjoyed the ‘mystery’ within the plot. That said, something about the duplicity of both ‘antagonists’ didn’t make a complete landing for me. All in all, still enjoyed the read.

Recovering From Puriety Culture | Camden Morgante

As soon as this hit the market, it was an obvious must-read. I sincerely appreciate how Dr. Morgan uses a matter-of-fact approach to dismantling the impact of purity culture on women. She leaves a lot of room for those who still have faith, but also speaks clinically to those who are wondering why they are still wounded and suffering emotionally from these teachings. Her work online continues to serve those of us who are on a healing mission for ourselves and those women around us.

Burn It Down: Women Writing About Anger | Lilly Dancyger

I found Lilly through her book of essays and memoirs about friendship. It was a beautiful book, so it made clear sense to me that I needed to read this collection of essays about anger. Each one does an incredible job of putting words to what so many of us women experience in life.

The Art of Feminism | Lucinda Gosling

Something about the political climate this International Women’s Day made me feel that this book was essential to get off the shelves while I could. In many respects, it feels as if an overreach to think I can’t just go and buy this or borrow it from the Library at any time, and yet - the way the world has tilted, it has felt as if the toxic patriarchy has a firm hold on what the future of women may be. I will never want to forget the future hope I felt and continue to hone.

Closer Together | Sophie Grégoire Trudeau

I have always appreciated Sophie's voice, and even more so now. She receives a lot of criticism for her privilege, but her self-awareness gives me room to understand this. She provides a space for women to express themselves in new and empowering ways. I am so glad I found this book as a woman and mother of a daughter.

The Circadian Code | Satchin Panda

Over the past year, I have enjoyed learning about and implementing the benefits of living by a circadian rhythm. Is it easy? No. It has been incredibly helpful to my sleep and overall mental health—1000%. This was just another read for me to glean more about the science behind why my body seems to respond well to rising with the sun.

Supercommunicators | Charles Duhigg

An enjoyable read on what it means to be a well-rounded communicator. Charles discusses the three main conversations within which communication happens: What is this really about? How do we feel? And who are we? Despite being trained in implicit and explicit communication, this book was a great reminder of what it means to be a communicator, which is ultimately a great listener. Something extremely hard to do.

Practices in Embodied Living | Hillary L. McBride

A workbook, a conversation piece, a book of reflections… Hillary gives us a book that cannot be read in one sitting. It is to be pondered, puttered, and processed over time. This book will remain on my shelf for years to come.

You Can Make This Place Beautiful | Maggie Smith

Quite simply, it is a beautiful read about a tricky subject. We can’t always know how life will evolve, but Maggie wonderfully shows that despite life’s unexpected, ugly turns, we can continue to grow into something beautiful.

The Situation and The Story | Vivian Gornick

A great compact book about the craft of writing and what it means to dig deeper into what you, the writer, are aiming to communicate. Quite simply, every book/narrative has a situation, and it has a story. Each writer should know what that is to serve the narrative well.

Water Borne | Dan Rubinstein

Read for our MFA pre-residency assignment, Dan Rubinstein gave talks and Q&As during our week-long residency. His book, funded by the Canada Council, documents his journey paddling around various areas of rivers, lakes, and canals in landlocked regions. If you like paddleboarding, this may be for you.

Somehow: Thoughts on Love | Anne Lamott

Anne Lamott is the family member I wish I had. Her honesty and reflections on life and love fuel me to be a better and more whole person with each word she writes.

House of Salt and Sorrows | Erin A. Craig

A creative adaptation of the fairy tale ‘The Twelve Dancing Princesses’. A story I loved as a child is made new through a manor by the sea, where a household of sisters dies accidentally one by one... A mystery, a moody aesthetic and a retelling all in one.

The Situation and the Story | Vivian Gornick

For those who are studying the craft of writing this book is essential. Pick it up. It own’t dissapoint.

Meander, Spiral, Explode | Jane Alison

A lovely book designed to help a writers brain break open and find all the possible ways in which narrative can find itself in a non linear format.

You’ve Changed | Pyae Moe Thet War

Despite the kickback against this book and it’s author regarding their privilege and placement in culture I found the break down essays on their name and the culture clash that they experienced with their name fascinating and beautifully written. Walking my own daughter through her middle names, why we chose them and her own identity crisis about them is eye opening and a privilege to behold. I think many people with names not based in an Anglo-Saxon linguistic while navigating a majority Anglo-Saxon demographic and world order structure will relate to this.

The Ten Thousand Doors of January | Alix E. Harrow

Complex, riveting and one of the most captivating reads I have had in a long time. Not worth spoiling, just read it.

A Court of Frost and Starlight | Sarah J Maas

A small bridge story between books in Sarah’s Court of Thorns and Roses series. A perfect read during the snow falls of January / February.

The Midnight Library | Matt Haig

I adored this read. It was not what I was expecting and.I found myself imagining what I would do if I was in my own midnight library. Truly a masterpiece.

Crown of Midnight | Sarah J. Maas

A distraction read during stressful times. Sarah J. Maas is becoming a comfort read.

Your Roots Cast a Shadow | Caroline Topperman

This book echoed into not only the current day that we are living now as I write this, but also into all of the spaces of my own heart and mind. As the first chapter states so well: “Our history, our roots is deeply planted. It’s vital that we not let these roots be wrneched from the ground, let alone used to clobber others.”
Hoe we anchor in to who we are and how we leverage that ‘identity’ causes impact, for the better or worse. Caroline doesn’t villanize, she sheds light. And we all know that light has a way of casting shadows.

Here in the Real World | Sara Pennypacker

A beautiful story about a boy who just wants his own bit of earth. In many ways - it reminds me of the summer-boy version of The Secret Garden. Both hurting souls looking to be seen by the land and company before them.

Pax | Sara Pennypacker

Sara weaves a tender and beautiful story between a young boy and his pet fox. Through the eyes of both the boy and the fox we learn of the pain and the joys of connection and what it means to be lost and finally, found.

A Curious Beginning | Deanna Raybourne

The first in the Veronica Speedwell Series. A much needed read to take a break from serious non fiction writing and reading for my masters. It helps that the heroine is a spicy independent victorian intellect.

Experiments in Imagining Otherwise | Lola Olufemi

Sometimes it’s enjoyable to just tip toe around words and see how they hit you. This was an expiermental read.

Your Spiritual Almanac | Joey Hulin

I adore this book as a friend during the year. I have finally reached the end of my full fiscal year journey with it and can safely say it will be with me for the end of time. I love books that give you monthly prompts to stay aware of the changing seasons. This book provides practical seasonal advice and knowledge like flowers and food that is in season but also helpful spiritual open ended thoughts to help connect the mind, body and spirit.

First Love | Lilly Dancyger

A heart-wrenching book of essays on the true love stories in our lives. Friendship. Specifically Lilly and her relationships with all of the women she has called friends.

The House Across the LakE | Riley Sager

It's a perfect rapid read for vacation. A ‘who dun it’ that turns into something more than that. No need to spoil. If you are looking for a psychological suspense novel - this is it.

Good Inside | Dr.Becky Kennedy

After listening to various podcast episodes by Dr.Becky, I decided to pick up the book. Focusing on the core value that all children and adults are ‘good inside,’ this book helps remind us to take a mindful approach in our parenting to support self-regulation, compassion, confidence and resilience. Highly recommend.

The Soulmate | Sally Hepworth

Another great rapid read: The Soulmate is perfect for summer vacation. It is equally moody, entertaining, and suspenseful.

The Next Mrs.Parish | Liv Constantine

This is the sequel to The Last Mrs.Parish. I read it during vacation and deeply enjoyed how all the characters continued the chess game that made the first book fun. I am amazed this hasn’t been made into a film by now. It's a great read all around.

FILMS/TV SERIES OF NOTE
Baby Reindeer - because it’s a true story that will leave you speechless.
Parent Trap ‘97 - because a rainy day on vacation deserves a great classic film to watch.
Argylle - because it’s a fun play on all the spy troupes one can find. Films don’t always have to be serious.
Physical S03 - because it’s a fun summer watch & I think Rose Byrns makes it. (warning: dysregulated eating is an underlying theme)
Inside Out 2 - because the second is as deep as the first.

The Last Breath | Kimberlly Belle

This is a fun, suspenseful read when one is looking for a distraction. The graphic descriptions of small portions seemed unnecessary to me. Readers don’t need as much gore to buy in as one might think.

The Old Moon in Her Arms | Lorri Neilson Glenn

Hearing Lorri read a small portion of this book on the first day of my degree was a moment I will not forget. Her words and presence are as deep as they are witty, and there is a reflectiveness in her writing that I deeply aspire to. Reading this collection of essays has been a refreshment and a beautiful anchor point in why I wanted to do this master's program.

The First Shot | Liv Constantine

I re-read the prequel to prepare for the sequel to The Last Mrs.Parish. I love the protagonist's twists and turns, and it says enough that I willingly ‘re-read’ this.

Family Trouble | Joy Castro

This book of essays is from the required reading list in my Master's program. It is a collection of essays from those who have written memoirs and writings that reflect their families.

Lessons in Chemistry | Bonnie Garmus

I adored this read. Bonnie’s beautiful writing keeps this story alive and the characters even more. Without spoiling, this book follows a female chemist's struggles and life happenings in the 1960’s. It is as charming as it is pointed. It’s very clear to me why it got picked up for a tv series on Apple TV.

The Last Mrs.Parish | Liv Constantine

In preparation for the second book, I reread the first. Liv Constantine (team of two writers) did not disappoint in this reread. I found it as riveting as the first time. No spoilers. Just read it for yourself.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

I am Celine - Her voice and interviews filled a lot of important moments for me, and watching this was as impactful as those moments.
Wish - For the art style alone (& if you pay attention - there is a fascinating narrative woven in regarding those in governance and leadership).
Baby Reindeer Season 1 - Because it claims to be a true story and has been talked about for weeks. It’s FASCINATING.

Run Hide Repeat | Pauline Dakin

In preparation for taking a course from Pauline, I had the foolish idea I could finish this sega before her classes. Clearly, I misjudged my calendar and energy during residency, and I found myself in front of Pauline only 35 pages or so into her memoir, yet riveted by her story already.
I resolved to finish it before the end of her course.
And I did. I couldn’t put it down.
For what it’s worth, Pauline makes space for what so many of us have underpinning our upbringings. “It must be real because they say it is and love me.”
What happens when you begin to doubt the history that made you and find that things might not be exactly as they seem?

The Dead Romantics | Ashley Poston

It is a surprisingly fun read after a month of heavy reading to prepare for residency in my master's program. The Dead Romantics is outlandish in its premise (a woman falling in love with a ghost), yet it gives a light-hearted, meaningful read for a tired mind.

Nine Perfect Strangers | Liane Moriarty

Going against all my values, I watched the Nine Perfect Strangers before reading the book. I am righting this wrong by reading the intense sega that was turned into a limited series and finding it just as enjoyable.

The Tea Dragon Festival | K. O’Neill

Due to it lying about our house, I picked up the second one my daughter had out from the library and let myself enjoy the world she was in.
The Tea Dragon series is imaginative, fun and beautiful to look at.

TV/FILMS OF NOTE
Bridgerton S03 - because everyone needs to eat cake sometimes… this was my cake after a long day of work.
Gilmore Girls S04 - because my brain was too tired to watch anything but comforting rewatches of the Gilmore households.
Inside Out - because I knew it would be a perfectly timed watch with our nine-year-old

Monsters, Martyrs, and Marionettes | Adrienne Gruber

This book gutted me in all of the ways impactful words should. Adrienne takes us on a visual journey through essays and short windows into the realities of women and motherhood.

No Place to Go | Lezlie Lowe

Having Lezlie as a mentor for the year made me turn quickly to the words she had written. A friend had No Place to Go sitting in her bathroom and thought I would find it a great first read of Lezlie’s works.
Lezlie opens up the ‘lid’ on how culture and society have failed to meet the necessary needs of all persons.
No Place to Go is as funny as it is real, raw and sharp on matters of equality, equity and common decency.

Madness, Mayhem & Murder | Dean Jobb

As Dean Jobb is my professor for the next two years, I went all out and ordered all of the books I could find in my local library he had published. The first of them is this one. Entertaining tales of long-forgotten crimes that happened right here in Nova Scotia, Canada.

The Business of Being a Writer | Jane Friedman

A required book for the master’s program. Although I ‘read’ this book, I quickly skimmed through many sections, knowing that I would come back to it as a reference guide over the next two years.

Story Craft - Second Edition | Jack Hart

I underlined so many sections of this book.
Although not new information to me, Jack breaks down the art and mediums of storytelling in a way that packs a concise and digestible punch. I enjoyed each chapter thoroughly.

Jane Eyre | Charlotte Brontë

I have no recollection of what number of ‘re-reads’ this would make it, but I return to Jane repeatedly. Charlotte Brontë was wickedly good at telling tales. I wish she had more time on this earth to have done more.

The Tea Dragon Society | K. ONeill

Originally ordered from the library for the nine-year-old, I fell down this sweet rabbit hole as a distraction from the more serious reads. The artwork and thought behind this graphic series is so well done.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE
Bridgerton S03 - Because it’s cake. (everyone needs a slice of cake, now and then.)
Traitors Australia S01 - Because when work is busy, a fun murder mystery reality TV show is all one needs to exhale at the end of the day.

Gathering Blue | Lois Lowry

Another banger from Lois. Having only read The Giver, this book gives another shade of things. A must-read for anyone who enjoys thinking deeper than just current reality.

Hidden Potential | Adam Grant

Having loved Adam Grant from his Ted Talks and Podcast Re: Thinking, I was sure I would enjoy Hidden Potential. This book provides tips on unlocking one's hidden potential and the science behind what makes a successful person. *Spoiler alert: It’s not what you think. That first chapter, “Creatures of Discomfort,” gave me a great reality check on my understanding of the brain and what we are all capable of if we are open to it.

Ducks | Kate Beaton

Lent to me by my aunt, it took me forever to read it, but I am so glad I did. Kate Beaton gives us such a raw look at what it is like to be a woman working in the oil sands of Alberta. I loved her visuals, her raw honesty, her sense of humour and her grit. This woman has GRIT.

TV/FILMS OF NOTE

Regime S01 - Because this was just a whirlwind & we are still processing it!
Wednesday S01 - Because this series captured the essence and vibes of Wednesday Adam in every single possible wonderful way. (& who best to do it, than Tim Burton?)

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.

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.

It Starts With Us | Colleen Hoover

A sequel to Colleens ‘It Ends With Us’. This addition brings a full circle moment of what it means to grapple with choices and the emotional processing that can occur post an abusive relationship.

The Club | Ellery Lloyd

Being a Reese Witherspoon pick, I assumed I would find this a rapid read, but not so. Be it the wrong timing for me or just simply not enjoying the writing style….
although read it - It was a struggle. I like the idea of a ‘who dun it’ set in a high society club / island retreat, but the execution of this read was hard to follow for me.

To Sir Phillip With Love | Julia Quinn

Another book in the Bridgerton series with perhaps my favourite character in the family. Eloise. Quippy, sassy, independent and gutsy we get to see her fumble her way through a relationship. I loved every page. A great indulgent ‘just for fun’ summer read.

TV / FILMS OF NOTE

Barbie - because not only is it the perfect summer film, but it also flips everything upside down in the most beautiful side wink way.
The Incredibles - because every eight year old needs to see this animation.
Jury Duty S01 - a social experiment done right. Although shocking in it’s premise, it is a heartwarming and beautiful work of art that has an uplifting outcome.

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