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.

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.

They arrived!

Not all, but many books from the required and suggested reading lists for my master's program have arrived.
It’s time to get down to business!

My Goal:

To read every book suggested, mentioned or referred to in passing within my master’s journey.

Why?

When else will I have this excuse to trip over myself reading book after book?

How?

I will prioritize the required reading books and follow them with whatever seems more pressing. I aim to highlight and take notes as I go (which I am apt to do with books I own / study) and input those highlighted quotes/sections into a chart for reference.
When a quote or passage deems itself a lifeline, I will write it down to keep it in a visible space in my office to be reminded of.

If you need me, I’ll be reading.

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.

The Confession | Jessie Burton

Jessie Burton has a way of weaving secrets and intricacies within characters. It is a fingerprint on all of her novels. This is a story of women trying to find themselves within each other.

Conceal, Don’t Feel: A Twisted Tale | Jen Calonita

I enjoy dipping back into Young Adult fiction from time to time. Disney contracts with various writers to create twisted versions of their stories, which are fun, easy to read, and don’t stray too far from the original's beats. With this one, we see what would have happened if Anna and Elsa had grown up without knowing each other.

The Doll Factory | Elizabeth Macneal

This book kept me glued the entire time. It was strange, alluring and twisted all at once. Set in 1850’s London, it has notes of the gritty, unforgiving world that Charles Dickens so often wrote about. This book is exceedingly unique.

FILMS/TV SERIES OF NOTE

Alaska Daily S01 - because despite of it being cancelled after the first season, it captures the plight and work of those searching for answers regarding Missing Murdered and Indigenous Women.
Upload S03 - because it’s intriguing to see where they will evolve this concept of ‘uploads’ season after season.
Silver Linings Playbook - Mental Health and its various nuances were just beginning to be openly discussed during the early 2010s. This film is a favourite of mine as it tenderly showcases the mess and the beauty of what it means to be struggling and find ‘a silver lining’.

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.

We Happy Few | Aren A. Morris

From the woman who taught me theatre and edited my first plays as an aspiring writer, Aren A. Morris gives us her debut novel featuring a young woman facing what it means to go back into the box of ‘pre-war’ womanhood.
If you enjoy the aesthetic of a gritty port city, historical time settings, and bold young women trying to make their way in the world, then this Halifax-based protagonist gives you all that.

She Said | Jodi Kantor & Megan Twohey

In their own words, Jodi and Megan describe the rising and falling action of how they went against Harvey Weinstein, along with the cultural and societal domino effect that came after.
Worth a read for anyone.

Northern Spy | Flynn Berry

Two Irish sisters are caught up in politics, the IRA and the age-old theme of loyalties.
For me, it started slow but did pick up mid-way. If you like a mystery, this will give you that.

TV / FILMS OF NOTE:

The Fablemans - because it surprised me with its depth, camera work, insight and raw perspective
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms - because it was time to show it to the eight-year-old. Christmas vibes on all levels.
Gilded Age S02 - because I watch it with my best friend, and it’s a grand display of extravagance.

Northern Spy - Flynn Berry, She Said - Jodi Kantor & Megan TwhoHey, We Happy Few - Aren A. Morris

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.

Romancing Mister Bridgerton | Julia Quinn

Despite the third season of Bridgerton not coming out until late 2023, I wanted to make sure I had read its ‘inspired by’ corresponding book. Bridgerton seasons are often different from the texts. Still, I enjoy reading how Julia wrote the characters and how Shonda Rhimes works magic to make a Regency-era series reflect a variety of cultures and tones of today. Shonda continues to break the ceilings in television and give us audience cultural nutrients in the guise of a dessert. In the fourth book, which will be the third season of the Netflix series, we get the story of Collin & Pen. I loved every delicious and sweet mishap. Any more, and I’ll spoil it, but let’s say it’s my second favourite book thus far in the series.

Dream More | Dolly Parton

Ms.Dolly constantly throws out truth bombs, and I loved this short, quirky little read.

Apples Never Fall | Liane Moriarty

Despite the somewhat slow start, this read is an excellent example of giving the reader just enough to want to continue reading and finding out ‘more.’ It is safe to say; I did not see the ending coming. Enough said.

TV/FILMS OF NOTE
Selena: My Mind & Me - I love how Selena lays out her mental health journey in a human way. It’s a normal human thing, and I hope our generation and those that follow can do it better. Open up our journeys and humanize them. They are not to be ashamed of. We learn so much from each other when we are honest.
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery - A sister film to Knives Out featuring the detective from the first film. A classic, quirky and twisty ‘who dun it.’
Succession S04 - If Shakespeare was making television…you would get Succession. Every episode was intense and equally dark in the most thought-provoking ways.
The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel S05 - ripped apart that this was the last season. Saying goodbye to these characters was torture, yet every episode was a joy, intellectually stimulating and earth-shifting in delivery. True art. Amy Sherman Palladino OUTDID herself with these characters.

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

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Reading chair with a blanket next to a window of snowy trees outside, book shelf with plants on top and a side table with books, a candle and a glass of tea.

Women Talking | Miriam Towes

Although I watched Sarah Polleys adaptation of this novel in the Autumn of 2022 during a film festival, I wanted to read the source text. I found Miriams words of note before the novel begins both arresting and poignent. Specifically:

“Women Talking is both a reaction through fiction these true-life events, and an act of female imagination.”

Women Talking is a way of giving all women agency and voice in their unique perspectives and journeys. Although many women do not feel safe enough to share their true thoughts in this type of heightened trauma, what if they could ‘talk’?

Our Missing Hearts | Celeste Ng

From the same author of “Little Fires Everywhere” it’s no surprise this book tackles race and class. In a new spin she gives us a post ‘crisis’ era (not unlike the COVID 19 pandemic) . Without giving too much away, Our Missing Hearts touches on what the world would look like if we let ‘fear of the other’ be the ruling force of our choices.
Captivating.

Don’t Overthink It | Anne Bogel

The best part of this book was the prompts at the end of each chapter. Being someone who consumes a lot of Gretchen Rubin and other 'writers’ who encourage intentional living, this book didn’t necessarily teach me anything new, but it did remind me of my values and to take the time to revisit them with fresh eyes.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

Black Swan - For the art of a classic tale made modern. I love how Black Swan leaves you spinning on point as much as those on screen. Darren Aronofsky knows how to pull a viewer in during these edgy and thoughtful tales.
Phantom of the Opera - For the incredible artistry in both music, vocals, dance, sets, costume…all of it.
Severance S01 - For it’s compelling commentary on separating work and personal life and it’s genuine intrigue regarding the world these individuals inhabit.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION : three books in a row: Women Talking by Miriam Towes , Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng, Don’t Overthink It by Anne Bogel

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.’

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.

Good Company | Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

I picked up Good Company for the author. The Nest is a book I loved. I sincerely appreciated how Cynthia was able to create a whole family and break them into parts, show us windows of everyone and how they interacted as a whole and as individuals with each other. I wouldn’t say Good Company, a story of a woman reevaluating the state of her marriage, gives me that same experience, but it is enjoyable nonetheless.

Crying In H.Mart | Michelle Zauner

A beautiful and heartbreaking exposition on what it means to be mother and daughter immeshed with the nuance and differences of being Korean and Korean-American. This memoir will bring a tear to your eye, but it will also bring a smile. Michelle writes in a way so you can feel, taste and see her memories. Touching, raw and reflective.

Permanent Astonishment | Tomson Highway

A memoir told with Cree culture woven into linguistic prose, this book is a bit like sitting next to a comforting male figure and listening to his cadence as he reflects, chuckles observes and finds revelations within his own story. Tomson writes in a way you feel as if you were sitting next to him, as crisp breeze picking up around you as a listen to the memories, tales and experiences that made him.

It Didn’t Start With You | Mark Wolynn

As I have grown into myself, my understanding of my own backgrounds and the mind, body, soul that carries me, I have become deeply aware of how trauma manifests. It’s individual, and it’s unique. It takes any shape form and can also be rooted in something that goes so deep it’s almost impossible to see.

Yet it is growing, changing shape and finding new ways to show itself in a new generation.

I have just begun this book, but it is already showing itself as an excellent tool for reflection, understanding, and compassion.

Film / TV Series of Note

CODA - A stunning representation of what it looks and feels like to be Deaf and CODA. There are multiple films out there like this. Hallmarks 1987 “Love is Never Silent” comes to mind the most. This new film brings an elevated approach to this type of experience.
Cruella - If you like Disney’s approach to finding new ways to spin a tale based on one of their popular villains, Cruella is no exception. Fun, charming and delivered with a twist.
Upload S02 - Although I enjoyed season one thoroughly, and burned through season 2, with only seven episodes I was left feeling like it could have been simpler and longer. I believe if they focused less on complicating the plot, the reason people love this series would shine through even more.