BOOKS
LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE By Celeste Ng
Read before you binge! This quick read tells the story of Elena Richardson, a journalist and mother who thrives on structure and rules. When Mia Warren, an enigmatic artist and single mother, and her daughter, Pearl, arrive in Shaker Heights, it threatens Mrs.Richardson’s carefully ordered community. It is set in the 1990s but is incredibly relevant touching on class tensions, motherhood, entitlement, and the weight of secrets.
FILMS
Oldies: Clue (Amazon)
Based on the board game, this comedic mystery begins at a dinner party hosted by Mr. Boddy, where he admits to blackmailing his visitors. The dinner party soon takes a turn for the worst when Mr. Boddy is murdered and all the guests turn into suspects. You think you’ll predict the ending, but I promise you, you wont.
Comedy: The Duff (Amazon)
Okay, you know what, I’ll say it. I was the Duff in my friend group for most, if not all, of grade school. If you don’t get it, just watch it. Mae Whitman completely nails her portrayal of an awkward high school teen just trying to fit in, or at least get on the same level while everyone else seems to effortlessly elevate together as a collective. She ends up staying true to herself, which is always the best move, and guess what (spoiler alert), still gets the guy!
Drama: Skate Kitchen (Hulu)
Basically, I’m living vicariously through these teens. Who wouldn’t love an all girl friend group to go skate-boarding and party with all around NYC? When Camille’s mom forbids her from skating after an accident, she leaves home. Her group bands together to get through the isolation of pursuing something unconventional, family issues, and boy drama. It’s an inspiring and uplifting story, especially if you’re in a lonely place. Also, a fun cameo with Jaden Smith!
TV SERIES
Miracle Workers (TBS)
I love this show because it exists in a world where POC play roles where their race isn’t a factor in portraying the character. It’s the way things should be. And the cast works perfectly together. Steve Buscemi, Daniel Radcliffe, Karan Soni, Geraldine Viswanathan, and Lolly Adefope all have beautiful comedic timing. Season one is about angels trying to play God to save the world and season two takes place in the Middle Ages. You all deserve a laugh, let yourselves enjoy.
The West Wing (Netflix)
Yeah, I know I’m late to the game, but I was also born in 1994, so it’s not like my parents were letting me stay up late to watch TV with them. Discovering The West Wing on Netflix has been my saving grace during the past week. The fact that people couldn’t binge this show when it first came out is absolutely mind-blowing to me. If you’re like me and have never seen it, or like my dad who’s watched every episode at least 3 times, it’s nice to watch and pretend we’re living in the 90s with Martin Sheen as our president.
PODCASTS
Harry Potter and the Sacred Text
I’m not a religious person, at all, but if I was, my religion would be Harry Potter (sorry, mom). The English class I wish I’d had; each week the hosts, Vanessa and Casper, read a chapter through a universal theme and engage in traditional forms of sacred reading. Books 1-6 are already up, and they’re about to start the Deathly Hallows!
I can’t tell you how many meaningless debates my friends and I have gotten ourselves into. Listen to Bill Simmons and his friends debate and defend controversial opinions about Girl Scout Cookies, Lunch, Fantasy Football, Snooze Buttons, and The Alphabet. Honestly, I’m so opinionated, I should be on this show. The episodes are short and sweet (under 10 minute) with 1 take per episode. Prepare yourself friends, things might get heated. — Also if you watched last week’s movie recommendation, Indiana Jones, check out their hot take!
MUSIC
Coastin’ (Jacqueline)
A long one but a good one!
Canciones por la Rona (Sohany)
Jacqueline and Madison made pandemic playlists and I felt left out so now I am a bandwagon person.
Social Distancing (Madison)
Old and new songs to get you through the week.
WORKOUT
Want to look like Madonna and need to clean your floors? With this workout you can do both with Madonna’s trainer!
Or for real…Not only are there a few scheduled classes a day that require little to no equipment, but they’re saved for 24 hours after! Don’t forget to donate to your instructors on venmo if you’re able!
TWITTER
“i just got back from italy & was required to self quarantine in my room for 14 days so my parents ate every meal with me from the hallway. i don’t deserve them :’)”
My mom told me if I went home she’d quarantine me so I stayed across the country. This girl’s parents love her!
Tweet by Mia Farrow (@MiaFarrow)
“In honor of a Steve Sondheim’s birthday this weekend… Ronan will kill me for this but here he is as a teenager singing a little Not While I’m Around” – the song i used to sing to him when he was little.”
I’m sorry – is there anything that Ronan Farrow can’t do?!?
