Hello, friends! I have little news this month. First, In case you missed my announcement on social media, there is now a You Again Book Discussion Guide you can download off my website!
Second, I was a guest on the Writer’s Haven podcast! I chatted with the host, Musu Bangura, about my path to writing, You Again, and our personal theories about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Check out the podcast at this link: Writer’s Haven, or on iTunes.
What I’m reading
A couple of weeks ago I finally joined the rest of the world in reading Little Fires Everywhere, by Celeste Ng. Holy moly. It was one of those books I couldn’t stop thinking about after I’d read it. The ending was a little too abrupt for me, but overall I really enjoyed it. Intriguing characters, thought-provoking story lines, and a lot of drama. I recently enjoyed a historical fiction novel called Threads: A Depression Era Tale, by Charlotte Whitney. It’s slice of life novel set in rural Michigan during The Great Depression, told through the eyes of three sisters ages 7, 11, and 16. The author creates a vivid setting with compelling characters and a story that will keep you turning pages. I particularly loved getting to experience some of the same events through different points of view. I’d definitely recommend Threads to anyone who enjoys character driven historical fiction.
What I’m watching:
I recently finished the third season of Anne with an E. Overall, I really enjoyed this season, although the show continues to be a bit heavy handed with some of their “issues” story lines. I can appreciate the show tackling topics such Indigenous peoples rights, racism, feminism, and consent, and in looking at those topics through a late 19th century lens. However, a few of the story lines really lacked a subtlety that would have served them better in my opinion, and I think it’s because there were simply too many of them for ten one-hour episodes. Also, I stand by my assertion that Anne with an E is best enjoyed as something separate from the books. I’d probably recommend the series to a friend who’d never read the books, and to select people who enjoyed the series. (it would depend on the friend and their typical approach and feelings about book adaptations in general). Worth mentioning: Gilbert writes a letter to Anne in the last episode and it is everything I could have wanted it to be.
I’m currently in the middle of The Mandalorian which is so far living up to the hype, and looking forward to checking out the new Star Trek: Picard soon.
Something I’m grateful for:
My Book club has been a bright spot in my life the last several months, and I am so grateful for those ladies and their willingness to get together and talk about books and life.
A little inspiration
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” James 3:17-18
Talk again soon!