Regarding books, television shows and movies, I only ever share what I’ve enjoyed. I believe books and films, and yes even television shows, are works of art. Different categories of art, sure. But art nonetheless. And it feels mean to share a negative review online. Although I do think critical reviews can be helpful when you’re deciding what to read or watch next. I just personally don’t feel comfortable sharing negative feedback online (although I’ll do it in person 😉 ). It’s just more fun to publicly talk and share about the things that really made a positive impression, left me thinking long after or were hugely entertaining. Anyhow, I’m just throwing this out there so that you know when I share what I’ve read and watched lately, this isn’t the whole shebang; this is only the things that felt noteworthy.
So let’s chat!
Daisy Jones & The Six
While at an airport recently I asked my Instagram peeps what I should read next. And the majority of the responses recommended Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Thank you! This was such a fun read! This story is about the rise of a rock band in the 70’s, and it’s all the things you’d expect from a rock ‘n roll story plus way more. It reads like that documentary tv show Behind the Music (remember that show on VH1?) with it’s oral history style that really grabs you as the reader and brings you along for the ride. Apparently Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine is turning this book into a TV show with Amazon Studios! Can’t wait!
Where’d You Go, Bernadette
I have to admit, the only reason I finally decided to dive in to Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple is because Cate Blanchett is starring in the movie based on this book, which is set to be released in August of this year. And after reading this social satire I think Cate Blanchett is absolutely perfect for the role of Bernadette Fox. This story is odd and quirky. It’s about an agoraphobic wife and mother (Bernadette) who goes missing, and the story is mostly told by her 15 year old daughter Bee through a series of emails, letters, invoices and police reports. Somehow this story seamlessly combines comedy and mystery and wraps them up in a weirdly heartwarming way. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything like this before, but I enjoyed it and am looking forward to seeing the movie.
The Hate U Give
I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie, and I’m really glad I did. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is technically classified as a young adult novel, but I think everyone should give it a read. This is the story of a fatal police shooting as told through the eyes of the only witness, a 16 year old black girl named Starr Carter. This story is powerful and deeply moving, bringing me to tears many times. But also weaved into this story are moments that made me laugh, literally out loud. There is so much life lived in these pages with the Carter family and their neighbors and friends, and some of it is really sweet and good and some of it is really hard and difficult. This story takes an important hard look at systemic racism, and it’s one I will never forget. Required reading, that’s what this book should be.
The movie based on the book was good, great even. But it wasn’t as good as the book. Although it was cast perfectly, the film did take a few liberties with the story. All in all, I loved the movie, and I felt comfortable having my almost 13 and almost 15 year old kids watch with me. They both thought the movie was very powerful, and it sparked some really great conversations.
Crazy Rich Asians
I read the book last year in anticipation of the movie release, but I just watched the movie on the plane to California during our spring break. Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan has been on my reading list for quite some time actually. But I tend to gravitate towards heavier stories, so it just kept getting moved down my list. I’m really glad I finally dived in to this heartwarming romantic comedy because I just loved these characters so much!
And I loved the book and the movie ~ equally. Surprisingly the movie actually measures up to the book! And because the movie was cast so well the main characters became even more endearing once brought to life on screen.
I plan to finish this series over the summer as I hear these movies will continue!
Moving on to more of what I’ve watched lately……..
Green Book
I had wanted to see this movie while it was in theaters but never got the chance. Finally watched it a couple weeks ago, and I can absolutely see why this movie won the Academy Award for Best Picture. In case you don’t already know or have yet to see this movie, it’s based on the real life friendship that developed between two men, a black classical pianist and his Italian-American driver, as they traveled the segregated South on a concert tour during the 1960’s.
Based on history yet still so relevant today.
A Million Little Things
Who else has become obsessed with this show?! Was I the only one who didn’t realize that episode 17 which aired on February 28th was the season finale? And now we have to wait until late September for season 2 to start! I mean, what kind of cruel and unusual punishment is this?!
If you’re not already hooked…..you’re welcome. I’ve just introduced you to your next binge watch! It’s a show about friendship, and it’s the most real to life tv show I’ve come across, maybe ever. The good, the bad, the happy and the sad, this show has it all. In one 17 episode season these characters have become my friends. If you’re a fan, I know you feel me on this.
Okay, your turn! Tell me all about the books, movies and shows that have left a lasting impression. Tell me what has made you literally laugh out loud or ugly cry your mascara off your face. I want to hear about it all!
Ok, you make me want to read a good book! I used to love to read and in recent years it’s mainly when we are traveling, etc. I run out o time! And tv – forget it. I’d so much rather be doing something. So few things I like on tv. When the weather is nice, we’d much rather spend time out back, relaxing, maybe a fire, chit-chatting and playing with the pup. I do like a good movie but it’s been forever since we’ve seen one. My sister recommended The Green Book.
I’ll have to check out the books you recommended!