Media Matters

 Book by Isabel Wilkerson. This was an important and powerful story brought to life through the careful gathering of oral histories. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the root cause of the negative race relations being fear: fear of the unknown and fear borne of a scarcity mindset. That fear is what led to anger, envy, violence, and discrimination. The solution to the fear of the unknown is integration. If you never interact with people who are different from you (and I would suggest this applies not only in racial or ethnic matters, but also in religion, politics, and ideological diversity), it is easy to stereotype and dehumanize. But when you actually have genuine conversations, you discover a shared humanity, with similar goals and dreams. The solution to the scarcity mindset, or the idea that one person’s success causes another person’s hardship and therefore life is a competition of pulling others down so that you can prosper, is to recognize that economically, we ...

 Book by Lisa Wingate. This was a fantastic book that sucked me in from the start and never let me go. Although it rightly horrified me at times, I wasn’t left traumatized, if that makes sense. It’s a fine line with subject matter like this, and I think the author nailed it. She left me thinking about the power of love and family and hope and healing. Note: there is child abuse (physical, sexual, and psychological) portrayed, although most of it is alluded to rather than described in detail. Use your judgment. I would recommend this for ages 15+.

 Mystery Book by Stuart Turton. This was a thoroughly original and engaging take on the murder mystery genre. In addition to keeping me guessing, the author managed to weave in themes of agency vs. determinism, integrity, redemption, and forgiveness.  “We are never more ourselves than when we think people aren’t watching.” “Tomorrow can be whatever I want it to be…. A chance to be braver or kinder, to make what was wrong right. To be better than I am today.” Note: there is quite a bit of violence depicted, drug and alcohol abuse, and one instance of implied casual sex. None of it is glorified and the descriptions are not gratuitous. Definitely more PG-13 than R. Recommended for ages 15+. Also of note: This is the same book as the one titled 7 1/2 Deaths instead of 7 Deaths. Same book, different titles.

 Book by Kenneth Oppel. A fun train-themed steampunk adventure, with moral questions abounding.

 Book by Thomas Taylor. A solid middle-grade mystery with just a hint of spookiness, perfect for 9-12 yr olds. I loved the idea of the book dispensary that magically writes you a prescription for the book you need at that moment. 

 Book by Brandon Sanderson. Aside from a few plot holes and a slightly confusing start, this book sucked me in and made me think. Rather than simply telling a fun story, Sanderson has a knack for delving into complex issues and themes. I particularly loved Raoden’s optimism and understanding of the roles meaningful work and purpose have in bringing hope to people. The content has mature themes and a bit of violence, so I would recommend for ages 15+. There were a lot of fantastic quotes: “The first step in taking control of a nation is the simplest. You find someone to hate… You will find that hate can unify people more quickly and more fervently than devotion ever could.” “hard times make people willing to accept a man who preaches change.” “As was often the case, the most outspoken man was the least discerning.” “These people are dead because they have given up, not because their hearts no longer beat.” “Nobility is in one’s bearing as much as it is in one’s breeding.” “Something...

This is a movie that tells the true story of Abby Johnson’s journey from Planned Parenthood clinic director to firm pro-lifer. It is a powerful and accurate portrayal I would recommend to anyone who wants to be better informed on the issue of abortion. Although it is rated MA, it is completely appropriate for ages 15+. It is a hard show to watch, but it will prompt vital conversations.

Book by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown. This was a seriously fantastic book based on a true story and written by Maddie’s parents. It is filled with humor and hope and lessons about friendship and supporting each other through hard times. Highly recommended for ages 9+.