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.
This movie depicts the true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel and beat the men’s record in the process. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and marvelled at Trudy’s dedication despite those men who were determined to stop her. The movie is funny and heartwarming, but also eye-opening in terms of the way women and sports were viewed in the early 1900’s. Note: it briefly shows the bare buttocks of a man who swims nude or in a thong.
Nonfiction book by Randall Monroe. Nonfiction science is not my preferred genre, but my husband and teens found this audiobook hilarious, and even I was amused. The author takes absurd questions and tries to find actual scientific answers to them, leading to some surprising and entertaining results. As an added bonus, the audiobook is read by Wil Wheaton. Fun for a family car trip.
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