It’s already August and you need a new read for summer. Maybe, you’ve already finished a book or two this summer or have yet to start on one. Either way, here’s a couple of recommendations to get you off your screens and into a nice relaxing reading mode.
Ina Garten’s Memoir
Ina is referred to by only her first name in our household. We have more than a few of her cookbooks on the shelves, heavily dog-earred with the repeat recipes covered in spills and splashes. We even keep our HBOMax (MAX? or whatever its called) subscription going to watch her shows on The Food Network. When her memoir came out it was a must read.
In our day-to-day life it’s easy to forget how much the world has changed in a short time. Ina’s story is a great example of that change. Coming-of-age in that era in conservative New England reveals her life story to be a trailblazing feminist tale. From going to college, but not for an MRS degree, to landing a coveted State Department job and then leaving it (!) to pursue her passions in the culinary world. She upended tradition everywhere she found herself, by just being, well, herself.
In this humorous tale of perseverance and determination, Ina makes it all look easy while inspiring us to keep going on our journeys. It is a fun read while not shying away from heavy topics and life struggles at times. Her story is certainly an inspiration in this time of backlash against the feminist movement and women. We highly recommend it, and all her cookbooks, of course.
Find it at Northshire bookstore: https://northshire.com/book/9780593800027
The Hidden Life of Trees
Peter Wohlleben’s 2018 bestseller is still blowing our minds by unpacking many of the mysteries about trees, forests and plants that are unknown to so many of us. This English translation is easy to read and flies by with every paragraph packed with a new lesson on the challenges, and solutions, trees face everyday. Peter will completely change how you look at the trees in your yard, your neighborhood and the forest. Even Oprah loves it.
I appreciate the hardcover edition for it’s compact size. It’s easy to pop in a bag for a ride on the subway, at the beach or on a trip to the woods.
Find it at Northshire bookstore: https://northshire.com/book/9781771643771
Our Summer Playlist Right Now
Lonesome crowded west is our current summer playlist we’ve been enjoying. While, clearly, the name harkens back to Modest Mouse’s 1997 album, “The Lonesome Crowded West”, no Modest Mouse tracks made the list. Find a selection of Will Van Horn, Link Wray, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Rosinha De Valenca, Allah-Las, LA LOM, Linda Manning, Dolly Parton, Bo Didley and more in Sarah’s western-inspired summery selections. Pair with a margarita and enjoy.
What Are You Reading Right Now?
Gotta book to recommend for summer? Let’s hear it, hi@postcardstation.net
