What are you up to this weekend? I’m very much looking forward to a few days that aren’t forecast to be so sweltering around here, plus visits to the state fair and the theater. (But first I need to do my homework!)
I hope you have something to look forward to these next few days, and that this collection of interesting reads and favorite things helps ease you into that weekend frame of mind.
My favorite finds from around the web:
I offer gift links for articles whenever possible (you may still need to create an account with the publication); if there’s no gift link and you’re not a subscriber, check to see if your library carries the publication or use a bookmarking service.
Pizza Hut’s beloved Book It! reading program is back. (Slate) “Part marketing initiative, part reading engagement program wrapped in a delicious one-topping package, Book It! carries a kind of nostalgia that has managed to sustain generations.”
What I’ve been reading lately: the new and the notable. (MMD) This month’s edition of Quick Lit is unusual in that it includes both a coffee table book and a script, alongside more typical (for me) selections like excellent audiobooks and literary backlist.
I talked with a stylist this week about the summer-to-fall wardrobe transition; she mentioned that the Quince Washable Stretch Silk Tank (which I own in several colors) and Washable Stretch Silk V-Neck Cami (both XS–XL) were real heros for seasonal transitions. And both are available in 1X–3X: Stretch Silk Tank / Silk V-Neck Cami.
After Six Decades and Thirty Novels Jodi Picoult Was Missing One Thing: A Tattoo. (Literary Hub) “By all accounts, I have spent the last six decades building a legacy anyone would admire. And yet, I could not think about turning sixty without starting to cry.”
Photos: Releasing Animals Back Into Their Habitats. (Atlantic gift link) These are incredible.
7 Things I Learned From Will Shortz. (Experimental Living with A.J. Jacobs) “What struck me wasn’t merely Will’s puzzle knowledge. It was that his approach to puzzles turns out to be a surprisingly good approach to life.”
Coming soon: our 2026 Fall Book Preview. (MMD) “This year’s fall reading season is STUPENDOUS. I don’t say that lightly.”
What a nice surprise to visit Athleta to replace my lost favorite running shorts (XXS–3X) and dicover they’re 30% off right now, along with more select bestselling styles.
Nobody reads anymore. (The Leap) “Live your life fully. Learn to read books, once more—and to enjoy the journey.”
How G.P.S. Changed the Way We Think. (The New Yorker) “Do we lose something when we no longer get lost?”
Our team’s best books of summer (Part 1). (What Should I Read Next?) Our team’s favorite summer tradition is back!
10 books to read next if there’s an Anne Shirley-shaped void in your life. (Goodnight, Dear Void) “For those us who are forever chasing the high of our first trip to Avonlea, here are ten books that hit a delightfully similar spot, whether it’s whimsy, wit, or a wholesome found family you’re craving.”
Reevaluating my relationship with my phone and social media. (MMD) “Does anyone else feel like their phone has become a sci-fi super computer?” Brigid shares tips and tricks for spending less time on the phone.
We’ve been cooking from the new release What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking: Make It Fast this week; I snagged a brand new library borrow but six recipes in we all want to add it to the shelf. Favorites so far: Creamy Turkey Chili, Beach-Day BBQ-Spiced Chicken Thighs, Crispy Pork Chili Verde Street Tacos.
This Is the Solution to America’s Literacy Crisis, and It’s a Lot of Fun. (New York Times gift link) “Reading can be as much a mode of vibrant sociality as it is of secluded interiority.”
Don’t miss these posts:
Novels featuring seasoned protagonists for every reading mood. Novels featuring older characters in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond.
Get ready to set the mood for a cozy season. It’s time to replenish my candle stash.
Get a taste of Southern literature with these 15 sensational novels. A sampling of what Southern literature has to offer.
Have a great weekend!
One comment
I got my first tattoo at age 66 (earlier this summer). It’s the logo for the Minnesota Frost pro women’s hockey team. I never had any interest in pro sports but once I started going to their games, I as hooked. I’d also never wanted anything permanent on my body. I tell people that if I end up with dementia, I can still look at it and hopefully remember what a great time I had. (my mom died from complications from Alzheimer’s so dementia is a real concern in our family). My personal trainer recommended her tattoo artist and it was a great experience. Now I’m thinking about tattoo #2.