Summer has arrived!
The world is humming in shades of green, the sun is ever-present, and we are melting. While we have left the milder pleasures of Spring behind us, we are doing what we can to embrace the new season before us. So whether you’re looking for something to read on the beach, new music to enjoy this summer, or art to inspire you, we have some suggestions for you of things we have been loving recently.
Ariel’s Favorites
Story Genius
Story Genius is the book on the craft of writing that I will always find myself recommending to writers. I first used it as a reference text in 2023, and the ideas expressed in the first few chapters alone helped me write the first draft of my novel.
As stated in the title, the author walks readers through the brain science behind story and helps us bring our own stories to a place where they can build upon themselves and grow successfully. I re-read it in depth this season, and will be incorporating many of the ideas within in my writing process moving forward.
Sinners
As a lover of horror and history, and as a person who is invested in the Black experience, I felt like this film was made for me.
This film is an immersive experience with layers that build upon one another and deep historical and cultural references that only bring more life to the film once realized. It juxtaposes lived Black horror with the supernatural, lays bare the illusivity of true freedom, poses questions of belief, and brings music and vampires into a new light.
Music
Art
Die Toteninsel (Isle of the Dead) by Arnold Böcklin
Le Chateau de Pyrenees (The Castle of the Pyrenees) by René Magritte
Terri’s Favorites
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle
If you’re a fan of David Lynch, you’ll love The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle. It follows the story of a man in search of his lost cat, unraveling a series of dreamlike mysteries.
Moshi Moshi
As with most Yoshimoto novels, Moshi Moshi focuses on a female protagonist in the midst of loss, grief, and the start of a new life.
Film
I’ve been watching some old favorites and new releases. Here are a few with appropriately summery vibes…
Sinners – 2025
Asteroid City – 2023
Who Framed Roger Rabbit? – 1988
Music
Art
Sit Down And Think – Anna Loginova (2025)
Sleep Has His House – María Gordon
The Star Tarot Card – Весса Stadtlander
Gathering Stars – Édouard Bisson (19th c.)
Wake Up, It’s Night! – Tony Chen (1979)
