Three cheers for Monday!
I’m doing a bit of a happy dance over here because Monday is basically my Saturday – every place that I work is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so I’m celebrating my day off with a new blog post (which is, um, long overdue).
Today I’m sharing a fun little roundup of what I’ve been reading and watching – these books and this TV show have been my jam this summer, and I’d highly recommend them all.
I feel like I’m constantly mindlessly scrolling through Instagram, so I’m trying to get better about using my free time with intention. Sometimes you just need to take a break from social media and actually read a book, which is something I struggle with when I’m all go go go 95% of the time.
I LOVE reading, but I always find excuses as to why I can’t get into a book. I’m either too busy, too tired, don’t have any good books worth reading, or sometimes I just don’t want to.
This summer though, I’ve been reading quite a few books that I think are worth sharing – and I think you’ll love them too! So without further ado, here’s what I’m reading this summer!
I was excited to get my hands on this book because all of the bloggers have been posting about it. I mean, look at the cover art. It’s literally a blogger’s dream.
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This book tells the story of Sunshine Mackenzie, a popular Youtuber chef who was loved by her fans for her relatable life stories that she intertwined with her recipes that were delicious and easy to make. Not to mention, she invited her fans into her pristine kitchen every Sunday, with her spotless appliances and gorgeous husband. But when a hacker releases Sunshine’s secrets, her world comes crashing down and she learns what it means to live authentically in a time when social media makes people anything but authentic.
Would I recommend this book? Sure. Was it my favorite book ever? Not quite. Am I glad I read it? Yes! It comments on something we can all relate to: remaining authentic in a time when it’s too easy to lose your authenticity.
I think we’re all guilty of making things seem just perfect for our social media accounts, right? That’s the point – you showcase the best aspects of your life. We all do it. And that’s exactly what Sunshine did, until her hacker made her reevaluate what was truly important (and that a less-than-perfect Instagram pose isn’t the end of the world). This was a good beach read, and I’m happy I got my hands on it. (Although..despite the whole “authentic” message, I still spent a good five minutes positioning this book to be juuuuuust right on my beach blanket for the Insta…authenticity is easier said than done, I guess).
The Hopefuls – Jennifer Close
I LOVED this book. As a journalism major, I’ve become invested in politics and political journalism recently, and this story was literally everything I’ve wanted in a book. It tells the story of Beth and Matt, a newlywed couple from NYC who relocates to Washington D.C. so Matt can pursue his dream career in politics. They befriend another couple, Jimmy and Ash, who are similar to them in every way. They tackle the political world of D.C. together all while brunching and taking gorgeous weekend vacations. But, tensions eventually rise as jealousy and competition threatens their friendship. After all, the world of D.C. politics doesn’t have room for everyone to become a star.
I would recommend this book to everyone. Like Hello, Sunshine, this was a good beach book, and I couldn’t stop reading to keep up with Beth and Matt and their new lives in D.C. Gimme drama with a dash of politics and competition and I am v content. Also, I just loved Jennifer Close’s humor and style of writing – it made the story that much better!
Girls in White Dresses – Jennifer Close
I loved Close’s writing so much that I went out and got another book of her’s: Girls in White Dresses! This was actually her debut novel, and so far I think I like it even more than The Hopefuls. This book tells the story of 20-something friends living in New York City and Chicago, and it highlights what it’s like to tackle friendship, romance, and life after college. I haven’t made too big of a dent in the book so far, but I can tell you Close’s writing is RELATABLE AF and funny and engaging. I’m telling you, if you’re a college girl (or if you’re fresh out of college) you need to read this. You won’t be disappointed.
And a bonus! What I’m watching:
The Bold Type
I AM OBSESSED WITH THE BOLD TYPE. If I’m being 100% honest, after seeing a preview I was convinced this should would be cheesy, as if the writers were trying to be cool enough to relate their viewers.
Let me say right now: I was ALL TYPES OF WRONG.
This show is woke. It centers around three best friends living in New York City trying to find success within the magazine industry, and they hit all the right notes.
Each week, the show tackles current issues that are important to women. Think: women in the workforce who aren’t afraid to ask for what they deserve (like a higher salary), who aren’t afraid to stand up for what’s right (like equality for women of color and women of all sexual orientations), women who know what they want in a S.O. and aren’t willing to settle for less, and women who support their BFF’s instead of scheming to tear each other down.
The Bold Type tackles the hard stuff that we’re sometimes too afraid to talk about – or sometimes just don’t talk about in general, all while making you laugh, cry, nod your heard in agreement, and clap your hands while screaming YAAAAAAASSS.
This show is no joke.
I always feel like I can conquer the world (and do it in heels) after each show, and I can’t recommend it enough. Also, one of the Executive Producers is Joanna Coles (aka former EIC of Cosmopolitan). That’s how you know this show is legit.
Force yourself to make time for The Bold Type, because you won’t regret it.
What have you been reading and watching lately? I’d love to hear! Let me know in the comments below.
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