What This Week: August 8

I’m in shock, y’all. I cannot believe it’s August already! Kids are back to school, football is back on television, and Fall is right around the corner. This has always been a nostalgic time for me, and I usually find myself reflecting on what summer’s end symbolizes. If you can relate, then read on, my friend! This episode of What This Week (August 8) is all about memories and feeling sentimental.

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What This Week: Reading

I won’t lie, I haven’t been reading as much as I’d like lately. Between a crazy work schedule and writing, I’ve been less motivated to pick up a book at the end of the day. Despite this, I have managed to finish a few good books lately, including my new favorite summer coming-of-age novel, Lady Sunshine. I’ve written a full review on the blog and have posted a scrumptious aesthetic reel that will surely inspire you to read this book. Just like Daisy Jones & the Six or Songs in Ursa Major, this book felt like slipping on a favorite pair of frayed jean shorts!

I just finished an advanced listener copy of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest novel, Carrie Soto is Back (releasing Aug 30), and I CAN NOT WAIT FOR YOU TO READ THIS BOOK! I shared a 60-second TikTok video explaining why you should listen to this one rather than read it. Please give this audio a shot! I promise it’s worth it.

Lastly, I’m starting a buddy read of the latest Beatriz Williams collaboration historical fiction, The Lost Summers of Newport, this week. Of course, I’ll be sharing my thoughts with you, so stay tuned. I’m also working my way through The War Librarian, a brand new historical fiction publishing this week. So far, it’s reminding me of The Woman at the Front, one of my favorite historical fiction reads in 2021. Read that review here.

What This Week: Listening

Last weekend my beau and I went to see Sharon Van Etten and friends at the Greek Theater for the Wild Hearts Tour. While performed well, Sharon stole the show, especially when she belted out her hit, “Seventeen.” I won’t lie, seeing it live again hit me like a punch in the gut. With everything going on in my personal life (terminal illness in the family, more on that later), I’ve been feeling more and more sentimental about simpler times. And Sharon captures what it means to reflect on the difference between then and now in her famous song. Give it a listen!

What This Week: Watching

I know I’ve talked about Becoming Elizabeth, the new Starz medieval drama series, before, but it deserves another shout-out. I just watched the finale and, boy, it’s good! If you’re a fan of period dramas, you’ll love the drama and costumes. The betrayal level is up there with The Tudors, a personal favorite of mine.

Speaking of Starz, I just learned that there will be an Outlander spin-off that focuses on the lives of Jaime’s parents. Rumor has it, this prequel aligns with the new book Diana Gabaldon is working on; she’s set to consult on this series, too, so I’m sure it will be just as good as Claire and Jaime’s story. I’m here for all things Outlander, so that put a big smile on my face. Scottish accents are the dreamiest, aren’t they?

What This Week: Culture

Ever wondered what you’d look like side by side with your younger self? I stumbled onto this article about a young man who photoshopped himself into photos from his youth and immediately wanted to find my baby pictures. Not only is the photo editing incredible, but the time travel quality also fed my sentimental soul. I hope this brings some joy to your day, too.

I grew up in the 80s, the best era to be a kid in my opinion. There is nothing more symbolic of 1980’s youth culture than John Hughes films. So when I read that his estate is working with a label to put together a box set featuring the best tracks from his many films I got super stoked. The set (great Christmas gift idea, btw) is available for pre-order here. For now, we will have to settle for this iTunes playlist. I’m sure I’ll be rocking this playlist this week while I clean the house.

Before You Go

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