10 (mostly bookish) things to do in April

HELLO FROM A HUMAN WHO IS RECOVERING FROM INFLUENZA B! (I don’t know why I needed to write that in all caps, but it seemed appropriate.) This week I learned the place down the street from me that makes really good tacos also makes really good chicken soup! So much rice! So many vegetables!!!!!

Anyway, it’s APRIL, and here’s some stuff that I’m excited about this month!

Sunday, April 6: Make something springy!

Now is the perfect time to embrace some bright and tangy flavors. Make lemon curd, or a nice raspberry ricotta cake, or strawberry rhubarb crisp bars!

Tuesday, April 8: Take your pick of three new books

• Authority by Pulitzer prize-winning critic Andrea Long Chu explores the role of criticism in pop culture, art, politics, and daily life.

• Audition by Katie Kitamura looks very enticing.

• Save the Date is the wonderful

  Allison Raskin

  ’s first romance novel!

Friday, April 11: Binge The Pitt on Max

Yes, I know, I’ve already raved about this show. But as of April 11, all 16 episodes will have dropped, which means you’re in for a helluva ride. Go forth and binge!

Saturday, April 12: Howl at the full moon
I mean, you don’t haaaaave to howl. You could set some stuff on fire, or even just give her a little wave. Whatever you like! Just look up.

Tuesday, April 22: Watch Season 2 of Star Wars: Andor!

This Star Wars prequel is SO GOOD, and I can’t wait for Season 2 to finally come out! (If you haven’t seen the first season yet, then you’re in for an extra treat!)

Tuesday, April 22: Read The Pretender by Jo Harkin

This historical fiction was blurbed by Maggie Shipstead and Karen Russell, two people whose praise I will always take seriously. I’m not too far into it yet, but I can confirm it is an absolute pleasure.

Saturday, April 26: Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day!

Many shops near you probably have fun incentives to stop in, so go spend some time at your favorite shop -- or better yet, check out a store you’ve never visited before!

Sunday, April 27: Join the GRETAGRAM book club!

This month, we’re reading Karen Russell’s phenomenal novel The Antidote. We’ll discuss it on Zoom at noon Central time. Email greta m johnsen at gmail dot com for the link!

Tuesday, April 29: Read The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett

If you like maximalist plots with a wide array of weirdos that don’t shy away from difficult topics, this book is for you! I knew next to nothing about it when I picked it up, and I highly recommend going in blind. This book is a romp and a half.

Tuesday, April 29: Read Girl on Girl by Sophie Gilbert

I think it’s fair to say that many of us are still unpacking the sometimes discreet, sometimes not-so-subtle viciousness of early aughts pop culture against women, and I can’t wait for The Atlantic staff writer Sophie Gilbert to help me process it.

Ok, that’s it for this week! See you soon,

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