Rachel Recommends: 2019 Spring Edition

Posted on April 23, 2019

by Rachel S

Emulating my fantasy next door neighbor Oprah, I plan to share some of my favorite things in this series. Unlike Oprah I will not be promoting $134 caftans.

Instead, I will focus on my favorite items that can be borrowed from the Library. I do, however, aspire to wear a caftan-exclusive wardrobe one day. #goals

The following are media that I have recently consumed and can highly recommend:

Movies, Books, Magazines and More

The Library Has It All

The Intouchables - movie written and directed by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache

The Intouchables

This movie was lovely and quite funny. It is based on a true and remarkable story about a man who is a quadriplegic and the deep friendship that develops with his caretaker. Don’t fear the subtitles!

The American remake came out this year, but let’s be honest, isn’t the original always the best? I’m looking at you “Footloose”!

The Bully Pulpit

I spent most of last fall listening to the smooth vocals of the late Edward Herrmann read me this epic of a book.

First, I am a huge fangirl of Doris Kearns Goodwin and have a fascination with presidential history. Second, it portrays two past presidents that were both dynamic but, in very different ways.

I went in with an admiration for TR but left with a great fondness for Taft. It is long, but very worth the listen.

The Bully Pulpit by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Bon Appetit Magazine - April 2019 Cover

Bon Appetit

I’ll admit that I do not personally get this magazine at the Library. I have my own subscription because I like to tear out recipes and occasionally spill things on the pages. We frown upon that.

I just find it so soothing and perfect for a Friday night on the couch with wine, cheese and chocolate while watching Dateline.

The Wolf, The Duck & The Mouse

I won’t spoil it. Please just request this book from your favorite branch and read it (small child need not be present).

It is so wonderful and weird and a big favorite among my coworkers. You won’t be disappointed!

The Wolf, The Duck & The Mouse by Mac Barnett
Virgil Wander by Leif Enger

Virgil Wander

I adore books about quirky characters in small-town settings. I know that can sometimes be synonymous with fluff, but don’t judge too soon! I require excellent dialogue and beautiful prose. This story has both. Some of the most perfect sentences I’ve ever read are in this book.

Shortest Way Home

I spent some time in South Bend last summer being very pleasantly surprised by the vibrant city, fantastic food and well-appointed accommodations.

Pete is the current mayor of SB and has had a very large part in the city’s renaissance. He is also running for president.

Read his book (featuring a small town and quirky characters) to find out more!

Shortest Way Home by Pete Buttigieg

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