Recommendations for....all of this
I’ve always consumed culture to escape, laugh, force a good cry, and educate myself and hear from perspectives I’m not normally exposed to. The past 10 years (since Trump’s first campaign) have really pushed this coping mechanism to the brink, then 5 years ago when COVID first appeared, it went on turbo speed and hasn’t stopped as the world, those in power and those in thrall of power continue to be the worst. Anyways…here are a few things that I’ve enjoyed recently.
I usually do Romance book recommendations for Valentine’s Day but I just can’t right now - honestly because I’ve read too many, and I refuse to be tied down by a fake holiday for when I recommend them to you! As iconic romance author Ali Hazelwood said:
Mo (Season 2 Netflix): Season 1 of this show was a best of in 2022 and I’ve been waiting for the latest (and likely final season). Mo Amer, a great Palestinian-American comedian, created (with Ramy Youssef) and stars in this show inspired by his life. The second season is just as funny and smart and a love letter to Houston as the first season, and honestly it is much needed laughter and smiles with a reality check on what is means to be stuck in the US immigration system, and what it means to try to make money and survive and have health issues and live in the current economy. You will laugh, smile and be moved by so much of it - and you will likely see a different perspective on survival, family, financial stress and belonging The show’s two seasons take place before October 7, 2023 (although second season was filmed after) and show the reality of Palestinians in the diaspora and under occupation. And yes, it’s a comedy. Watch season 1 and season 2 trailers below - 30 minute episodes. I’m looking forward to seeing Amer live this Spring for his comedy tour.
Man Like Mobeen (Season 4-Prime): This BBC show is an all time and annual recommendation favorite for me. And the fourth season is finally available in the US. Mobeen is a Birmingham (UK) dude just trying to survive and take care of his family with not the best options. It’s funny but also takes place in Mobeen’s real life where he and his family struggle financially and make choices that aren’t always easy. Guz Khan is a comedian, and the creator and star of the show. I love his sister Aqsa and uncle Shady, and his friends. The Birmingham accent is strong so I watch these 30 min episodes with subtitles.
Back in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People by Imani Perry: Perry is one of my favorite writers and thinkers, and her latest book was wonderful to read (and to listen to her read the audio book). It’s easy to read in chapters as stand alone essays. I am now reading South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation which came out a few years ago.
“But, for real, the blue in Black is nothing less than truth before trope. Everybody loves blue. It is human as can be. But everybody doesn’t love Black—many have hated it—and that is inhumane. If you don’t already, I will make you love it with my blues song.” -Imani Perry
Miscellaneous Smiles and Of Course, More Baby Animal Joy
