Wondering what to do with four weeks of free time this Winter Break? Try picking up one of these awesome reads, curated by your favorite Writing Partners! Keep scrolling to read our collection of one-sentence book recs! The Club by Ellery Lloyd "This book is a murder mystery that has a great build up and comes with various twists and turns!" -Faith Fitzpatrick The Secret History by Donna Tartt "Set against a backdrop of cold weather and dark academia, this captivating and suspenseful story follows college students studying Greek." -Jordan Scott Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann "It was a great read that was incredibly eye-opening to the horrible injustices that happened so recently in our modern history. " -Jessica Garofalo The Color Purple by Alice Walker "The color purple made me reflect deeply about my faith." -Jonathan Terryn My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh "Nothing really happens in this book... yet I was left feeling deeply disturbed in the end." -Nadine Koochou The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides "Whatever you think you know, you don't. Trust me, you won't know whodunit until Michaelides tells you." -Seta Salkhi Normal People by Sally Rooney "Sally Rooney puts into words the nuances of interpersonal relationships and the human experience in a beautiful way." -Lindsey Kendall Dear Justyce by Nic Stone "Dear Justyce is a the sequel to Dear Martin, refrencing the stark realities and issues within the juvenile justice system." -Lady Elizabeth Roy Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese "Verghese transports you to the beautiful state of Kerala in his story about a family plagued by a mysterious medical condition." -Mathew Thomas A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki "It changed the way that I think about the world." -Nicole Bloch Luster by Raven Leilani "It's a beautiful and really engaging character study of a young Black woman as she navigates personal struggles, including a complex relationship with an older white man who is in an open relationship with his wife." -Katy Wolff Lord of the Butterflies by Andrea Gibson "A beautiful collection of queer poetry that really helped ground me when I was feeling listless." -Madeline Coquilla Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien "A great novel about knowledge as power and ultimately a sort of commentary on animal testing, as well." -Maddie Vitanza Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata "It's a unique, funny, and sometimes sad novel centered around a woman who works in a convenience store." -Natalia Cantu A Study In Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle "This book is British, the first Sherlock Holmes novel, and has plenty of cool words to learn." -John Paul Kraus We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom "The stunning artwork and narrative present an academically informed children's story on the indigenous movements of the Water Protectors - a good read for children and adults." -Lucia Heese Les Misérables by Victor Hugo "It's remarkably well written, and despite being emotionally challenging, it's satisfying to watch the characters grow and come across good fortune." -Jwwad Javed A River Enchanted by Rebecca Ross "If you're in the mood for a magical and lyrical fantasy story, this is for you!" -Anj Zanger A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway "This memoir is written in beautiful prose and is sure to inspire any writer." -Rhiannon Briggs About the Author
Nadine Koochou is a Senior studying English with minors in Creative Writing and Women's & Gender Studies. When she's not reading and writing, she enjoys baking treats, spending time outside, and practicing yoga.
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“You once told me that the human eye is god's loneliest creation. How so much of the world passes through the pupil and still it holds nothing. The eye, alone in its socket, doesn't even know there's another one, just like it, an inch away, just as hungry, as empty.” -Ocean Vuong, On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
I have a fatal flaw. Whenever someone recommends something to me—be it a TV show, a movie, or a book—it’s like I am suddenly incapable of viewing it. It’s strange because I am constantly searching for some new piece of media to satisfy the itch in my brain, yet when someone provides something to scratch it, I become avoidant. I’m sure there’s some psychology to this, but I am going to be literary for a moment. Sometimes I feel that, with books in particular, there’s some small part of me that is scared of finding just the right one. Like, if I read a book that someone tells me I’m sure to like, and I end up loving it, I might never find a book so perfect again. Such is the fear I felt when I picked up On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. Written as a letter to his mother who cannot read, the narrator in Vuong’s novel paints a breathtaking portrait of his life, centering around his relationship with his mother. When the narrator (who remains unnamed throughout the novel, only referred to as “Little Dog”) was a baby, his mother and grandmother immigrated from Vietnam to the United States. Over the course of the novel, we learn about the family’s generational trauma connected to the Vietnam War, their difficult transition to life in the States, the strained relationship between mother and son, and the confusion and shame the narrator experiences as he explores his sexuality with another boy. This book is autofictional, meaning that Vuong blends aspects of his own life (autobiography) with a fictional story. In this way, Vuong crafts a hauntingly vulnerable story that reflects on the realities of abuse, war, immigration, poverty, and more. Now, why did I feel that this book would destroy all books for me? I had previously read Vuong’s collection of poetry, Night Sky With Exit Wounds, and I found myself reflected in his subject matter. So, going into his novel, I knew that Vuong would leave no stone unturned—and I was right. Not only does Vuong create a story which is refreshingly aware of the complexities of being human, but he does so using unabashedly poetic techniques. Vuong is a poet first, and this is evident from the first page of the novel; I often needed to pause just to let the words wash over me once more. Also, I cried. A lot. Which, if you know me, you know I love a book that makes me cry. The simple knowledge that, in all his vulnerability, the narrator’s mother cannot possibly read his letter brings me to tears. And that is the power of Ocean Vuong’s novel. So, On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous is easily one of the best books I’ve ever read. But, rather than ruining all other books for me, Vuong’s novel left me with a longing to search for more such stories. His novel introduced me to a style of writing and a subject that there is just not enough of in mainstream literature, making his work all the more essential. Ultimately, I was right to listen to the people who recommended On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, so here I’m asking you to do the same. Read this book, and I promise you won’t regret it. About the Author Nadine Koochou is a Senior studying English with minors in Creative Writing and Women's & Gender Studies. When she's not reading and writing, she enjoys baking treats, spending time outside, and practicing yoga. When I was younger I had an almost magical experience with reading that I’ve been trying to recreate ever since. The rain was pouring down outside in the darkness, and I had decided to settle on my family’s small green couch and read a favorite book of mine: Inkheart by Cornelia Funke. Wanting to add to the already cozy atmosphere, I pulled a fuzzy blanket onto myself and our orange tabby Tractor settled by my side (my younger self had come up with his truly excellent name). Yet all these years later I know that what completed this warm, enveloping evening was the mug I held in my hand. Filled with the Republic of Tea’s Coconut Cocoa tea, I breathed in wafts of the chocolate-y scent while pouring through the pages of adventure before me. With every warm sip and turn of the page I felt more and more at peace, and I knew that this was how reading was best enjoyed. I know that to help me unwind I try to reach those same heights of coziness, often reaching for a warm beverage or a charming book to help create a peaceful experience. Thus, in an effort to offer a similar experience to any other person in need of some relaxation time, I offer you a carefully cultivated pairing menu (with food making an occasional appearance) of life’s most compatible creations: books and beverages. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen To pair with Austen’s likely most famous novel, I recommend a rose black tea, giving you a bit of caffeine to ponder her satirical takes along with a hint of floral flavors to transport you to Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley Gardens. You could enjoy your beverage cold, like Elizabeth’s trek to the Bingleys’ home to find her sister, or delightfully warm, like the dance halls that Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy finds all too objectionable. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis It’s no secret that the best part of this book is the incredibly described Turkish delight offered to Edmund Pevensie. To go along with this read, frequent your local boba shop to satisfy the chewy cravings this novel may induce. Perhaps a fruit-flavored tea or jelly could complete the experience! Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me and You by Lin-Manuel Miranda Reading almost like a poetry book, this little novel features a small, uplifting thought directed at the reader on each page– one for morning and one for night. Whether you read this at the designated times or turn page after page like I did, treat yourself to some hot cocoa (good for both mornings and evenings) for a wholesome and soul-warming time. You deserve it! Becoming by Michelle Obama Because this book focuses on a real person (First Lady Michelle Obama), we can turn to what her personal beverage recommendations are; according to the Washington Post Michelle ran a campaign in 2013 asking Americans to drink more water (Thompson). As you read through her engaging and sometimes hilarious stories of her childhood, career and time in the White House, hydrate with some classic water (or, if you’re feeling adventurous, grab some of the sparkling variety!). Photo from Canva
Redwall by Brian Jacques This novel encapsulates my two favorite things better than any other: thrilling adventure and tasty treats. Following the tales of little woodland creatures as they find legendary swords, ancient armor and ultimately their courage, this book and all its prequels and sequels feature food in dazzling ways. Take a trip to the cellars and have Ambrose Spike, the hedgehog in charge of all Redwall’s drinks, pour you a calming and crisp tankard of mint tea for the journey ahead. About the author Chloe Moore (she/her/hers) is a junior studying English and Management, and this is her second year working at the HUB. She loves reading, writing (particularly poetry), baking, and animals of all kinds! Although I was given this book when I graduated high school, I never actually read it until the week before starting my Junior year of college. That was a big mistake. If I could, I would go back in time and read this during my first year because it gives excellent advice for incoming students. The author, Cal Newport, developed interesting and helpful strategies on how to become a standout student and make the most of your college years. He did this by interviewing star students around the nation and figuring out the habits that help them become so accomplished. He gives advice on maintaining a social life, extracurriculars, grades, writing tips, skill development, etc.
One of my main take-aways from the book was my realization that even the slightest changes can make such a huge difference. I never thought that dressing nicely for class or decorating my room would play a big role in my college experience, but I’ve learned that even little things like that can help boost my confidence and change my mood. Some of Newport’s tips definitely caught me off guard, such as “Avoid Daily To-Do Lists” and “Learn to Give Up”, but that’s part of what really grabbed my attention and made me want to continue reading. He offers a new and unique perspective that can be surprising yet extremely helpful. Cal emphasizes that learning to give up is not a weakness, but a skill. I can think of many times throughout my college years when I have stayed up far too late working on a problem set that I simply could not solve, no matter how hard I tried. I would have saved a lot of time and energy if I scheduled an appointment with the TA or attended the next office hours, and “gave up” for the time being. The key is to weigh the costs and benefits of your many commitments, and make the executive decision to either let go, delegate, or move something aside that becomes an unproductive use of time. I particularly like this skill because school-work-life balance is something that is very important to me, and productivity plays a major role in my idea of a star-student. I want to be able to work hard and smart at the same time, maximizing what I can get done in the time that is available. Even if you’re halfway through your college years, many of these strategies are good reminders of the activities you may have forgotten about. He emphasizes the importance of habits such as attending political rallies, guest lectures, and reading a newspaper. While you certainly don’t have to follow every guideline, just picking a few new tips to try is a great place to start. If you would like to push beyond the activities of an average college student and take the additional steps to have a fulfilling, rewarding, and exceptional college experience, then this book is for you. Get ready to feel inspired! About the author: Natalia Garcia is a junior who has worked at the HUB since fall 2020. She's an Economic major who also loves working with writers on any type of writing project. We had 66 submissions this year and had a hard time choosing from all the great stories. Thanks to everyone who entered, and please keep an eye out for upcoming contests! Our 2021 Winner! My foot cramped under the weight of my little sister’s as she stepped on my toes. I wish dad would’ve buried me deeper. --Molly Tucker Honorable mentions The unfriendly metal elevator doors rumble as I descend into the depths of Dunne, clutching an overflowing laundry bag in one clammy hand and my access card in the other. "Please, let this be the moment" I pray as I turn on the lights in the basement laundry room - only to gaze in horror at the full machines whirring away, knowing the cycle of waiting will continue to stretch into eternity as my clean sock pile rapidly shrinks and my spirit slowly dissolves into dust. --Leonie Casper I love playing the organ, it’s so soothing once you get your hands on it, you know what I mean? Anyway, can you pass me that scalpel so I can finish removing his right kidney. --Alisha Burch She sighed as she gently laid her sleeping baby down on the soft blanket. It had been three days since it had last opened its eyes, but it was bound to wake up soon, right? --Ky Monroe I decided to have another child. I was still hungry and the full moon would be out for another couple hours. --Gideon Devendra “One in every fifteen people born in the United States in 2001 is expected to go to jail or prison; one in every three black male babies born in this century is expected to be incarcerated” -- Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy Throughout Just Mercy, lawyer, author, and equal justice advocate Bryan Stevenson introduces the reader to countless jaw-dropping statistics like the ones above, all working to highlight the pitfalls of the American criminal (in)justice system. And while the statistics and figures Stevenson include do a particularly strong job of illustrating the issues with our justice system today, perhaps nothing will stick with me more than the stories Stevenson offers his readers of the real people he has worked with: the real people who have had their lives completely changed by an unfair and unjust justice system. I was introduced to Just Mercy through my LEAD CTW class taught by the wonderful Dr. Danielle Morgan; our class used the book as a catalyst for greater discussion about race and the criminal justice system in America. Once I started reading the book, I immediately realized why the book had become both so impactful and successful, and I couldn’t put the book down. I think I read Just Mercy over the span of 2 or 3 days (much faster than our class was advised to); after being introduced to the book’s characters and their unjust lot, I felt like I needed to know just how such injustice could have been occurring at such a vast level, and I needed to know quickly. And over the course of his story, Stevenson explained just that: he painted a picture of the unjust world we occupy, it’s reasons and influences, and he importantly painted a picture of what a merciful system could and should look like if we were to make change. After reading Just Mercy, I will never forget the tragic stories of individuals like Herbert Richardson, a black Vietnam War veteran with heartbreaking mental health issues caused by both blunt force brain trauma and PTSD as a result of his service. It was a particularly troubling manic episode that led to him accidentally killing an ex-girlfriend’s niece, resulting in a death sentence for the mentally broken veteran Richardson. Stevenson outlines Richardson’s grim life behind bars while dealing with mental health issues, and how the system’s inherent lack of pity and nuance changed and ended Richardson’s life forever. Perhaps the most memorable story from Just Mercy is its main narrative, that of Walter McMillian’s unfortunate encounter with the U.S. criminal justice system and his fight against it. Stevenson illustrates how Walter McMillian, a black man from Monroeville, Alabama, was charged and sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit. Stevenson surgically but comprehensively lays out the facts of Walter’s case, how he is innocent, how racial prejudice and overall lack of competence on behalf of law enforcement led to his charge and sentencing, and how Stevenson and McMillian worked together to rectify the system’s wrongdoing and keep McMillian away from state-sponsored execution. Just Mercy is intelligent, socially conscious, heart-warming, thought-provoking, tragic, and inspiring all at once. After my reading of it, I was left questioning not only what leads to racial and economic prejudice in our criminal justice system, but what steps we can take individually and collectively to change it. Since my reading of Just Mercy, it has been made into an incredible movie, starring Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx as Bryan Stevenson and Walter McMillian. While the movie is certainly not a replacement for the book (what movie ever is?), the movie is certainly worth a watch regardless, if for nothing more than to see the inspirational and harrowing stories of Just Mercy illustrated on the big screen. I believe that if a reader is to take any one thing from Stevenson’s series of narratives, to carry a point or line with them beyond their reading of the book, it is this: “Each of us is more than the worst thing we have done” -- Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy Just Mercy has opened my eyes to this simple fact above. As Stevenson emphasizes throughout the book, we must keep our mercy and our empathy with us at all times, we must build structures that mirror our shared mercy and empathy, and we must treat those around us, in both little and big ways, with mercy and empathy. I hope you enjoy and interact with this story as much as I did :) --- Nate Metz About the Author: Nate Metz '23 (he/his) is an English and History double major. He loves all types of reading and writing (especially creative writing) and in addition to working as a Writing Partner at The HUB, he is involved with the University Honors Program, the LEAD Scholars Program, and the Santa Clara Review. |