We all have our stories now about seeing friends and family for the first time in months, maybe over a year. At the end of June, a few of my friends came into town and we spent time at the beach, eating at restaurants, and talking about books. It meant the world to me to see them again in person. While we have stayed in contact over the phone and through Zoom, there’s something so wonderful about having large spaces of time with someone, where you can be silent and let memories and ideas surface organically.
I must confess that I’ve adjusted to the homebody lifestyle. There’s so much I can access in order to connect to people (things I will link below), but the universe is telling me that it’s time to venture out—perhaps across an ocean again. I received word in April that I got the Fulbright fellowship again and I will be working with the fabulous researchers at Project WINK come fall. This will be a huge boon as I continue writing my novel based on one of the first professional women writers of the Spanish Golden Age.
Okay, now onto some of the great things that indulge my introverted persona that I’d like to share with other introverted peeps!
Awesome Stuff I’ve Found Recently
Girl That’s Scary Podcast: I’m not into horror, but I LOVE hearing Kat and Jazz break down their favorite horror movies and shows along with discussing the need for more diversity within the industry. Not only are they super knowledgeable about all things horror, but their banter with one another makes me feel I’m with two awesome friends.
Along with that, here are some great essays I’ve read online recently:
About That Wave of Anti-Racist Bestsellers Over the Summer…
Upcoming Events
On July 29th, I’m hosting the launch of our latest issue of Hypertext Review. We have a fabulous lineup of writers and poets who will share some of their work. To join us, click here on the day of the event to access the Zoom link. Please note that there will also be a reading on July 22nd hosted by our fabulous Fiction Editor Chelsea Laine Wells.
My Book Recommendations
One book I FINALLY read that stayed with me was The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai. I was captivated by the story, the characters, especially how she gave us two storylines, one in 1985 and the other in 2015.
I have created my own “shop” on Bookshop.org with books I’ve loved and would highly recommend. Bookshop.org is a fantastic website that supports local bookstores. I will continue to update my shop as frequently as possible.