Every week, I curate a list of the best links and articles to make you think and keep you informed. Because last week's was missed in the celebrations of my birthday, this week's Link Love list is twice as long as usual.
Books:
- 10 Kick-Ass Secret Passage Bookshelves (Book Riot): Because I have always dreamed of having one... and I assume you have, too.
Teddy Roosevelt’s 10 Rules for Reading (Book Riot): I really enjoyed reading this list of TR's rules. I especially appreciate how he throws out the common belief that certain books must be read by all and that we should pity those who have different taste. The reference to Poe was also enjoyed.
How to Read an Entire Book in a Single Day (Life Hacker): I think I already knew all of this, but it's a nice reminder that yes, you can get through it even if you waited until the last minute. (Not that I ever do that... just in case my profs are reading.)
Why the British Tell Better Children’s Stories (The Atlantic): Although I am working on my PhD in 20th Century American Literature, I far prefer British literature. There is something about the magical quality of British writing that appeals to me, particularly in their children's lit. I would gladly take Curdie and his goblins over Doctor Seuss. In this article, the author explains why it is that the British writers are so much more in-tune with Children's stories.
I Have Aspergers and This Book Changed My Life (Book Riot): I haven't read this book, but after reading this article, I think I should. What books have helped you understand social norms better?
The Best Feminist Books For Younger Readers (Book Riot)
How to Turn from a Book Hoarder into a Book Collector (Book Riot): This is something I have been reflecting on, particularly now that most of my library is in storage.
Life:
Are You Poor, or Just Broke? 3 Ways to Tell the Difference (Everyday Feminism): As someone who grew up on the brink of poverty, I recognize that these differences are really important. I'm blessed to be broke and not really poor. I recognize that although things are tough, they could be worse.
Watch the story of a man who did the unimaginable after escaping life as a child soldier. (UP Worthy): Talk about succeeding in the face of everything. Check out this moving article about a young man who went from being a child soldier to entering law school. This gives me so much gratitude for my own education and opportunities.
I Should Be Engaged. (Corinne Rogero): This is a great reflection on how we interact with the world.
5 Things Women Are Tired Of Men Explaining To Them, Because We Can Disagree Without Being "Confused" (Bustle): This is real life. Just because we disagree does not mean I'm ignorant, confused, unintelligent, or uninformed.
I Let My Grandma Dress Me For A Week & This Is What Happened (Bustle): While I know my grandmother wouldn't do this (partially because she would never be willing to pick up a tablet, much less face time me), I thought this was a really neat experiment. I love this girl's grandma. Super cool!
13 Charts That Will Make Total Sense To People With Impostor Syndrome (Buzz Feed): This hits a little too close to home. I'm sure everyone can relate to every one of these.
Why Winning the Lottery Isn’t the Answer (Becoming Minimalist): I love this quote from this article: "On a fundamental level, we all want to feel like what we do is a part of something bigger than us. And the truth is that can happen in any context, if you have the right mindset. What brought me out of my funk was not more leisure, but the realization that I needed to work. We all do. But it’s not just the work that fulfills us. It’s the way we work." I think this is an important thing to remember. Too many people talk about after retirement, but the happiest people I know never retire and never stop working.
Family:
15 Mother-In-Law Behaviors That Deserve a Punch in the Face (Scary Mommy): Although I myself am not in possession of a mother in law, I can only imagine how damaging these might be for a young marriage. My mother had a difficult mother in law and some of my friends have similar stories. Good lord, people, let your adult children be adults.
Education:
- Detroit’s Teachers Want You to See These Disturbing Photos of Their Toxic Schools (US Uncut): Good lord. Look at these photos. Someone should answer for this.
Catholicism/Religion/Spirituality:
- All My Favorite Theologians Are Dying (Sojourners): Although some might baulk at the idea of calling Alan Rickman a theologian, I think this is a poignant article that reminds us how we have found God in so much of Rickman's work.