What I've been watching, reading and listening to recently
It’s been a while since I put together a little watching, reading and listening recommendations post, and I’m really excited to sit down and write this one, as I feel like I’ve been consuming some ACE stuff recently! This post is jam packed with recommendations, so whether you’re looking for a summer holiday read or a new boxset to binge, I should have you covered...
Watching
Years & Years
I can’t recommend this brilliant ‘near future’ BBC drama more. Following a family in Manchester over the span of 15 years, this show looks at how economic uncertainty, political friction and rapid technological advancement could take a toll on the world we live in. It’s compelling, thought provoking, and terrifyingly believable.
Expedition Happiness
Warning: this Netflix film will totally make you want to quit your job and head off on a road trip! It follows a German couple (and their adorable dog) as they convert an old American school bus and head off on an incredible adventure around North America - expect lots of beautiful scenery, conversations on happiness, and endless travel inspo.
Toy Story 4
I’ll admit I had low expectations for this film - I felt like Toy Story 3 really wrapped up the series beautifully, and I was sceptical as to whether we needed another sequel. However, I was happily proven wrong - Toy Story 4 delivered nostalgia, humour, and another heartwarming story for Woody and the gang.
Dead To Me
I binged this Netflix boxset in about 3 days, which I think kinda tells you all you need to know! It reminded me of Desperate Housewives but with even more drama and an extra sprinkle of humour, and I’m already counting down until season 2.
The Bold Type - Season 3
I’ve mentioned my love of The Bold Type on the blog before, but I just wanted to alert you to the fact that season 3 is now available on Amazon Prime. I think this new season might have been my favourite one so far, and of course, I could never get bored of watching a TV show about millenials set in New York.
Reading
Educated - Tara Westover
Wow - this is truly one of the most gut-wrenching, inspiring and moving memoirs I have ever read. Tara’s story is completely incredible, and the way she writes it is so beautiful. I know that this book will stay with me for a very long time.
Once More We Saw Stars - Jayson Greene
Another moving memoir, and one that resonated with me on a very personal level. Jayson writes about the loss of his daughter following a freak accident, and while it was a very difficult and confronting read at times, it was also incredibly inspiring.
Saltwater - Jessica Andrews
I don’t think I’ve ever really read a novel like this one before, and I’d definitely love to give it a second read at some point. It explores topics such as class, education and family relationships in such a delicate and thought provoking way, and the writing is very lyrical.
The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober - Catherine Gray
I bought this book after hearing Charlotte Jacklin rave about it over on Instagram. I didn’t really know what to expect, but I found it SO interesting. It’s not preachy in the slightest, but it really made me question my own relationship with alcohol, as well as how we talk about and relate to booze as a society.
The Lido - Libby Page
If you’re looking for a summer holiday read, this is the book you need! It’s such an uplifting and heartwarming read about intergenerational friendships, loneliness, and the importance of community. Plus it’s pacey enough that you’ll race through it!
Now We Have Everything: On Motherhood Before I Was Ready - Meaghan O’Connell
I bought this book on a whim while we were in New York last month, and I’m so glad that I did. It’s a searingly honest account of Meaghan’s transition into motherhood, from her unexpected pregnancy to reclaiming her identity after birth. It was refreshing to read such an honest account of a part of life that is so often sugar coated or shrouded in secrecy.
Listening
Under the Skin with Russell Brand - Brené Brown episode
You probably all know that I’m a huge fan of Brené Brown, and I found this conversation between her and Russell Brand so insightful and fascinating. They discussed everything from addiction to raising children, and you could just tell that both parties were fully engaged and learning from each other.
Calm Vibes Spotify playlist
I work from home alone a lot, and sometimes I crave a bit of background noise to break the silence. I obviously love a good podcast, but if I’m writing or doing something else that requires lots of attention, I can find them a bit distracting. However, the Calm Vibes playlist on Spotify is perfect - not only does it provide the background noise I crave, but it’s really soothing too.
Claire Baker on The Goal Digger podcast
I’ve been following period coach, Claire Baker, on Instagram for a while now and gleaned lots of useful tips from her, but this interview with her on the Goal Digger podcast took it to another level! Claire shared tonnes of practical advice on how to harness our hormones and cycles so that they work best for us, and it was really refreshing to hear someone talk so openly about periods.
Sh**gged, Married, Annoyed with Chris & Rosie
This podcast is my absolute fave at the moment. It’s hosted by comedian Chris Ramsey and his equally hilarious wife Rosie, and I swear to god that every episode has me laughing out loud. If you’re in need of a good chuckle (and let’s face it, we all are!) this is the podcast for you. Just be warned, you might get some funny looks as you giggle along on your commute.
Brexitcast
Quite a different tone from my previous recommendation, but a good’un nonetheless! I love this podcast because it cuts through all of the political jargon and gets straight to the heart of what’s actually happening with Brexit. The hosts have some really interesting and insightful perspectives, and I find it much easier to keep up with than the endless conflicting news articles.
What have you been watching, reading and listening to recently?