Founded by designed Tyler Deeb, Misc. Goods was born from what he describes as a "dry spell" while he was a freelance designer:
"One day I showed up to my office and there was no work to do. And with a wife and two kids at home, I couldn’t be idle — my conscience just wouldn’t let me. So, as a discipline for the mind and an opportunity to sharpen my skills, I began designing a single playing card, the jack of spades. It turned out pretty well. The next day I showed up and still no work. So I designed the queen of spades. After three feverish months of this pattern, still workless, I had to my surprise finished designing an entire deck of playing cards.
After designing the card deck and an exceptionally successful Kickstarter campaign, Deeb launched Misc. Goods Co.! Here's some of our favorite pieces from their line!
Dom's Favorite:
"I love the ceramic flasks! With a wide mouth, they're easy to drink from, and the thick walls make it more durable than you'd think. I've taken mine with me several times, and not only do I get a bunch of compliments, but everyone wants a drink from it as well (though that might not be because of the flask...). If you're looking for a statement piece for a bar, or an heirloom gift for someone important in your life, this is a great product!"
Court's Favorite:
"Usually I just carry a couple credit cards and my ID with me, so I don't need a big wallet. The slim tuck wallet is just the right size for my cards, and fits in my purse or easily in my pocket if I need to grab just that. I love that it's handmade with quality craftsman ship to make the best product possible!
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Let's start with the basics: drinks are served in glasses. Seems like an upfront and obvious place to start, but the glassware you drink from does change the way you experience a beverage. Ever notice that stout style beers are served from a tulip glass, and that lighter beers like pilsners are served in pint glasses? Each is designed for optimum drinkability. We have a variety of glassware to choose from:
Now that you're set up with the right drinkware, what do you make the drinks in?? Don't stress, we've got you covered there as well.
Want something that simplifies cocktail making, and is easy to grab for on the go drinks while camping or on a picnic? The Travel Bar Tool Kit comes with a shaker, jigger, strainer, stirrer, muddler, and a handy pouch to take your kit with you for your next adventure!
]]>Looking for more inspo for this spring? Made sure you follow us on Instagram to see more about what we're up to, and what we've found to brighten your day!
]]>Courtney (co-owner, Not So Well blog author, absurdism aficionado): “My favorite read of the year so far is Good Morning, Midnight by Lily Brooks-Dalton. I’m looking forward to reading A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson!”
Emily (Content Creator, Fantasy Lover, Literally a Librarian): “My top read from 2021 that we have in the store is The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, and I’m most looking forward to All the Feels (sequel to Spoiler Alert) by Olivia Dade.”
Dom (co-owner, ship story lover, 9 3/4 fingered man): “Hand down, the best book I’ve read this year has been Madhouse at the End of the Earth, and I’m looking forward to reading Nothing But Blackened Teeth (surprise, it’s a horror story)”
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Nothing says cold weather like good whiskey (well, nothing says good like whiskey, but that’s neither here nor there). This stout drink is both delicious with a good steak, or a bonfire. We recommend not skimping on the whiskey, because if you buy well quality whiskey, you’ll know it.
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Easy peasy, lemon squeezie. Enjoy!
]]>When thinking about which books to recommend for this list, I couldn’t quite pin down a topic to tie everything together. One of my favorite things about Agatha of Little Neon was the quiet melancholy that the story exuded, along with spots of genuine emotion, like joy or annoyance. For this list, I want to focus on the feeling of the story, not just story elements. With that, here are my recommendations for books that have the same vibes as Agatha of Little Neon.
Teen
Starting off with one of my go-to comfort reads: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman. If you’ve been following along with these blogs, you know how important this graphic novel series is to me. Heartstopper follows shy teen Charlie as he navigates life as the only “out” gay student at his all-boys school. Charlie meets Nick, a popular rugby “lad”, and immediately falls for his soft smiles and kind heart. The problem is: Nick is straight… right? (Nick isn’t so sure, either.) For a genuine, heart-warming, and relatable coming-of age story that addresses harsher topics such as mental illness, parent separation, bullying, and sexual harassment from a teen perspective, check out Heartstopper by Alice Oseman. Heartstopper has recently been adapted for television, with Oseman as screenwriter and producer, and will be coming to Netflix in 2022.
Yolk by Mary H K Choi is a story of two estranged sisters, one struggling to get by and one living a rich life. When the latter sister is diagnosed with cancer, the pair finds themselves growing closer. While this story is darker than the subtle sadness of Agatha of Little Neon, it really digs deep into the roots of what it means to be human, to be vulnerable to the world. Choi’s ground-breaking novel isn’t all sad, though: as the sisters grapple with solutions to their situation, a comedy of errors ensues. If you enjoyed the deeper implications within Luchette’s novel, check out Yolk by Mary H K Choi.
The most recent of these teen titles is One of the Good Ones. I wanted to talk about it because it’s written by a pair of sisters, Maika and Maritza Moulite. Marketed as The Hate U Give meets Get Out, One of the Good Ones follows sisters Happi and Genny are left reeling in the aftermath of their sister’s brutal death at the hands of law enforcement. In their grief, they decide to get away from the chaos and media attention to mourn their sister in peace. But the further they get from that horrible day, the closer they get to a secret that no one saw coming. If you liked Agatha for its political critiques but wanted more of a fast-paced plot, One of the Good Ones is the book for you.
Another one of my staple authors when recommending books to people is Tahereh Mafi. If you follow our podcast, you’ll remember that I talked a bit about Mafi’s fictionalized autobiography, A Very Large Expanse of Sea. The story follows Shirin, a Muslim teenager attending high school in 2002, directly following the events of 9/11. Shirin struggles with maintaining her identity and heritage while her surroundings all but force her to leave important parts of herself behind. Shirin clings to the things she loves: her family, breakdancing (yes, you read that right), and Ocean, the school’s star athlete. When they go public with their relationship, everything goes sour, and Shirin is left treading water. If the religious and social aspects of Agatha were compelling to you, try a Tahereh Mafi book. I promise it won’t disappoint.
Adult
If you connected with the liminal spaces and feelings in Agatha of Little Neon, check out Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams. The story follows a young Jamaican woman living in London and working for a newspaper, feeling alienated from both cultures and her white coworkers. She crumbles under pressure and starts making a string of bad decisions that force her to re-evaluate her life and where she stands.
Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson is one of Courtney’s highly-recommended favorites. The story follows two estranged roommates, Lillian and Madison, when their paths cross again after years of separation. Madison desperately reaches out to Lillian, asking her to nanny for her step-children. The catch is: when the kids feel extreme emotion, they spontaneously combust into flames. Leaving her boring life behind, Lillian travels to befriend and care for the siblings, and realizes that she needs them as much - if not more - than they need her.
Skye Falling by award-winning author Mia McKenzie is more on the romantic side of literary fiction. Skye has come to terms with living alone when a teenager shows up on her doorstep claiming to be her biological daughter. Things get even messier when Skye discovers that her last failed attempt at flirting involved the girl’s aunt. Skye Falling is all about learning “how to have a meaningful relationship with another human being,” and about holding loved ones close.
Finally, The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is another tale of sisters who went their separate ways, only to be pulled back together in a story that delves into the importance of generational heritage and the destructive nature of racial privilege. After escaping their small town at sixteen, the Vignes twins now live completely different lives: while one went back to the small town they left all those years ago, the other is living with a white husband and passing for white. When their daughters’ paths cross, everything changes, old habits die hard, and unfortunate truths come to light.
Fall is here! Unless you live here in Northwest Arkansas, then SIKE. We’re back in the mid 80’s, and sweating in the humidity. Regardless, it’s still October 1st, which means it’s spooky season, and with the strawberry vodka smash, it’s sure to be smashingly good time!
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]]>Cool fall weekends call for simple drinks: whiskey neat, apple cider, or this deliciously easy rosé spritz! Enjoy it on game day while watching College GameDay, after a brisk hike, or on the patio watching the leaves change.
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]]>The end of summer calls for something just a little tangy, with a little bite, like the cool mornings before the hot afternoons roll in. This cocktail has the perfect amount of acidity from the raspberries, froth from the egg white, and sweetness from the honey.
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This month, we’re recommending titles about survival and exploration for fans of Madhouse at the End of the Earth by Julian Sancton, our August book pick. Madhouse follows explorer Adrien de Gerlache and his crew as they embark on a perilous journey to Antarctica. Sanction writes in a narrative style, allowing readers to get a more thrilling take on this chilly survival tale.
Our first recommended title is Adrift by Steven Callahan. Adrift is a first-hand account of a man stranded at sea alone for seventy-six days. Callahan’s novel is considered an establishing work in the survival and adventure genre.
Next, Island of the Lost by Joan Druett is about a crew shipwrecked on Auckland Island, a place that is known to sailors as certain death in the wrong circumstances. The men attempt to build shelter and await a rescue crew, but end up falling to illness, anger, starvation and, in one case, cannibalism. Island of the Lost is a book for those who enjoyed the survival aspects of Madhouse more than the excitement of the exploration.
In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrook is another popular title among lovers of survival narratives and naval tales. With a movie adaptation in 2015, Philbrook’s writing is on-par with Moby Dick and other infamous stories of the sea. While In the Heart of the Sea includes details of Nantucket whalers and life at sea, it also addresses race, class, and nature conservation.
Pivoting to a colder climate, In the Kingdom of Ice by Hampton Sides follows an American crew as they embark into the uncharted waters of the Arctic and encounter brutal obstacles that challenge them as individuals and as a group. If you couldn’t get enough of Madhouse at the End of the Earth, this is your next great read.
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is another classic when it comes to the adventure and survival genre. Into the Wild chronicles the adventures of Christopher Johnson McCandless as he gives up everything in his life to live alone in the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer’s novel highlights the major contrasts between nature and society through one man’s journey to leave everything behind.
The Moth and the Mountain by Ed Cesar follows a World War I veteran who plans to fly from the United Kingdom to Mount Everest and be the first to make it to the top. If you are interested in a more character-driven adventure, look no further than The Moth and the Mountain.
And finally, we couldn’t pass up this opportunity to mention Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. While the entire book is one big island treasure hunt, it’s also about good versus evil, and everything in between. Treasure Island is an ode to the adventurer in all of us.
Thank you for reading the August blog! Stay tuned for more book recommendations. In the meantime, check out our September book pick, Agatha of Little Neon by Claire Luchette, and be on the lookout for our Banned Book Week spotlight coming up at the end of the month.
]]>When I think of dark academia, I think of If We Were Villains by M L Rio. Oliver Marks has been in prison for 10 years, charged with a murder that he may or may not have committed. Upon his release, he is questioned by the detective (now retired) that put him away; he wants to know what really happened between Oliver, his friends, and his dead classmate during their time studying Shakespeare in college. As Oliver begins his story, the reader is taken back to the scene of the crime, where on-stage personas bleed into the students’ reality.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo was one of my absolute favorite books of 2020. As the creator of the Grishaverse, Bardugo takes a sharp turn in her adult debut following Galaxy “Alex” Stern as she navigates her way through the shadows of Yale secret societies. After a terrible “accident,” Alex is recruited to oversee the dark magical practices and politics of the campus’ societies. As she trains under the watchful eye of her mentor, Darlington, Alex is swept up into a layered murder mystery involving drugs, the Underworld, and the long-dead residents of New Haven. Ninth House is told non-chronologically, adding another level of secrecy, making no character innocent, including Alex herself. This one is very dark, so please double check the trigger warnings before you dive in.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is one of my favorite classics and a great example of a classic dark academia tale. Dorian Gray has been adapted and recreated many times since its original publication in 1890. The story follows Dorian, a man who has sold his soul for eternal youth, beauty, and power. The catch: all of his aging, blemishes, and sins are projected onto a painting. A tale of moral dilemma, social pressures, and ultimate corruption, The Picture of Dorian Gray is an establishing work in the dark academia genre.
Bunny by Mona Awad is very similar to The Maidens in that it takes place at an elite school that contains a clique of young, prominent women. In this case, Samantha, our main character, is in the same MFA program as this group, who call each other “Bunny.” At first, she is repulsed by the women; after she is invited to one of their infamous parties, her curiosity gets the better of her and she gets sucked into the strange and dangerous world of the Bunnies. Bunny also has elements of magical realism and horror.
Catherine House by Elizabeth Thomas is yet another story about a school with mysterious happenings. Ines begins her time at Catherine House expecting to settle into a quiet routine, but instead encounters the Headmistress’ eccentric teachings. When tragedy strikes on school grounds, Ines is convinced that the house, with its beautiful facade and lush furnishings, is holding secrets beyond her wildest imagination.
A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik is a different take on this same concept. El is accepted into the Scholomance knowing that her life will be at risk the second she steps through the front door. The school has no teachers and no grades; the only way to graduate is to survive the dangers that lurk in the shadows. A Deadly Education is the first book on this list that is technically a teen novel, but it does contain dark themes that make it more appealing for older audiences, as well.
A Lesson in Vengeance by Victoria Lee is another teen novel for dark academia lovers everywhere. Like most of the other books on this list, this book contains a foreboding academic atmosphere, magical realism, and a dangerous, secret-filled past. When two girls at Dalloway School begin investigating the school’s ominous past of violence, death, and witchcraft, history begins repeating itself.
Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M Danforth is split between the early 1900s - at a boarding school for girls - and present day - in the Hollywood movie scene. A notorious horror author, whose book was inspired by the events at The Brookhants School for Girls, is being adapted for the big screen. When the two main actresses and the author travel to film at the abandoned school, past and present become twisted and new, ominous details come to light.
Ace of Spades by Faridah Abike-Iyimide is my final recommendation for The Maidens, but it is definitely not the least. Ace of Spades highlights the issues of institutionalized racism by giving readers a front-row seat to the drama and chaos inside an elite private academy. Two talented and ambitious students are targeted by an anonymous texter; private photos and information are leaked, and the two are left to team up and uncover who is behind the leaks before their carefully-constructed reputations are ruined completely.
Before I talk about anything else, I want to gush about two authors who shaped me into the reader I am today. First, Marie Lu is an incredible young adult science fiction author; her first series, Legend, was released in the height of the Hunger Games craze, drawing in a bunch of geeky kids like me. Legend follows Day, an Asian American teen fallen behind in a dystopian world where a plague has broken out and kids are going missing after failing government testing. Lu’s books are fast-paced with a cast of compelling characters; I absolutely cannot recommend them enough. Her most recent release, Skyhunter, is the first in a mind-bending duology. I always say that you can never go wrong with a Marie Lu book.
Next, I have to give all of my love to Tahereh Mafi. Mafi’s first series, Shatter Me, is the blueprint for teen dystopian fantasy: kids with superpowers, a love triangle, and an annoying, self-insert main character whose emotional, physical, and mental growth is one of the main themes throughout the series. Shatter Me opens on Juliette, a girl imprisoned for her powers; Juliette’s touch causes immense pain to others--and in some cases, death. She is pulled from her prison and placed in the care of a young, brooding official and his kind-hearted guard while they research her power and attempt to weaponize it. The Shatter Me series is cheesy, goofy, and it has all of the tropes under the sun (Tahereh is really big on hurt/comfort). Mafi is one of those authors for me that, no matter what she writes, I’ll read anything she publishes. She also has a middle grade series, Furthermore, that is a retelling of Alice in Wonderland complete with Persian influences, and she has two contemporary teen novels that are semi-autobiographical, about her experiences as a Muslim teenager in the years following 9/11. Mafi doesn’t shy away from punching you right in the gut; her stories are so beautifully written that you can’t help but go back for more.
Adult Fiction
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo is a Great Gatsby retelling with several twists. Not only is Jordan Baker, our main character, adopted, she’s also Asian, queer, disabled, and magical. This story follows Jordan as she attempts to claim her place amongst the white socialites of the 1920s while also establishing her own identity amongst the chaos of the Jazz Age. Nghi Vo’s debut novel is great for lovers of classics, retellings, and coming-of-age stories.
She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan is one of my most anticipated reads of 2021. Described as Mulan meets Song of Achilles, this story follows a girl destined for nothingness but determined to survive in the chaotic landscape of medieval China’s Ming Dynasty. When the second daughter of the Zhu family is orphaned, she takes on her brother’s identity and begins to study at a monastery. In another turn of events, the monastery is burned by supporters of the Mongol rule, and she must learn how to use her cover to fight for greatness and justice. She Who Became the Sun is out July 20th, 2021.
The Poppy War is the first in an epic fantasy trilogy by R F Kuang. This story addresses racism, sexism, and classism through the lens of an orphaned girl who no one thought could make it as a soldier--until she passed the test and was accepted into the elite military training school. She discovers that she can harness the powers of shamanism to aid her country and her people in the time before the inevitable Third Poppy War.
Another anticipated read of mine is The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri. The Jasmine Throne tells the story of Malini, a princess betrayed and imprisoned by her brother, and Priya, a priestess hiding among the ranks of the servants in the royal household. The two women must work together to help each other and alter the future of the empire. This sapphic tale rooted in the history and epics of India is sure to please high fantasy fans everywhere.
Teen Fiction
These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong is a wild ride of a story set in 1920s Shanghai. A loose retelling of Romeo and Juliet, this book follows Juliette and Roma, the heirs of rival high-powered gangs, as they have to work together to sniff out the monsters in the shadows. At only 22 years old, Chloe Gong is one of the youngest and most impressive published authors in the YA market today.
We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal is one of the greatest YA high fantasy novels I’ve ever read. Excellent world-building, gut-punch plot, and compelling characters, all to tell the converging stories of Zafira and Nasir. Zafira disguises herself as a man and assumes the role of the mysterious figure known only as “the Hunter,” to protect and feed her village. Nasir is the crown prince, forced to keep up his brutal appearance and do his father’s dirty work. When Zafira is sent as the Hunter to retrieve a magic artifact, and Nasir is sent to kill the Hunter and steal the artifact, the complicated case of mistaken identity unravels decades of dark magic and corruption within the caliphate. It’s up to Zafira, Nasir, and their gang of misfits to restore the kingdom to its former glory. Based on Arabian folklore and history, We Hunt the Flame is the first in a complete duology that is sure to capture your heart.
The Ones We’re Meant to Find by Joan He is described as “We Were Liars meets Black Mirror, with a dash of Studio Ghibli.” Sisters Cee and Kay are seperated: one is trapped on a deserted island, the other living life as usual in her eco-city. Kay knows her sister has been gone for three months, taking off with only a small boat to leave the city; Cee, on the other hand, has been stranded for three years. When Kay decides to trace Cee’s path and find her sister, things get complicated and buried secrets start to surface.
Gearbreakers by Zoe Hana Mikuta is another one of my anticipated titles of 2021. In a futuristic world where war is rampant and the most detrimental weapons are giant walking atrocities known as Windups, Eris (our main character) works as a Gearbreaker, a rebel group known for destroying Windups piece by piece. When Eris gets caught and imprisoned by the enemy, she meets Sona, who is double crossing the warlords she pilots for, in order to sabotage the Windups that she pilots. Eris and Sona grow closer, and must work together to take down their oppressors and regain control of their fate. Gearbreakers hits shelves June 29th, 2021.
Thank you so much for visiting the Dandy Roll Book Club blog today. I hope you are having a wonderful summer. Happy reading!
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The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang is another historical graphic novel, but this time readers are plopped into the middle of the fashion scene of 1800s Paris. The story follows a talented, yet-to-be-discovered seamstress who is recruited to work for a mysterious, wealthy patron. This patron turns out to be none other than the prince himself, requesting dresses that make him feel more at home in his body than he ever has as a prince. The two become close, risking everything to leave the palace at night and show off their creations at night clubs and galas. But what happens when the prince is expected to marry? The Prince and the Dressmaker is my favorite graphic novel, and it’s one that I’m always quick to recommend to all readers.
Over quarantine, I found another wonderful graphic novel in Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker. Mooncakes follows a queer witch and a nonbinary werewolf as they investigate and battle the mysterious forces eminating from the woods in their small New England town. Complete with childhood crushes, a small bookstore, and plenty of demons, Mooncakes is a great fall read for when you’re yearning for all things cozy and spooky.
The Deep and Dark Blue by Niki Smith follows a pair of preteen twins who must transform themselves to stay alive after their family is brutally attacked. Set in a uniquely inventive high fantasy world, Hawke and Grayson become Hanna and Grayce to fit into the Communion of the Blue, a sect of women set apart in power and skill from the rest of the community. As they grow up and plot to overthrow their usurper, Grayce begins to question her place in the world, and whether or not she truly belongs at her brother’s side. Devastatingly beautiful, The Deep and Dark Blue is such an interesting and inclusive way to discuss gender identity and queer relationships (platonic and romantic).
Thank you so much for visiting the Dandy Roll Book Club blog! There is still time to join us for our June pick: Black Water Sister, by Zen Cho. For more info, visit our Book Club page here at Dandy Roll Home. Happy reading!
]]>Fiction
First, I want to talk about Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire. McGuire puts an odd twist on fairy tales and classic literature. The “miracle” children that end up at Miss West’s Home for Wayward Children have just returned from their great adventure in one fantasy land or another; while the children are left wanting, chasing the feeling of their past adventures, Miss West is left to pick up the pieces. But then something ominous happens, and the children are forced to work together to solve the mystery. This book was published under the umbrella of adult fantasy, but it has a lot of appeal for the YA crowd.
Switching gears to cozy literature, we have The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer. You may be familiar with the Netflix movie starring Lily James. Guernsey tells the story of Juliet, a London writer, who forms an attachment with a book club, originally formed during the height of the German occupation during WWII. As she writes to members of the book club, she decides to visit the island, and her attachments only grow. This is a story of friendship, love, and how literature can bring a whole cast of characters together in harmony.
Taking a sharp turn into science fiction, The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers is a wacky story about found family among the crew of a spaceship. Our main character Rosemary wants to distance herself from her past, so she takes a job as the sixth crew member on the Wayfarer, a patched-up ship that is home to an oddball crew. They take a job tunneling wormholes to distant planets, putting their lives at risk while bringing in massive amounts of money. When the team runs into inevitable bumps in the road, they have to work together to survive and to save each other. Like the first two on this list, this book is heart-felt, funny, and sometimes ridiculous, but the found family element is at the forefront.
Next, American Hippo by Sarah Gailey may be the strangest one yet. In an alternate United States, the government released hippos into the marshes of the southern states to act as an alternate hunting and meat source. Obviously, this got out of control fast, and hippos became the monsters of the swamps. In 1890, a pseudo-cowboy named Winslow Houndstooth is contracted to take down the hippos, but to do so, he has to assemble a crew that is tough enough to survive. That means recruiting outlaws, con artists, and assassins. Sounds like a wildly good time to me.
Last up in fiction is Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro. Never Let Me Go tells the story of Kathy, a student who grew up in the walls of Hailsham, a mysterious boarding school that doesn’t allow its students contact with the outside world. When Kathy is older, two students leave the confines of the grounds and discover what is really on the outside of their small reality. Part mystery, part love story, and part speculative tale, Never Let Me Go explores the importance of relationships and how we treat each other within society.
Graphic Novels
While we’re here, I want to sprinkle in some of my favorite graphic novels. First up is Heartstopper by Alice Oseman. Heartstopper is a sweet, wholesome story about Charlie Spring, the only openly-gay teen at his small-town all-boys school. He begins crushing on Nick, the traditional, straight-coded “rugby lad” when they are sat next to each other in homeroom. As the two become closer, Nick begins to realize that he may see Charlie as more than a friend. Throughout the series, Charlie and Nick gain the support of their friends, teachers, and, with some obstacles, their family. With a diverse cast of characters and an upcoming Netflix adaptation (spear-headed by the creator, author, and illustrator of the books, no less), now is the perfect time to jump into the Spring universe. (Trigger warnings for self harm and eating disorders).
Finally, Giant Days by John Allison, in my opinion, is the perfect graphic novel series. Giant Days follows three girls who form an unlikely friendship when they meet on their freshman dorm floor. The series spans up until after they graduate from university; you get to see their ups and downs with each other, dating, making friends outside of their small bubble, and everything else that comes with being a confused college student. With over-the-top illustrations and laugh-out-loud comedy, Giant Days has something for everyone.
Thanks for reading this month’s blog post from DRBC! Stay tuned for some AAPI fantasy recommendations in June. Happy reading!
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It pairs nicely with a Sturgill Simpson or Creedence Clearwater Revival playing in the background.
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First, I wanted to discuss one of the novels that has stuck with me over the past several years as a reader. House Made of Dawn by N Scott Momoday follows Abel, a 20-something American Indian torn between two worlds: that of his father and his roots in nature, and the modern city and the call of drugs, sex, and over-indulgence. Throughout the novel, Abel goes through many struggles and transformations, some quite violent, before coming to a conclusion that will alter his life forever. I cannot sing enough praises for this book; it’s one of the most thought-provoking and disturbing books I’ve read in years. N Scott Momoday won a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for House Made of Dawn in 1969.
Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko tells the story of Tayo, a young indigenous boy imprisoned at a Japanese internment camp during World War II. When he returns to his tribe, he begins to reconnect with nature and his heritage and shake loose the feeling of alienation and otherness that were instilled in him during his time in the internment camp. Leslie Marmon Silko won an American Book Award for Ceremony in 1980.
For readers who prefer nonfiction or enjoyed our April book pick (Mozart’s Starling), here are two more recommendations that may be more to your liking. As Long As Grass Grows: The Indigenous Fight for Environmental Justice, From Colonization to Standing Rock by Dina Gilio-Whitaker is an overview of the many struggles that the indigenous population has undergone, from food and water supply to protecting their rights to their land, religions, and cultures. Gilio Whitaker also highlights the differences and friction between indigenous environmental justice and that of a more mainstream, popularized variety.
We also mentioned Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer in our April theme podcast. As the title suggests, Kimmerer combines her knowledge as a scientist and experience as a botanist with her status as a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. In her book, she draws inspiration from nature and makes connections between all living creatures to suggest a wider and all-encompassing form of ecological consciousness.
Dwellings: A Spiritual History of the Living World by Linda Hogan is a collection of essays that pinpoints different animals, myths and legends within indigenous cultures, and spaces within nature, weaving them into a massive web that binds everything together. Just like some of these other recommendations, Dwellings connects culture, nature, and land in a way that expands humanity’s perception of our planet.
Living on the Borderlines, by Melissa Michal paints a more modern picture of being indigenous from present-day perspectives. Michal gives us characters and stories on and off the reservation, discussing the modern-day implications of being a part of the Haudenosaunee people, straddling cultural lines in a society that seeks to divide based on race and heritage.
An American Sunrise is a collection of poems by Joy Harjo. Through this collection, she delves into the past that surrounds her family, discusses the forced migration of the Mvskoke tribe over two hundred years prior, and details the new beginning she creates for herself as she carves her way through the modern world. Harjo brings culture and history full circle: “Blessed are the ears of this land, for they hear cries of heartache and shouts of celebration.”
If you’re interested in more recommendations based on our April book pick, Mozart’s Starling by Lyanda Lynn Haupt, check out our April discussion podcast where staff gives their personal recommendations. To learn more about the roots of nature writing (pun intended), give a listen to our April theme podcast, where we talk about founding principles like transcendentalism and ecological consciousness.
Thanks for visiting the blog and happy reading!
]]>As offices start to open back up, and the world emerges from its Quarantine Cocoon, we'll all need something to pep us up on a Friday afternoon. Make sure you're ready for that team cocktail hour on the office patio with this simple spiked ice latte!
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With Spring beginning to take hold and the Brood X cicadas about to emerge, we wanted something that's bold in taste, and bright orange to match our favorite insect friends! This simple cocktail comes from our social media manager, Evenne, and she highly recommends it as her go to cocktail.
PREP TIME:// 4 MIN
SERVING SIZE:// 1 cocktail
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Today's cocktail is simple, but has a lovely flavor profile; as Meghan pointed out, the prosecco fruit flavors pair fantastically with the heady and herbaceous notes in the bitters. If you're feeling a bold (or just can't find sugar cubes like us), we've also included our sugar dollop recipe as well!
PREP TIME:// 3 MIN (35 MIN if making sugar dollops)
SERVING SIZE:// 1 cocktail
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COCKTAIL
SUGAR DOLLOPS
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CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL://
As you drink the cocktail, the sugar cube and bitters dissolve into the drink. Its perfect for company, because you won't have to worry about running out of ice, or too much time mixing drinks. Just pour and enjoy!
]]>Camping:
If there's an opportunity for us to plug Devil's Den State Park, we're going to take it. Located just to the south of Fayetteville, the park offers affordable campsites, camper hook ups, as well as lodges. Nestled in the scenic Boston Mountains, you're just far enough out that you're in nature, but not too far that you can't enjoy some of the area's exceptional dining. Save a site here.
Photo courtesy of Devil's Den State Park
Intimate Airbnbs:
We may be biased, but staying in downtown Rogers is the best, and the Airbnb located in the 1907 is *choice*. With the ability to host 4 guests, you and another couple can enjoy a weekend getaway, or you can bring the kids! Being in the 1907 means that you're within walking distance of Onyx Coffee HQ, and a myriad of choices for shopping and entertainment! Book a stay here.
Photo courtesy of the Historic Loft at the 1907
Group Stays:
Getting together with old friends for a weekend retreat? This adorable A-frame hosts 6 guests, and has a kitchenette! Their description says it all: "The Lost Haus is a place to slow down, a place designed for friends and family. Relax by the fire under the trees of the Ozarks, drink a glass of wine (or two), and let your mind wander. There's hiking year round, the quiet sound of the lake, starry nights, and a cabin designed to feel like home." Book your trip here.
Photo courtesy of Lost Haus Airbnb
]]>As business owners, we have a slightly larger platform than the average individual. We believe that we should use it to help spur change to better our community and protect all the people that live within it. So when our copywriter, Yaya Wong asked if they could write about their experiences as an Asian American, we did not hesitate to give them our support. This isn't a blog post about our business, it's about the community that our business is a part of. Please take the time to read it, and reflect on what you can do to help and empower marginalized groups in your community.
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In the process of writing this article about the Atlanta mass shootings, another violent hate crime directed at Asian Americans occured in Colorado. That’s 18 people in the span of a week. To deny the violence my people face would be willfully, ignorant privilege. While my community is mourning, this could be an opportunity to educate others on the oppression of Asian Americans and what you could do to help. The onus of liberation should never be solely the responsibility of the victims.
Many Americans don’t believe Asian Americans experience racial oppression because of the model minority myth. This is the false idea that Asian Americans are the ideal reference for outgroups like other communities of color due to their perceived higher achievement of socioeconomic success, which is perpetuated by white supremacists in a degrading, privilege-adjacent facade. White supremacists often idolize imperial Japan for its xenophobic history, making it a successful ethnostate--the standard white supremacists aim for in America. By making Asian groups the “model” it separates us from the idea that we experience racism, which makes it easier to normalize racial violence and oppression because we aren’t considered “oppressed”.While racial violence is nothing new to my community, it has slowly gained news recognition over quarantine. Before coronavirus had spread to the United States, it was common knowledge that the first cases were in Wuhan, China. There is a pervasive racist narrative that Chinese people are “dirty” because they eat foods that are considered untouchable by Western standards (think insects, chicken feet, duck blood, shark fin and yes--dog, a common criticism that seems hypocritical from a country that leads in animal consumption). My people were blamed for the spread of COVID-19 and all at once everyone of Chinese descent became perpetrators of the virus. At our own University of Arkansas, my peers began to treat me differently. Students and strangers alike started to stand a little further away, stare at me with wary fascination and even cover their faces with their hands when I got too close. At first I was hurt. In the past, when I faced racial discrimination it seemed to only be the one or two people hurting me but as I quickly realized that everyone around me started to treat me differently I grew bitter and angry. I wasn’t dirty, I wasn’t contagious by virtue of my heritage and even now I have never contracted the virus like so many of my non-Asian peers.
Coronavirus has incentivized and motivated violence against my people. What happened in Atlanta is not unusual, America’s racist structures have just convinced you that violence against Asian Americans isn’t really violence. The Atlanta shooter, who I have refused to immortalize by naming, was not having “a bad day” when he killed eight of my brothers and sisters; he was a COVID-denier and held such an “extreme fetish” for Asian women that he murdered them, seeing them as objects and aiming to free himself of his disgusting fetish. People like him do not see us as actualized human beings, existing either as sexual objects or dirty outsiders. As a non-Asian ally, you can help bring awareness to our oppression by supporting and donating to AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) non-profit organizations and businesses. Over the course of the pandemic, AAPI business owners have been negatively impacted in staggering amounts due to financial burdens and racist avoidance of our culture/food/businesses. Hate is a Virus is a non-profit organization created by Tammy Cho and Michelle Hanabusa that fights to amplify AAPI voices and stands for the justice and equality of AAPIs in solidarity with other communities of color.
Make a point to educate yourself on these violent crimes, understand and empathize with AAPI communities by supporting them with your voice, your signature, and your money.
In memory of
Delaina Ashley Yaun
Paul Andre Michels
Xiaojie Yan
Daoyou Feng
Park Hyeon Jeong
Julie Park
There's nothing like a little hair of the dog to get you back into fighting shape after a rough Friday night. Most people reach for a Blood Mary, some a bottle of Bailey's, but let us show you your new favorite addition to you bar book: the Black Russian.
Everyone knows its creamier partner, the White Russian, but this recipe is made to get you ready to go. Part vodka, part coffee liquor, part Onyx Coffee Lab Nitro Cold Brew, our Black Russian is crafted to get you going and taste delicious.
PREP TIME:// 5 MIN
SERVING SIZE:// 1 cocktail
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INSTRUCTIONS://
PREP TIME:// 5 MIN
SERVING SIZE:// 1 cocktail
INGREDIENTS://
INSTRUCTIONS://
A Tip for the Hangman is part historical fiction, part spy novel, and part queer romance. Our protagonist, Christopher Marlowe, is one of the most infamous figures in the literary community, mainly for his sordid personal history and politically-charged plays, but also because his adult life is shrouded in a mystery that scholars are still unable to solve.
Epstein’s novel beautifully weaves the many facets of Kit’s history into the eventful and bloody tapestry of Elizabeth I’s England. While reading A Tip for the Hangman, the cast of This Must Be the Book gave their personal recommendations for fans of Kit Marlowe’s journey of self-discovery.
First up is non-fiction. If you were fascinated by Epstein’s portrayal of Elizabethan scandals, check out Eleanor Herman’s historical accounts of royal affairs throughout history (Sex with Kings: 500 Years of Adultery, Power, Rivalry, and Revenge; Sex with the Queen: 900 Years of Vile Kings, Virile Lovers, and Passionate Politics; Sex with Presidents: the Ins and Outs of Love and Lust in the White House). Among Herman’s biographical portraits are Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, and Catherine Howard. Another great author in the sphere of Elizabethan history is Alison Weir, who writes about the lives of many influential figures in medieval and Elizabeth I’s England (The Life of Elizabeth I; The Six Wives of Henry VIII; The Lady in the Tower: the Fall of Anne Boleyn).
For readers who enjoyed the unique perspective in A Tip for the Hangman, try Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet. This one follows Shakespeare’s life and thought processes surrounding the creation of Hamlet… all from the point of view of his wife, a woman who is absent from a majority of historical accounts. The novel focuses on Agnes and their three children; the death of their son in 1596 drives Shakespeare to draft Hamlet, one of the most influential plays in Elizabethan history. A story of love, loss, and family, Hamnet is sure to interest fans of A Tip for the Hangman.
I have two titles to recommend for those of you who loved the spy thriller side of A Tip for the Hangman. The first is The King at the Edge of the World by Arthur Philips, which follows the last days of Elizabeth I’s reign and the scramble to name a successor. As we saw in Epstein’s novel, the Virgin Queen’s heir was a highly contested position--and one that people killed and died for. The next novel I have for you takes readers back in time to the first days of a young Elizabeth’s reign: The Eyes of the Queen by Oliver Clements. This novel highlights the difficulties at the beginning of the Age of Enlightenment, and Elizabeth’s struggle to keep the arts in the spotlight. It’s also crawling with spies; with threats coming from the Spanish crown, Her Majesty’s notorious spy network is born.
For my paranormal romance lovers out there, I want to recommend A Discovery of Witches, the first book in the All Souls trilogy by Deborah Harkness. This story follows Diana Bishop, a young professor (and hesitant witch) visiting Oxford University researching for a paper on medieval alchemical manuscripts. When she calls up a centuries-old manuscript from the stacks of the Bodleian, she unlocks an untraceable bit of magic that has creatures swarming from all around Oxford, including Matthew Clairmont, a vampire genetics professor looking to unravel the mysteries behind species origins. The trilogy weaves together medieval and Elizabethan history, science, and anthropology to create a hodgepodge of magical goodness. Kit Marlowe and Elizabeth I may even show up as characters along the way. This series also has a television adaptation.
Finally, we can’t talk about medieval court intrigue without mentioning Philippa Gregory. If you’re wanting historical romance with a side of royal scandal, start with The Other Boleyn Girl, a novel about Anne Boleyn’s path to the crown. Gregory also has series surrounding many other royal lines throughout medieval and Elizabethan history. A few of Gregory’s series have been adapted into television series, as well.
I hope that these recommendations find you well and that you’ll see your next great read here! We’re so excited to discuss A Tip for the Hangman with all of our readers. Happy reading!
]]>Lake Atalanta: Nestled on the east side of Rogers is one of its hidden gems, Lake Atalanta. Named for the Greek huntress Atalanta, the park features a newly renovated playground, state of the art trails on the water, and scenic paths through the woods, Lake Atalanta is your go to for a break outdoors!
The Railyard: You wouldn't expect it, but Northwest Arkansas is quickly growing to be one of the premier biking destinations in the United States. The Railyard park in downtown Rogers offers both natural surface and paved trails for cyclers with any level of experience enjoy the park.
Devil's Den State Park: Approximately an hour south of downtown Rogers lies Devil's Den State Park. Named for the large cavern that houses one of the largest bat populations in Arkansas, the park was built in the early 1900's by the Civilian Conservation Corps. We personally recommend taking the Yellow Rock trail for its expansive views.
There's a reason Arkansas is the Natural State, and we hope that when you come to downtown Rogers, you'll stop by Dandy Roll on your way to the park!
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We’ve had a full year to adjust to a pandemic lifestyle, but can you reflect back and say what was the hardest thing to adjust to when we first entered lockdown?
Eli is an honors student majoring in computer science at University of Massachusetts Amherst. He’s president of UMass’ table tennis team, who won their conference regionals almost exactly a year ago today. Eli has restless energy and answers with humorless laughter, though he remains sincere about his experience.
EB: Working in place. By far. Being in the same place the whole time. It felt so awful feeling viscerally disgusting. I would wake up at 11, turn on my laptop, have two classes, and go back to bed. I couldn’t sleep at night, I couldn't get my work done when I had to. I was in a state of anxiety all the time. I was always uncomfortable.
With the extra time, do you think you’ve had the space or opportunity to grow? Have you changed and would you say for the better?
Jayden was a fall semester college student before choosing to withdraw and focus on her work and mental health. An avid activist and outspoken, Jayden was refreshingly open and honest.
JP: In the summertime it's just free thought and freedom. Everything’s better. I think...I don’t know. It’s hard because obviously scientifically my brain is still developing, so yes I’ve changed as a person. But I’m not where i want to be yet in life, and it's just a matter of knowing where i want to be in life and how to go after it. And learning what I’m passionate about. I’m in a better place than where I was a year ago, mentally.
What’s something positive you can take from the past 12 months?
Amanda is a junior at University of Massachusetts Amherst who’s juggling two majors and a club sport. She is currently living off campus and continuing to quarantine alone. She has a permanent smile on and seems eager to answer.
AM: Being able to spend more time with my brothers. I even get to watch my younger brother with autism during his Zoom classes, which allows me to see his learning progress, and is a great opportunity because I am studying to be a special educator. Another thing I like is working from the comfort of my bed.
Are you happier now? Is there anything that would make you happier?
Alyssa seemed very contemplative the whole interview. She’s one of the many students who graduated high school in a pandemic and now is a first time freshman at the University of Arkansas. Alyssa was soft-spoken, armed with succinct responses.
AW: No. COVID ending.
Have you noticed culture shift around the expression of sexuality, fashion, and politics?
Luke is a computer science major at Drexel University. He comes off as friendly, and perhaps a little goofy--the kind of person you meet and instantly become friends. He’s one of the only people I know who’s gotten coronavirus and, thankfully, had relatively mild symptoms and recovered quickly. He recently got approved for a study abroad program this coming semester.
LM: I think I've noticed that a lot of people my age are more passionate and interested in politics. I think this is mostly because people my age have finally reached the voting age and have become more involved with politics and current events because they actually have a voice in what is going on in this country now. The biggest interaction I experienced were the George Floyd protests this summer. At the one I attended with my friends in Boston, I remember being surrounded in the crowd by almost exclusively people my age. I would say around 75% of the people I saw that day were of high school or college age and it definitely lit a fire in me to see everybody carrying the same passion as me.
Do you want things to go back to the way they were, or are you looking toward the future?
Amanda Qu is a high school sophomore, experiencing more than half of her high school career online. Before quarantine, Amanda was heavily involved in speech debate and table tennis and proved to be an outgoing student. She seems relaxed, sitting with both knees up on her chair and an easy attitude.
QU: To be honest, I hate change. I generally don't like it when things don't go according to the schedule or plan, so this pandemic thing really screwed me over for a period of time. I'm not too sure what the future will look like, and I tend to gravitate toward what I know and what I'm comfortable with/used to, so I would prefer to go back to the way things were. Life was stressful back then, but life was good.
Have you gained any new philosophies or spiritual understandings?
Maddie is a first time freshman at the University of Arkansas. As an essential worker and full time student, this pandemic has been particularly hard on her. She’s multitasking homework and cooking dinner when I begin the interview.
MF: I’ve gained a new perspective on life, usually I’ve just been reminding myself that we’re on a rock floating in space. So even when things feel like they’re falling apart, I know that they’re not that important in the grand scheme of things.
There’s still a big fight ahead. We don’t know what’s left for us before the pandemic is over, but there’s hope. Always hope. Life will go on in the most unexpected ways, at times when you think it wouldn’t.
]]>Please note: due to COVID-19, many restaurants have implemented safety protocols to keep diners safe. We highly recommend reaching out to a restaurant before hand to find out more.
From American to Caribbean, you're bound to find your next favorite meal in downtown Rogers. We can't wait to see you on your next visit!
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