Quarantine Reads

Need something to read? I got you. I'm learning that slowing down and coming undone can happen in many different ways. For me, that will always be through reading. And, I am sure we are all looking for ways to escape, so maybe I can help. Here are some recommendations:

The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner: A novel set between the backdrop of 1970s Manhattan and the rise of the radical left in Italy all the while exploring sex, class, art, and gender. If you prefer books that are more fast-paced- this is it.

What You Have Heard Is True by Carolyn Forche: What would you do if a man appeared on your doorstep and asked you to witness a war? Forche details her experience during the civil war in El Salvador, through poetry, reflection, and community.

On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong: I don't try to recommend books that I have to read for class but this is the most beautiful thing I've read in a while: it is a letter from a son to a mother who cannot read. he raises powerful questions on storytelling, the immigrant experience, class, masculinity, and so much more.

Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown: a classic coming of age novel, with an unapologetic protagonist who refuses to conform to heteronormativity, the concept of marriage, and women's rights. It is hard to believe this book was published in 1973 as it is so incredibly relevant.

In the Footsteps of Mr. Kurtz by Michela Wrong: this is a nonfiction account of the symbiotic relationship of European hegemony + colonialism and African tyranny. It provides a deep dive into international economics, corruption, and civil war. This book is known as the modern-day reincarnation of joseph conrad's heart of darkness.

We Have Not Been Moved: this is a compendium of writings done by grassroots social and political activists exploring the intersection between the war machine and white supremacy- starting from the 1960s until the present day. fun fact: I met a few of the authors at firestorm last year!