Ghostroots
by Pemi Aguda
I didn’t know what to expect when I started Pemi Aguda’s collection of short stories. Each is a masterpiece—delightful, profound and a little strange. Aguda is from Lagos, Nigeria, and the country is a consistent character in all of her stories. It’s a wonderful read that I will surely reread.
Eleanore of Avignon
by Elizabeth De Lozier
I tend to stay away from historical fiction but am glad I made an exception for this book. It takes you back to 1347, when there are not a lot of options for women. Eleanore is a herbalist and midwife, thanks to training from her now deceased mother. The black plague arrives just as she starts training under a physician. You won’t put this down, and it certainly has me rethinking my jaded view of historical fiction.
The Pulse
Netflix
Yes, I suggested medical drama last month, but besides the fast pace, the shows do not have that much in common. This drama features a great cast of doctors who are not shown as the savior of all mankind. The characters are believable and intense. Turn on closed captions or you might miss important pieces of dialog.
Life with John Mayer
SiriusXM
After spending 12 weeks in the Florida Keys, I was tired of yacht rock. As we made the 22-hour drive home, we listened to songs compiled by singer John Mayer. His taste in music is varied and just what we needed—no repeats! From the soul music of the ’50s to hard rock of the ’80s to today’s hits, he kept us company all the way home. Hey, even people married 40 years run out of things to talk about.
