January 2024 -

Winter Is ComingWinter Is Coming

January 31, 2024| Julie|

A foot of snow fell. Then the brutal cold came. It was like something out of Little House on the Prairie. But I shouldn’t complain. Other than a dusting of snow on Christmas, winter stayed away until 2024. I drive

A Death in Belmont by Sebastian JungerA Death in Belmont by Sebastian Junger

January 31, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 1:49 am

Check out my latest episode of Booksmart where I dive into the true crime book "A Death in Belmont" by Sebastian Junger. This gripping story focuses on the murder of Bessie Goldberg, which the infamous Boston Strangler never admitted to.

A Mockingbird on StageA Mockingbird on Stage

January 23, 2024| Julie|

To Kill a Mockingbird, the stage version, performed in my city. Since I don’t pay attention to social media, I didn’t realize it until weeks after tickets went on sale. My tickets were cheap—just under forty dollars—and were about the

Last Night at the Viper Room by Gavin EdwardsLast Night at the Viper Room by Gavin Edwards

January 21, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 5:16 pm

Remembering the magnetic talent and tragic loss of River Phoenix. From Stand By Me to My Own Private Idaho, his impact on Hollywood was undeniable. Discover the untold story behind his short but influential career, and how Leonardo DiCaprio stepped

No Time to Spare by Ursula K. Le GuinNo Time to Spare by Ursula K. Le Guin

January 17, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 1:37 am

Delve into the world of literary wonders with me as I explore Ursula K. Le Guin's 'No Time to Spare: Thinking About What Matters' in this episode of Booksmart! As we kick off the new year, I reflect on making

Happy Birthday, BabyHappy Birthday, Baby

January 17, 2024| Julie|

I’m trying to be mindful of Delights in 2024, believing that Ross Gay’s Book of Delights held value beyond its pages. We should delight in birthdays more. Without them, we wouldn’t exist. Existing should be the first and foremost Delight.

The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan DidionThe Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

January 12, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 5:26 pm

Check out my review of "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion! This book has been on all the must-read lists, but did it live up to the hype? In today's episode of Booksmart, I'll share my thoughts on

The Book of Delights by Ross GayThe Book of Delights by Ross Gay

January 12, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 5:24 pm

Join me, Julie, as I kick off 2024 with an inspiring read that will ignite your creativity and mindfulness. Introducing Ross Gay's 'The Book of Delights' - a thought-provoking collection of 102 essays that will leave you with mixed feelings.

Booksmart Year in Review 2023Booksmart Year in Review 2023

January 12, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 5:21 pm

Reviewing the Best Books of 2023! Join me as I share the top six books that made a lasting impact on my thinking and behavior this year. From thought-provoking reads to books that can change society, these recommendations are a

A Christmas Carol by Charles DickensA Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

January 12, 2024 | Julie | 0 Comment | 5:19 pm

Discover the hidden message behind Charles Dickens' timeless classic, A Christmas Carol! Join me as I explore the societal commentary on poor working conditions in 19th century Britain and how it still resonates today. Plus, find out why Disney's Mickey's