5 from Fitch: December 2023
You know those friends you have who always offer great recommendations for books to read, movies to see and places to go? That’s us! Every month, our intrepid writers will share five recommendations based on their current favorite things. Have you read a riveting book lately? Seen a movie or show that deeply affected you? Eaten a new take on an old classic? Check out any interesting art installations? Please drop us a line in the comments!
Chris Noon
📚 Reading: “The Anarchy,” by William Dalrymple
What is it?
In his latest book, historian William Dalrymple argues that the word ‘loot’ should be the true legacy of the East Indian Company, exploding the myth of the company as a kind of benevolent administrative juggernaut.
Why I love it.
The book mustn’t be mistaken for a political screed. It’s actually a wonderful epic of ruthlessness, greed and opportunism. I have a bad track record with nonfiction, but this time I’m racing through the pages, thanks to Dalrymple’s storytelling style. I especially love his colorful flourishes: He notes that on the very day that a motley group of Londoners founded the EIC in a ramshackle Thames-side building in 1599, William Shakespeare was about a mile downriver, putting the finishing touches to “Hamlet.”
Amy Kover
📺 Watching: “Abbott Elementary” (ABC.com, Hulu or Max)
What is it?
A two-season (Season 3 premieres Feb. 7) mockumentary sitcom about an underfunded (fictional) elementary school in Philadelphia, created by and starring Quinta Brunson.
Why I love it.
Still not over “Last of Us.” However, on a lighter note, try “Abbott Elementary.” It’s sweet, and yet the writing is spot on. And they did an episode making fun of elitist podcast listeners that skewered me. Loved every minute of the roast!
Jeremy K. Spencer
🎵 Listening: “New Blue Sun,” by André 3000
What is it?
The debut solo album from OutKast’s André 3000.
Why I love it.
After 17 fallow years, the new Dré Tres album is ALL FLUTES — and it’s good?! Well, not all flutes, but, yep, the famously chameleonic half of legendary Atlanta hip-hop duo OutKast just released his debut solo album, “New Blue Sun,” and it’s pretty glorious. A rapper’s rapper, Dré raps not a single syllable here. All of his breath is reserved for his woodwinds. A fresh entry in the space-jazz canon with Valium vibes and zero effs given, this album somehow manages to evoke Igor Stravinsky and Miles Davis, Peter Gabriel and Maurice Ravel, and Giorgio Moroder and Pharaoh Sanders (and other brass provocateurs). Give it a spin and relaaax.
Maggie Sieger
🍴Eating: Savory Pumpkin & Feta Pie
What is it?
Now that it’s (finally!) cooled off in Texas, it’s time for this fall staple from my Australian father-in-law. A kind of Down Under cousin to the traditional American dessert, but with feta and puff pastry. It can be a main or a side dish.
Why I love it.
It’s easy to make — and super tasty. Plus, it reminds everyone of being with family in Oz. It’s great for holiday potlucks because the pie is good warm or at room temperature.
Liz Wishaw
🌲 Exploring: Artist Thomas Dambo’s “Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King” public outdoor art installations
What is it?
A series of 6 larger-than-life whimsical troll sculptures created by Scandinavian artist Dambo using reclaimed objects such as wood in outdoor spaces throughout Washington and Oregon states. The sculptures connect the cultural heritages of Coast Salish tribal communities and Scandinavian traditions.
Why I love it.
I get to combine all my faves: getting outside and biking trails, exploring communities and seeing amazing public art that represents the best of this area — while reminding me to check in with my inner child and gaze in awe.