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⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Beans) An animated film about a city that banishes all canines to trash island. The mayors nephew sets out to the island to try to find his bodyguard dog/pet, and soon finds out there’s a conspiracy going on in an attempt to kill all dogs! Such a great movie! Really cool animation style and an incredible voice cast; Brian Cranston, Scarlett Johannson, and Bill Murray to name a few. This movie never takes itself too serious but was genuinely hilarious. The ragtag squad of dogs have really funny dialogue and the story was charming. A dog really is a man’s best friend!

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) Amazing.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) I am usually not into stand-up, so it was a stretch for Tim to convince me to watch this. By 5 minutes into episode one I was laughing out loud and this show is just genuinely hilarious. The fact that they improv this is mind-blowing to me. It just feels so good to laugh this much amidst a generally depressing pandemic. As Tim said, episode 3 is easily the worst, but man these guys are funny. highly highly recommend

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) Robots? 10/10. Plot? Ehhhh. I've never seen any of the other Transformers movies but this didn't really make me want to watch the rest of them. I just had SO MANY QUESTIONS, and not the I-Probably-Just-Needed-To-Watch-The-Other-Movies kind. The first being WHY are they all Earth cars when they've never been to Earth before?? And why do they speak English with an American accent?? Anyway. This was 80% ridiculous and 20% robot-punching fun. I had a pretty good time. The teenage sideplot was kinda weird and out of place. The romance was pleasantly reasonably-paced! It got a pass from me. And I do enjoy robots. And Bumblebee was REALLY cute. Like shockingly so. Loved him. So not a total loss.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Beans) This is a published book and therefore I’m reviewing it. I never met Aunt Anne but I felt like I knew her from hearing all the stories Joe would tell me. In this short but powerful biography, Friesen does a great job of revealing a complicated person in all her pain and glory. I really appreciated this and it made me feel like I knew Anne personally. Was emotionally moved and stirred reading this. Extra points because I know the author.

⭐ 6.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) This show is slowly declining in my opinion. I'm just enjoying it less and less. I don't like that it's a new bad guy or new crisis each season, it doesn't keep you wanting more after you finish a season. I just wanna know how a guy masters airbending and meditation to the spirit world literally as soon as he gets his powers and without a teacher??????????

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) AMAZING. This movie was everything I thought it would be and more. I loved seeing Awkwafina in a serious role, I thought she did an amazing job. This movie really just gave me all the feels. When she said that she'll never be able to process that her grandma is dead and when she goes back to China to visit, it'll be too hard. I never heard anything so accurate, it's my fear when I go back to Mexico and I liked seeing it portrayed in this movie. I understood both sides to be honest, why not let someone believe they don't have cancer, it's a tough diagnosis. But I'm not sure I agree with the ethics.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) I thought this book was really beautiful. It doesn't have much of a plot, although the background story is that the Indian slum Heaven is about to get bulldozed, and some women are trying to prevent that. But the bulk of the story revolves around 5 preteen girls who are best friends. We learn about who they are, how they grew up, and about some of their family members too. But the focus is always on the women of this Bangalore slum. I just felt like I learned so much about what it means to be a woman in India, and especially a poor woman who is just doing her best to protect her family. The mothers really shone in this book, but so did the younger girls. The way they loved and supported each other, and were striving for a happier life. I appreciated the diversity in the book too. We had a trans girl, a blind girl, and a lesbian. Some were really good at school, and some were not. One was just really good at building. They each had their ow...

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) This was a pretty good movie considering the violence in it. I loved the team of a serious guy, a goofy guy and his daughter! Ryan Gosling is a HILARIOUS goofy guy. It's a good comedy-action movie if that's what you're in the mood for.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) It's kind of difficult to continue to review a show for every season. This season wasn't a favourite for me, it was the last two episodes that really got me. I didn't connect with the new companion as much as the others so it was hard for me to become as invested in this season compared to the others seasons. The last episode really blew my mind and I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE FEMALE DOCTOR. FINALLY!!!

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) I thought this book was really good. I didn't like it as much as the first one. I am still in love with the fact that the main character is a very powerful female, and that she isn't just a woman who just wants to trust and find love, but a woman who is blood-thirsty murderer. I also really liked that just because you kill the bad guy it doesn't mean it's all sunshine and rainbows after but that there are many struggles afterwards. I was disappointed about the ending, and the happiness of a beloved character, but I enjoyed continuing to explore this world that Brandon created and I can't wait to read to find out how Vin will solve the next crisis.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by kare) Wow. WOWOWOW. I finished this book not 10 minutes ago, and I am sitting here in awe. I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book that has left me in this state at its conclusion. I’m talking mind-blown, jaw on the floor, tears of every kind of emotion streaming down my face, completely speechless... just wow. This book is BEAUTIFUL. Written by a Zoologist, the imagery she paints about the marshlands of North Carolina and its natural inhabitants is breathtaking. The story, both a coming-of-age tale and a crime drama, is heart-wrenching and gripping until the very last page. Delia made me feel so deeply for the characters she created. I didn’t want it to end, but I also couldn’t put it down. I won’t say anything more than this: PLEASE read this book. And then tell me when you’re done so I can have another person to scream about it with me. Edited to add: beware of a handful of risqué moments throughout Kya’s teen and early adult years. They definitely cau...

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Tim) I think both these guys are hilarious are on their own, so when I saw they had a special coming out together I was excited. This series is just 3 episodes, and is a recording of their live 2-man improv show. I really enjoyed the first two, and laughed harder than I have in a while. I found the goofy directions that their stories took really funny, and was impressed by their ability to think on their feet. Doing improv would be a nightmare for me, so watching them pull it off was pretty effective. Middleditch in particular really makes each character unique, and often just his facial reactions and demeanor were enough to make me laugh. Unfortunately I didn't love the third episode, but I guess that's just the way comedy goes. A unique watch during quarantine, and a nice change from my usually drama-heavy TV list.

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) This was a random, late night audio book borrow, and actually ended up being quite good. The storyline sounds lame and cliche (woman finds a man on the beach who has temporary amnesia...yes, AMNESIA, and they predictably fall in love with each other as they work to discover who he is), but I found it rather intriguing and suspenseful. Other chapters describe the backstory and we keep guessing who this man will end up being. Not a bad read/listen!

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Will) This is a ten-part documentary about Michael Jordan. It mostly focuses on the 1997-98 Chicago Bulls team, when Jordan won his 6th championship. Given the complete lack of sports lately, I'm really enjoying this. I also know almost nothing about Jordan other than his reputation and global fame. I've never really seen him play other than grainy old YouTube videos for the most part, and I don't really know anything about his early career. I'm only four episodes in (because that's all they've released so far), but I'm already looking forward to next Monday when Netflix releases the next two episodes! Edit: finished it, and the whole series is great. One thing that stuck out to me is how emotionally draining it is to constantly be winning so that people expect you to win and take it for granted that you will. And how difficult it is to even want to win when you've already done it so much.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) Great, intense show that creates a lot of mystery and intrigue and then puts all of the pieces together at the end expertly. The Watchmen universe is probably the most dynamic of superhero universes along with XMen (though let's be real, evolution just doesn't work like that) and I honestly wish this wasn't the only season. I feel like there is a lot to explore, though I respect the showrunners just telling the story they wanted to tell. Lots of great commentary on race and politics as well as some good sci-fi stuff about the nature of time, power and omnipotence. Probably my favorite show this year so far.

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Beans) A Blackthorn Key Adventure book #4 This book felt like a filler book. Deviated from the main plot and felt unnecessary. That being said I still enjoyed it for the most part. Was actually pretty dark and touched on some heavy topics. It also strengthened the characters relationship and was a unique way of storytelling. I wasn’t sure how he was gonna keep it interesting but he did a decent job. One more qualm I have with this series is he made them wayyyy too young to be making such wise decisions. In my mind they’re young adults but are supposed to be 14-16 years old. But again, I’m reading them because they’re easy to read, I can fly through them and they occupy my brain but they’re still a good time.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) "Pain is not tragic. Pain is magic. Suffering is tragic. Suffering is what happens when we avoid pain and consequently miss our becoming.” I like Glennon. She's an interesting person and writer. I've followed her online for years, and have read her past memoirs and really appreciated them. This one was supposed to be her best one yet. It had its moments of intense beauty and wisdom, like in the passage quoted above, and they are the reason I rated this book as high as I did. I appreciated her personal story, and wish the book could have spent more time on the narrative of her life. Instead, it was mostly a collection of short, disjointed essays with her personal stories sprinkled throughout. There is honestly not much in this book that you wouldn't already find in her Instagram and Facebook posts from the last three years. Another thing that bothered me was how she confessed that her last book, Love Warrior, was kind of based ...

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) Another anime! It was short and sweet, about two high schoolers who went to the same middle school and were starting a bit of a romance when he moved away suddenly. Now they start going to the same high school and they're both very different from who they used to be. I thought it'd be mostly a romance, but I was pleasantly surprised that it was more about friendship. They find a group of friends, and she learns to stop pretending to be someone else, and he learns to open up again. There's also a really sweet female friendship that subverted a lot of the tropes I usually see. I was just a bit sad that there wasn't a ton of closure (I suspect they were hoping for a second season that didn't happen), but I was okay with the open-ended final scenes too. It was light and not as over-the-top as a lot of shoujo anime.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This is a bonafide Big Book. It's a really chunky historical novel that spans a few decades and is set in New Zealand, beginning during the early years of the British colonization. Two women go to New Zealand to get married to men they don't know for different reasons, but essentially for a chance at a different life. Let's just say things do NOT go very smoothly. It's a quite sprawling book, as we get to know lots of the people they come into contact with in these tiny colonies, and as the women have kids, who also grow up. They face lots of hardships (trigger warning for sexual abuse), but I wouldn't call it a tragedy. I learned so much about New Zealand, which I admittedly knew very little about. I'm glad that the Maori played a significant role, and it did show how they were treated badly (not as badly as the indigenous peoples in North America, thank goodness). I think the Maori would be okay with how they're p...

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This book is super short - less than 2 hours on audio. It's a memoir/collection of essays written by am Indian-Canadian trans woman, who was teased as a child for being too feminine, and now is considered not feminine enough to be a "real girl." Both before and after transition, she has been treated badly by men, and explains why they make her afraid. It was interesting (and sad) to see where our experiences are similar and different, since I'm a cis white woman. But I could still relate in a lot of ways. She has a really unique perspective on masculinity and femininity both, and I appreciated her insight. I appreciated that it's not just a man-bashing book, and she doesn't give women a free pass either. It made me consider again a lot of my own internalized misogyny. I actually wished this book was longer, because I was really interested in what she had to say. But it's also nice that it's short, because that...

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) I think this might be my favorite Disney movie that we've watched during quarantine. My boy Robin truly carries - he's legit funny the whole way through. But the music is amazing, the story is good as far as kid's movies go, and you know what? I was even a little drawn into the romance! I totally dig this couple of two outrageously attractive animated people. The cartoon version is just so far superior as it gave life to not only Genie, but the monkey, the carpet and the parrot as well. Great stuff.

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) Not bad. Some funny moments, but not my favorite Disney movie. Could definitely use some songs!

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) I feel like I'm going to catch some flack for this because this movie was just made to get tens. And I did really like it, and I appreciated the cultural complications. But I also just thought it was kinda boring and I didn't really relate to Awkwafina very much, maybe because I've never been close to a grandparent before. Overall I just think it's hard to base a full length movie around one concept with not much else going on.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Anita) WOW! I don't remember the last time I shed this many tears during a movie. It was an emotional roller coaster. I just don't know what else to say.. I loved everything about it!

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Beans) Book #3 in the Blackthorn Key Adventure series. We going international! Our main character Christopher and best friend Tom are invited to dine with England’s king for saving England during the plague, but during the evening there’s an assassin that makes an attempt on the kings life! Clues lead the team to believe that the assassin will attempt to kill the kings sister, and so Christopher and gang are going to Paris to help protect the royal sister and stop the assassin. As these books progress I feel like they get more mature. There’s more violence, a greater threat level, and even some permanent physical damage done to the characters. Just an inkling of a romance beginning too. A cool history lesson as well because we learn about the Knights Templar which is a crazy story in and of itself. I keep reading these books because I need something light and quick during this time and it’s the perfect series for it.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Will) Most movies manage to give you an emotional connection with one or two characters, but I think I had at least five here which easily made up for any other imperfections in the movie. I think I'll remember the entire (extended) family for a long time. I think this was also the best possible time to watch this movie - real life is more difficult right now, and this movie is full of so many positive, powerful emotions.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) A biography of Robin Williams. Super interesting book, especially because Robin was an interesting, complicated person. So many crazy highs and lows, and just a wild, breakneck life. I feel like he lived his life at a million miles an hour. This is a sizeable book, yet at times the author would just mention films he did in passing because to go into detail would take an eternity. He just seemed to do so much, and if you check out his filmography, there are countless entries I had no idea existed. I have a new admiration for him, and I think a better understanding, and it has made me want to watch a lot of his lesser known movies. This has been possibly my favorite celebrity biography.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) I'd wanted to watch this ever since I saw a scene on YouTube that just killed me, and fortunately that wasn't the only great scene. This movie was genuinely hilarious but the humor is absurdly dark. I really like a lot of roles Ryan Gosling has done, but I didn't know he was this funny of an actor. However, this movie is still far too racy and R rated to really recommend.

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) Loved this season!! So funny, so cute. Appa is just my fave. Perfect show to watch in these depressing times.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Cwiper) This comic was phenomenal. It is a 6 issue mini series about family, honour, love and a badass God of blades. The stories good, but the art is what makes this truly top notch. The use of colour used to create a beautiful backdrop on which to tell the story is what made me enjoy every page.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Tim) This show gets better every single season, and I can't wait for the final season. The drama really amps up, and there are moments of Breaking Bad - esque action and "how are they possibly gonna get out of this!?" scenarios. I hated this show in the first two seasons, and thought it was boring and slow. And it probably was. But all that groundwork is what makes the later seasons so worth it, and I feel as connected to these characters as I did through Breaking Bad. You won't catch me saying this is better than Breaking Bad, because it's not. It's a really different show with the same style. And as the show gets closer to the Breaking Bad timeline we are moving away from filing papers in law offices to lawyers representing the cartel, and boy is it exciting! Knowing who is and isn't in Breaking Bad would seem like a spoiler, but they have told the stories of the new characters really well, and the anticipation of not know...

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Tim) Many say this is the greatest movie of all time, but I unfortunately can't agree. I think a huge part of that is how revolutionary the camera work and effects and other movie making magic was for it's time. Even the story telling through flashbacks I believe was pretty novel. And while I did enjoy the story, in which a promising and successful man becomes a bad person, it was hard to not compare it to the 80 years of movies that have been inspired by it since. I have visited the mansion of the man who the main character is based on, which made me more interested than I probably would have been otherwise. And I did enjoy the movie. It's just really hard to rate something when you are expecting a masterpiece going in.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) I read the graphic novel version of this book, which was a neat experience. The original was written in the early 90s, I think, but this was just released this year. It was my first time reading it, but I felt like the art style matched Butler's writing perfectly. One thing the illustrations did was show how bleak this story is. It's the near future and Americans are living in a post-apocalyptic world, because of course they are. (They do mention that Canada is much better off!) Chaos, danger, drugs, violence, no water, all of that. Lauren lives with her family in a walled community, but she knows it can't last and is trying to convince everyone to leave. And then looters come and attack the community and HER WHOLE FAMILY DIES. Lauren finds some people and they start making their way north, and Lauren forms her own beliefs on God and kind of tries to start a new religion.  Almost nothing good or happy happens in this whole book, a...

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) Finally getting to more of Chimamanda's backlist! This is actually her debut novel, which is really impressive, and this one is set entirely in Nigeria. The main character is 15-year-old Kambili, and I suppose this book is primarily a coming-of-age novel. Her father is an extremely religious man, who is generous and loving towards his kids... but also abusive and domineering, and really strict when his family does anything he sees as sin. Her family starts changing when she and her brother go to stay with their aunt for the first time and experience a household where laughing and discussion are allowed. This book addresses a lot of themes, primarily religion. I had no idea that so many Nigerians had been converted to Catholicism by missionaries, and seeing the clashes between this "white religion" and their traditional cultures was really fascinating. The father, who reminded me of my own dad in many ways, was also really interes...

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by Sydney) I've gotta be honest.. I expected to like this one a lot more. It had the same cute humour that the first one did, and some of the songs were great. I found that a few of them just really didn't fit in with the rest of the movie. I also had a hard time following the story line in terms of the 4 spirits, maybe that's just me, but I didn't understand until I looked it up what was going on during the movie. Still a good feel-good movie for any age group!

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) What a great movie. I think I only like it because it was my favourite movie as a kid, but I don’t care. A troublesome kid finds a friend and family who finally wants him. What’s better than that? That the friend is an Orca. When Willy makes that jump, wow.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) This book captured my attention immediately. I was looking forward to a good mystery and I really enjoyed this one. At first I didn’t like how it jumped from different characters’ perspectives from different timelines, but it all worked out so it was worth it. I liked that the mystery was not a murder or something dark. It was a good book about family and how knowing your biological roots makes a difference. Although does it? I understand that you want to know where you come from, but should you stop living your life and caring for a family that does love you just because you aren’t related biologically? That was what bugged me the most about the book, that dropped everything and everyone when she found out she was adopted. Maybe that’s just me. Thank you Maggie for lending me this book, I finally read it.

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) Spoilers This show definitely got better as it went along. I really loved all of the character development. The family members became less self-absorbed and when they showed decent human emotions and selflessness it was really touching. This show definitely made me tear up, for example when John stood up for his friends and the town, when Patrick came out to his parents and when he proposed, AND Stevie’s performance!?! Ugh I love it. I’m not sure if this show is considered a drama, but I appreciated that when there was drama or some sort of a ‘pickle’, the show didn’t drag it on, it moved on in a light hearted way. If you’re looking for something that will lift your spirits and touch on some important topics in a way that’s not depressing, this is the show for you!

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This show with its high school characters and setting on the streets is so high drama and high intensity, but I think it's the group of friends at its center that keeps me watching. This season felt less high-stakes than the one before, as the kids search for a former gang leader to avoid threats, but I could still feel the tension. There were some really funny moments courtesy of Jamal, and some eye-roll moments due to Cesar's subpar dramatic acting. I relate with Monse, who just wants to keep the crew together. I still appreciate the diversity of the cast, and the portrayal of life in the dangerous part of town. Something about this show just keeps me coming back every season.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Beans) Book number 2 in the Blackthorn Key Adventures series. We find our protagonist left to be the apprentice of a master-less apothecary shop. It’s late 1600s and a plague is ravaging London. Not the Black Plague, but London was hit with a series of plagues in the 1600s that killed around 100,000 people altogether. Food is scarce, money is nonexistent, and there’s a prophet that can predict who will die from the plague next. Another really fun read! The author has like a few degrees in theoretical physics so you know he’s smart smart. The book also seemed really well researched. Really fast paced, lost of puzzles and a grand tell-all towards the end. Again, amazing boy to boy friendships and a new friend joins the team! I legit shed a tear at the last chapter because it was so touching and heartfelt. Was also too eerily similar to us living through a plague and thousands of people dying while no one can find a cure..

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) I have a hard time knowing how to rate something that I can tell is probably objectively good but I just didn't personally enjoy. The writing and acting are obviously brilliant. I think it's a very realistic and poignant telling of a marriage falling apart. But, like, what a bummer, man. This is not the reason I personally watch movies. I hate watching the protagonists do shitty things. They both could have and should have done better. Charlie was a crappy husband but Nicole did not have to sic a lawyer on him like that and threaten to take away everything that makes him happy. So yeah. Watch it if you want to be bummed out, I guess.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) Watched this entire season in 3 days, just for kicks. You'd think it'd be relaxing to watch this show, but it's STRESSFUL. You get instantly attached to the contestants and want them all to win. The hosts are kind of annoying sometimes, but I like that they're super nice to contestants and all the contestants become really good friends and always cheer for each other. And that the judges aren't too mean! This was my first full season so not sure how it compares to others, but I had a great time. Who knew there were so many baked goods I didn't even know exist?

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Anita) Wow. This book was unexpected. It started out almost like a detective story and ended up dropping *so many* beautiful nuggets of wisdom, my favourite of which centered around waiting better. Thinking about how impatiently I wait for things to happen was incredibly eye opening to me and showed me how much better life could be if I was better at waiting. It also had an incredibly beautiful romance and lots of platonic love too (father/daughter, neighbour, mentor). It was just beautiful and will stay with me for a long time!

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) This movie did exactly what it set out to do: it entertained us. It was just silly fun and the creators knew going in that that was the whole point. It's the kind of thing we need right now. Lots of laughs, lots of fun action with top-notch special effects. I am still laughing at, "Is that Barbara's boy?" Jack Black, Kevin Hart, and Dwayne Johnson all killed it again. (Karen Gillan had a pretty easy role this time around, since her character has kind of grown into her avatar.) It's not deep; it wasn't necessary; I don't know if anyone even asked for it; but it was a gift nonetheless.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This book follows two character - Ren, an 11-year-old houseboy who is tasked by his dead master to find his finger and return it to his grave, and Ji Lin, a dance hall girl who ends up with the finger and gets caught up in the whole affair. This book is set in 1930s Malaysia, when there were still British people doing some colonizing. It blends Malaysian mythology and superstitions in a really cool way, and while it's mostly historical, it also had cool elements of speculative fiction that involved dreams and communing with the dead. I got super into it and had to find out what would happen and how everything tied together. I wasn't a huge fan of the romance, as it was unnecessary and involved step-sibling romance, but it also didn't detract too much and was easily ignored. Definitely a very enjoyable read.

⭐ 5.0/10 (Originally written by tbergen) Bad Scottish accents, John Smith and Mad Eye Moody. The Irish character who is played by a Scottish fellow who is attempting to have an Irish accent which comes out English, is the best character. There is nothing quite like a battle scene consisting primarily of both sides running across a large open field toward each other. We know they’re prepared for battle, but will they ever get there? Almost three hours of nacho related material.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by tbergen) Good quality YA action packed and full of mystery featuring a cute love story. There are about 7 more books in this series and she keeps writing more. Although there were some unsolved mysteries, I just can’t commit to the whole series. The storyline was reasonably in-depth but it’s clearly written as an intro novel and I’m sure there is much more action to come!

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) A rewatch, but I only saw it once years ago. I loved it then and I love it now. Classic Coen brothers stuff here where the funny dialogue is always the best feature. I also just love this concept of wild stuff happening to regular people, and I thought the show did an awesome job following this theme. A great kickoff into the FEU (Fargo Extended Universe).

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Chaives) I binged this Netflix original months ago. I haven’t written a review because I didn’t know how to. It seemed somehow too blasphemous to really rate. I felt like that kid from the beginning of John Mulaney’s Sack Lunch Bunch , “‘so what’s the tone of this? Ironic or for real?’” Because the opening sequence is the main character getting railed, totally breaking 4th wall talking to the audience about the dude she’s with? I was super confused. But this show has stuck with me. It struck me in such a way that I still think about scenes from it months later anyway. It’s a tough show to watch. It’s cringey and maddening and heart breaking. But I think that’s what makes it so incredibly amazing. It’s full of stories of real life shit. But it’s also full of character development, and moments of humanity that remind you: we are all human, and we are all going through different phases of life, so don’t judge a book by its cover - or don’t judge a tv show b...

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) Between this, Tobey Maguire Spiderman and the Dark Knight trilogy, the early 2000s were truly the golden age of superhero movies. Along with those, I appreciate that this movie is willing to take itself seriously once in a while and comment on meaningful themes. Also, this movie is just solid with an incredible cast working in an awesome universe. It loses a bit for me because I've already seen it so many times and this late night rewatch wasn't especially impactful, but it sure was a great reminder of how badass characters like Ian McKellen Magneto and Patrick Stewart Xavier are.

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) This movie didn't do well and I wanted to come in with a hot take saying how it's super underrated. This is my perfect kind of movie, but still I admit it's not great. It's perfectly fine, but it drags on towards the end, and you can really tell this is Ridley's attempt to recreate the magic in Gladiator rather than tell a Robin Hood story. I think Robin Hood has a lot of potential as a character these days, and this movie kinda wastes that potential. Still, as a medieval war movie, it's not bad.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Beans) Sam Hunt is a country artist that tippy toes the line of pop and R&B; I know it sounds terrible but guys he’s so good! He talks/raps/sings in his songs and he’s got a voice like velvet. He very much sounds like a country artist with his guitar picks and banjos but puts a really modern spin on it. I saw him live and it’s one of my favourite shows to date. Really great energy and songs you wanna cruise to. There are a lot of songs on this album that I really love but 2016, Sinning With You, and Hard to Forget might be my favourites.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) Finally got around to listening to this audio book! Such a great read. Anytime I think I'm failing as a parent, I can just remind myself of this story. I kind of love the idea of a nomadic life where you just up and leave whenever you want to find another place to live, buuuut not quite Walls style. Also, that child welfare worker DEFINITELY should have returned.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Beans) A really fun movie about spies, gadgets, teamwork, and non-violence?! Great voice casting and such a cool message! Loved his commitment to active peace making and made me think about my own morals and principles when it comes to the topic. Laughed a lot and was just giddy throughout because it was so cool!

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Tim) This show was unlike anything I have seen before. An 8 part limited series from Alex Garland (who did another favourite of mine, Ex Machina), this sci-fi show hooked me 5 minutes into the first episode. Nick Offerman plays a tech CEO that has a secret division working on spooky stuff, and that's basically as far as you can go without diving in. The score has some really disturbing themes, but lots of variance in the instruments and unexpected sounds making you feel uneasy. I clearly don't know how to describe music, but it's awesome. It's also a show full of images, many of which are also unsettling, and all of which I won't soon forget. The last episodes really had my mind racing, and I am still a bit confused with how it concluded. I think that is what makes it all so unforgettable. It tackles big ideas like free-will vs determinism, multi-verses, and God, all in a way that isn't corny, despite how seriously this show...

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) Just a movie we flipped on while rummaging through Disney Plus, so I didn't have every high expectations, but I thought it was better than I remembered. I was pretty blown away by the visuals and I thought most of the characters were pretty funny. But I have the same complaint I had as a kid which is that scenes near the end are too long and too weird to keep my interest.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Tim) Second time playing this through, and it's a masterpiece. Environment, soundtrack, story telling through the world, it's all perfect. It's difficult, and this time around I did some more of the impossible platforming challenges, and on completion felt like a god. I'm not completely done yet, but I love coming back to it to tackle all the bosses. There are just so hidden goodies and interesting corners of the world that make all the exploration so worth it. I recommend this game to everyone. I even recommended to Brandon Sanderson at one of his book signings. If there is one game I wish I could have made, it would be this one. The sequel can't come soon enough.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Tim) Best season yet. The mystery gets even better, and it ends with a couple of thrilling episodes. This season also features the most meaningful character death so far, and reveals some shocking connections between the main characters. Hard to say anything more without spoiling or getting into the weeds, but the show really starts to reward you this season, and even as some questions get answered the mystery grows deeper. Wraps up with an iconic ending scene, and sets the stage for the thrilling fourth season. Would deserve a 10 if it wasn't for the 23 episode runtime. It was on network tv so they had to stretch things about a bit, but that just means not every episode is great.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) Great movie. It’s another fun movie, not too much to say. The songs are great, especially How Does She Know. What does annoy me is her shrieking, gasps and crying...

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) ”sort of spoiler alert?” Easily the best season so far. I’ve definitely been the most into this season! The main characters still frustrate the heck out of me (Jack and Kate are particularly infuriating these days) but they’ve introduced some new main characters that I actually like!!! Desmond I quite love 💕 Juliette is already my favourite female character. Ben is SO GOOD. This season was exciting, tense, filled with the usual mystery, hit me hard in the feels a few times, and the season’s last ~7 episodes were crazy. So good. I left a half star off for Nicky and Paolo and for how many times I yelled out loud at Kate for being stupid.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) I decided to pick this one back up because Maggie told me it would get better, and it did! Well it got more interesting but it was frustratingggggg. I had to take breaks from reading it because I would get so angry. If you are interested in reading it, you do have to suffer through boring hockey stuff for the first 130 pages, but it’s worth it. Reading this book has made me hate sport culture even more and I have decided my children will never play sports.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) Well, Pixar did it again. I cried BUCKETS. I always find Pixar movies fresh, surprising, and touching, with the most unexpected plot lines. Two elf brothers try and only half-succeed to resurrect their late dad using magic, and end up going on a quest with only his legs?? And on the way come to understand the importance and beauty of brotherhood??? How do the writers come up with this stuff?? And how does it always WORK??? For some reason one of my favourite things in this movie was how Barley/Chris Pratt was nothing but supportive when he learned his little brother had a natural talent for magic, even though he's the one who's always been fascinated by magic. Never even a hint of resentment or jealousy. He's the ultimate big brother. I think I have to agree with my 8-year-old in that I don't love the character design, but whatever. Everything else was pure magic.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) Loved the first arc of this season, but the second one was soooo boring. Obnoxious villain, low stakes... would have been happier if it was just about the school festival and helping Eri adjust to real life. But regardless, I loved some of the characters we got to meet and see more of this season (Mirio! Tamaki! Kirishima! Hawks!!) and some of the fight scenes were REALLY cool. I don't like them trying to make me like Endeavour. No forgiveness.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) I kept putting off watching the finale because I didn’t want this show to end. It has been such a joy to watch—a show I can count on for a light-hearted, beautiful, genuinely funny 20ish minutes of television. The post-finale-documentary might just be my favourite piece of television I’ve watched in ages, it had be sobbing. SOBBING. (Tim can attest he had to come check on me in his concern) I think maybe hindsight is giving me a rosier (haha) view of the series. I know season 1 wasn’t great, and it took a while for me to get hooked. But I can honestly rank seasons 2-5 among my favourite shows I’ve watched. Season 6 dipped a bit for me, but man the final few episodes and the way their chapters close were so wonderful and brilliantly thought out. This family is one I truly love, I am so invested in these people and all the growth they’ve found over the course of the show. If anything good comes out of quarantine I think it’s that the world has ...

⭐ 7.5/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) I’m a sucker for a movie that tugs the heart-strings! I sometimes think the mark of a good story is its ability to make me cry—and this one ticks that box. I didn’t think it was all that funny, but I can look past that because I think the story was PRECIOUS and the legs genuinely made me laugh out loud multiple times. Very cute movie. Very cute. Plus I love Tom 💕

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by Tim) I really wanted to like this one more than I did. Not as many laughs as I was hoping for, and I found myself kind of bored in the middle. I did like the final fight scene though, where the hero must use all the skills he forged on his journey. And of course it packs the expected Pixar emotional punch. Just felt disinterested for most of it.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) Midoriya continues his quest to be the best superhero there ever was!!! All Might has retired and the world (or maybe just Japan? unclear) is worried about who will be the new symbol of peace. There were two major arcs in this season, and while I enjoyed the first one (rescue little Eri!), the second one (Gentle Criminal, the lamest villain ever) didn't do it for me. I also wish we had gotten more scenes of Class 1A's hijinks as they prepared to perform their concert. I kind of miss the class's scenes together overall, and think they're going a little overboard with the constant introductions of more heroes. My favourite episode of the season was possibly the random one in the middle with Aoyama being super weird and fabulous. So this season wasn't my favourite, but I'm still excited for the next season! More Todoroki, please!

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Chaives) The new Disney/Pixar movie Onward has everything you expect in a classic Disney movie except with more Dungeons & Dragons so it’s way cooler than any Disney movie you’ve seen before. The story follows two brothers on a harrowing quest to spend one final day with their late father. This movie has meaningful, and heartwarming underlying messages of the power of brotherly love, and of believing in yourself to your fullest capabilities. Onward captures the essence of a bond that is forged through fire in a tale alight with magic, mystery, laughs, and in the end — tears. A must watch for people who love family movies.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) Oh Tom Holland, I would watch any movie for you. Seriously though, the voice acting and animation in this movie were wonderful. The characters were wonderful and I laughed a lot. And the themes surrounding non-violence were so good! Wish they were fleshed out a little more, but still, so nice to see. And of course I love a movie about friendship and teamwork and unexpected heroes. Didn't quite have the wow factor I wanted, but still, I had a great time. And again, Tom Holland: let me know if you're free on Thursday.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) I'm always a sucker for coming of age movies and this was no different. I appreciated the realism in this one and how the main character has a complicated relationship with pretty much everyone. Felt like the female version of Boyhood a lot of times, which is great company.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) A novella about a girl who smuggles herself into the cart of the travelling librarians so they can help her become "upright," but they turn out to be a group of gun-toting, queer librarian SPIES on horseback helping other people like them find safety. Cool! At first I thought I was reading a historical Western, but turns out it's set in the near future, in some kind of dystopian America where fuel has run out (hence the horseback riding) and the government is trying to write queer people out of their history. Again, it's a novella, so the author didn't go too deep into the world-building, but the story was fun and very unique.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) I'm pretty sure I read this in grade school, so it was cool to revisit it. It's speculative fiction set during the Depression in Saskatchewan, and kids in Robert's small town are disappearing, and lots of other weird stuff is happening. Plus there's a creepy guy that has shown up and has a Mirror of Erised that seems to be bewitching everyone and making them forget that their kids are missing. I really liked the slightly creepy but not scary tone of this book. It reminded me of Coraline, and the setting was perfect for it.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) The fictionalized story of a real girl, the daughter of the last Count of Flanders, and it was originally written in Dutch. It's about Marguerite, who was unfortunately born a girl during the Middle Ages, and her father is a real jerk about not having a male heir. Marguerite is pretty awesome, learning how to sword fight and running wild with the squires. It was a cool look into life during the Middle Ages, especially since it took place outside of England. Marguerite spent so much time trying to be free from the confines of her position, and then it didn't really end how I wanted it to, but I guess there's not that much you can do when it's based on a true story... The romance was also handled pretty awkwardly, but it was written by two men.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) I was surprised at how much I liked this movie! I watched it because of Tom Holland, but I also really liked the message. It teaches about the cycle of violence and finding non-violent solutions, and I don't think I've ever seen that in a major movie before. Also of course it was over the top, but I laughed out loud multiple times.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) This was a really great read/listen, especially during middle of the night feeds (Natalie, not me). The story pulled me in, but it wasn't too intense or sad. Made me reflect on how the past shapes us and how we allow it to shape us. Plus, it's read by Tom Hanks, and he killed it.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) Hooray for co-op puzzle games! You and a friend are stuck in different parts of a spooky, trap-filled mansion, one as the explorer and the other as the librarian, who helps them solve each puzzle. I started playing this one with Maggie two years ago, and then quit after a while because it was really hard and made us motion sick. But I tried it again today with an online friend and it was a lot of fun! Still hard, but doable with only a tiiiiiiny bit of cheating (it's because I'm bad with maps!). A little bit too creepy at one point but I survived. (It's also free on Steam!)

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Beans) Finished my first year so here’s my review. I really felt like I didn’t know what I was doing this year. Just barely scraping by with my crops and almost dying in the mines. That being said, with the help of some friends year 2 will be the year I take over Pelican Town. But seriously, this game is so fun. I think about my farm all day at work and how I want to improve it. I harass my animals by giving them terrible names and play pranks on the townspeople by giving them terrible gifts. I’m a terrible neighbour but they will learn to fear and love me. Who knew a virtual farm would have me so invested??

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Beans) An action packed Disney adventure about finding Atlantis. I feel like this is such an underrated Disney movie. It had a great story, amazing characters and really great art. Watched this with my sister who had never seen and it was such a joy. Highly recommend this watch!

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) Just fun, joyful television. I think it's great that the creators decided to end this show on a high note. This season felt like a celebration from beginning to end. Funny, heartwarming, and a little bit tear-jerking. David Rose has my heart forever.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) (Themis Files Book 2) I don't know how to feel about these books. I really like the plot. Alien robots with mysterious intent? Yes, please. I really don't like the format (a collection of files -- interviews, recordings, journals, emails, etc) that reveal the story. It feels unnecessarily contrived, and makes it harder to feel with the characters. I hardly even cared when important central characters died. And I really don't think audiobook was the ideal way to read them, either. But alas, that's what I did. As with the first book, I kinda felt "meh" by the end of this one.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by KathleenQ) As a self-proclaimed science fiction fan, I thought I owed it to myself to read a prominent book in the genre written by someone other than a white man. This 1980 classic was written by a black woman, and I feel her identity really gives the story a unique perspective. It's hard to categorize under a single genre, though -- this book is a more a combination of science fiction, horror, historical fiction and fantasy. The story centers on two main characters who were born with special abilities: Anyanwu is a 300-year-old African woman with such perfect control over her body she can constantly heal and rejuvenate. She can even transform her shape any way she chooses,to look like any kind of human or animal. Doro is a 4000-year-old being whose essence/soul/consciousness wears the bodies of other people, moving from one body to another. Through the centuries he has become obsessed with finding other people with special abilities and gathering t...

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) I really enjoyed this classic. I’m surprised I hadn’t watched this earlier. A really great family movie. Absolutely loved how everything was so absurd.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) The perfectly elegant Audrey and the utterly dashing Gregory Peck gallivant around Rome—need I say more? It was a pretty special viewing experience after Tim and I’s recent Rome visit, so cool to see all those sights again through Audrey’s eyes. Audrey makes a rather exceptional princess and I could just watch her all day. The movie itself is cute, and I will forever love it. A classic in my books :)

⭐ 6.0/10 (Originally written by Tim) Pretty cool that it was all filmed on location, but it's still a romantic comedy so I didn't love it. Can't knock it for using tropes, since it's from the 50s and probably invented a lot of them, I just found it kind of boring. Sometimes when I watch older movies the acting feels old timey, I don't know how else to explain it. This one actually felt a bit more modern, with some surprising humour. But there is also a moment where the lead shrieks out of frustration as if she had been stabbed, which scared me and made it feel like a movie from the 50s again.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) We decided to try to find some Jesus-centric watching on Good Friday, and I actually feel this was pretty good and appropriate! I have no idea if half of this was just a bunch of boloney because National Geographic is so sensationalized and ridiculous. But exploring the history is still cool, and I still appreciate the Holy Sepulchre as a historical building, devine or not!

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) My first time watching this classic. Really great, light-hearted fun all around. The poison chalice scene totally killed me.

⭐ 6.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) I had high hopes as Frank Miller wrote Batman: Year One which is one of my favorite Batman stories. But Superman is a hard character to write, and I don't think Frank got it right here. He has a little bit of Snyder syndrome where he wanted to make it dark and serious and meaningful, and Superman just has to be a little lighter. I also feel it's important to focus on Clark the person, but this Superman just felt like a dude with superpowers. It also just strayed a little too far from canon for my liking. Still, the art was great and there were a few good parts. Book 3/3 was solid.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Joseph) One of my favorite biographies to date. I'm not sure people who aren't Tolkien fans would love it, but I actually think it's a very interesting book on its own. The world of language and philology took on new significance for me - his love for them made me love them myself. He was also a quite unique and interesting person, and the author (Carpenter) is both terrific and incredibly well researched. The whole publication process was fascinating also. This is a must for Tolkien fans, and a recommendation for those who for whatever reason are misguided enough to not be a fan.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This is the perfect kind of movie to watch when you just want something soothing and calm. It's a Korean movie about a girl who goes back to the village where she grew up to take a break from city life, then gets caught up in gardening and cooking and reconnecting with old friends. Cue many montages of cooking delicious-looking Korean food and scenes of village life in Korea. As someone who grew up cooking and lived in the countryside, it was oddly familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. It kind of made me want to start growing a garden, and also to start experimenting with food more. Seeing her put so much effort into creating her own recipes and taking the time to cook full meals just for her own enjoyment was kind of inspiring. I also found the scenes with her friends really realistic, relatable, and sweet. It's low on plot, but I loved this look at a different way of life.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This is a book about Ana, who is 10 when war breaks out in Yugoslavia (in 1991 - I had no idea this European genocide took place so recently!). Her parents die in the genocide and she's sent to be adopted in the US. Ten years later, she returns to Zagreb to face her past, and the plot jumps around in time until we finally get the full story at the end. Why did I go ahead and read a book about a genocide? Who even knows. I usually stay away from war books, but maybe just the fact that it wasn't WW2 intrigued me, plus a new setting. It's in the first person, but she doesn't use very emotional language, and I kind of appreciated the detachment. The things I most appreciated were learning about a new culture and country, and also reading about her efforts to fit in - basically hiding her past because it just made her feel more other. Good exploration of what home means as well

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Anita) This was the sweetest book!! It had a glorious happy ending for a lot of people although I was sad it ended right at the beginning of happiness. The characters were so lovable and the plot was really unique. (It was full of other book recs too which was an added bonus!)

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) A really wonderful, refreshing Korean movie about slowing down and understanding yourself. A girl moves back to her tiny hometown after failing her teacher's college entrance exam(?) and rediscovers growing and cooking her own food, while facing some things she ran away from. Honestly just such a nice departure from the usual idea of finding something bigger and better, and instead coming home and growing roots. I didn't always understand characters' motivations for doing things, but it was probably just symbolic and I didn't get it. And that's okay.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Rebecca) I went into this book mostly blind, expecting it to be a silly historical romcom about a young man on a tour of the continent with with his best friend who he's in love with (fun!) but BOY did things keep happening! And in absolutely the best way. A delightful read, tropey and predictable but in ways that I enjoyed. I didn't really love the main character even by the end--he just seemed so irresponsible and flighty, I definitely would NOT fall in love with him. But I did grow fond of him, and I loved the best friend and the sister. And as always, I love an unrealistically happy ending all around. Yay for everything turning out okay for everyone! Not a ton of substance, but that wasn't what I was there for.

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Will) You are Ori, and it's your job to save Nibel, the titular "blind forest." This game is essentially a platformer, and I don't even like platformers, but I think this game is nearly flawless. It's a fantastical nature-heavy setting, and the art is truly wonderful The music is perfect for the art The story is also excellent (so far, 60% in) Gameplay is really well designed and has a few unique twists on typical platformers My one complaint: so far on three separate occasions I've gotten completely stuck, had no idea how to proceed or where to go, and had to consult a walk through on YouTube. I think that's fairly common, but I really don't like doing it as it really takes you out of the flow of the game.

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) This really isn't a great season. I guess I keep watching just because I feel committed at this point, after 3 other seasons. I honestly started watching mostly for the Scottish scenery and accents, but I got interested in where it would go. Shows with time travel always threaten to get ridiculous, and this one kind of is. There's also just so many coincidences and 'accidentlal' meetups, it's eye roll worthy. And how can 2 people get into THAT MANY life threatening situations?? Will I watch the next season? Probably 🤷‍♀️.

⭐ 6.5/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This is kind of like a travel memoir, as the author gets a paid fellowship to go anywhere in the world to write a novel, and she picks a small, uninhabited island that's part of the Falkland Islands. I'm always intrigued by empty, remote places, and I've wondered about this small group of islands close to Antarctica before. I really liked the description of the places she saw and stayed at, and the effect complete isolation can have on someone. But it was disjointed, as she spends a lot of time describing trying to write a novel that never got finished, plus a few of her short stories were included. I didn't get the point of them and tbh, I just skipped them once I realized they were just interrupting the narrative. Some sections were great, but overall mediocre.

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Jess) This was my first time watching this movie and I was blown away!! If you haven't watched this one already, add it to your list. I have never wanted to try gumbo more in my life. Prince Naveen wasn't my favourite prince so my girl Tiana definitely could have done better. Great movie.

⭐ 9.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This was not my first Kate Morton, so I knew what to expect - a historical setting and a mystery that took its time getting to the conclusion. She writes these really tightly-plotted books that just make you feel like she's in total control at all times, and I am always in awe of her skills. This one revolves around a young boy who disappears during a Midsummer's Day party, and a detective who picks up the case 70 years later. At its heart this book is a mystery, but it doesn't feel like a detective novel. It focuses more on the family and their relationships, and discovering the secrets everyone was hiding. Bit by bit the author reveals what happened that night, dropping hints from each of the players involved. The book is pretty long and takes a bit for the action to really get going, but the anticipation of the big reveal just ramps up more and more, and by those last 100 pages my eyes were glued. And the end just feels like a b...

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Jess) How can this movie not be given a ten?? This movie definitely helped fend off the existential dread for a day. The songs are amazing. Also, you can't help but be blown away when she restores the Heart of Tafiti <3

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Will) This movie is another major escalation of the fight with Voldemort, introducing horcruxes and Dumbledore's work to destroy them. Dumbledore vs the inferi was awesome. The ending is stunning and a flawless setup of the final fight.

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by Cwiper) Hey All you cool Cats and Kittens, Take this with a grain of salt due to the world falling apart as I type this review. This documentary about big cats, wildlife zoos and sanctuaries is amazing. Everything in this show is crazy. after the first episode you think, wow this is pretty crazy, then it doubles down...every episode, for 7 episodes. That is 64 times the crazy by the end of it. 64 times. if you need something to take your mind off the COVID apocalypse, this may be the perfect thing! *** please be aware that if the unfair treatment of animals makes you uncomfortable this may not be for you. despite not showing anything explicit, it does imply the unfair treatment of wildlife. it can be very saddening at moments.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Cwiper) I enjoyed this small puzzler of a game. Very reminiscent of Portal, just a much smaller scale.

⭐ 10.0/10 (Originally written by Jess Dyck) What a ride! I’m sad to be done the series and I did as I usually do and re-read the last few chapters a few times in my bid for the books to never end. I’ll admit that this book takes a while to get going, but I think there’s great power in that choice to build the characters’ frustration along with the reader’s. I love this book and am very satisfied with the way it concludes this series. It comes full circle in such powerful ways and we experience all the losses and joys that come along with that. I know many are epilogue haters but I am not—I LOVE the little snapshot into the future, and I think I’d be dissatisfied not knowing that our characters live in happiness decades later. These are still my favourite books. My guess is that will never really change. Just makes me excited to one day share these with a family of my own! Definitive series ranking: #4

⭐ 9.5/10 (Originally written by Joseph) The subtitle is "daily life in the ancient world" which really sums it up well. It goes over what you would expect to experience if you were a slave, peasant, woman, child, soldier or other regular person who never made it into a history book. This book was incredibly enlightening and has to be my favorite history book so far this year. Lots of insight and all explained in very accessible terms. It's an audible exclusive and can only otherwise be accessed through The Great Courses which is not cheap, so I know most people won't be able to read it. But if there is one general history book I would recommend, it might be this one along with Guns, Gems and Steel. My only really complaint is that he really only covers a handful of Western civilizations, with only a fraction of this huge book given to ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt and Persia. But the West is his specialization and so I get that he doesn't want to write outside of his...

⭐ 8.5/10 (Originally written by The Original Susanne) Oof, this was a tough but powerful read (listen). I knew what I was getting myself into based on the author, but it was still so heart wrenching. It's unreal that women live in such restrictive, abusive, awful relationships and environments. The ending was hopeful, but it was an emotional journey.

⭐ 8.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) I read this for my French book club! It's a play from the 40s, with three people who have just arrived in hell and have to spend the rest of eternity together in a locked room. And of course they're all terrible people trying to manipulate each other. It's that classic absurdist humour and style that I studied a bunch in university, similar to Waiting for Godot. It plays with the whole "Hell is other people" theme. We started this before the quarantine started, which was ironic because now everybody is stuck in houses and has to spend so much time with the same people! It also gave me lots of The Good Place vibes. It was an interesting read, and even better once another member taught me what everything meant!

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) Another book written by an Asian-American author! This book revolves around Mei, who has super strict Taiwanese parents who are pushing her to go to medical school, even though she has a huge problem with germs. By now I've read quite a few books with similar themes, so this one doesn't stand out too much. I still read a lot of reviews that said "This is the book I needed as a teenager!", so it might just be that I've read almost all of the books like this, which is kind of likely. I do think it was funnier than most, and the romance was cute but not central to the plot. I know I'm not Chinese/Taiwanese, but I do know a lot of people with Chinese parents, and these ones seemed kind of overboard and too true to stereotype. She discusses Taiwanese culture a lot, and I learned quite a bit. Overall I found it to be fun and light in tone, but still dealt with big cultural and familial issues, which is right up my alley.

⭐ 7.0/10 (Originally written by Magdalene) This movie is dumb, and definitely dumber than the first two, but I still enjoyed it. Still delivered a lot of laughs, the music was great, and I just really appreciated another comedy with a female ensemble cast that is all about friendship. It totally deserves the terrible score on Rotten Tomatoes, but that doesn't mean I won't want to watch it again someday.