A Disability History of the United States by Kim E. Nielsen is a groundbreaking history of the United States through the lens of disability. Sweeping in scope—from before 1492 to the present—this brief introduction to disability history offers readers a solid foundation on which to build their knowledge. Nielsen tells the stories of disabled people through deep research in primary sources with a historian’s eye for trends.
While it might seem odd to say that Lorde and Gawande are in conversation with each other, Lorde‘s and Gawande’s approaches to the system they critique offer parallel and sometimes intersecting perspectives. Furthermore, Lorde has something to offer Gawande. Whereas Lorde’s focus is more on the emotional journey of a patient in treatment, Gawande’s approach is far more focused on the technical aspects. I would’ve liked to have seen a little bit more emotion penetrate the clinical nature of his approach.
Every year, rather than making resolutions that I won’t keep, I set my intention for the year by choosing a word. This year‘s word is imagination. That’s why I chose Professor Ruha Benjamin’s Imagination as my bridge book for the year—the book I started in 2024 and finished in 2025. Just over 4 hours and under 200 pages, Imagination is a thoughtful exploration of not only our own imaginations, but how our society creates collective imaginaries.
Were you listening when Taylor Swift told the heartbreaking story about getting her masters back? I don’t know about you, but I felt that pain in my bones. I wouldn’t call myself a Swiftie, but hearing the back story was a powerful reminder that even our most popular artists struggle to control their own work.
Taylor Swift’s anthem to New York blares in my ears as the train enters the North River tunnels.
8 years since I traveled to the city for fun. Memories cascade across my feed …
You should read this book if you:
—Love Andor and Rogue One
—Believe that all reading is political and enjoy the politics of a galaxy far, far away more than our own
—Enjoyed Obi-Wan’s detective story in Attack of the Clones
—Need some hope to get you through the darkness
I started this newsletter as a daily writing practice to remember the larger events around me. I was feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you are, too. For me, the daily practice has helped me feel less whelmed. Taking action helps me focus on what matters most when the whole world feels like it’s on fire. I also give editorial tips to help you share your story more effectively.
Brotherhood is my favorite Star Wars book so far, and I read my fair share of Star Wars books last year to prepare for the Acolyte.
This book is sure to become a classic among Star Wars fans. I can’t wait for Chen’s next foray into a galaxy far, far away.
You should read the Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi if you:
Think Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) was the true hero of Pirates of the Caribbean.
Observe Talk Like a Pirate Day every year.
Are a woman over 40 who craves adventure, especially if you’re a mom!
Love SA Chakraborty’s City of Brass and The Daevabad Trilogy
Love cozy vibes where a story with even the highest stakes (death and eternal damnation) is still lots of fun.