Spending the last six weeks at home has certainly been an unusual experience for us all. I am lucky enough to be able to continue some of my work from home, but I have still had a lot more time on my hands than I usually would. This has meant I have been discovering a lot more new material to keep myself entertained in all this new found spare time. So, if like me, you are on the look out for some recommendations or new discoveries, here are some of my favourites. Enjoy!
BOOKS
White Teeth by Zadie Smith
Zadie Smith has come so highly recommended, it was about time I read one of her 
books. White Teeth is a fiction novel split into four sections which each delve into the lives of interlinking characters from two families based in North London. The book explores culture, race, religion and class just to name a few recurring themes, and is packed with nformation and references. Although not the easiest of reads (it took me six weeks as there is so much to take in!), it certainly is an interesting book and I look forward to reading more by Zadie Smith.
Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
Although I first read this book last Summer, it is just too good to miss off my favourites list. The polar opposite of White Teeth, Dolly’s non fiction book is brilliant, funny and relatable, discussing everything from friendships and relationships, to drunken parties and your 20’s, to recipes. This book is perfect if you are looking for a refreshing, light-hearted and hilarious read.
PODCASTS
The High Low by Pandora Sykes and Dolly Alderton
The High Low has long been my go-to podcast and is always my first recommendation. Discussing current affairs, top news stories and pop culture, Dolly and Pandora make the perfect, witty and knowledgable pair. I always finish an episode with so many new recommendations and it is the perfect listening for car journeys and walks.
I weigh by Jameela Jamil
Based on the movement with the same name, I weigh challenges social norms, discussing feminism, body image and public perceptions with influencers, friends and some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Each podcast ends with the guest listing what they ‘weigh’ – or their most important achievements and attributes. Having listened to both the Reese Witherspoon and Demi Lovato episodes, it is so refreshing to listen to such popular and influential celebrities talk so candidly and openly. A new find, but I highly recommend.
MUSIC
The ‘Virtual Benedetti sessions’
Although these are yet to start, the online music sessions run by Nicola Benedetti and starting next week are definitely worth mentioning. Since concerts and all forms of live playing for musicians are impossible at the moment and for the foreseeable future, having the chance to continue to learn and play online is important to continue to share music as best we can. The sessions are starting next week and are available for amateur musicians, children, teachers and conservatoire students. I look forward to seeing how they work next week.
McFly/Olly Murs/Niall Horan/James Arthur cover of Shine A Light
As a biased McFly lover, of course this cover had to be included in my April favourites. Click the link below if you are yet to see it. The abundance of music sharing, live sessions and charity videos online has definitely been uplifting during these times.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbNPeZJuFic
TV AND FILM
Normal People
The BBC series that everyone is talking about. Based on the brilliant novel by Sally Rooney, Normal People follows the lives of Connell and Marianne, who are seemingly mismatched but are always drawn back to each other. This was a highly anticipated watch for me as I loved the book, and it is definitely worth reading ahead of watching the series to fully understand the storyline. The BBC have adapted it to screen so accurately, and I look forward to continuing to watch. Try not to binge the whole lot in one sitting!
Disney Plus
The popular brand’s streaming service has arrived and it has not disappointed. I have been reliving my childhood with the Suite Life of Zack and Cody and working my way through a Marvel movie marathon. My idea of the perfect isolation companion.
EVERYTHING ELSE
The Food Medic (Instagram)
I have been loving all the content shared on The Food Medic’s Instagram page since the beginning of this pandemic. Hazel is an NHS doctor and Nutritionist, and her daily stories particularly updating her followers with governmental advice and changes and dealing with the pandemic from the perspective of a doctor has been really reassuring for me.
Homemade bread
We have really been loving using the bread maker over the past month in our household. Whether you have one yourself, or can try making it from scratch, there really is nothing quite like freshly made bread.
Until next time,
Abi x