What are Wire reporters reading when they’re not writing? Some staff members shared a list of their must-read book recommendations for the month of March.
Sofía Cortés: Arts & Entertainment Reporter
Microserfs by Douglas Coupland
Protagonist Daniel navigates his career at Microsoft along with his five roommates whose lives all revolve around computer systems and coding. He and his roommates are faced with the decision of either remaining cogs in Microsoft’s machine or breaking away from the system.
Coupland’s writing style makes this story stand out from others since it’s written as if it were coming straight out of Daniel’s diary, using weird fonts, lots of 0’s and 1’s and whole pages filled with arbitrary words that mimic the human subconscious. This read is perfect for anybody looking for something a little more unconventional.
Mimi Sinotte: Volunteer Arts & Entertainment Reporter
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood by Quentin Tarantino
This novelization of Tarantino’s 2019 film follows Rick Dalton, the once–famous star of a 50’s TV cowboy show known as Bounty Law. It covers various elements of American culture during the 60s as topics of discussion; the golden age of Hollywood, hippie idealism and the notion of hyper-masculine identity relating to how Rick is personified in his roles.
I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Tarantino films. Some notable ones are “Pulp Fiction,” “Kill Bill” and “Jackie Brown.” Lovers of action, suspense, and thrillers would enjoy this read.
George Kane: Arts & Entertainment Reporter
F*ck It, I’ll Start Tomorrow: A True Story by Action Bronson
F*ck It, I’ll Start Tomorrow is an autobiography that follows the life of American rapper, songwriter, chef, wrestler and television presenter, Action Bronson. Bronson shares his experiences with weight loss, music, family, childhood and his overall journey to self-acceptance.
“It is insanely inspirational and funny at the same time, it’s not a long read and it will keep you interested the entire time. It will inspire you to never say F*ck it I’ll Start Tomorrow ever again.”
Lauren Puthoff: Assistant Arts & Entertainment Editor
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry
Star Matthew Perry from the hit sitcom, Friends shares stories from his childhood and how he rose to fame. He reveals his personal battles with alcohol and drug addiction and how he came face to face with morality numerous times.
“Perry’s autobiography has easily become one of my favorite reads of the year. As a long-time lover of Friends, this book not only added to the power behind the show but the strength of the actor. I found it impactful how Perry goes in depth into his life and puts emotions into the public eye.”
Clara Lebrón: Opinions Columnist
The Metamorphisis by Franz Kafka
Metamorphosis follows protagonist George Greggor, who wakes up one morning and has suddenly become a monstrous insect. He now must face the challenges of no longer being able to connect with the people in his life like he once used to. The extended metaphor of the story follows central themes of alienation and isolation.
“I really like The Metamorphosis because I feel it really encapsulates Kafka’s writing style. It’s an amazing retelling of work written by Ovid and the way it uses the transformation of George to show just how easily people can detach themselves from one another, but the fact it’s impactful despite it is a testament to how good the story is.”
This story was written by Sofía Cortés and Mimi Sinotte. They can be reached at [email protected] and [email protected].
