Allison Burris

I’ve just published a new post on Substack about how we refer to our significant others/spouses/partners in conversation and in poetry.

Book Updates/ Recommendations:

I really loved reading The Great White Bard: How to Love Shakespeare While Talking About Race by Farah Karim-Cooper whose knowledge of Shakespeare performance and staging as well as Shakespearean text led to a deep and necessary conversation about how talking about race and Shakespeare deepens our understanding of the work, creates a more inclusive space, and makes the Bard more relevant.

The Once and Future Sex: Going Medieval on Women’s Roles in Society by Eleanor Janega is one of the best antidotes to the argument that the world is the way it is because it’s “natural.” Janega examines the way that women were treated differently in the past, though still actively discriminated against, and argues that though the oppression hasn’t changed the reasons have slightly shifted. If you’re interested in feminism and history, you’ll probably devour this book, which was extremely engaging and accessible nonfiction.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try D: A Tale of Two Worlds by Michel Faber, which is a middle grade book that everyone will enjoy with great writing about the loss of the letter “D” and how a simple letter and a young girl can change the world. The audiobook was really enjoyable–I think this is a great choice for a family car ride.

And if you’re looking for something cozy and magical (which I always am), I’ll pass on and second my Mom’s recommendation of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna, which has a little romance, but is more concerned about finding/creating chosen family, reconciling diversity and difference, and adding more than a touch of whimsy to your day. It’s a sweet, light read but not entirely without substance.