- Reply only friendships and festive – all in one go!
- From the studio
- Entertainment
- What’s streaming?
- Witchy and Crime reads
- Uncertain times ahead
Reply only friendships and festive – all in one go!
The flight of a near-teenager from primary school to secondary has wreaked havoc on the family dynamics—I’m starting to feel like I’m reliving my own teenage years, only this time without the awkward haircuts and questionable fashion choices. It’s as if I’m enrolled in a course titled “Parenting 101: The Teenager Edition,” minus the classroom! I find myself juggling everything from monitoring assignments and projects to deciphering the hidden meanings behind a teacher’s email. Not to mention the joy of remembering which day calls for a “different” dress code, helping with test prep that feels like training for the Olympics, and introducing her to the revolutionary world of flashcards. And when it comes down to writing the next edition of the newsletter or ensuring my teenager doesn’t turn into a homework ghost, well, let’s just say the teenager wins that round—I mean, who needs a newsletter when you can have a well-rounded kiddo, right?
With the festive season gearing up, my shopping list has officially reached epic proportions—seriously, it feels like I’m preparing for a clearance sale at a never-ending store! And let’s talk about consumerism: it’s like I’ve entered a bizarre game show where wanting something trumps needing it, and logic has packed its bags and gone on vacation. This year, however, I discovered the delightful sensation of friendship fatigue, as I’ve been putting in more effort reaching out to friends than a dog chasing its tail. Apparently, I’m surrounded by what we internet folks call ROFs (reply-only friends)—you know, the ones who text back slower than glaciers melt!
Once again, a big shoutout to my psychologist friend! She says it boils down to one of three things: either your friend thinks your gestures are as important as yesterday’s cat meme, or you accidentally signed up to be their social butterfly by always initiating, or maybe they’re just swamped with life and you’re at the bottom of their to-do list, right next to sorting the sock drawer. Personally, I’m all about my squad; they’re my secret sauce for thriving in this wacky world. But let’s be real, those one-sided friendships can really hit you where it hurts! So here’s to this festive season filled with love and everlasting friendships—hopefully with a little more reciprocation than my last birthday party!
From the studio
A glimpse of paradise
What does paradise look like? To me, it is a vibrant explosion of colour, a breathtaking display of beauty under the radiant sun, teeming with laughter from friends and overflowing with the freshest, most delectable food imaginable. Inspired by the planetary embodiment of this idyllic haven, the two illustrations below showcase the magnificent Channel-billed Toucan and the lively Sun Conure—both proud denizens of South America—nestled among an enchanting array of tiger lilies, ginger lilies, heliconias, hibiscus flowers, zesty lemons, and cheerful chrysanthemums.
Sleep
Sleep – that precious jewel we all eagerly seek, a serene sanctuary that refreshes our spirits! It rejuvenates our weary minds and bodies, transporting us from the challenges of reality and offering a delightful reset for our very essence. Here, I am excited to share three enchanting illustrations in this magical series, featuring our beloved wild rabbit and the wonderful fox—the former, a cherished companion for countless hearts, whether as an adorable plush friend, a lively pet, or simply a delightful sight to behold, and the latter, a character celebrated in numerous tales, renowned for its cleverness and charm. And last but not the least, the spotted deer – gentle, beautiful, and full of grace!
And the sleepy dormouse, evoking the enchanting tea party from our cherished childhood book, brings a sense of joy and whimsy to our memories.
More Olympians – Poseidon
Known for his fierce temper and symbolised by the powerful trident, Poseidon reigns as the magnificent Greek God of the sea. His Roman counterpart, Neptune, evokes the same awe. Revered as the “Earth-shaker,” Poseidon wields the ability to conjure earthquakes with a mere strike of his trident upon the ground.
He graces the pages of Homer’s epic masterpieces, The Iliad and The Odyssey, showcasing his grandeur. For this illustration, the enchanting shells are inspired by stunning photographs from a delightful book I discovered in Lyme Regis. If you can spot them, you’ll find a mesmerising mix of wentletrap, waved whelk, turban top, and sting winkle shells, each telling their own captivating story.
Entertainment
Money Talks at the Ashmolean (Exhibition)
An exhibition about Money may appear enigmatic at first, but delve deeper and you’ll uncover a fascinating history filled with drama and art. From ancient Roman coins featuring the likes of Nero and Vitellius, to the short-lived appearance of Edward VIII’s face on coins following his abdication, to the omnipresent image of Queen Elizabeth II on various currencies worldwide, and even to the modern innovations of cryptocurrency and NFTs. Money, it seems, has always been a canvas for power, legacy, and change. This exhibition is a carefully crafted showcase that is bound to leave you mesmerised.
Waiting for Godot – Theatre Haymarket
Ben Whishaw and Lucian Msamati embody the woefully whimsical Vladimir (Didi) and Estragon (Gogo) in Beckett’s hilariously bleak tragicomedy. Waiting for Godot is hailed as the crown jewel of existentialism, where Samuel Beckett serves up a dish of life’s futility with a side of ridiculousness. Here we have two aimless tramps, Vladimir and Estragon, idling by a lonely tree, anxiously awaiting the arrival of Mr. Godot, a mysterious figure in a world so befuddled that time and memory seem to have swapped their watches. These tramps are convinced Godot holds the key to turning their lives around, but instead, they get two quirky travellers, one tethered to the other like a bad circus act.
The Cabinet Minister at Menier Chocolate Factory
Staged in the Menier Chocolate Factory, this Victorian comedy revolves around cabinet minister Sir Julian Twombley (Nicholas Rowe), who’s been caught red-handed “accepting favours”—talk about a sticky situation! He and his extravagantly spendthrift wife, Kitty (the fabulous Nancy Carroll), seem like they’d fit right in with a Labour party knee-deep in scandal over too many “gifts” (who knew 16,000 worth of designer clothes could be a campaign contribution?). Enter the scheming siblings (Phoebe Fildes and Laurence Ubong Williams) trying to blackmail their way into high society—because why not? We’ve also got a nosy neighbour (the ever-so-keen Sara Crowe), a Scottish dowager (Dillie Keane) with all the charm of a bagpipe concert, her henpecked son (Matthew Woodyatt), and a delightful web of family shenanigans, including a will-they-won’t-they romance between Sir Julian’s debutante daughter (Rosalind Ford) and a “Victorian trustafarian” (George Blagden)—yes, that’s a thing.
Juno and the Paycock at Gielgud Theatre
Juno and the Paycock breathes life into the gritty existence of the Boyles, a family ensnared in the struggle of tenement life. Here we meet the flawed breadwinner, Jack (Mark Rylance), who chooses the comforting embrace of drink over the grind of work, leaving his fierce wife, Juno (J Smith-Cameron), to bear the weight of their livelihood. Tensions simmer as Jack chafes under Juno’s assertiveness, while she, in turn, wrestles with her frustration over their daughter, Mary (Aisling Kearns), who has foolishly quit her job, and Jack’s slothful ways. Their anxious son Johnny (Eimhin Fitzgerald Doherty) stands by nervously, until the gripping story of republican vengeance thrusts itself into their lives. Rylance dazzles with impeccable comic timing, immersing us in Jack’s charming oblivion, while Smith-Cameron’s portrayal of Juno shines brilliantly across moments of both humour and heartache. This is truly a masterpiece that demands your attention!
A Game called Malice at the Oxford Playhouse
Ian Rankin gives his spiky but likeable detective John Rebus a surname that hints at puzzles, setting the stage for an intriguing narrative. A nuanced clue in the stage play he co-wrote with Simon Reade is that Rebus faces an exciting pictorial challenge. At a delightful dinner party in affluent Edinburgh, where the art decor enhances the atmosphere, Rebus must solve a fictional crime, set as entertainment by the charming hostess Harriet, only to find a real corpse. Fans will appreciate a clever Jekyll and Hyde reference that nods to Knots and Crosses, the first Rebus book, inspired by RL Stevenson’s classic tale.
Gladiator II (Cinema)
Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington shine brilliantly on screen in this exciting sequel to the original blockbuster. With stunning costumes and extravagant sets that capture the full splendour of the Colosseum in Rome, this film is a captivating cinematic spectacle that you won’t want to miss. The story follows Maximus’s son (Mescal) as he grows up in Africa, facing challenges when the Roman army, led by Pedro Pascal, arrives in his village. Despite the hardships faced, his journey leads him to a new life of opportunity. Denzel W portrays an ambitious man with his sights set on the Senate, intrigued by Mescal’s gladiatorial skills, setting the stage for an inspiring adventure.
Wicked (Cinema)
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande soar as the enchanting witches Elphaba and Glinda in this mesmerizing adaptation of the beloved musical. Erivo’s vibrant green glow captivates the audience, her powerful presence and stunning vocals leaving an indelible mark on the screen. The dazzling sets, exquisite costumes, and breathtaking special effects transport viewers to a world of magic and joy, delivering a radiant spectacle that is both exuberant and profoundly needed in this festive season.
Heretic (Cinema)
I can confidently say that once you’ve seen Hugh Grant in this new role and movie, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by his transformation from the romantic lead roles he usually plays. The plot follows two Mormon sisters on their inspiring mission to spread the word of God and foster understanding about their faith. Mr. Reed, portrayed by Grant, is a theology professor who shows genuine curiosity about their message, leading the two sisters to his doorstep. What unfolds after their first encounter with Grant is a thrilling experience filled with unexpected twists that keeps you on the edge of your seat. While it has its creepy and suspenseful moments, it ultimately delivers an exhilarating ride. If you’re a fan of horror movies, this one is definitely worth your time!
What’s streaming?
If you’re in need of some me-time, then I’d highly recommend the following series to take your mind off the real world for a bit.
- The Perfect Couple on Netflix (Thriller, Drama)
- Rivals on Disney Plus (Drama, Romance, good for Jilly Cooper fans)
- Lonely Planet on Netflix (Romance, Travel)
- Nobody wants this on Netflix (Romcom)
- Woman of the hour on Netflix (Thriller, Drama)
- Emilia Perez on Netflix (Thriller, Musical)
- Agatha All Along on Disney Plus (Gothic, Horror, for Marvel fans)
- Shetland (new series on BBC, available on iPlayer)
Witchy and Crime reads
Her Majesty’s Secret Coven by Juno Dawson
HMRC (it sounds like Juno D took an imaginative spin on the Revenue and Tax department) is a brilliant, intricate, and inclusive book. As we approach spooky season, this is the ideal read to cosy up with by a crackling fire. The government’s secret coven of witches, led by the visionary Helena Vance, has a dangerous prediction (thanks to their talented team of oracles) about the Sullied Child, who will ultimately bring about destruction and chaos as the Leviathan. Thus begins a thrilling quest for this extraordinary being. It’s not just a tale of magic but also a celebration of friendship, empowerment, and a powerful message addressing the importance of accepting the LGBTQ community as a part of our societal structure.
The Shadow Cabinet by Juno Dawson
I simply couldn’t resist diving into the exhilarating sequel to Her Majesty’s …, and I attribute my fervour to Juno Dawson’s captivating storyline, her spellbinding depiction of the witchy sisterhood, and the jaw-dropping plot twists that propel you onward until the final page. This sequel is nothing short of a revelation, thrusting the coven into an electrifying new realm filled with formidable challenges—a desperate quest for a new High Priestess, intense scrutiny from the Prime Minister, the resurgence of relentless witch hunters determined to dismantle the coven, and a wicked warlock lurking in the shadows, to name just a few!
The Book of Eve by Meg Clothier
Based on the enigmatic Voynich Manuscript that has captivated and perplexed scholars for centuries, Meg Clothier masterfully crafts a dark and exquisitely atmospheric feminist tale that I simply couldn’t put down! Narrated through the compelling voice of Sister Beatrice, a devoted nun and librarian at the Convent, the story unfolds as Beatrice unwittingly comes into possession of a powerful and mysterious book—revealed to be the Book of the Mother (Eve), who endures scorn from the followers of the Father and the biblical narrative for succumbing to temptation. This narrative beautifully showcases the indomitable power of women when they unite against the forces conspiring against them, and Meg C’s depiction of Father Abramo is nothing short of ruthless.
A Talented Man by Henrietta McKervey
This treasure was unearthed from a quaint charity shop, a place where hidden gems lie in wait, just waiting to be discovered! The story captivates us with the life of Ellis Spender, a man who craves a life bathed in comfort and wealth without lifting a finger. In a daring twist, he forges a sequel to Bram Stoker’s iconic Dracula, but the plot thickens when his accomplice, the audacious Janey, decides to flee. Enter the enigmatic and wicked Uncle Freddie Broughton, and suddenly, everything spirals into chaos—the dream of easy riches slips through his fingers.
Listen for the lie by Amy Tintera
This one’s a super quick and fun read! Lucy’s dealing with some heavy trauma and memory loss after that awful night when her best friend Savvy was killed. Everyone thinks Lucy did it, but there’s no proof. Then along comes Ben, a true crime podcaster, who dives back into the case and starts breaking it all down. Oh, and it’s just 99p on Kindle—how cool is that?
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
I devoured “The Hunting Party” by Lucy F, and this one is equally captivating! The story centres around a breathtakingly lavish wedding on a secluded Irish island, uniting a media mogul and a reality TV sensation. The characters are deeply complex, each with rich backstories that are masterfully intertwined, creating an exhilarating page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last moment. Yet, a poignant warning echoes throughout for those carrying the weight of trauma: this narrative also unveils the dark motivations of societal predators who insidiously infiltrate our lives, leaving behind a trail of distress and heartache.
The Butcher and the Wren by Alaina Urquhart
Dr. Wren, a brilliant forensic pathologist, finds herself entangled in a deadly chase with the Bayou Butcher, a merciless serial killer lurking in the shadows of New Orleans. This electrifying cat-and-mouse game escalates, and just when you think you have it all figured out, a breathtaking twist halfway through the book will leave you gasping in disbelief. I refuse to spoil the thrills for those yet to experience this literary gem, but with its thrilling 250-odd pages, this gripping read is an absolute must for anyone craving the spine-chilling rush of its gruesome details.
Uncertain times ahead
If ever there was a time steeped in uncertainty on the geopolitical stage, it is now! As we see a new era of American politics, while wars rage in the Middle East and Ukraine, our world teeters perilously between stability and chaos, between the embrace of common sense and the abyss of irrationality, and between the essence of being human and the chilling rise of neo-fascism. I implore each and every one of you, regardless of where you are, choose wisely! You might dismiss the significance of a single decision, but remember, every small choice contributes to a tidal wave of consequences that can change the course of history.
Cogitatio 