Normally each of these things would deserve their very own posts. But, since I consumed them all at once (more or less) and since I have a cold that has zapped all of my energy, I am sharing them all with you now. The least I can do for all of these amazing books and movies is recommend them to you…

 

Here’s my own version of the title: Extremely Endearing & Incredibly Moving. I loved the voice of nine-year-old Oskar Schell in his unusual quest throughout New York City to become closer to his Dad who died in the Trade Center attacks. I was also moved by how Oskar’s pain and search for answers is tied to the stories of his grandparents in Dresden during World War II. Definitely worth reading, if you haven’t already.

**

If you are more intrigued by the crazy woman in the attic in Charlotte Bronte’sJane Eyre than you ever were by Jane or Mr. Rochester, than you will love this take on the story. It is the backstory of Bertha, her life in Jamaica, and her marriage to Mr. Rochester. Very fascinating and an interesting look at life in the West Indies during Emancipation.

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This is SO the funniest movie I have seen in ages and ages. I didn’t stop laughing until the credits were rolling. The humor was quick, biting, and clever. You absolutely must not miss this film.

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A definite contrast to Little Miss Sunshine, this was a complex and thought-provoking film about a middle school teacher, in a tough part of Brooklyn, who is also a coke head. The story focuses on his relationship with one of his students after she finds him crashing one night in the girl’s bathroom. The acting by all is superb, and the film sticks with you for a long time afterwards.