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Ultimate Guide to Rebecca- the Book and its Film Adaptations

October 29, 2020      milelongtbr      Leave a Comment

Ultimate Guide to Rebecca

Welcome to the ultimate guide to Rebecca!

Daphne du Maurier’s most famous novel is a masterpiece of Gothic fiction, and has unsurprisingly inspired a number of adaptations over the years.

With the recent release of Netflix’s latest interpretation of Rebecca the story is being introduced to a new generation. This is great, but it’s a good time to look at the other versions of the film and how they all stack up- against each other and the novel.

Keep reading this guide to see what each Rebecca gets right- and learn its shortcomings. In this guide we’ll look into everything from casting, set, and storyline to see which Rebecca is the ultimate winner.

Note: The narrator of the film Rebecca in the novel and all adaptations is a narrator known only as the second Mrs. de Winter. From here on out she’s referred to as TSMdW.

Hitchcock’s Rebecca (1940)

Joan Fontain reads this iconic first line of the novel as the movie begins, showing the Manderley grounds just as TSMdW dreamed them. It continues to stay close to the novel in the opening chapters as they holiday in Monte Carlo, though a few liberties are taken to advance the plot.

When the de Winters go to Manderley it’s clear that the honeymoon is over- there’s an immediate shift in both the mood and in Maxim’s demeanor and the film captures it well.

Joan Fontaine is charming and naïve and captures the personality of TSMdW perfectly. Laurence Olivier was a good Max, embodying that unique blend of polish and abrasiveness that Mr. de Winter possesses. Judith Anderson’s Mrs. Danvers really stole the show here- she’s a bit younger than the character I had in mind while reading, but her portrayal is perfection.

The main part where the film deviates from the book was in the details of Rebecca’s death- done to please the conservative censors of the day. This was Hitchcock’s first American film, and though it was wildly successful and went on to win an Academy Award for Best Picture, he was not pleased to have the limits on his films.

Spoilers hidden – highlight to read

Rebecca’s death was said in this adaptation to be an accident during a disagreement with Maxim, as the Motion Picture Production Code prohibited the film from having the plot follow the book. Maxim could not kill her out of rage unless he faced consequences for his actions. Given this dilemma, I think Hitchcock made a good decision.

Additionally, in the final scene of du Maurier’s Rebecca Manderley being on fire is only hinted at. Readers surely think it likely Mrs. Danvers started the fire, though it’s never said outright. In this movie, she is shown setting it ablaze and burns along with Manderley. This is certainly more cinematic and is a happy balance between giving an ending without taking too many liberties.

Final Thoughts

This is Old Hollywood at its finest, and while I wish the film were a little more British, it absolutely deserved the Best Picture win.

Hitchcock’s Rebecca is in many ways the truest to the novel and the liberties he took and changes he made because of the regulations of the time did not detract from the movie overall.

Not only that, but the black and white format is not at all a hindrance here. Hitchcock’s use of shadows here is spectacular and help create the ominous atmosphere.


BBC’s Rebecca (1997)

This imagination of Rebecca is very British, as it was made by BBC ,which is definitely in its favor. The actors in this one are quite plain. They look like ordinary people.

In the case of TSMdW, this is not at all a bad thing as she is said in the book to be plain. Max is said to be handsome by TSMdW’s employer while they’re in Monte Carlo, but since that is subjective and she could be blinded by his wealth it could be easy enough to overlook.

Unfortunately, the casting missed the mark here. TSMdW too self-assured, Max too amiable, Mrs. Danvers a little too soft. Though Game of Thrones fans may be pleased to see Charles Dance (Tywin Lannister) as Maxim, he seems the most miscast of all.

This book shows the two seem to genuinely care for each other in the beginning and the first shifts occur while they’re on honeymoon. They’re shown as a passionate couple more so here than in any other version and Max’s temper shows itself just as strongly. He does do a convincing job at this from time to time, but he nearly as condescending to TSMdW as in the book or earlier adaptation.

Throughout the book most of the plot followed the inspiration closely – including the manner of Rebecca’s death. There are two notable exceptions to this, both of which are poor choices in my eyes.

Spoilers hidden – highlight to read

One of the most unique elements to Rebecca is that the title character is only mentioned in the story- she never makes an appearance. Except for in this version. For me, this was almost unforgivable, even though Rebecca’s appearance was in a brief dream of TSMdW. They didn’t show much of her- but the way she was obscured by a hat or shown at close range so we could only see her mouth made it feel cheap. I feel that having her make this appearance in the adaption was a lay choice- they should have worked harder to make her presence felt without being seen or heard on screen.

The other difference is of course, the ending. In this book we see a bit more after the fire at Manderley is discovered- and it would have served the movie better if we hadn’t.

Like in the Hitchcock film, Mrs. Danvers is shown to have started the fire, but it goes on to show her then cozying up with Rebecca’s lingerie before laying in Rebecca’s bed to await the flames.

As if this wasn’t strange enough, it gets worse. When Mrs. Danvers is unaccounted for during the fire Maxim runs into the burning building to save her. It seems to be done to try to absolve Max after he’s revealed a murderer, but it’s inconsistent with his character and an unsatisfying ending overall.


Netflix’s Rebecca (2020)

The much-hyped Netflix adaptation of Rebecca had all the ingredients to make a great film, but from the beginning, TSMdW’s monologue takes a turn from the source.

This was a disappointing choice. Though the cinematography is great and it’s clear from the onset from the sets will be opulent it does little to set the stage for the mystery of Manderley.

Lily James makes a decent TSMdW- probably a little too fashionable and self-assured, but she nails the character’s awkward nature.

When Armie Hammer is introduced he’s far from the Maxim those familiar with Rebecca would expect. He’s supposed to be twenty plus years her senior, but in this version is much closer in age to TSMdW, which changes the dynamic.

Of course, a man twice a woman’s age calling her an idiot while proposing might not sit well with 2020 audiences. Still, I think this changed the nature of the character. Indeed, this version is more a romance than any of the others and I don’t think this does it any favors.

As another point, a absolutely hated the character of Mrs. Van Hopper. When TSMdW is serving as a ladies companion in Monte Carol her boss is not supposed to be an especially favorable character. She’s a social climber, but in the novel and the two other mentioned adaptations, she’s a source of comedic relief. In the BBC version, she was fun and in Hitchcock’s classic, she was superficial and daft. Though she was not particularly a likable person her character was interesting and amusing. In the latest version, she was none of these things and was absolutely loathsome.

Kristin Scott Thomas was a good choice for Mrs. Danvers, though I found something about her performance to be a bit off. She had a menacing smile, but as Judith Anderson’s Danvers in the 1940 version is the epitome of “resting bitch face” this seemed a poor twist.

Things started to fall apart as the film reaches the end. The discovery of Rebecca’s boat and the inquest into her death are rushed. Perhaps if the movie had spent a little less time showing off the grand sets and costumes there would have been adequate time to develop this twist.

Spoilers hidden – highlight to read

The fire scene is oddly rushed and drawn out at the same time. There’s no twisted drive and subtle discovery, the couple instead driving straight up to the building as Max declares it’s a fire.

Mrs. Danvers is seen setting it, but is not in the house or on the grounds as everyone is rushing around. TSMdW then goes down to the cliffs and find Danvers at the edge. After a brief confrontation Danvers jumps to her death.

I feel this was extremely anticlimactic and then they tried to manufacture some of the drama lost- but it didn’t work.

Unfortunately, that’s not the end.

The movie then cuts to Cairo where Mr. and Mrs. de Winter are living out their happily ever after- TSMdW’s final words to Mrs. Danvers being that they would be happy. This was just a bit too much, but again, Netflix seemed to want to make this more a glitzy historical romance than the Gothic suspense it is. This ending may be more “Hollywood” but is certainly unsatisfying for fans of the book and the 1940 masterpiece alike.


After an in-depth look at three of the most popular adaptations, it’s clear which ones stick close to the novel and which change the plot and mood. This ultimate guide to Rebecca wouldn’t be complete without a chart ranking which movie does the best and worst at each character and element.

Take a look at this guide to Rebecca films to see which one you see as the ultimate winner.

BESTWORST
Maxim Hitchcock Netflix
Mrs. DanversHitchcock BBC
The Second Mrs. De WinterHitchcock/ NetflixBBC
Mrs. Van HopperHitchcock Netflix
CostumesNetflix BBC
MoodHitchcockNetflix
Faithful Adaptation Hitchcock
Satisfying Ending HitchcockNetflix
The opinions in this chart and the entire ultimate guide to Rebecca article are my own.

Alright, there you have it. Three cinematic adaptations of this classic Gothic suspense compared in-depth.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and whether you agree with my take on the films.

Which version of Rebecca are you most eager to watch after reading this ultimate guide to the adaptations?

10 Cozy ASMR Rooms Perfect for Fall Reading

October 18, 2020      milelongtbr      2 Comments

ASMR rooms have been one of my favorite additions to my reading life in the past few months.

For those of you unfamiliar with the term, ASMR is an acronym for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, which essentially means that the noises here are meant to soothe and trigger a brain response that leads to deep relaxation. This is, of course, an overly simplified explanation, but you can read more about the science behind ASMR here.

There are over 15 million ASMR videos on YouTube, with videos featuring everything from haircuts, book pages turning, and eating being done in a repetitive and soothing enough manner that people want to watch for this response.

Personally, I love ASMR rooms, which feature animated scenes and accompanying background noise to create whatever ambiance is desired. I’ve found this not only relaxing and enjoyable but that it helps improve my focus when reading and my productivity when writing. They’re also great for studying and getting work done on the computer- any time you want a little white noise in the background.

Here are 10 ASMR rooms with autumn vibes that I’m loving this fall. Pick one, light a scented candle and let’s get reading!


1. Autumn Porch Tea Time

Name a better spot to have a morning cup of tea or coffee– I’ll wait.

This video takes you to a beautiful cabin and has nature sounds to relax you and transport you to an atumnal paradise. This video is my favorite for days I have time to sneak in some early morning reading.

2. Easy Breezy Fall Study Ambience

This video features birds chirping, chimes, and beautiful falling leaves in the background. I especially love it for the inspirational note and picture of the cat on the desk. Our desks might not be this clean and organized, but with this video, it’s not hard to imagine! I love this video for when I’m working on my computer.

3. Rainy Day Coffee Shop Ambience

This video transports you to the perfect local coffeeshop. The ambiance is super cozy, and the soft classical music in the background is just like what you’d find in a café. There’s also rain sounds in the background, providing another level of depth to the video and the steaming mug of coffee is so inviting.

4. Rain Sounds & Relaxing Music

A crackling fire, piano music, and rain sounds… what could be more cozy? This room is set in a beautifully lavish living room, and let me tell you this is the perfect setting to read a gothic thriller. This was my ASMR room of choice when I read Home Before Dark, and let me tell you it definitely made the reading experience realistic on a different level.

5. Rainy Night Coffee Shop Ambience 

This is a perfect ASMR room for those who like a bit more going on in the background. You’ve got your jazz music and cozy coffeehouse ambiance, but you’ll occasionally also hear footsteps and there are people walking down the street outside for another layer of things happening in the background.

6. Walking Into Autumn ASMR Ambience

This video takes you on a beautiful walk through the woods and it’s all about the leaves here. You can hear them fluttering in the air, crunching underfoot, and rustling in the wind. It’s so soothing and atmospheric- especially if you live in a place without full seasons like this.

7. Autumn Porch Ambiance

The crackling fire takes center stage in this beautiful outdoor living room. There are lots of fun details here, from the pumpkins scattered across the scene, to the Jack Skellington figure.

8. Ancient Library Room

I’m pretty sure there’s nowhere I’d rather ride out an evening thunderstorm than in a room just like this. The crackling fire and storm outside make a very relaxing room. You can also hear noises of someone writing, reading, and footsteps in the library, which brings it to the next level.

9. Rainy Day at Cozy Coffee Shop Ambience

This is a room that’s great for those who like a lot going on in the background. This coffee shop looks fun and cozy, and the jazz and rain in the background make it extra inviting. You can also hear the chatter from customers and traffic from the street, so there’s a lot of layers of sound drown out anything happening in your own environment.

10. Autumn Farm Ambience

Look at that beautiful autumn sky! This video features a farm and pumpkin patch. There’s a running stream somewhere in the background and birdsong along with the occasional gust of wind that moves the leaves and windchimes. It’s a great place to do some evening reading.


Which one are you trying out first?

I hope you’ll give these cozy ASMR rooms a chance next time you’re reading and see what it’s like to read in one of these inviting environments.

20+ Books The Gilmore Girls Have Been Reading Lately

October 7, 2020      milelongtbr      1 Comment

Over the course of seven seasons and four revival episodes, over 400 books were read and referred to by the characters of Gilmore Girls.

This is the show for book lovers, so I thought it would be fun to put together a list of what some of our favorite characters may have been reading since we last caught up with them.

Though with the way the A Year in the Life ended the book Rory might be picking up first is a copy of What to Expect When You’re Expecting, I’m choosing to ignore the final four words and come up with title more suited to her interests.

For the purposes of this list, which is just for fun, I’m focusing on titles that were not mentioned on the show and which were published within the past five years, since 2015.

70 Most Relatable Gilmore Girls Moments For Bibliophiles

Take a look and see what I think everyone would be reading these days, and which title you’d like to add to your own TBR list.

Rory 

Becoming by Michelle Obama

No doubt after spending time on Barak’s campaign trail Rory would be eager to learn more about the former first lady. My guess is that she’d even have a signed copy. 

Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel 

Science Fictions books didn’t feature heavily on Rory’s reading list in the show, but I feel that the pandemic would have made her want to read this literary novel about preserving art and literature in end times. I can also see her reading The Plague by Albert Camus, though I’m leaning toward more current titles for this list. 

Sanditon by Jane Austen, Kate Riordan 

I feel like Rory, Jane Austen fan that she is, wouldn’t have been able to resist checking out the new imagining of Janes unfinished novel. I imagine her doing a buddy read with Paris and them sending each other texts criticizing it while they read. 

The Testaments by Margaret Atwood 

Alias Grace and The Handmaid’s Tale is on the Rory Gilmore Reading List, so I’m sure she was as excited to get her hands on the sequel as many of us were.

This one gets bonus points since Alexis Bledel had a role in the Hulu adaptation of The Handmaid’s Tale.

Writers & Lovers by Lily King

Rory would love the beautiful writing in King’s latest novel, and I think she’d be able to relate to many parts of the story as well. The main character is a struggling writer struggling to figure out what to do next, and the New England setting is close to home for Rory. 

The Nickle Boys by Colson Whitehead 

I’m sure Rory would keep up with books that have won literary awards, and two-time Pulitzer winner Colson Whitehead’s books would definitely be on her radar. I think Rory would be read this and The Underground Railroad before diving into the rest of his backlist. 

Our Women on the Ground

Our girl Rory enjoyed reading essays, and I’m sure she’d have been interested in this feminitst collection. Her idol Christiane Amanpour writing the forward would definitely earn this book on Rory’s TBR.


Lorelai 

Oona out of Order by Margarita Montimore 

Fun, funky, and full of retro pop culture references, I feel like this would be a book that Lorelai would love, especially since she said in season six she found time travel interesting. She may have been joking, but I still feel she’d enjoy Oona’s story and relate to her difficult relationship with her mother. 

Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson

Furiously Happy is one of the funniest books I’ve ever read and I think Lawson’s sense of humor would be right up Lorelai’s alley. Some of Lawson’s adventures and thoughts are very Lorelai-esque, and she’d have a lot of fun reading it and calling Rory to tell her some of the funny things.

Daisy Jones and the Six

Me by Elton John 

Elton John’s autobiography has generated a lot of buzz, and I think Lorelai would love hearing about his life and epic career. She’s mentioned his music a number of times throughout the duration of the show, and it would be a great throwback to her youth.


Emily 

The Home Edit Life 


After a brush with The Lifechanging Magic of Tidying Up in the revival I feel like she’d be interested in this lifestyle book as well. While I can’t necessarily see Emily embracing THE’s rainbow style, I can see her recruiting them to help her reorganize her kitchen –and then bragging to her DAR friends about it.

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Ove deals with the loss of his longtime spouse in the book, so this is one Emily could relate to and find comfort in after Richard’s death. It’s a heartwarming book, and I think she’d come to love it, even if she was hesitant about picking it up at first.

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

As much as we love the Gilmore girls, it’s hard to deny that their world is one with a great amount of privilege. I think Rory and Lorelai would have worked through this book and then passed it along to Emily so she could try to reexamine things.


Jess

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

This book has a lot of commentary about

Adjustment Day by Chuck Palahniuk

Jess just seems like a Palahniuk guy to me, you know? I think he’d appreciate the satire and dark humor and this one, and would probably be checking out the latest by the author, The Invention of Sound.


Lane


I think Lane would have loved a bit of escapism in the form of reading about rockstars and what it was like on the road. At one point Lane might have wanted a life like Daisy’s, but I don’t think she’d trade being a mom for anything.

Lane is about the same age as the title character in this book. I think she’d be interested in reading this one by a South Korean author that discusses a number of aspects of the country’s culture and society.


April

As a preteen April loved Judy Blume, so I find it likely that she’d want to try the author’s latest novel for adults.

Letters From an Astrophysicist by Neil deGrasse Tyson

Tyson’s Astrophysics for People in a Hurry may have been too elementary for a science buff like April, but I think she would love hearing Tyson’s humorous and well-thought out responses to some of the letters he’s received.

Endurance by Scott Kelly

April would also love a firsthand account of one of the few people on Earth who have been to space.


Sookie


Sookie was reading “S is for Silence in Season 7, so I think she’d be reading the final installment of Grafton’s Kinsey Millhone series.

A classically inspired romance where one of the characters is a chef would be a fun read for Sookie.


Paris

Paris is one of the strongest feminist characters on the show, so Hood Feminism is one that would be high on her TBR.

My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Paris was always looking to women in government as role models, so I think she’d have been eager for more insight into the late Justice’s life.

Rodham is a reimagining of Hillar’s life in a world where she didn’t marry Bill Clinton. I think Paris would love this story, and it would be one of her top contemporary fiction picks of the year.


Well, there you go! My best guess at what our beloved bookish Gilmore Girls characters have been reading lately.

I’d love to hear what you think!

Which picks do you agree-or disagree with- and what other titles would you add? Let me know in the comments and be sure to check out the 70 Best Bookish Moments from the show.

70 Most Relatable Gilmore Girls Moments For Bibliophiles

October 5, 2020      milelongtbr      3 Comments

Gilmore Girls. It’s a show.  It’s a religion. It’s a lifestyle. 

It first aired twenty years ago today. 

For me, Rory was the original #bookfluencer in my life, with the exception of perhaps my mother. 

I know I’m not alone in this. For years I’ve followed the “Rory Gilmore Reading Lists” people have posted online and added the titles she’s seen reading on the show to my own TBR.

I was a reader long before Gilmore Girls and was about the same age as Season 1 Rory when I watched my first episode. It didn’t take long for me to be hooked- everything from the witty dialogue, the relationship between Lorelai and Rory, and the endless amount of books that are read and referenced quickly made it my favorite show. 

Rory was my introduction to Sylvia Plath and The Bell Jar, which has become a favorite of mine. 

She’s the reason I chose Anna Karenina for an independent reading project in my Sophomore year of High School when the rest of the class chose the shortest books on the list. 

I loved learning that books I’d enjoyed before discovering the show –A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Charlotte’s Web– were favorites of hers as well. 

There were even instances I wish Rory could try to persuade me to read a book I’m not interested in trying, or that I tried and couldn’t get into. (Moby Dick was a DNF for me, sorry girl.) 

I’ve compiled 70 of the best bookish moments from the show in a blog post. It’s filled with things you’re sure to relate to and that will make you laugh, and possibly even tear up a bit. (Rory’s Valedictorian speech gets me every time.)

Let’s go!


1. Gilmore Girls is probably the most bookish show out there. I’m here for the books too, girl.

2. She was basically a bookstagrammer before Instagram was even a thing, getting her portrait done while reading.

3. And we can all relate that sharing our current reads with other book lovers is the best.

4. Like Jess, we bookstagrammers love giving book recommendations to all our friends.

5. And you love talking to them about the book you got them to read…

6. … and maybe even arguing differing opinions on polarizing books.

7. And you love showing off your current reads and book hauls to your friends.

8. Book friends are the best friends. Even if your reading tastes are very different…

9. … or are competitive and always seem to read more than you in a given month.

10. Like Rory, most true bibliophiles have realized there is no way they’ll get to all the books on their TBR in their lifetime.

11. And have stayed up past their bedtime to get some extra reading in…

12. After realizing you’re not as well-read as you’d like to be, like Rory did at her visit to Harvard.

13. Richard knowing that the quickest way to get to know a person was to ask this question .

14. And Jess reminding us that you shouldn’t skip the classics.

15. Lorelai fibbing about finishing a book was all too relatable for most of us…

16. … because some books, even if they’re beloved classics, just aren’t for us.

17. Sometimes we’re not ready to mark a book “DNF”… we’ll get around to finishing it some day.

18. Still, you’re not above using a literary reference that you know will go over someone’s head…

19. …or one that you hope the other person will understand.

20. And sometimes referring to something in a book is the only way to explain how you’re feeling, like when Rory needed to knock off hats and steal a boat.

21. One of the most emotional moments is Rory’s speech, where she talks about how books are an important part of her life and how real the characters and stories can be to bookworms.

22. So everyone knows the perfect gift for every occasion.

23. And you couldn’t be happier to be given one, whether it’s a big new book…

24. …or an old special edition, like the 100-year-old copy of Leaves of Grass Richard got Rory.

25. In fact, some of the best gifts you’ve ever received are books.

26. Dean knows that to a bookwork, spending the day in a bookstore is a dream date…

27. …even though you have more than enough reading material at home.

28. Most bookworms have had non-readers act surprised by how many books they own….

29. … but our shelves don’t always always fit our full collection…

30. … so we have to get creative with what to do with our overflow.

31. You never mind an opportunity to rearrange your shelves.

32. We think our books have feeling and need to be treated and stored with respect.

33. Sometimes our bookish collection extends beyond books to book related memorabilia.

34. Like this bookish tshirt, that reminds us that reading is sexy.

35. Which it is. Lorelai knows that things are getting serious when a man loans you one of his books.

36. Rory is all of us trying to get a significant other to read our favorite books.

37. So you get excited when you meet someone who likes to read the same books you do.

38. Rory bringing a book with her to a school dance showed us it’s a good idea to bring a book everywhere.

39. Maybe even more than one, especially if you’re a mood reader, like when Rory had to bring more than would fit in her backpack.

40. Because bookworms know it’s never a bad time to catch up on your reading.

41. And forget about trying to pack for a trip. Like Rory, most of us would gladly skimp on clothes for extra books.

42. But reading time is always a part any bibliophile’s dream vacation.

43. In fact, at most social events you’d probably rather be spending time reading. I’m an autumn too, Richard.

44. And Rory isn’t the only one to excuse herself so she can get back to her books.

45. Others might not always understand your extreme love of books.

46. Sometimes it may seem like that’s all that’s on your mind.

47. Hardcore bibliophiles know that some people just won’t share our passion.

48. Like Jess, you may have downplayed just how much you love reading once or twice. Because really, what is much?

49. Because some people might think youre a little odd if you do this.

50. They might even tease you for it.

51. But seriously. The old book smell. The new book smell. It’s good stuff.

52. But you’ll still give audiobooks a chance, even if you still love having physical books. If Luke can give it a shot you can too.

53. Like Jess, most have probably had a title or two on our TBRs that we haven’t wanted everyone to see.

54. Because people may get the wrong idea, like Rory’s professor when she had a stack of wine books for ‘research.’

55. But really, we shouldn’t be judging people for the books they’re reading or the authors they know. Don’t be a Logan.

56. Lorelai knows there’s no shame in reading what brings you joy…

57. And the joy of sharing childhood favorites with our own children.

58. Because having family who encourages reading is the best…

59. And can help young readers enjoy advanced books at an early age…

60. … maybe a little too much. Young bookworms may have gotten in trouble for reading too much.

61. Like Rory, you know that new books can be a distraction from life’s responsibilities.

62. So, even if the books you’re reading are sometimes depressing, dishartening, …

63. … disgusting, and shocking…

64. … that’s not going to stop you from reading them.

65. Reading as many books as you do gives you an appreciation of just how much goes into writing one.

66. Like Paris, maybe you’ve thought about reading your life story in print.

67. Most of us readers have heard this piece of advice at least one time in our lives.

68. And most of us have certainly had ideas for stories we could tell.

69. So take a trip to the library… you know you want to.

70. And get off the internet and back to the books!


I had a lot of fun putting this list together as I’ve been rewatching the series.

Which relatable bookish moment from the show is your favorite?

Be sure to check out the following article, where I talk about the books our beloved characters have been reading since we last saw them in 2016.

20+ Books The Gilmore Girls Have Been Reading Lately

All images from the show belong to Netflix and the CW, and all credit for the pictures go to them.

August Reading Wrap-Up

September 1, 2020      milelongtbr      Leave a Comment

Hi, guys!

In August I managed to read 10 books. It’s a respectable number, especially considering I fell into a bit of a slump and didn’t open a book for over a week.

Here’s how the titles I read stack up, sorted into books I loved, ones I really enjoyed, and a couple I don’t recommend.

Books I Loved:

1. The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

The Stationery Shop is a heartbreaking and emotional historical fiction novel that spans decades, generations, and continents. I can’t recommend this book enough – and everyone I’ve talked to who has read it has it on their shortlist for top books of the year as well.

Check out my full review and discussion of the historical events from the book here.


2. The Night Swim by Megan Goldin


The Night Swim is officially my favorite thriller of 2020 so far!

Not only does the book provide two interesting cases to unravel and strong female characters, there is also some important social commentary on the treatment of victims of sexual crimes.

This book was made for audio, so I highly recommend listening to it on Libro.fm. You can go check out my full review of the book here.


3. One to Watch by Kate Stayman- London

One to Watch is said to be the perfect book for reality TV lovers and Bachelor fans, of which I am neither.

Still, I am so glad I read the book for so many reasons. Yes, it is fun and flirty. It’s an enjoyable read. But it’s so much more. This book is body-positive, sex-positive, and the heroine Bea is more focused on herself and career than in finding a man.

That’s refreshing to see in the romance genre, although Bea’s reason for this isn’t quite what I expected. That allowed for some amazingly transformative character growth which elevated this book above everything else in the genre. One to Watch is definitely one to read- ASAP.

Many thanks to Dial Press Trade Paperback and NetGalley for the advance copy



4. Duty of Care by Dr. Dominic Pimenta

Duty of Care is a deeply personal account of Dr Dominic Pimenta, a doctor for the British NHS. Not only was he fighting the virus on the frontlines in intensive care units, he was also a vocal advocate for early lockdowns and taking it upon himself to reach the public through social media and start a charity to help fellow healthcare workers amid the COVID-19 crisis.

I listened to the audiobook format, which was engaging and well-paced. Pimenta does a fantastic job narrating and telling his story.

This book provides a lot of insight into the healthcare profession from a number of perspectives and I highly recommend it, especially as proceeds from the sale of Duty of Care are donated to the HEROES charity Pimenta founded to assist healthcare workers in need. Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ALC.


5. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

If you’ve listening to me talk books for long, you’ll know this is one of the top two books I never shut up about.

This was a reread to help boost me out of a reading slump and I’m pleased to say it did the trick.

I highly recommend going into this book without reading much about it- I picked it up only on Reese Witherspoon’s recommendation a few years ago- but go check out my review for more information, including content warnings.


Books I Enjoyed:

6. You Had Me at Hola by Alexis Daria

You Had Me at Hola about Jasmine, a rising access and Ashton, a star actor who are the cast opposite each other as leads in a telenovela.

Though they keep getting off on the wrong foot, Ashton and Jasmine find that their chemistry and connection may not just be an act.

This book was so much fun to read and also had a number of important things to say about everything from representation and diversity in the workplace, consent, gender roles, and cultural norms.

While there were a lot of great thinking points Alexis Daria managed to keep the book fun and fast-paced, flashing between the actors’ interaction and their characters’ scenes.

Keep in mind that the steam in this book is VERY HIGH, so if that’s not your thing you may find yourself skipping a few pages.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the advance copy!


7. Sorry I Missed You by Suzy Krause

After loving Karuse’s debut novel Valencia & Valentine I was eager to read more from her.

I can’t say I loved this book quite as much as V&V, but it was a charming story filled with eccentric characters. I loved the exploration of unlikely friendships, second chances, and the elements of mystery thrown in.

The “ghost” story element is so clever and great food for thought. This is the perfect read for those looking for a light palate-cleansing book to add to the fall TBR.


8. All the Devils Are Here by Louise Penny

All the Devils Are Here by Louise Penny was an enjoyable listen. I did not immediately realize this was part of a series, but was able to follow along with the story and characters just fine.

I am, however looking forward to looking into Penny’s earlier works in the Gamache series.

The writing was atmospheric and great, slowly building to a wild climax.

If you’re familiar with this series, it’s worth noting that this book takes places in Paris, which was very enjoyable for me, though I understand that is a departure from the rest of the series.

I really enjoyed this thriller and the way the narrator brought the story to life. Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advance copy.

Books I Don’t Recommend:


9. Grown Ups by Emma Jane Unsworth

Grown Ups by Emma Jane Unsworth is a book that explores the toxic and consuming relationship we can have with social media and how that can impact our relationship with ourselves and those around us.

I really wanted to love this character-driven novel centers around Jenny, a 35-year old journalist who is, for lack of a better term, a hot mess. Nothing in her life is going right and most of it is of her own doing, though she lacks the self-awareness to see this.

I appreciate Grown Ups for what it attempted to do, but unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite deliverer for me. This book doesn’t seem ot fit very well in it’s billed genre of women’s fiction- to me, it reads more like a satire piece, though I’m not sure it satisfies there either. There were a number of parts that had me chuckling, but even with my dry sense of humor, I was more annoyed with the character than anything else.

Of course, my opinions don’t mean this won’t be an enjoyable book for you, though I’ve been seeing mainly lukewarm reviews for this book.

Many thanks to Gallery/Scout Press and NetGalley for the advance copy.


10. One Year of Ugly by Caroline Mackenzie

One Year of Ugly by Caroline Mackenzie was an interesting novel, but I’m not sure what it accomplished what it set out to do.

For a White Trinidadian to tell the story of Venezuelan refugees there needs to be a significant amount of research and care put into the writing.

While the premise was promising and there was some good humor, there were some parts handled less than sensitively that took away from the story and added to the problems.

You can read my thoughts on it here, as well as see some other Own Voice Latinx books I recommend.

Many thanks to Simon & Schuster, 37 Ink, and NetGalley for the opportubuty to read this book.


How was your reading month? Did you read any of the same books as me, or are any of these on your TBR for the coming months?

What’s Problematic With One Year With Ugly (and Own-Voice Latinx Stories to Read Instead)

August 12, 2020      milelongtbr      Leave a Comment

Earlier this week I posted in support about One Year of Ugly, a book which I later realized contains content that harms multiple marginalized communities.

Thanks to Jennifer at Blunt Scissors Book Reviews for taking the time to bring this to my attention and discuss some of the problems with me.

I listened to this book on audio while working on other projects and completely missed a paragraph where gender identity is reduced to the punch line of a joke and a marketing device to sell novels. This is definitely not something I’m ok with and cringed when I saw the passage.

Additionally, some own voice reviewers have said this book is not an accurate description of their culture and perpetuates certain stereotypes.

I apologize for endorsing a book with content that goes against my values and is harmful to those communities which were misrepresented.

For anyone who saw my recommendation, I definitely am not in favor of reading or purchasing the title based on that content.

I was just starting a reread of the book because I knew there were parts I missed but never imagined there would be something so blatantly insensitive in these pages. I’ll definitely be reading and examining more closely before supporting a book, particularly one which is not an own-voice narrative.

While I think that writers can write all kinds of different stories and characters, I have definitely put an emphasis on own voice writers in my TBR as I think that they are best suited to tell their own stories.

Mackenzie simply failed at her purported mission of shedding light on the difficulties and mistreatment the Venezuelan immigrants in Trinidad face due to her lack of sensitivity and respect for marginalized groups.

Please consider in joining me in emailing the editor with questions regarding how the harmful content made it to print and calling them to employ editors who look for authenticity and sensitivity when authors portray demographics they don’t personally represent.


My personal reading is sadly lacking in Venezuelan literature. Though I’ve since added a few titles to my TBR, I’ll keep my recommendations of Own Voice Latinx books to books that I’ve personally read.

These titles were all standout reads for me and all have great writing as well as representation of different parts of Latinx culture with authors from various countries.


1. Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton

I love Cleeton’s writing and recommend all of her historical fiction books. If you’re looking for the forbidden love element and a story of people leaving their home country in search of better opportunities, Next Year in Havana is a great starting point.


2. You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria

This steamy romance also addresses elements of Latinx culture such as familial expectations and gender roles. If you’re looking for a book that is fun and entertaining but has great representation and something important to say this is the book for you.


3. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

Part coming of age, part family drama, with some humor and mystery thrown in, this Young Adult Novel explores a number of aspects of Mexican culture. The discussion of mental health was especially insightful.

4. Running by Natalia Sylvester

This book about a Cuban American teen whose father is running for president and the complications that arise in her life due to his campaign.

I loved absolutely everything about this book from the writing, to the story, Mariana’s character, and the fact that parts of the book are based on real events. Mariana’s disillusionment with her father was really well captured and a great exploration of growing up and seeing things as they are. 

I also love the message in the book about the importance of speaking up for what you believe in. 


Thanks for sticking with me!

I hope these books give you a good starting point for own voice Latinx books to read! For additional own voice recommendations look here.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve loved any of these titles, or if you have other own voice recommendations from Latinx writers.

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I’m Danielle and I have a mile long TBR!

You can usually find me surrounded by books and cats, listening to an audiobook and designing something cute.

I love making new bookish friends and am so glad you’re here!

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milelongtbr

Name a better way to spend a Caturday morning.. I' Name a better way to spend a Caturday morning.. I'll wait!

I'm spending some time cuddled on the couch with sweet Neera, and reading Dark Corners by @megangoldinauthor , which I started last night. It's a highly anticipated title for me and so far I'm really enjoying it! 

Most (basically all) of my reading this year has been via audiobook, so this is a very welcome change of pace. 

Hope your weekend starts just as peacefully and hi to all of you!
The bookish advent calendar is here! This amazing The bookish advent calendar is here! 
This amazing holiday gift for bibliophiles is the perfect way to treat your self or your #bookishbesties💕 to an amazing holiday season 
 
There's a mix of holiday items and shop favorites that can be enjoyed all year, and there are a number of items exclusive to the calendar. It's filled with all kinds of bookish goodies!

They're on sale and quantities are limited, so get yours now! SHOP @milelongtbrboutique link in bio!
Just a little shelfie for you today. These shelve Just a little shelfie for you today.

These shelves sure have filled out since I last posted them. Pretty accurate, my tbr is pulling up and I'm making almost no progress in it!

Miss ya, bookstagram! 💛
Happy Caturday from sweet Scribbles! I absolutely Happy Caturday from sweet Scribbles! I absolutely love it when she sits like this.. too cute ! 😻

After finishing a book last night I have a question for y'all... do you prefer a book ending that neatly ties everything up, or an ending that leaves you wanting more because it ends in the midst of things? 

The book I was reading ended mid conversation... and I think that was a very powerful (and mildly infuriating) choice, but it worked!
Really, this pic is for the flowers, but I also lo Really, this pic is for the flowers, but I also loved Good Company by @cynthiadsweeney which I read last year. Her characters and their messy and real relationships stay in my mind long after I finish reading.
I took no vacation photos from this trip, but here I took no vacation photos from this trip, but here's an obligatory plane photo from the trip home. 

What's the best part about coming home from vacation for you? Im looking forward to my bed and seeing the cats!
✨Book recommendations needed! ✨ I'm looking f ✨Book recommendations needed! ✨

I'm looking for something very specific, and am hoping you awesome Bookstagram folks can help.

If my library haul doesn't give it away, I'm looking for literary fiction. Two of these titles I've read and loved (Silver Sparrow and Good Company) -the rest were titles that called to me, but not exactly what I was looking for. 

I've already gone through the blacklists of these two authors, plus Lily King,  Emily St John Mandel. Books with stories like This is Where I Leave You, The Sweeney Sisters.

Specifically, I'm looking for something:

💛written and set in the set in 21st century (this is most important to me-most of what I've been able to find is period and I need contemporary) 

💛 Preferably set in US/Canada

💛 Priority to female authors 

💛Dealing with dysfunctional family; themes of blood, home, self-discovery

💛Angsty adult characters 

💛 Full of beautiful writing 

💛 Setting that becomes central to story, esp. a small town or family home

💛Nothing too genre; speculative/scifi, romance, whatever. Looking for pure lit fic or contemporary fiction with literary bend. 

It's a long shot and I know I'm being picky, but if you can recommend something close to the above, I'd be eternally grateful! 💛
Don't think I could have fit another book in this Don't think I could have fit another book in this tote if i tried! 😂

I've been enjoying flipping through what I checked out during my latest library haul, but I couldn't resist snapping a pic before taking them out of the bag. Especially not when everything was so coordinated and the lighting was perfection.

I'm trying to get back into this Bookstagram thing- I've missed y'all too much!
On Wednesday we... A. Wear pink B. Read Toni C. S On Wednesday we...

A. Wear pink
B. Read Toni
C. Smash the Patriarchy
D. All of the Above

D 💯
When in doubt... I took a couple intentional phot When in doubt...

I took a couple intentional photos of my library trip this afternoon, but decided I liked this accidental one I must have accidentally snapped while putting my phone in my pocket best.

I hadn't been to the library in far too long and left with a full tote of books I probably won't read. So I guess you could say it was a good day! 

How's your week so far? 💛
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