I’m an addict - addicted to reading that is. Frankly, I had thought it was to books, but this blog has me a little more focused. I just love reading - almost anything. So I move from book to book, genre to genre. And from book to magazine, to newspapers, to blogs, and so on. And really, that’s why we started this site - “thoughts on books and reading”; so why not talk about the things I’m reading other than books?
Yes, I’m in the middle of a book; a good one-Outpost by former Ambassador Christopher Hill. Really enjoying it so far, but took a break from that to catch up on some magazines in my mailbox from last month! The Atlantic is a favorite publication, and last month’s cover story is about Islamic terrorist group ISIS written by Graeme Wood. It’s a shocking and informative piece, discussing the true goals of the terrorist group and their rationale behind their barbaric actions. It’s a fascinating story that made me think that this is an important part of history to be learning about, and almost believing, because it is so unbelievable, that is is from another time. Strikingly, it’s here and now, across the world, but confronting our way of life. It’s truly scary, but important to understand to put context around what our policy makers, leaders, journalists, military and allies (oh, and some foes) are confronting.
I also finished Fast Company’s March issue with The World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies. Fast Company is generally a great publication - energetic and chock full of inspiring stories about innovative companies and leaders - successes, failures and everything in between. It’s consistently a quick and insightful read. By the way, #1 on the Most Innovative Companies list is Warby Parker. I’m a customer and a big fan. Glad to see them in such a prominent spot - well-deserved.
A third magazine on my coffee table is a new discovery - Lucky Peach. It’s a quarterly publication with minimal advertising and some interesting illustrations and photos, 100% food writing and recipes. I particularly enjoyed the article about celery, Overstalked with four recipes from Gabrielle Hamilton; and Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sheep Diets (But Were Afraid to Ask), but Lucas Peterson. Really. Check out their website - it’s a trove of interesting recipes and eating nooks around the world.
Lastly, I spend a lot of time on Flipboard, Zite and Prismatic. Loaded on my phone, these apps are each customized with the subjects I designate (ranging from politics and news to celebrity gossip and literature of course!). I most certainly do not require all three, but they’re like toys, and each one brings something a little different.
If you’re looking for a break between books, I highly recommend The Atlantic, Fast Company and Lucky Peach. What publications are you reading? We’d love to hear from you!